Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Clothes Washers, 46729-46788 [2015-18330]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 150 (Wednesday, August 5, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46729-46788]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-18330]



[[Page 46729]]

Vol. 80

Wednesday,

No. 150

August 5, 2015

Part III





Department of Energy





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10 CFR Parts 429 and 430





Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Clothes Washers; Final 
Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 150 / Wednesday, August 5, 2015 / 
Rules and Regulations

[[Page 46730]]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Parts 429 and 430

[Docket No. EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009]
RIN 1904-AC97


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Clothes Washers

AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of 
Energy.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: On April 25, 2014, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued 
a notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) to amend the test procedures for 
clothes washers. That proposed rulemaking serves as the basis for this 
final rule. DOE is issuing a final rule revising its test procedures 
for clothes washers established under the Energy Policy and 
Conservation Act. The final rule amends the current procedures, 
incorporating changes that will take effect 30 days after the final 
rule publication date. These changes will be mandatory for 
representations starting 180 days after publication. These amendments 
codify test procedure guidance that DOE has issued in response to 
frequently asked questions, clarify additional provisions within the 
test procedures, provide improved organization of each section, and 
correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test procedures. DOE 
has determined that these amendments will not affect measured energy 
use.

DATES: The effective date of this rule is September 4, 2015. The final 
rule changes will be mandatory for representations made on or after 
February 1, 2016.

ADDRESSES: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public 
meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting 
documents/materials, is available for review at https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009. All 
documents in the docket are listed in the regulations.gov index. 
However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing 
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly 
available. The regulations.gov Web page will contain simple 
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments, 
in the docket.
    For further information on how to review the docket, contact Ms. 
Brenda Edwards at (202) 586-2945 or by email: 
Brenda.Edwards@ee.doe.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Program, EE-2J, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(202) 586-0371. Email: Bryan.Berringer@ee.doe.gov.
    Ms. Johanna Hariharan, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the 
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-6307. Email: 
Johanna.Hariharan@hq.doe.gov.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Authority and Background
    A. Authority
    B. Background
    C. General Test Procedure Rulemaking Process
II. Summary of the Final Rule
III. Discussion
    A. General Comments
    B. Introductory Text
    C. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement
    1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
    2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
    3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
    4. Plastic Sheet Material
    5. Shipping Bolts
    D. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions
    E. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure
    F. Test Cloth Loading Instructions
    G. Energy Test Cycle
    1. Warm Rinse Cycles
    2. Sanitization Cycles
    3. Default Cycle Settings
    4. Energy Test Cycle Definition
    5. Normal Cycle Definition
    6. Determining the Energy Test Cycle With New Flowcharts
    H. Wash Time Setting
    I. Standby and Off Mode Testing
    1. Testing Sequence
    2. Door Position
    3. Default Settings
    4. Network Mode
    5. Clarified Procedure for Performing Inactive and Off Mode 
Power Measurements
    6. Multiple Inactive Modes
    J. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems
    K. Maximum Water Fill Levels on Electronic Manual Water Fill 
Control Systems
    L. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions
    M. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures
    N. Determining Extra-Hot Wash Temperature
    O. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy
    P. Out-of-Balance Loads
    Q. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions
    R. Table 3.2 Edits
    S. Table 4.1.1 Edits
    T. Table 2.8 Edits
    U. Replacing ``Consumer'' With ``User''
    V. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23
    W. Reporting and Verification Requirements
    1. Remaining Moisture Content
    2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
    3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
    4. Product Firmware Updates
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
    B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
    D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
    E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
    F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
    G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 1999
    I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
    J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration 
Act of 1974
    M. Congressional Notification
V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Authority and Background

A. Authority

    Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 
1975 (EPCA), Pub. L. 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified), 
established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other 
Than Automobiles,\2\ which includes residential clothes washers (RCW). 
(42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(7)) Part C of title III \3\ established the Energy 
Conservation Program for Certain Industrial Equipment, which includes 
commercial clothes washers (CCW). (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(H)) Both RCWs and 
CCWs are the subject of this rulemaking.
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    \1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part B was redesignated Part A.
    \2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015, 
Pub. L. 114-11 (Apr. 30, 2015).
    \3\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part C was redesignated Part A-1.
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    Under EPCA, the energy conservation program consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. The 
testing requirements consist of test procedures that manufacturers of 
covered products must use as the basis for (1) certifying to DOE that 
their products comply with the applicable energy conservation standards 
adopted under EPCA, and (2) making representations about the efficiency 
of those products. Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to 
determine whether the products comply with any relevant standards 
promulgated under EPCA.

[[Page 46731]]

B. Background

    DOE test procedures for clothes washers are codified at appendices 
J1 and J2 to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B (``appendix J1'' and ``appendix 
J2''). DOE most recently amended the test procedures for clothes 
washers on March 7, 2012 (``March 2012 final rule''). 77 FR 13888. The 
March 2012 final rule amended certain provisions in appendix J1 and 
also established the clothes washer test procedure codified in appendix 
J2. DOE proposed additional clarifying revisions to both appendix J1 
and appendix J2 in a notice of proposed rulemaking published on April 
25, 2014 (``April 2014 NOPR''). 79 FR 23061.
    As of March 7, 2015, manufacturers of RCWs are required to make 
representations of energy efficiency using appendix J2, as established 
by the March 2012 final rule. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 2012) and 77 FR 
59719 (October 1, 2012).
    EPCA requires CCWs to be tested using the same test procedures 
applicable to residential clothes washers. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(8)) On 
December 3, 2014, DOE published a final rule adopting appendix J2, to 
be used to determine compliance with any future revised energy 
conservation standards for CCWs. 79 FR 71624. On December 15, 2014, DOE 
published a final rule amending the CCW energy conservation standards, 
which become effective January 1, 2018. 79 FR 74492. Manufacturers of 
CCWs must use appendix J1 to demonstrate compliance with the current 
standards established by the January 2010 final rule. (10 CFR 
431.156(b)) Beginning January 1, 2018, manufacturers must use appendix 
J2 to demonstrate compliance with the amended energy conservation 
standards effective on the same date. (10 CFR 431.156(c))

