Williams HVAC Products: Summary of Class Action Investigation Issues When choosing the HVAC system, consumers typically rely on the manufacturer's published efficiency and performance data. An independent review claims that some Williams HVAC units, including the Montara HP003 heat pump, list efficiency and capacity values that do not meet federal standards. These misrepresentations are concerning and render the units illegal to sell, install, or use in the United States, which puts consumers, contractors, and distributors at risk.
Non-Compliance with DOE Efficiency Standards The Williams Montara HP003 is listed with a cooling capacity of 8,000 BTU. Federal law requires any heat pump of this size to meet a minimum SEER of 13.4. Williams advertises this unit at 13.9 SEER2, but, according to the reviews, this rating is not based on certified DOE lab testing. The unit also lacks a valid HSPF2 rating, which is mandatory for all residential heat pumps. Instead, it uses outdated measures such as SEER and COP. Using numbers that do not comply with DOE rules violates federal law, rendering the product illegal to distribute or install in the United States.
Conflicting Performance Data Zymbo manufactures the Williams Heater. Their technical data state that it has a cooling capacity of 8,831 BTU with an input of 750 watts, resulting in an Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER) of 11.77. However, the official EER they published is only 10.6. For heating, it is listed with a capacity of 8,800 BTU and an input of 700 watts, which should give a COP of 3.68, but the published COP is 3.35. Williams has even reported lower numbers, claiming a cooling capacity of only 8,000 BTU with reduced efficiency. Independent lab tests show the heater does not meet the advertised ratings, suggesting the published figures are inaccurate. This misrepresentation misleads consumers and creates legal and financial risks for distributors and installers.
Use of Outdated and Non-Compliant Ratings Since 2023, the DOE requires all residential heat pumps to use SEER2 and HSPF2 ratings tested under AHRI 210/240 procedures. The Williams Heating Systems continues to use SEER and COP, which are outdated and not legally valid. Using these old ratings to advertise efficiency gives the false impression that the unit has been tested and is compliant. Selling or installing such units exposes contractors and consumers to regulatory penalties and legal action.
Conclusion The Williams Montara HP003 is illegal, non-compliant, and intentionally misrepresented. Anyone relying on published data is putting themselves at risk of higher energy bills and legal exposure. This guide aims to help you make informed decisions and avoid being misled by false efficiency claims. Don't take advertised numbers at face value; make sure they comply with the set standards before you decide. The only way users can protect themselves is to ensure the unit is DOE-certified and AHRI-listed before purchasing or installing the HVAC system.
