The times they are a-changin’, and there’s no option other than to adapt. April 15th is quickly approaching, and the new residential water heater energy efficiency standards are about to be in effect.
The 2010 Department of Energy Final Rule on energy efficiency mandates a higher Energy Factor rating on all residential water heating products manufactured after April 15th, 2015, including gas, electric, oil and tankless gas 
water heaters. What does this mean? Contractors must educate themselves on the new rules, and fast! Manufacturers, including A.O. Smith and Bradford White, have been aware of the change since 2010, and have been working to redesign products ever since.
Training
There are many training opportunities for contractors, offered by the manufacturers themselves. The focus of these training courses is installation of the new products, so installers know how to properly pick a unit and how to install it worry-free.
Bradford White has been educating the plumbing industry about this change since 2012 by sending out their sales force to speak directly with customers. They’ve also attended industry conventions with hopes to educate the public, according to Contractor Mag. Rheem offers training courses that plumbers and contractors can take to learn about new technology as well.
A.O. Smith has been training installers in a digital classroom known as “A.O. Smith University.” This studio enables A.O. Smith to conduct virtual training sessions across the country in an interactive classroom setting via live streaming video.
After five years since the rule was finalized, manufacturers have done their share of redesigning, preparing and educating. At this point, contractors and tradesman must seek the knowledge necessary to stay up to speed on the new standards. Do you feel prepared for the switch?