C. General Test Procedure Rulemaking Process

    EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures DOE must follow when 
prescribing or amending test procedures for covered products. (42 
U.S.C. 6293(b)) EPCA provides that any test procedures prescribed or 
amended under this section shall be reasonably designed to produce test 
results that measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual 
operating cost of a covered product during a representative average use 
cycle or period of use and shall not be unduly burdensome to conduct. 
(42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    In addition, if DOE determines that a test procedure amendment is 
warranted, it must publish proposed test procedures and offer the 
public an opportunity to present oral and written comments on them. (42 
U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)). Finally, in any rulemaking to amend a test 
procedure, DOE must determine to what extent, if any, the proposed test 
procedure would alter the measured energy efficiency of any covered 
product as determined under the existing test procedure. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(e)(1)) If DOE determines that the amended test procedure would 
alter the measured efficiency of a covered product, DOE must amend the 
applicable energy conservation standard accordingly. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(e)(2))
    With respect to this rulemaking, DOE has determined that the 
amendments it is adopting will not change the measured energy use of 
clothes washers compared to the current test procedure.

II. Summary of the Final Rule

    This final rule codifies clarifications and technical amendments to 
the current DOE test procedures for clothes washers at appendix J1 and 
appendix J2. The final rule also amends the reporting and verification 
requirements for RCWs. DOE has determined that the amendments described 
in section III would not alter the measured efficiency of clothes 
washers. The amendments either codify guidance interpreting DOE's 
existing regulations, provide further clarification of the relevant 
test procedure provisions, provide improved organization of each 
section, or correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test 
procedures.

III. Discussion

A. General Comments

    As previously mentioned, DOE proposed additional clarifying 
revisions to both appendix J1 and appendix J2 in the April 2014 NOPR. 
79 FR 23061 (Apr. 25, 2014). DOE received several general comments in 
response to this proposal.
    The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) requested 
that DOE publish a final rule quickly because the introduction of test 
procedure amendments when compliance is already underway (as required 
beginning March 7, 2015) \4\ could cause confusion and added burden for 
manufacturers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2) \5\ AHAM also stated that DOE must 
present its analysis to show that the proposed changes would not alter 
the measured efficiency of clothes washers, per 42 U.S.C. 6293(e). Id. 
Furthermore, AHAM disagrees with DOE's conclusion that none of the 
proposed changes in the April 2014 NOPR would alter measured efficiency 
of clothes washers. Id.
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    \4\ March 7, 2015 is the compliance date of the amended energy 
conservation standards that address standby and off mode energy 
consumption for RCWs. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 2012) and 77 FR 59719 
(Oct. 1, 2012).
    \5\ A notation in this form provides a reference for information 
included in the docket for this rulemaking, which is maintained at 
www.regulations.gov. This notation indicates that the commenter's 
statement preceding the reference can be found in document number 4 
in the docket, and appears at page 2 of that document.
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    General Electric (GE) stated that it supports all of AHAM's 
comments, except regarding the issue of sanitization cycles, as 
discussed further in section III.G.2 of this final rule. (GE, No. 6 at 
p. 1) Whirlpool also stated that it supports all of AHAM's comments, 
except AHAM's comments on the issue of test cloth loading instructions 
for front-loading clothes washers, as discussed further in section 
III.F of this final rule. (Whirlpool, No. 7 at p. 2) Throughout this 
final rule, reference to AHAM's written comments should be considered 
reflective of GE and Whirlpool's positions as well, aside from the 
exceptions mentioned above.
    An anonymous commenter expressed support for DOE's proposal, 
stating that the proposal will enable testers to deliver more accurate 
results by streamlining the test procedure and clarifying certain 
confusing or unclear aspects. (Anonymous, No. 2 at p. 1)
    Throughout this rule, DOE addresses concerns raised by interested 
parties in the specific instances where interested parties stated that 
the proposed changes in the April 2014 NOPR would alter the measured 
efficiency of clothes washers. In each case, DOE either performed 
additional testing and analysis to justify its conclusion that a 
particular amendment would not impact measured efficiency, or altered 
the amendment in response to the concerns raised, so that the final 
amendment, as codified by this final rule, will not impact the measured 
efficiency of clothes washers.

