Rehau Inc. announced Monday that its professional-development program for North American contractors will be launched at the Jan. 22-28 AHR Expo in New York City.

Trane announced Tuesday it would begin taking orders directly from most dealers in Tennessee and Georgia as soon as Dec. 17, and phase out independent distributors fully by Dec. 26.

A landmark bill hiking fuel-economy standards for autos and authorizing the creation of regional efficiency standards for HVAC equipment has run into trouble in the U.S. Senate.

The U.S. House Thursday OK’d a bill that dramatically changes American energy policy, raising auto mileage standards, promoting renewable fuel sources and authorizing regional efficiency standards on HVAC equipment.

The U.S. House could vote today on a bill to raise automobile mileage standards, encourage development of alternative fuels and allow regional HVAC equipment standards.

HARDI members have added their collective voices to the chorus of those opposing an energy bill expected to pass the U.S. House this week.

The U.S House is likely to vote this week on an energy-policy bill this week that would allow regional standards for HVAC equipment.

Contractors: Watch your mail.

HVAC equipment maker American Standard Cos. formally changed its name to Trane Nov. 28, reflecting its best-known brand.

Carrier Corp. announced Nov. 27 that it is extending the warranty on its 90 percent-plus efficient gas furnaces.