Choosing the Right High Efficiency AC System

by |
7

Typically, air conditioning systems in the premium category are defined as having energy efficiency ratings that are 16 SEER or higher. Most in this category also have an important feature called “capacity modulation.”

Modulating air conditioning systems provide lower energy consumption, improved humidity control, better air quality and a more comfortable environment throughout the whole home, during all seasons. However, all modulating systems are not exactly the same.

They typically fall into two broad categories – those having two “steps” or “stages” of capacity and those having “continuous” or “variable speed” capacity modulation.

We thought it would be helpful for our readers if we could compare and contrast the benefits of these categories for high efficiency systems.

Energy consumption

Two-stage modulating systems operate at two discreet levels of capacity, 100 percent on the hottest days and 67 percent on light-load air conditioning days (and most nights). When operating at 67 percent capacity, a two-stage system will use less energy because of the reduction in demand.

However, a variable speed system can slow down to deliver from as low as 20 percent capacity up to 100 percent capacity, delivering the precise cooling required by the building and therefore resulting in lower amounts of energy consumption.

Systems with two-stage compression technology are typically rated between 16 and 18 SEER, whereas variable speed systems can be rated at 25 SEER or higher, depending on the system design.

Humidity control

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that optimal humidity levels in an indoor environment should be kept below 50 percent. High humidity levels (over 60 percent) in a building can result in the growth of mold, which results in unfavorable health conditions.

In many parts of the country, humidity control is actually a bigger comfort and energy challenge than high temperatures.

In the Southeastern U.S. and in many parts of the Midwest, outdoor humidity levels are frequently in the 80 to 90 percent range during more moderate weather (e.g., in the early morning or in the spring and fall months).

As an air conditioning system operates, air flows over the condensing unit, resulting in the removal of humidity from the air. The longer a system runs, the more humidity is removed from the air.

Two-stage systems run longer than traditional fixed capacity systems, resulting in additional dehumidification.

Variable speed systems are designed to have the longest run times at low speeds and at lower energy levels, resulting in the most favorable humidity and energy levels for these conditions.

Comfort

When a variable speed air conditioner operates for longer periods, air continually moves throughout the space and through the air filter more often. This continual air movement reduces hot and cold spots, resulting in even more comfortable environments and cleaner air throughout the space.

Summary

Two-stage systems can offer significant improvements in comfort and energy savings over fixed systems. Variable speed units take this a step further by providing the best overall level of comfort and bring significant energy savings for the owner, reducing the impact to local utility demand and your wallet. That is something we can all appreciate on a hot, humid, summer day!

Four Things You Should Know About Your Air Conditioning and Heating System (Before You Decide To Replace It)

by |
16

Most people don’t think about their air conditioning and heating system until it breaks or becomes so old it is not worth repairing. In fact, a recent survey of U.S. homeowners, conducted by Copeland suggests that 59 percent of people who bought new HVAC systems in the past two years were buying due to the failure of their existing system or the costly repairs required to keep it running. This is in contrast to the 56 percent who, when they were just beginning to consider a new HVAC system, were mostly focused on energy efficiency and comfort benefits before their system failed (i.e., before their old system broke). They had no time to gather information and no time to get quotes from multiple installers.

The survey of approximately 1,500 U.S. homeowners also suggests that most homeowners are very concerned with the long-term reliability and operating costs related to their HVAC system. It is also important to them that the system always provides the desired temperature throughout the entire home, all year round and in all seasons – not just on extreme days.

The conclusions that homeowners can take away from this complex study were both revealing and amazingly simple:

  1. Your HVAC is a “big deal”
  2. Don’t wait too long to replace your old system (and do your homework)
  3. It’s all about the contractor (and you have a choice)
  4. Plan ahead (for an approximate $8,000 replacement cost)

Your HVAC is a BIG DEAL

Homeowners tend to focus on aesthetic improvements, such as home improvement items like fancy countertops and hardwood floors, but it is what isn’t often seen that can make all the difference. The U.S. Department of Energy states that the air conditioning and heating system in your home represents 40 percent of your total annual energy costs. This is more than water heating (13 percent) and lighting (9 percent).

Your HVAC is also probably one of the more expensive appliances you own (approximately $8,000 in replacement costs) and it uses more energy than almost all of your other major appliances combined. I know, it is confusing, but it is out there in the yard or in the basement, keeping you cool or warm when you need it.

