Articles by Joanna R. Turpin

GPS keeps transforming, evolving from the clunky receivers that had to be hardwired into every truck to tiny plug-and-play devices and mobile apps that provide a multitude of data that can help contractors manage their businesses more effectively.

Regardless of the strategy employed, many contractors are chafing at the new government-imposed regulations, noting that proper installation is far more important than mandated efficiency ratings.

Regardless of the type of heat pump system chosen, building owners and managers are sure to see numerous advantages from installing this energy-efficient technology.

While it remains to be seen how the new minimum-efficiency standards will impact the industry as a whole, most distributors are breathing a sigh of relief that their decision to stock more 13-SEER equipment is paying off, leaving them time to start thinking about what to do with the next round of minimum-efficiency standards, which the DOE is considering right now for residential furnaces.

While online sales are growing in popularity, many HVACR parts and equipment companies still prefer doing business through the traditional supply chain.

As the gatekeepers between manufacturers and contractors, distributors are tasked with deciding which new products deserve a place on the shelf and which ones may not appeal to their customers.

Many contractors are adding new products and services that do not fall under the traditional HVAC contracting realm. These products can include everything from generators and tankless water heaters to security systems and pest control, and contractors are reporting a positive response to these non-HVAC offerings.

Despite the numbers, manufacturers remain optimistic about the future and are focused on growing the market by introducing new products and educating the public on the many benefits of GHPs.

Barring an act of Congress, the 30 percent federal tax credit for residential geothermal heat pump (GHP) systems will expire at the end of 2016. The industry is worried about what that means for the future.

Many homebuilders across the country are differentiating themselves from the competition by offering green communities that feature sustainable products and features.