B. Introductory Text

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising the introductory text 
after the appendix headings in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to 
clarify the proper use of appendices J1 and J2 for making 
representations of energy efficiency, including certifying compliance 
with DOE energy conservation standards. 79 FR 23061 (April 25, 2014).
    DOE test procedures for clothes washers are set forth in appendices 
J1 and J2 in 10 CFR part 430 subpart B. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE 
proposed a number of amendments to both

[[Page 46732]]

appendices, some of which are made final by this rule. Pursuant to 42 
U.S.C. 6293(c), manufacturers must make representations of energy 
efficiency using any amendments DOE adopts in a final test procedure 
rule beginning 180 days after the rule is prescribed or established. 
Therefore, beginning 180 days after this final rule is published in the 
Federal Register, manufacturers must make representations of energy 
efficiency pursuant to appendix J1 or appendix J2 as modified through 
such amendments.
    As of March 7, 2015, manufacturers of RCWs are no longer authorized 
to use appendix J1. In particular, compliance with DOE's amended 
standards for RCWs and corresponding use of appendix J2 for all 
representations by RCW manufacturers, including certifications of 
compliance, was required as of March 7, 2015. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 
2012) and 77 FR 59719 (October 1, 2012).
    AHAM stated that it does not oppose changes to appendix J1 for 
CCWs; however, AHAM requests that DOE expressly state that RCWs will 
not need to comply with the revised appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2) 
Alliance Laundry Systems (ALS) supports DOE's proposal to amend the 
note at the beginning of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 test 
procedures. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend the 
introductory text of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. Therefore, for 
the reasons stated above, this final rule amends the introductory text 
in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to clarify their use. As described 
in the Background section of this notice, the current energy 
conservation standards for CCWs are based on the MEF and WF metrics as 
measured using appendix J1. Therefore, appendix J1 will remain 
effective for CCWs until January 1, 2018, the effective date of the 
amended energy conservation standards for CCWs, which are based on 
appendix J2. 79 FR 74491 (Dec. 15, 2014). Since RCWs were required to 
use appendix J2 beginning March 7, 2015, appendix J1 will be used only 
for CCWs between March 7, 2015 and January 1, 2018.

C. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement

1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
    Section 3.1 of appendix J1 contains procedures for measuring the 
clothes container capacity. The capacity measurement procedure involves 
filling the clothes container with water and determining the volume 
based on the weight of the added water divided by the water density. 
Section 3.1.4 specifies that the clothes container be filled manually 
with water to its ``uppermost edge.''
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed codifying the clarifications 
and illustrations contained in the July 6, 2010 guidance document.\6\ 
79 FR 23061, 23063 (Apr. 25, 2014). The guidance document clarifies the 
definition of the uppermost edge of the clothes container for the 
purpose of performing capacity measurements and provides detailed 
descriptions and illustrations of the boundary defining the uppermost 
edge of the clothes container for both top-loading and front-loading 
clothes washers.
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    \6\ The July 6, 2010 guidance document on residential clothes 
washers is located at https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswashers_faq1_2010-07-06.pdf 
(``Guidance Document,'').
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    For top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers, DOE's guidance 
document defines the uppermost edge of the clothes container as the 
highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub cover. For front-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, the guidance document 
specifies filling the clothes container with water to the highest point 
of contact between the door and the door gasket. If any portion of the 
door or the door gasket would occupy the measured volume when the door 
is closed, that volume must be excluded from the measurement. DOE's 
guidance document also provides illustrations of the boundary defining 
the uppermost edge of the clothes container for both top-loading and 
front-loading clothes washers.\7\ DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR 
to incorporate some of these illustrations into appendix J1 as the 
following: (1) Figure 3.1.4.1, displaying the maximum fill level for 
top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers; (2) Figure 3.1.4.2, 
displaying example cross-sections of tub covers showing the highest 
horizontal plane defining the uppermost edge of the clothes container 
for top-loading clothes washers; and (3) Figure 3.1.4.3, showing the 
maximum fill volumes for the clothes container capacity measurement of 
horizontal-axis clothes washers.
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    \7\ See April 2014 NOPR, 79 FR 23061, 23091; Guidance Document, 
https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswashers_faq1_2010-07-06.pdf.
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    The April 2014 NOPR also further clarified the appropriate water 
fill levels for front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with 
concave door shapes and top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers. 79 
FR 23063. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed defining the capacity 
measurement for front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with 
concave door shapes as any space above the plane defined by the highest 
point of contact between the door and the door gasket, if that area 
could be occupied by clothing during washer operation. Id. Similarly, 
for top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, the water fill volume 
would include any space above the plane of the door hinge, if that area 
could be occupied by clothing during washer operation. Id. This 
additional clarification is consistent with the illustrations for these 
clothes washer types provided in DOE's guidance document.
    AHAM supports the incorporation of DOE's existing guidance and 
illustrations for the capacity measurement in appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 
at p. 4) AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to further clarify the 
water fill levels. Id.
    ALS also supports DOE's proposal to incorporate the illustrations 
from DOE's existing guidance in appendix J1. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to incorporate 
the capacity measurement clarifications described in its July 6, 2010 
guidance document into appendix J1. Therefore, for the reasons 
discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications into section 
3.1.4 of appendix J1 in this final rule.
2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
    Section 3.1.4 of appendix J2 specifies the maximum allowable water 
fill levels for determining the capacity of top-loading and front-
loading clothes washers. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed 
clarifying the description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading 
clothes washers in appendix J2. 79 FR 23063.
    For front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, section 3.1.4 
currently specifies filling the clothes container to the ``uppermost 
edge that is in contact with the door seal.'' DOE intended this 
language to clarify the text in DOE's July 6, 2010 guidance document 
interpreting appendix J1, but did not intend for the measured capacity 
values to differ. Since publishing the March 2012 final rule, DOE 
became aware of front-loading clothes washer door geometries with 
complex curvatures that may not have an easily discernible ``uppermost 
edge'' in contact with the door seal.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising the definition to 
provide additional clarity by referencing the ``highest point of 
contact'' rather than the ``uppermost edge,'' in order to