The survey results also indicated that the home AC system was the appliance that homeowners would not want to live without in the heat of the summer – 31 percent voted for AC, ahead of refrigerators (28 percent) and home security (11 percent). The margin was even higher in the Southeast region, where the AC priority in this survey reached 43 percent. Unfortunately, most people do not know much about their HVAC system. Over half (57 percent) of the respondents did not know the efficiency level of their HVAC system and 11 percent did not know the age of their current system.

Don’t wait too long to replace your old system (and do your homework)

The average age of a HVAC system in the U.S. is about 12 to 13 years old. The average age of systems when they are replaced is just 16 years old, but the lifespan could range from around 5 years to over 25 years.

It is not about the age of your system, but rather the run time; just like your car, it is not the years, it’s the miles. In the case of HVAC, how much you run it determines its useful remaining life. For example, the average useful life is lower than average in the Southeast at 14 years old, where the combination of long run times in the summer and the high adoption of heat pumps in the winter take it its toll on system life.

If you have an older system (16 years+) or one that has been having frequent problems, now is the time to decide on a new system and choose a reputable installation and service provider.

The Copeland survey indicated that 21 percent of “satisfied” HVAC consumers did online research using independent help sites and forums like AC & Heating Connect versus the “not satisfied” group at 15 percent. In verbatim comments, consumers who had recently purchased new HVAC systems were asked to provide any advice to other buyers and the most common response was, “research EVERYTHING” before buying. Putting time on your side before purchasing a new HVAC system can save you time and money in the end.

It’s all about the contractor (and you have a choice)

The Copeland survey indicated that 81 percent of satisfied HVAC consumers reported relying heavily on their contractor/installer as they made their purchase decisions, versus just 28 percent of the non-satisfied group.

In addition, 85 percent of the consumers who were satisfied with their contractor were satisfied with the system they chose to purchase, versus only 41 percent of those not satisfied with their contractor.

Once you select a contractor, make sure that you engage in a conversation about the various higher efficiency systems; 88 percent of the satisfied group had these discussions versus just 67 percent with the dissatisfied group (even if they did not end up buying the high efficiency models).

This is important because the difference between just a point or two of Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) for your air conditioner can affect your energy bill by hundreds of dollars per season. The satisfied group showed a higher incidence (35 percent) of contractor inspections of ductwork, insulation and square footage than the dissatisfied group (27 percent).

If your system is not properly sized or installed, you might not be realizing the energy savings you were expecting and you might not be satisfied with the comfort (temperature and humidity control) your new system provides. Hiring a thorough contractor who takes the time to explain this and what it means to your energy costs and overall comfort is essential to being satisfied with your purchase.

Plan ahead (for an approximate $8,000 replacement cost)

The survey indicated that the average replacement cost for an HVAC system was about $8,400, but could range from less than $5,000 to over $20,000, depending on the size of your system and whether it’s a partial replacement (e.g. outdoor AC unit only) or a full system replacement that includes both AC and furnace, while upgrading to higher efficiencies. Although the survey indicated that 87 percent of respondents in the market had an accurate plan for how much they were going to pay for their new system, two of the top four reasons given for why they had not yet purchased were related to finances – “too expensive” and “can’t afford.”

In conclusion

Your HVAC system is one of the more important appliances in your home. If your system is older or beginning to fail, you can save both time and money and increase the satisfaction with your replacement if you do your research up front, plan for financing and find a good contractor to help you make these decisions.

Waiting until your old system breaks in the heat of the summer or the cold of the winter can lead to costly mistakes that can haunt you and your family for many years after your new system is installed.

