ARI credited 2005's exceptional success to a strong economy, growing housing starts, and hurricane rebuilding. "The fact that we set a record for shipments of central air conditioners and air source heat pumps for the fourth straight year I think speaks volumes about the quality of our products and the strength of our industry," said ARI chairman, Deborah Hawkins. "We are very pleased with our 2005 performance, and we look forward to another strong year in 2006."
As the celebration ensues, however, concerns are quietly mounting as many look ahead to 2006.