What is the cause of the cost increase?
If it is warmer I can see where it would cost more to air condition - but that should lalso lower heating costs in the winter.
Does it perhaps have something to do with increased regulations?
Due to a fear that we are expending our natural resources (though it my opinion we have not even tapped into what is available), higher efficiency in many areas are not only recommended...but they are now law.
This affects the equipment, as well as the materials that are associated with them, as well as many stages of construction.
R-values have increased, for instance, affecting the cost of duct-wrap and flexible duct.
Because the way to improve efficiency is in large part brought about by increasing coil size, more precious metals are required to build them.
We have seen a dramatic increase in costs for building materials, delivery of goods, increased efficiency demands which, while keeping the polar bears safe, leave those that cannot afford to repair, much less replace, inoperable systems, either going without, making do (wihch usually involves space heaters which can have incredible amp draws and are sometimes plugged in to old circuits not able to carry the load), or being forced to use contractors that have no concern for safety.
Some would say, "Can't they get government assistance?" The answer is yes. But is that what we, as a nation, want to force people to do?
Who really profits from this, other than manufacturers (who, by the way, get slammed as well as the general public, so I am not trying to cast them in a bad light)?
I do not believe it is coincidence that government assistance is one remedy for those who, because of government regulation, really suffer the most in this area.
And I would also clarify, I am in support of regulation of trades, as this is one way in which the safety of the general public is at least partially protected.
And while I am all for more efficient equipment which reduces the need for natural resources, I am against it when it makes it impossible for the less fortunate to have an option for safe, affordable heat.
If it is warmer I can see where it would cost more to air condition - but that should lalso lower heating costs in the winter.
Not really. We are going to have cold, winter, until God wraps this world up.
Most people that I run into live basically the same way: they have a certain amount coming in, and most of it going out, because most people live in that manner.
I go into million dollar homes, and in poor neighborhoods. Most have the idea that those that live in big homes have money pouring out their ears, and cost is no object for them. What I have seen is that many of these people are just like those in less expensive areas...they have a certain amount coming in, and they live right there on the border.
Of course, some of these do have money to spare, so to speak, because they pinch pennies...lol, which is why they have money.
Anyway, when it comes time to buy heating and air conditioning equipment, they usually come together. You can buy the two separately, however, for some, air conditioning is, like heat, a necessity. And I speak about the elderly, for the most part.
Does it perhaps have something to do with increased regulations
Very much so. The question is, should a government agency have the power to regulate necessities beyond the grasp of the poor? And in the process, establish a need for the government to boot.
I personally believe that there should be allowances made for affordable heating that does not require governmental interference or assistance.
Here we are at a time when the economy has slowed, and people have a need for help that allows them to remain independant, such as tax breaks, and yes, a closer look at the motivation for higher efficiency.
And an even closer look at the consequences for higher efficiency. Most of the regulations that have been imposed on the surface are for "the good of mankind and the planet," but if you are out in the field and see the results of some of regulations, you might have a different view of them.
Sorry for the length, it is just that I have been witness to some of the conditions that arise when reliable, affordable service, is taken out of reach of some people.
I have, since global warming became a popular subject, always looked at it that man will not replace that which scripture tells us will happen with something of his own making. I have always been conscientious about the earth, but we have a responsibility to people before we have a responsibility to earth. And from what I have seen, global warming proponents have done more harm than good.
But, that is just one way to control people, through fear. That is how general populations have always been held in check, through fear that builds reliance on government, rather than God.
God bless.
