Replace your HVAC unit before May 2013

Aug. 28, 2012 - PRLog -- LIBERTY, MO – Aug 28, 2012  – Due to a recent installation ban by the Department of Energy (DOE), Climate Control will only be installing 80% annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) furnaces until May 1, 2013. After this date, regulation will require furnaces to have at least 90% AFUE; a decision that could prove to be very costly for homeowners who have a finished basement, furnace in attic or crawl space.

“The installation ban will affect our HVAC business – however it will really impact a lot of homeowners, too,” said Dave Dennis, Owner of Climate Control Heating & Cooling in Liberty, MO. “If your furnace is 12 to 15 years or older and currently 80% efficient or less you should at least have your furnace safety inspection to insure the integrity of that furnace. I urge homeowners who are considering replacement or know their system needs to be replaced to go ahead and act before next May so that they can avoid being forced into costly home improvements in order to be in compliance to upcoming changes.”

The DOE’s regional standards will impact both HVAC businesses and homeowners. HVAC companies with existing inventory of 80% AFUE units will no longer be able to sell and install them. Previous regulations set by the DOE have allowed for existing inventory to be sold and installed, however the latest rules mandate that only compliant furnaces be installed starting May 1, 2013.

“Homeowners have no reason to be alarmed if they have a ‘non-compliant’ furnace, or are considering installing an 80% AFUE before next May,” said Dennis. “These units waste about 10% more gas than the units being mandated, however they’re still very safe and energy efficient.”

According to Dennis, the 90% AFUE units must be installed in a conditioned room. In the event the unit will be in a non-conditioned space and the homeowner cannot build a room around it, the mechanical system will need to be converted to electric, which could mean extensive home upgrades to the electrical system.

“Homeowners (especially those in older homes) who just want their heat fixed next winter could be in for a big surprise,” said Dennis. “It’s not going to be as simple as it used to be for those systems in attics, crawl spaces or finished basements. Sheet rock repair, upgrading electrical systems and potential remodeling of attics may be required before we can replace a furnace and get the heat turned on.”

About Climate Control
Climate Control Heating & Cooling is one of Kansas City’s most trusted HVAC companies.  Since 1987, Climate Control has been guaranteeing comfort through HVAC installs and repair. Climate Control is home to Kansas City’s beloved Comfort Bear. To learn more, please visit http://climatecontrolkc.com/