Contributed by Jamie Tanner, MACCA Marketing Manager
During the first week of November 2024, the Southwest Florida Air Conditioning Contractors Association (SWACCA) and the Manasota Air Conditioning Contractors Association (MACCA) hosted back-to-back panel discussions addressing the ongoing A2L refrigerant transition—a change anticipated to redefine the HVAC landscape. These events served as a knowledge-sharing platform for industry professionals navigating the shift toward A2L refrigerants, known for their lower environmental impact but requiring new handling protocols.
SWACCA’s event was held at the Embassy Suites in Estero and MACCA’s event was held EVEN Hotel Sarasota Lakewood Ranch, the panels featured respected voices from top manufacturers: Jennifer Keith of Mitsubishi (Ductless and VRF), Christopher Baucom, Trane Residential HVAC & HVAC Supply Florida Region, Kelly Radford – TRANE Technologies – Light Commercial and Residential Products, Lou Gristwood from Daikin Comfort Technologies (Reclaim/A2L Specialist), Eric Bristol of Goodman/Daikin Comfort Technologies, and David Anderson from Carrier Enterprise (Residential Systems, Florida Region). Each speaker brought critical insights, helping contractors and technicians understand the impact of the A2L transition on their work and businesses.
Panelists addressed a variety of questions about supply chain demands due to an overactive hurricane season, limited equipment selection options, current expected launch dates, gauge hookups changes to left handed thread and more to help navigate these complex changes affecting the industry.
These events underscore SWACCA’s and MACCA’s dedication to advancing the HVAC community through timely education and professional support. Both organizations look forward to hosting more educational gatherings, empowering HVAC pros to stay informed and prepared in an evolving industry.
For more information on SWACCA and MACCA, including membership benefits and upcoming events, visit sw-acca.org and macca.us.
