United States. With new energy efficiency regulations in place, contractors in regions where SEER minimums are increasing will have to help their customers and suppliers understand the new efficiency requirements.
However, a survey by Emerson Climate Technologies, Inc., has found that 48% of contractors are still unaware of regulations or unsure of how they affect their business.
"The lack of awareness, in relation to the issue, has actually improved from the end of 2013, when nearly 75% of contractors were in the dark about these regulations," said Frank Landwehr, vice president, air conditioning marketing for Emerson Climate Technologies. "Contractors still have time to review what these regional standards mean for their business and how they can help their customers improve the comfort of their homes."
The survey of 698 contractors, conducted via email by Emerson Climate Technologies in late 2014, found that contractors were more optimistic about regional standards than they were at the beginning of the year. Only 17% were concerned about their ability to compete or stay in business after these changes take effect.
For contractors, one of the main results of this regulation will be the opportunity to sell more efficient systems. In fact, 60% of respondents said they expect to see their sales of systems of 16 SEER or greater increase as a result of the new regulations.