[[Page 46733]]

clearly identify the geometric boundary between the door and the door 
gasket for a wider range of front-loading clothes washer geometries. 79 
FR 23063. DOE intended for the measured capacity of a front-loading 
clothes washer using the proposed revised language to be equivalent to 
the measured capacity using the current front-loading capacity language 
in section 3.1.4 of appendix J2. Id. at 23063-64. The proposed 
amendments to appendix J2 also included the following illustrations: 
(1) Figure 3.1.4.1, showing the boundary defining the uppermost edge of 
the clothes container for top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers; 
and (2) Figure 3.1.4.2, showing the boundaries defining the maximum 
fill volumes for the clothes container capacity measurement of 
horizontal-axis clothes washers. Id.
    AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to amend the appendix J2 
description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading clothes 
washers using the same language as the proposed amendments to appendix 
J1, and as specified in existing capacity measurement guidance under 
appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4) AHAM also does not oppose DOE's 
proposal to incorporate illustrations of the boundary defining the 
uppermost edge of the clothes container for top-loading vertical-axis 
clothes washers and the boundaries defining the fill volumes for 
horizontal-axis clothes washers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4)
    ALS supports DOE's proposal to add illustrations showing the 
maximum fill level for top-loading vertical-axis washers and the 
maximum fill volume for horizontal-axis washers in appendix J2. (ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 3)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to incorporate 
the revised description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading 
clothes washers in appendix J2, as well as the illustrations of the 
boundaries defining the uppermost edge of the clothes container for 
top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers and the maximum fill volume 
for horizontal-axis clothes washers. Therefore, for the reasons 
discussed above, DOE incorporates these changes into newly renumbered 
section 3.1.4 of appendix J2 in this final rule.
3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
    In both appendix J1 and appendix J2, the measured capacity is the 
basis for determining the test load sizes specified in Table 5.1. The 
table provides test load sizes for capacity ranges in increments of 
0.10 cubic feet. The precision of the capacity ranges in Table 5.1 
implies that the capacity of the clothes container must be measured to 
the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining load size. 
However, manufacturers typically report capacity to the nearest 0.1 
cubic foot in DOE certification reports and in retail advertisements.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying that manufacturers 
must measure capacity to the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of 
determining load size and for calculating the efficiency values that 
manufacturers must report pursuant to 10 CFR 429.20(b). 79 FR 23061, 
23064. (April 25, 2014). DOE proposed adding this clarification in both 
appendices, in a new section 3.1.7 following the calculation of 
capacity in section 3.1.5. Id.
    The proposed amendments also specified in a new section at 10 CFR 
429.20(c) that capacity must be reported to the nearest 0.1 cubic foot 
for the purpose of DOE certification reports for RCWs.
    Finally, DOE proposed clarifying in a new paragraph at 10 CFR 
429.20(a)(3) that the certified capacity of any clothes washer basic 
model shall be the mean of the capacities of the units in the sample 
for the basic model. 79 FR 23064. DOE proposed this amendment for 
clarity, stating that it believes this is consistent with current 
practice because the existing test procedure and sampling plan require 
testing at least two units and measuring the drum capacity individually 
for each. Id.
    AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to clarify measuring capacity 
to the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purposes of the test procedure 
measurement and the downstream calculations in the test procedure, and 
to report capacity to the nearest 0.1 cubic foot for certification 
purposes. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4; ALS, No. 5 at p. 3) AHAM and ALS also 
support DOE's proposal that the certified capacity of any clothes 
washer basic model shall be the mean of the capacities of the units in 
the sample for the basic model. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4; ALS, No. 5 at p. 
1)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposed clarifications 
regarding clothes container capacity rounding requirements, including 
the revised certification requirement. Therefore, for the reasons 
discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications in this final 
rule.
4. Plastic Sheet Material
    Section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies lining 
the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil thickness (0.051mm) 
plastic sheet before filling the clothes container with water. DOE is 
aware that common industry practice is to use a large 2 mil plastic 
bag, rather than a plastic sheet, for lining the clothes container 
because the shape of the plastic bag more easily conforms to the 
geometry of the clothes container. DOE therefore proposed in the April 
2014 NOPR to amend section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to 
allow the use of either a 2 mil thickness plastic sheet or plastic bag 
to line the inside of the clothes container. 79 FR 23064. DOE reasoned 
that the measured capacity of the clothes washer would be the same 
regardless of whether a plastic sheet or plastic bag is used, provided 
that the thickness of either the plastic sheet or plastic bag is 2 mil. 
Id.
    AHAM and ALS support the use of a plastic bag for measuring 
capacity, stating that they believe a plastic bag provides the most 
accurate measurement method. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4, 5; ALS, No. 5 at p. 
3) AHAM added that it prefers that DOE no longer permit the use of a 
plastic sheet to perform the capacity measurement, to help reduce 
variation in the test procedure. (AHAM, No. 4 at p 4, 5) ALS also 
objected to DOE's continued allowance of ``plastic sheet material'' for 
the capacity measurement, stating that it results in an inaccurate 
measurement due to the significant folding that occurs with the flat 
sheet. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
    DOE has conducted numerous capacity measurements of both top-
loading and front-loading clothes washers using a flat plastic sheet, 
and has obtained the same measured capacity as each model's certified 
capacity value. Therefore, DOE's experience has shown that it is 
possible to perform the capacity measurement correctly and accurately 
using a flat plastic sheet. However, DOE acknowledges that the use of a 
flat plastic sheet can be more difficult than using a plastic bag. 
Using a flat plastic sheet requires careful attention to minimize the 
number of folds and to ensure that none of the folds encapsulate any 
trapped air, which could reduce the measured capacity.
    Due to the challenges observed by DOE in using a flat plastic 
sheet, and considering the comments received in response to the April 
2014 NOPR, this final rule amends section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 to require the use of only a 2 mil thickness plastic bag to 
line the inside of the clothes container. This final rule does not 
allow manufacturers to use a plastic sheet to perform measurements 
under appendix J1 and J2.