By the numbers

  • 56 percent of people, when they were just beginning to consider a new HVAC system, were mostly focused on energy efficiency and comfort benefits before their system failed.
  • 59 percent of people who actually purchased new HVAC systems in the past two years were buying due to the failure of their existing system or the costly repairs required to keep it running.
  • Home HVAC represents 40 percent of your home’s total annual energy costs.
  • The number one appliance that homeowners would not want to live without in the heat of the summer is their air conditioner – according to 31 percent of those surveyed.
  • Over half (57 percent) of the respondents did not know the efficiency level of their HVAC system.
  • 11 percent of the respondents did not know the age of their current system.
  • The average age of HVAC systems in the U.S. is about 12 to 13 years old.
  • The average age of systems when they are replaced is just 16 years old.
  • 21 percent of “satisfied” HVAC consumers did online research using independent help sites and forums like AC & Heating Connect, versus the “not satisfied” group at 15 percent.
  • 81 percent of satisfied HVAC consumers reported relying heavily on their contractor/installer as they made their purchase decisions, versus just 28 percent of the non-satisfied group.
  • 85 percent of the consumers who were satisfied with their contractor were also satisfied with the system they chose to purchase versus only 41 percent of those not satisfied with their contractor.
  • 88 percent of the satisfied group had discussions with their contractor about high-efficiency system alternatives, versus just 67 percent with the dissatisfied group – even if they did not end up buying the high-efficiency models.
  • The satisfied group showed a higher incidence (35 percent) of contractor inspections of ductwork, insulation and square footage than the dissatisfied group (27 percent).
  • The average replacement cost for an HVAC system was about $8,400 but could range from less than $5,000 to over $20,000.
  • Two of the top four reasons given for why consumers had not purchased a new HVAC system yet were related to financing – “too expensive” and “can’t afford”.
  • Consumers who had recently purchased new HVAC systems were asked to provide any advice to other buyers and the most common response was “research EVERYTHING” before buying.

Comfort of Home

by |
1

Based on many user comments and questions we’ve received on AC & Heating Connect over the past two years, we noticed a lot of confusion about what “comfort” really means to homeowners.  It seems like many people are not aware of the comfort advantages available in 16 SEER or greater systems with capacity modulation.  We thought the best way to clear up some of this confusion for our users would be to create a short video that explains some of the ways these systems can help them feel more comfortable at home.  It is also our hope that HVAC contractors can use this video to help them better satisfy their customers’ comfort needs.

Here is the new video:

There is another article on our site that deals with the most important factors affecting homeowner comfort and these are:

Temperature variability during on/off cycles

Temperature consistency throughout the whole house

Humidity control on warm, muggy days and night

Learn more about what factors affect your comfort in this article:
https://www.ac-heatingconnect.com/what-factors-affect-my-comfort/

New Research Provides Insight into Most Important Factors Affecting Homeowner Decisions about HVAC Equipment

by |
4

Top 5 Homeowner Benefits:

  • Long term Reliability
  • Monthly Operating Costs
  • Always Produces Desired Air Temperature
  • The Purchase Price
  • Maintains Desired Temperature throughout Home

Emerson Climate Technologies recently conducted a survey of approximately 1,500 U.S. homeowners to determine the most important features they consider when purchasing air conditioning and heating systems, what typifies a high degree of satisfaction with their HVAC contractor, and what factors might be preventing someone from buying a new HVAC system if they own an older, more problem prone system.

We hope both homeowners and contractors can benefit from this information, which should help them to be more informed about these important trends in the HVAC industry today.  The survey results are contained in six different sections, and this article provides some key takeaways from each section, for both homeowners and contractors.  Links to each section of the survey results are also provided.

  1. What are the most important features that consumers are looking for in their HVAC systems today?

Most homeowners are very concerned with the long-term reliability as well as the operating costs related to their HVAC system, and are also concerned that the system always provides the desired temperature throughout the whole home, all year round and in all seasons – not just on extreme days.   Homeowners who want to be sure they are getting what they need from their new system should also look at the complete list of benefits that might be uniquely important to them.

Contractors should know that most of their customers will just want their system to operate for a long time without needing repair or replacement, and they should adjust their selling approach to emphasize this.  Contractors should be familiar with all of the benefits listed in this section and match them with their current product offerings for those situations when individuals require something more in certain areas.

  • To view actual survey results from this section, click here:  pdf
  1. What are the main reasons that owners of older or problem prone systems give for not purchasing a new system?

Becoming familiar with all the various reasons given for not buying a new system could help homeowners reflect upon their own reasons for delaying their purchases.  Some of these reasons are valid (e.g. current system is newer or working fine) but others, like “waiting until it breaks” might be less relevant for older systems.  It is important to be aware that the cost for total system replacement can be expensive, and should be built into the household budget as systems get older, or if they have experienced frequent repairs.

Most contractors will already be familiar with the list of reasons for not buying a new system, as these often come up when customers are deciding between a “repair or replace” scenario.  Since some of the top issues are financial or cost related, contractors should be prepared to discuss energy savings, government/utility rebates and any financing options which could help homeowners with their replacement decisions.

