More contractors are ready, trained in and
processing quotes with R-410A products, according to a survey from Emerson
Climate Technologies.
The results come from the company’s third contractor and distributor survey
designed to measure readiness for the 2010 transition away from R-22-using
equipment.
In this survey, 57 percent of the participants responded that their technicians
and staff are ready to support R-410A, and 14 percent reported that they are
exclusively quoting R-410A. This is a 3 percent increase from the survey done
six months earlier.
Although the survey shows that the industry continues to prepare for the
transition, Emerson officials report that some contractors and distributors
seem to be pushing their conversions closer to the 2010 deadline. Almost
one-fourth of those residential contractors and distributors who initially
planned to convert by 2008, according to the November 2007 survey, have now
pushed their transition to 2009.
Commercial contractors and distributors have pushed their conversions out even
further, to 2010.
When asked why they recommend R-22 equipment over R-410A, the predominant
answer was the current cost associated with R-22 system repair versus
replacement with an R-410A system. However, technical issues like line flush
requirements, technician inexperience, lack of training with R-410A and
retrofitting existing equipment are starting to become larger
concerns.
“This latest survey tells us that the industry continues to embrace R-410A, but
that we need to further address contractor and distributor concerns, including
technical issues and technician training, while also continuing to communicate
the importance of earlier conversion,” said Brent Schroeder, president of
Emerson Climate Technologies’ air-conditioning division.
This survey shows that over half of those who said that they bought or stocked
ahead for the 13 seasonal energy-efficiency rating change in 2006 will do the
same this time around, primarily for use in normal system replacements.
However, 58 percent of those surveyed also said that they expect to see more
repairs of R-22 systems as opposed to R-410A system replacement, primarily due
to economic reasons.
“This learning causes us particular concern. A significant increase in demand
for R-22 during the last half of 2009 could have an unsettling effect on the
entire industry,” Schroeder said. “We all remember the shortages, inventory
fluctuations and supply chain issues that made the 13-SEER (seasonal
energy-efficiency rating) transition a very tumultuous time for everyone in the
industry.
“At Emerson Climate Technologies, we are working with all of our partners to
more effectively manage through the R-22 phase-out and ensure that the customer
gets the best long-term solution that meets his needs,” he added.
Industry still getting ready for refrigerant transition, says survey
February 1, 2009
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