In 2010, the 25C tax credits were a popular sales tool in the HVAC industry, used to entice homeowners to purchase high-efficiency HVAC systems in exchange for a $1,500 tax credit. However, these residential tax credits were reduced to $500 at the end of 2010, leading many in the industry to wonder if a drop-off in new equipment sales would be inevitable in 2011.
Contractors attending this year’s Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) conference had a lot of burning issues on their minds concerning the HVAC industry. Thanks to the much-anticipated CEO Forum that is held at the conference every year, attendees had the opportunity to ask manufacturing leaders about those issues that directly affect their livelihoods.
Contractors have looked forward to attending the Indoor Air Expo, a collaboration between the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and the Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA), for several years. This year, a new partner has been added - the Radiant Professionals Alliance (RPA).
The last few years have been challenging for HVACR contractors, the poor economy has resulted in financial stress, and recent federal legislation has caused concern. Even with these recent difficulties, there are numerous reasons to be hopeful, said Paul Stalknecht, president and CEO, Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA).
It is no surprise that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is not a fan of medical marijuana, which has been legalized in 15 states and the District of Columbia. According to the DEA, the campaign to allow marijuana to be used as medicine is a maneuver in a strategy to legalize all drugs. But thousands can now use marijuana legally in order to treat various maladies.
The 10 winners of the 2011 AHR Expo Innovation Awards represent some of the most innovative new products in the HVACR industry, according to the judges, members of the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE), who evaluated submissions based on innovation, application, value to the user, and market impact.
Manufacturers have been on a roll lately, introducing numerous smart, sophisticated products that are aimed at improving control, comfort, and convenience in homes and businesses. Contractors may be wise to learn more about these intelligent solutions - a few of which are detailed in this article.
Glumac considers itself to be a forward-thinking mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) engineering firm that is a leader in sustainable design. As such, when the time came to move its office to a downtown high-rise, it was decided that Glumac would use its new space as a showroom of sorts that would highlight intelligent, innovative MEP technologies.
While most homeowners have an idea of how much they pay for utilities each month, few are aware of just how much electricity they use on a daily or weekly basis. Nor do they know which appliances contribute the most to their electricity bill. Homeowners seeking to fill in this knowledge gap can now turn to home energy monitors.
When homeowners think about purchasing a high-efficiency furnace with all the bells and whistles, does a particular brand name come to mind, or do they first think of their contractor? Some contractors are betting on the latter, which is why they have opted to offer high-end equipment under their own private label.