  • To view actual survey results from this section, click here:  pdf
  1. What would previous buyers of HVAC systems recommend to people who are currently in the process of buying a new HVAC system?

The most common piece of advice given to homeowners, by far, from previous HVAC buyers is to “research everything” before making their purchase decision.  The second most common suggestion was to get a “qualified/trusted” contractor to install their system.  There are also many other good suggestions on the list that might help consumers prepare for their HVAC investment decisions, like considering energy efficiency, getting multiple quotes from more than one contractor and budgeting for future HVAC expenditures as equipment gets older.

Contractors should be familiar with this list so they can help their customers through the buying process.  For example, providing links to internet-based information and following up with emails and text messages might help customers through the process faster than more traditional methods.  Also, being prepared to show energy cost savings and payback calculations could help with financing concerns.

  • To view actual survey results from this section, click here:  pdf
  1. What is the likely profile of a consumer who purchased, and is satisfied with a premium HVAC system?

Homeowners who think they might be happy with a premium, high efficiency HVAC system are usually very well informed about the various terms used in the HVAC industry to describe these systems (SEER, HSPF, etc).  They are also more likely to have needs that are further down the list of priorities for most consumers – quiet, clean air, humidity control as well as concerns about the environment.  Finally, these homeowners are more likely to have purchased other products that promote energy efficiency, environmental sustainability or health.

During sales calls, contractors should be prepared to discuss some of the less common benefits with homeowners, like humidity control, air quality and sound.  Understanding whether customers have been satisfied with other purchases of high efficiency or environmentally sustainable products, or asking if they have any health issues like allergies could allow the contractor to help address these concerns with the purchase of higher efficiency HVAC equipment.  This dialogue might allow them to offer a solution that truly meets the homeowner’s needs rather than just an immediate need for cool air.  Contractors should also be willing to perform diagnostic tests and other calculations for potential buyers.

  • To view actual survey results from this section, click here: pdf
  1. What makes consumers feel truly satisfied with their HVAC Contractor?

The homeowners in the study who were more satisfied with their contractors relied heavily on reputable contractors for both the recommendations on what systems to buy and also to insure proper installation.  This group relied more on internet resources for research and on recommendations from friends, but relied less on product literature and government websites for assistance.  They were also more likely to have engaged in discussions about high efficiency system options even if they did not buy them.  Just knowing about these higher efficiency options seemed to help with their overall satisfaction.

Contractors can use internet-based tools to help their customers with their HVAC purchase decisions, as well as both conventional and new (i.e. social media) methods to gain referrals from family/friends.  When discussing system options, contractors should always discuss the pros and cons of higher efficiency systems even if it seems unlikely they will sell them.  Performing calculations and diagnostic tests were also correlated to high satisfaction scores.

  • To view actual survey results from this section, click here:  pdf
  1. What are some of the other interesting characteristics of HVAC consumers that were discovered as part of this research?

Key Takeaways for Homeowners:

  • Homeowners who are “currently buying” HVAC equipment appear to be much more interested in energy efficiency and comfort than those who have “already bought” a system.  The “already bought” group was more frequently in the market due to a major repair or system failure which probably limits time to research system and contractor options.  So, homeowners should probably plan for system replacement as their systems get older or as they begin to require more frequent repairs.
  • On average most homeowners take three weeks to research their HVAC purchase, do significant internet research and talk to at least two contractors before deciding.  However, some satisfied homeowners also seem to do their research faster and deal more quickly with a local contractor who they know and trust to avoid spending a lot of time deciding.
  • More research time does not necessarily lead to better decisions and better satisfaction.  What is most important is doing good, objective internet research and finding the right contractor to help.
  • A contractor who comes with a strong recommendation and who talks with you about various system options and performs diagnostic tests should help you to be satisfied with your system selection and also your overall satisfaction with your HVAC investments.
  • Homeowners who made “shopping for deals” a priority had a slightly higher percentage of “dissatisfied” responses.

