“ How are we keeping the heat out of the house, instead of just
focusing on removing it? —Allison Hale ”
preferences. Customers in more rural areas, says Hale, may be uncomfortable with switching to electric and prefer the self- reliance of propane or natural gas. And in considering all these factors, contractors should provide customers with a realistic estimate of expectations for upfront vs. operating costs, com- fort, etc., as well as whether the existing electrical system is even compatible with a heat pump — such a switch could require upgrades within the house or to the utility, says Lehr. Finding good information is also a challenge. “Right now, man-
ufacturers are providing most of that information, but it is still coming off as very self-serving,” says Hale, since manufacturers are primarily interested in selling their own equipment. “We need to make sure that we have a source of information that is available so that we can help our customers make the best decisions and we can make the best decisions for our businesses.” She also notes that customers often view HVAC companies as their sources of information. When the Electric Reliability Council of Texas sends out a warning asking everyone to set their A/C unit at 78°, we get calls from customers asking why or if they must follow the warn- ing, she says. “They’re looking to us for advice in how to manage their personal electric usage through their HVAC system.” Hale is also concerned about how manufacturing and the supply chain will keep up with demand, especially as regula-
TRAIN YOUR TEAM ON SAFE PRACTICES WHEN WORKING IN THE FIELD
acca.org/safetyseries
Working in the Heat, Distracted Driving, Circle of Safety, Ladder Safety, and more!
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