[[Page 46734]]

5. Shipping Bolts
    Front-loading clothes washers are typically designed with large 
bolts, inserted through the back of the clothes washer, that secure the 
wash drum to prevent movement of the drum during shipping. These 
``shipping bolts'' must be removed prior to operating the clothes 
washer. Alternatively, on some front-loading clothes washers, the drum 
is secured using other forms of bracing hardware that are intended to 
be removed prior to operating the clothes washer.
    Section 3.1.1 of appendix J2 currently specifies that the shipping 
bolts must remain in place during the capacity measurement procedure to 
support the wash drum and prevent it from sagging downward as the drum 
is filled with water. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed to add a 
reference to ``other forms of bracing hardware'' in section 3.1.1 of 
both appendix J1 and appendix J2. 79 FR 23061, 23064. (Apr. 25, 2014).
    In addition, DOE became aware of front-loading clothes washer 
designs that do not use shipping bolts or other forms of bracing 
hardware to support the wash drum during shipping. Therefore, in the 
April 2014 NOPR, DOE also proposed amendments to section 3.1.1 of both 
appendix J1 and J2 to describe how a laboratory should measure the 
capacity of this type of clothes washer. The proposed amendments would 
allow a laboratory to support the wash drum by other means if 
necessary, including temporary bracing or support beams. The amendments 
would require that any temporary bracing or support beams, if used, 
must keep the wash drum in a fixed position, relative to the geometry 
of the door and door seal components, that is representative of the 
position of the wash drum during normal operation. DOE also proposed to 
require that the method used avoid any damage to the unit that would 
affect the results of the energy and water testing. DOE further 
proposed to require that test reports fully document the method used to 
support the wash drum, and, pursuant to 10 CFR 429.71, that the 
manufacturer retain such documentation as part of its test records. 79 
FR 23064.
    ALS supports DOE's proposed clarifications regarding shipping bolts 
used on front-loading washers. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
    AHAM supports DOE's clarification that the purpose of shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware remaining in place is to 
support the wash drum and prevent it from sagging downward as the drum 
is filled with water. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5) AHAM does not oppose DOE's 
proposed description of how a laboratory should proceed in cases where 
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware are not used to 
support the drum during shipping. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5) AHAM stated 
that if DOE intended manufacturers to indicate whether shipping bolts 
or other forms of bracing hardware are used, AHAM would oppose such 
reporting requirement as unnecessarily adding to the certification 
reporting and recordkeeping burden. Instead, AHAM stated that DOE 
should require reporting only when something other than what is shipped 
with the unit is used for testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposed clarifications 
regarding the use of shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware 
during the clothes container capacity measurement. Therefore, for the 
reasons discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications in 
section 3.1.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 in this final rule.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE intended that manufacturers would need 
to fully document the method used to support the wash drum, and retain 
such documentation as part of its test records, only in cases where 
temporary bracing or support beams are required to keep the wash drum 
in a fixed position on front-loading clothes washer designs that do not 
use shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the 
wash drum during shipping. The final rule provides this clarification 
in section 3.1.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2.

D. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions

    Section 2.3.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies that 
the temperature of the hot water supply must not exceed 135 [deg]F and 
the cold water supply must not exceed 60 [deg]F for clothes washers in 
which electrical energy or water energy consumption are affected by the 
inlet water temperature (for example, water heating clothes washers or 
clothes washers with thermostatically controlled water valves). This 
specification does not provide a lower bound for the hot and cold water 
supply temperatures. In contrast, section 2.3.2 of both test procedures 
specifies a hot water supply temperature of 135 [deg]F  5 
[deg]F and a cold water supply temperature of 60 [deg]F  5 
[deg]F for clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy 
consumption are not affected by the inlet water temperature.
    On clothes washers with thermostatically controlled mixing valves, 
the supply water temperatures directly affect the relative quantities 
of hot and cold water consumption during a wash cycle. DOE has observed 
that the large majority of clothes washers on the market now use 
thermostatically controlled mixing valves or other similar technologies 
for precisely controlling the wash water temperatures. DOE's 
engineering analysis during the most recent energy conservation 
standards rulemaking for RCWs indicated that precise temperature 
control will be required to achieve the higher efficiency levels 
established by the May 31, 2012 direct final rule. (77 FR 32308).
    To improve consistency and repeatability of test results, DOE 
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to establish a lower bound of 130 
[deg]F for the hot water supply and 55 [deg]F for the cold water supply 
for clothes washers in which electrical energy or water heating energy 
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature. This would 
provide an allowable range of five degrees on the hot and cold water 
supplies (i.e., 130-135 [deg]F and 55-60 [deg]F, respectively). In its 
proposal, DOE stated the amendment applied to both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 (with section 2.3.1 in appendix J2 renumbered to 2.2.1). 79 
FR 23064.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE noted that the proposed five-degree 
temperature tolerance is a tighter tolerance than is required for 
clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy consumption 
are not affected by the inlet water temperature; however, DOE noted 
that the water supply temperature affects the outcome of the MEF or 
Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) results when testing clothes 
washers with thermostatically controlled water valves more 
significantly than for clothes washers without such valves. DOE 
requested comment on the potential test burden associated with 
maintaining a tolerance of five degrees on the hot and cold water 
supply temperature for clothes washers in which electrical energy and 
water energy consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature.
    AHAM supports DOE's proposal to establish a lower bound of 130 
[deg]F for the hot water supply and 55 [deg]F for the cold water supply 
for clothes washers in which electrical energy or water energy 
consumption are affected by inlet water temperature. Additionally, AHAM 
suggested that, with regard to water supply temperature, DOE no longer 
differentiate between clothes washers