Key Takeaways for Contractors:

  • Having a reputation for quality service and providing reliable systems that last a long time is very important.  Getting those referrals to your customers quickly is also important along with providing recommendations for objective, internet-based information to help them make decisions.
  • Performing diagnostic tests and providing the results of calculations will help customers know you are taking steps to understand their unique needs.  This is also important for their satisfaction with your work and with their equipment selection.
  • Homeowners will probably not be very familiar with terms like SEER and HSPF so explaining these to your customers will be helpful.  They will probably be more familiar with Energy Star, so you might be ready to explain efficiency in that context or as it relates to various rebates available in your area.
  • Most homeowners do not know what the efficiency ratings are for their current equipment.  You might take note of this when you are doing your diagnostics so you can help them with energy savings calculations later.

Links to View or Download the Entire Study:

 

New Designer Air Webinar Series Focuses on Compressor Modulation

by |
Reply

We just completed our first installment of the “Getting Comfortable with Designer Air” webinar series on compressor modulation, which kicked off on April 7. Over 500 contractors, OEMs, and facility managers registered to attend this one hour online presentation.  Over 90% of attendees rated the webinar as good or excellent and said the content provided a great understanding of how different types of compressors work.

The series began with a webinar titled “The Four Things You Need to Know about Compressor Modulation,” where Ken Monnier (VP Engineering at Emerson) and I discussed the important aspects of modulation technology, giving an in-depth overview of the following:

1. The Role and Need of Modulation Technologies: It’s Not Just a Want, It’s A Need

I discussed the changing regulatory landscape, customer preferences, the impact of the current residential efficiency standards, and proposed commercial standards.

2. The Benefits of Modulation Technologies: It’s Not Just About Comfort

Ken walked through the benefits of enhanced comfort, improved energy efficiency, and proven reliability.

3. The Applications Ideally Suited For Modulation Technologies: It’s Not Just For Premium Systems

I discussed the ideal residential and commercial applications for certain types of modulation.  Ideal residential uses of modulation include premium, high comfort and geothermal applications.  Commercial applications such as restaurants, schools, retail stores, data centers and museums could also greatly benefit from modulation compressor technologies.

4. The Types of Modulation Technologies: It’s Not “One Size Fits All”

Ken explained some of the more popular modulation technologies available including: two-step, digital, variable speed, tandems and trios as well as a comparison of all the technologies.

To listen to a rebroadcast of the webinar click here.

For a full list of questions and answers discussed during the webinar, click here.

To see even more information about capacity modulation solutions for both residential and commercial applications, please visit our Designer Air page.

Should I Upgrade to a Wi-Fi® Enabled Thermostat?

by |
12

The Wi-Fi® enabled thermostat is a relatively new product to the HVAC market that is already seeing great success.  Wi-Fi enabled thermostats are adding additional benefits to homeowners that have not been enjoyed in the past.  Depending on homeowner habits, a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat could potentially cut the cost of your next heating or cooling bill.

  1. Travel Habits- Do you find yourself leaving the house and forgetting to adjust the thermostat or setting your programmable one?  Do you come and go from your house several times a day?  By upgrading to a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat, a homeowner would have the ability to change the temperature of their home from a cellphone, tablet or PC.  Rather than heating or cooling your house while you are gone the Wi-Fi enabled thermostat allows you to avoid wasting energy while you’re away.
  2. System Compatibility- There are quite a few Wi-Fi enabled thermostats on the market and making sure the one you select will work with your system can be complicated.  It is always best to consult a professional contractor before making a purchase decision, but here are a few things to consider.  About half the homes in the U.S. have a Common Wire or “C wire” providing low voltage power to their thermostat to do things like keep the back light on.  Most Wi-Fi enabled thermostats need this power wire to operate correctly.  You should check to see if your thermostat has this wire before selecting your Wi-Fi enabled thermostat.  A few Wi-Fi enabled thermostats will also operate without the C Wire if your home does not have one. Systems that use high voltage thermostats (more than 24 volts) will most likely not be compatible with Wi-Fi enabled thermostats.  Almost all Wi-Fi enabled thermostat providers have a compatibility table or checker on their website.
  3. Installation- Wi-Fi enabled thermostats vary greatly in sophistication and cost, and many can be installed without calling a contractor.  Some even have installation instructions on the app, so all you need to do is install the app and follow the step by step guides.  It would be good to do some online research before deciding on the model that best suits your needs.

