US delays enforcement of new energy efficiency rules for air conditioners

The US Department of Energy proposes to delay when new energy efficiency rules for central air conditioners and heat pumps will take effect. This means manufacturers will have more time before they must prove their products meet the new standards.

The US has been tightening energy efficiency standards for appliances for decades, pushing manufacturers to innovate and consumers to save on utility bills. This delay gives manufacturers a reprieve from having to re-engineer products or update testing procedures. It also means consumers will wait longer for more efficient models to become widely available.