[[Page 46735]]

with thermostatically controlled water valves and those without, and 
that the proposed tighter temperature tolerance should apply to all 
types of clothes washers. AHAM added that third-party laboratories will 
not likely know whether a machine is thermostatically controlled, and 
therefore will maintain the stricter five-degree tolerance during 
testing anyway. Thus, applying the same five-degree temperature 
tolerance to all types of clothes washers should not impact 
laboratories. AHAM also suggested that DOE add language to explicitly 
state that 135 [deg]F and 60 [deg]F are the target inlet temperatures, 
which would further clarify the test procedure and reduce testing 
variation. (AHAM, No. 4 at pp. 5-6)
    ALS supports DOE's proposal regarding the hot and cold water supply 
conditions. ALS stated that it has equipment capable of controlling 
water temperature to within the proposed five-degree total tolerance 
for clothes washers, which are affected by supply water temperature. 
(ALS, No. 5 at p. 4) For added consistency, ALS proposed that the five-
degree tolerance also should apply to clothes washers that are not 
affected by water supply temperature. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
    The California Investor Owned Utilities (CA IOUs) support DOE's 
proposal to maintain a tolerance of five degrees on both the hot and 
cold water supply temperatures for clothes washers in which electrical 
energy or water energy consumption are affected by inlet water 
temperature. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 5)
    DOE agrees with AHAM that a third-party laboratory is unlikely to 
know whether a clothes washer is thermostatically controlled and 
therefore is likely to maintain the tighter five-degree tolerance for 
all clothes washer tests. DOE also agrees with AHAM and ALS that 
applying the tighter five-degree tolerance to all types of clothes 
washers would provide increased consistency of test results, with 
minimal or no additional test burden, since laboratories typically 
maintain a five-degree tolerance already. Therefore, this final rule 
amends both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to require maintaining a five-
degree temperature range on the hot and cold water supplies (i.e., 130-
135 [deg]F and 55-60 [deg]F, respectively) for all types of clothes 
washers. This final rule also amends appendix J1 (section 2.3) and 
appendix J2 (newly renumbered section 2.2) to specify that 135 [deg]F 
is the target temperature for the hot water supply and 60 [deg]F is the 
target temperature for the cold water supply.

E. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure

    Sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 
contain the procedures for performing the standard extractor remaining 
moisture content (RMC) test to evaluate the moisture absorption and 
retention characteristics and to develop a unique correction curve for 
each new lot of test cloth. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed moving 
the contents of sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 in both appendices to a 
new appendix J3 as a standalone test method for measuring the moisture 
absorption and retention characteristics of new energy test cloth lots 
to improve the clarity and overall logical flow of the test procedure. 
79 FR 23061, 23065 (Apr. 25, 2014).
    AHAM does not oppose, and ALS supports, DOE's proposal to relocate 
the contents of sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 in both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 to a new appendix J3 as a standalone test method for 
measuring the moisture absorption and retention characteristics of the 
new energy test cloth lots. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 6; ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to create a new 
appendix J3 as a standalone test method for measuring the moisture 
absorption and retention characteristics of new energy test cloth lots. 
Therefore, this final rule incorporates this change and establishes a 
new appendix J3 test procedure. Accordingly, this final rule also 
removes the standard extractor RMC procedure from appendices J1 and J2 
and amends section 2.6.4.6 in appendix J1 and newly renumbered section 
2.7.5 in appendix J2 to reference the standard extractor RMC procedure 
now provided in appendix J3.