Wi-Fi enabled thermostats can be a great way to cut energy costs, but you should weigh all of your options first.  If you have a consistent schedule and don’t mind walking over to set and program your thermostat, then maybe a programmable thermostat is the better option.  On the other hand, if you would like to monitor and change the temperature in your home remotely from your phone, then a Wi-Fi enabled thermostat might be the way to go.  Either way, controlling the temperature in your home is vital to reducing your heating and cooling costs.

Changes in Home Efficiency Tax Credits for AC and Heating Equipment

by |
3

There are a few updates to Tax Credits and Incentives in 2015.  The reinstated 2012 HVAC tax credits (25C) for certain equipment is now expired as of 12/31/2014.

However, there are a few new incentives that homeowners should be aware of.

“Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit”:

This is a tax incentive program provided through Energy Star for residential renewable technologies.  A taxpayer may claim a credit of 30% on qualified expenditures for a system that serves as a dwelling unit owned and used as a residence by the taxpayer.

http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/1235

  • Eligible Renewable Technologies: Solar Water heat, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Other Solar-Electric Technologies
  • Amount: 30%

“Residential Energy Conservation Subsidy Exclusion (Personal)”:

This is a tax exemption program for residential solar-thermal projects and photovoltaic systems that may be non-taxable; however, the IRS has yet to rule definitively on this issue.  The IRS also has yet to release the eligible efficiency technologies for this program.

http://programs.dsireusa.org/system/program/detail/666

  • Eligible Renewable Technologies: Solar Water Heat, Solar Space Heat, Photovoltaics.
  • Incentive Type: Personal Exemption
  • Amount: 100% Subsidy

The 2015 AHR Expo – Review From a Newcomer’s Perspective

by |
1

While planning my first trip to the AHR Expo, I would have to admit that my expectations were not very high.  Being new to the industry and having never been to the Expo, my initial thoughts were that this might be as exciting as watching curling in the Olympics – mildly interesting, but confusing by the hoopla surrounding it.  However, I was impressed by the highly engineered, creative products that have been developed to meet the ever-increasing efficiency and comfort demands from the market. The number of people attending was impressively high as well. I met suppliers, contractors, vocational students, and industry representatives who were all excited about the new technology at the show.

The breadth of electronics and other controls being displayed was astounding.  I expected the majority of the show to be the traditional duct work, compressor, and system level components.  What I found was that even the traditional component level technologies were far more advanced than I would have imagined.  There were new insulated, flexible ducting products to improve airflow and ease of installation.  Compressors were equipped with electronics for diagnostics and protection.  There were numerous system level controls used to improve efficiency and reliability for end-users.  One item I found particularly interesting was a Wi-Fi dampener, which used an energy harvesting technology to provide power to the actuator for the dampeners.  This allowed zoning to be accomplished without running any wires.

I was blown away by the application of Enterprise Resourcing Planning (ERP) software and other tools that were available to improve the efficiency of contractor’s operations.  I thought ERP software was reserved for large, heavy manufacturing companies, but contractors are using this software to run complex businesses that rely on customer satisfaction and efficient operations to be successful.  Beyond ERP software, service technicians are using mobile apps to improve productivity.  With access to information from mobile apps as well as system and compressor diagnostics and controls, service technicians can more accurately solve the problem on the first call.  I was impressed with the industry’s tools to deliver better customer satisfaction and improve operations.  Some contractors are obviously running some pretty savvy business models in this complex, technical industry.

I assumed the AHR show was going to be a mildly interesting experience, but my mindset was changed as soon as I stepped up to my first booth.  The industry’s drive to develop and apply new technologies was remarkable.  I look forward to next year’s show as the industry continues to develop new ways to apply electronics, controls, and other developments to further enhance efficiency, reliability, and provide energy savings and comfort to end-users.

Will Prices Go Up After The New AC Efficiency Regulations Go In?

by |
2

The air conditioning and heat pump efficiency regulations that went into effect on January 1, 2015 will only affect new equipment, including both the indoor and outdoor units.  General repairs to an existing system should not be affected unless the whole indoor or outdoor units are replaced. For example, the cost of replacing a part or general maintenance costs should not be affected.

It is not clear what will happen to prices of new systems as a result of these regulations but we have heard of a few instances of increases of around 5% or less which would translate into a few hundred dollars on the price of an entire system, depending on the size of the system. The new equipment is often a little larger too so if you have a space constrained situation you might have to also pay a little more for the installation. There are also a lot of old, pre-regulation systems still available on the market and these can be sold and installed through 6/30/16.