Articles Tagged with ''EPA (Environmental Protection Agency)''

The arrival of the second Trump administration in Washington, D.C., this year brought talk of canceling the Energy Star program, though the HVAC industry and lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have expressed support for it.

Energy Star, which was launched in 1992, certifies highly efficient appliances, including HVAC equipment, and homes and other buildings. The work is a joint EPA and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) effort.

EPA’s proposed rule may offer short-term flexibility, but industry leaders warn it could trigger HFC shortages and stranded assets. 

The proposed Significant New Alternatives Policy Rule 27 would list several lower-GWP substitute refrigerants as acceptable, subject to use conditions, for residential and light commercial air conditioners and heat pumps, chillers, household refrigerators and freezers, motor vehicle air conditioners, and fire suppression and explosion protection.

Another refrigerant transition is inevitable, as innovation drives HVAC forward. But without clearer communication and coordination next time, contractors’ patience — and trust — may finally run out. 

Portions of the sweeping One Big, Beautiful Bill Act impacted the HVACR industry, but lobbyists are still keeping busy on several fronts.