F. Test Cloth Loading Instructions

    Section 2.8.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies loading 
the energy test cloths into the clothes washer by grasping them in the 
center, shaking them to hang loosely, and then ``put[ting] them into 
the clothes container'' prior to activating the clothes washer. These 
instructions apply to both top-loading and front-loading clothes 
washers. DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to provide additional 
specificity for the test cloth handling and loading instructions to 
improve the overall clarity and consistency of test cloth loading 
procedures. As proposed, the amendments would apply to both appendix J1 
and appendix J2 (section 2.8.3 would be renumbered to 2.9.2 in appendix 
J2 per the proposed amendments). 79 FR 23065.
    DOE proposed amending test cloth loading instructions by conforming 
them to a modified version of the loading instructions for towels and 
pillowcases provided in the AHAM HLW-1-2010 test method, Performance 
Evaluation Procedures for Household Appliances. \8\ Like DOE's current 
test cloth loading instructions, the AHAM procedure involves grasping 
the towel/pillowcase in the center and shaking it so that it hangs 
loosely. The AHAM procedure further describes placing the towels/
pillowcases into the drum with alternating orientations. It also 
provides sketches illustrating each step in the loading process. DOE's 
proposed amendments included similar illustrations. The proposed 
amendments also specified testing according to any additional loading 
instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding the placement of 
clothing within the clothes container. 79 FR 23065.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ DOE referenced AHAM HLW-1-2010 in the April 2014 NOPR. AHAM 
has since updated its test method as HLW-1-2013. The loading 
instructions for towels and pillowcases are the same in both 
versions. HLW-1-2013 is available at https://www.aham.org/ht/d/Store/name/MAJOR/pid/5132.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ALS supports DOE's proposal to add more specificity to the test 
cloth loading instructions in both appendix J1 and appendix J2. (ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 4)
    AHAM and Whirlpool agree with DOE's proposed loading instructions 
for top-loading clothes washers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 6; Whirlpool, No. 7 
at p. 2) AHAM did not comment on DOE's proposed loading instructions 
for front-loading clothes washers, but stated that DOE should specify a 
loading procedure for both top and front-loading machines. (AHAM, No. 4 
at p. 6) AHAM suggested that DOE should investigate the impacts of the 
proposed test cloth loading instructions on measured water and energy 
use. AHAM further suggested that DOE strike the word ``additional'' 
from the proposed language stating, ``Follow any additional 
manufacturer loading instructions provided to the user regarding the 
placement of clothing within the clothing container.'' AHAM stated that 
this would clarify that if the manufacturer's recommendations to the 
consumer differ from the test procedure's loading instructions, the 
manufacturer's recommendation should be followed. (AHAM, No.4 at pp. 2-
3, 6-7)
    DOE agrees with AHAM's suggestion that if the manufacturer's 
recommendations for loading the clothes washer differ from the test 
procedure's loading instructions, the manufacturer's recommendation 
should be followed. Therefore, this final rule amends the test cloth 
loading

[[Page 46736]]

instructions to require following any manufacturer loading instructions 
provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing within the 
clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer loading 
instructions provided to the user, DOE's detailed loading instructions, 
as amended by this final rule, must be followed.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to provide 
additional specificity for the test cloth handling and loading 
instructions for top-loading clothes washers. Therefore, for the 
reasons described above, this final rule amends the test procedures by 
providing greater detail regarding test cloth handling and loading 
instructions for top-loading clothes washers, including the 
accompanying illustrations as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
    Whirlpool opposed amending the current test cloth loading procedure 
for front-loading clothes washers. Whirlpool stated that DOE's proposed 
method of stacking the cloths in a front-loader would not accomplish 
DOE's goal of adding more consistency to the test procedure. Whirlpool 
believes that whether the cloths are stacked as noted in AHAM HLW-1-
2010 or loaded at random the way a consumer would load the machine at 
home, the cloths in both cases will ultimately be mixed together 
randomly within several tumbles of any front-load washer drum, thereby 
producing relatively insignificant variation between the two loading 
methods. Whirlpool added that adopting the proposed test cloth loading 
instructions for front-load washers would add unnecessary test burden 
by extending the amount of time it takes to perform the test, in 
exchange for no meaningful benefits. (Whirlpool, No. 7 at p. 2)
    In response to Whirlpool's comment, DOE conducted additional 
investigations into the proposed changes to the test cloth loading 
instructions for front-loading clothes washers. DOE performed 
comparative testing on two front-loading clothes washers: One with 
baseline efficiency and one with max-tech efficiency. On each clothes 
washer, DOE conducted 10 cycles using the procedure described in the 
current test procedure, and 10 cycles using the revised procedure 
described in the proposed amendments.
    For the test runs corresponding to the current test procedure, DOE 
loaded each cloth individually according to instructions provided in 
section 2.8.3 of appendix J1 and appendix J2: ``Load the energy test 
cloths by grasping them in the center, shaking them to hang loosely, 
and then put them into the clothes container prior to activating the 
clothes washer.'' Each cloth was loaded loosely into the drum without 
being placed in any particular orientation, resulting in a random 
arrangement of cloths inside the drum.
    For the test runs corresponding to the revised procedure proposed 
in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE loaded each cloth lengthwise, from front to 
back, using alternating orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. The 
clothes were loaded evenly across the width of the clothes container, 
completing each cloth layer across its horizontal plane before adding a 
new layer.
    During each cycle, DOE measured total water consumption, machine 
electrical energy consumption, remaining moisture content, cloth 
loading time, and total cycle time (excluding cloth loading time). 
Table III-1 summarizes the results by providing the range, average, and 
standard deviation for total water consumption (in gallons), machine 
electrical energy (in kilowatt-hours (kWh)), and remaining moisture 
content (expressed as a percentage). Table III-2 summarizes the 
measured loading times and cycles times associated with each method.
    DOE provides the full results of these tests in a separate test 
report accompanying this final rule, which is available in the 
regulations.gov docket for this rulemaking.

