Washington State has a track record of mandating energy conservation. While energy conservation is certainly a good thing (and a passion of ours), mandated improvements result in increased cost for consumers.
For example, the latest Washington State Energy Code calls for air duct testing / sealing as part of any furnace replacement or heat pump / air conditioner installation. This process is very expensive and intrusive. There is no choice for the homeowner or installing contractors. Duct testing / sealing must be done in order to comply and avoid the risk of stiff fines.
The latest code scheduled to go into effect July 1, 2010 has been challenged in court. Under pressure, Governor Gregoire has requested that implementation be delayed nine months until April 2011. While a temporary reprieve may have been won, its clear Washington homeowners will ultimately be forced to pay for mandated energy conservation measures.
At MM Comfort Systems, we offer our customers a full range of home performance solutions. At the same time, we are speaking up to protect consumer rights to make such investments voluntarily. What are your thoughts?
