Rheem Mfg. Co., Heating & Cooling Division announced an aggressive policy to eliminate online, direct-to-consumer sales of its Rheem- and Ruud-branded products. The policy also includes separate Trademark Online Usage Guidelines and Copyright Online Usage Guidelines, and hopes to protect Rheem and Ruud distributors, contractors and homeowners from the potential dangers of unapproved Web and Internet auction sites.

Rheem has monitored and intervened into this growing problem for several years. There is a growing concern about Web sites giving the false impression they are operated by, approved, sponsored or otherwise endorsed by Rheem.

“Rheem is proud to be the first HVAC manufacturer taking aggressive action to fight Internet piracy and all other unlawful uses of our intellectual property that threaten to undermine the value of our brand,” said Rheem Heating and Cooling President J.R. Jones in a media release.  

Among the many provisions of this Internet policy is one that makes it inappropriate to offer for sale or to sell any Rheem or Ruud HVAC product direct to consumers over the Internet, without an in-house visit and inspection by a qualified, trained HVAC contractor. In addition, the policy can ensure homeowners receive quality products, as well as the full benefit of the Rheem and Ruud factory warranty.

Click Here to visit the Rheem Consumer Alert page.