Following last week’s email update regarding the Enforcement Plan from the Department of Energy for Regional Efficiency Standards, I wanted to take the opportunity to publicly answer a few Frequently Asked Questions, which I have received:
Q: Does the distributor need to know the address of where the installation will occur?
A: No. The distributor is only responsible for noting the address of the purchaser of the equipment (i.e. contractor, other distributor, etc.) and, if applicable, the delivery location.
DOE has created a public information brochure for installers and contractors, which many have recommended making available to customers.
Q: Does the distributor need to maintain records for heat pumps?
A: No. The record keeping requirement only applies to central and single-packaged air-conditioners.
Q: Only the SW Region has a Regional Standard for single-packaged A/C. Outside of the SW, may I sell 13 SEER single-packaged A/C beyond the June 30th deadline?
A: Yes. Because the national standard for single-packaged air conditioners is a national 14-SEER standard and only the SW region has a regional standard, it is permissible for distributors in the Southern region to sell 13-SEER product manufactured prior to January 1, 2015.
Q: What steps can a distributor take to protect themselves from a bad actor customer/employee?
A: Provide training for employees and customers. DOE has created a public information brochure for installers and contractors, which many have recommended making available to customers.