     Table III-1--Comparison of Total Water Consumption, Machine Electrical Energy, and Remaining Moisture Content for Front-Loading Clothes Washers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                     Total water consumption (gal)     Machine electrical energy     Remaining moisture
                                                                   --------------------------------           range (kWh)             content range (%)
              Washer type                      Loading method                                      -----------------------------------------------------
                                                                         Range          Avg; SD          Range          Avg; SD       Range     Avg; SD
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baseline...............................  Current Method...........       15.4-17.3      16.5; 0.49       0.13-0.15      0.14; 0.01      44-48    47; 1.0
                                         Proposed Method..........       15.8-17.2      16.5; 0.49       0.13-0.15      0.14; 0.01      46-48    47; 0.5
Max-Tech...............................  Current Method...........       11.9-12.9      12.3; 0.32       0.12-0.14      0.13; 0.00      34-36    35; 0.5
                                         Proposed Method..........        9.4-13.3      11.9; 1.10       0.12-0.14      0.13; 0.01      31-40    35; 2.5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


           Table III-2--Comparison of Loading Times and Cycle Times for Front-Loading Clothes Washers
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Loading time (mm:ss)      Wash cycle time (min)     Average
         Washer type            Loading method  ----------------------------------------------------  total time
                                                    Range         Avg         Range         Avg         (min)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baseline.....................  Current Method..    3:38-5:15         4:08        59-75           63           67
                               Proposed Method.    4:31-5:12         4:49        57-72           62           67
Max-Tech.....................  Current Method..    4:39-5:20         5:04        48-56           53           58
                               Proposed Method.    5:40-6:15         6:00        48-56           53           59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The results of this testing indicate that the proposed revised 
loading method for front-loading clothes washers improved the 
consistency of machine electrical energy, water consumption, and RMC 
for the baseline unit, as compared to the current loading method in the 
appendix J2 test procedure. However, the proposed revised loading 
method resulted in less overall consistency of these three parameters 
for the max-tech unit.
    The proposed revised loading method required approximately one 
additional minute of time to load the cloths for both clothes washers. 
The proposed revised loading method resulted in a decrease in wash 
cycle time of one minute for the baseline clothes washer, but no change 
in wash cycle time for the max-tech clothes washer. DOE considers an 
overall time difference of one minute to be negligible, given the total 
cycle time of approximately one hour.

[[Page 46737]]

    Based on the results of this testing, DOE concludes that the 
proposed revised loading method may provide more consistent test 
results for some front-loading clothes washer models, but less 
consistent results for other models. Additional tests would need to be 
performed on a wider range of units to further verify these 
conclusions. Accordingly, DOE agrees that the data collected do not 
support adopting a change to the instructions for loading front-loading 
clothes washer models. For these reasons, this final rule maintains the 
loading instructions provided in the current appendix J2 test procedure 
for front-loading clothes washers. As stated above, this final rule 
amends the loading instructions in newly renumbered section 2.9.2 of 
appendix J2 for top-loading clothes washers by providing greater detail 
regarding test cloth handling and the loading procedure, including the 
accompanying illustrations as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.

 G. Energy Test Cycle

 1. Warm Rinse Cycles
    Section 1.7 of appendix J1 defines the energy test cycle as (A) the 
cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen 
clothes, including all wash/rinse temperature selections and water 
levels offered in that cycle, and (B) for each other wash/rinse 
temperature selection or water level available on that basic model, the 
portion(s) of other cycle(s) with that temperature selection or water 
level that, when tested pursuant to these test procedures, will 
contribute to an accurate representation of the energy consumption of 
the basic model as used by consumers.
    DOE published guidance on September 21, 2010, to clarify that the 
energy test cycle should include the warm rinse of the cycle most 
comparable to the cottons and linens cycle if warm rinse is not 
available on the cottons and linens cycle.\9\ In the April 2014 NOPR, 
DOE proposed codifying this guidance by incorporating this 
clarification into section 1.7(B) of appendix J1 (redesignated as 
section 1.8(B) due to the proposed addition of a new entry in the list 
of definitions before the energy test cycle definition). 79 FR 23065.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ See DOE's guidance document at: https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswasher_faq_2010-09-21.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE tentatively determined that a parallel 
clarification regarding a warm rinse cycle is unnecessary in appendix 
J2. 79 FR 23065. Section 1.13(B) in appendix J2 requires including the 
warm rinse cycle if it is not available on the cycle recommended for 
washing cotton or linen clothes but is available on an alternative 
cycle selection.
    AHAM does not oppose DOE's inclusion of the 2010 warm rinse 
guidance in appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 7) ALS supports DOE's 
proposal to codify the warm rinse guidance only in appendix J1. (ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 6)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend 
appendix J1 to codify the September 2010 guidance regarding the 
inclusion of warm rinse. Therefore, this final rule amends the 
definition of ``energy test cycle'' in newly renumbered section 1.8 of 
appendix J1 to clarify that the energy test cycle should include the 
warm rinse of the cycle most comparable to the cottons and linens cycle 
if warm rinse is not available on the cottons and linens cycle. DOE 
confirms its prior determination that a parallel clarification for 
appendix J2 is unnecessary.
2. Sanitization Cycles
    As described in the previous section, part (A) of the energy test 
cycle in appendix J1 includes all temperature selections available on 
the cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen 
clothing. Part (B) of the energy test cycle in appendix J1 includes 
other temperature selections available on other cycles that ``will 
contribute to an accurate representation of the energy consumption of 
the basic model as used by consumers.''
    Section 3.3 of appendix J1 defines the ``Extra Hot Wash'' as a 
cycle with a maximum wash temperature of greater than 135[emsp14][deg]F 
for water-heating clothes washers. DOE is aware that on some clothes 
washers, an extra-hot temperature selection is available only on a 
separate sanitization cycle. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed 
amending the energy test cycle definition in appendix J1 to clarify 
that for such clothes washers, the sanitization cycle should be 
included in the energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended by the 
manufacturer for washing clothing and if doing so would contribute to 
an accurate representation of the energy consumption as used by 
consumers. 79 FR 23061, 23065 (Apr. 25, 2014). If the extra-hot 
temperature selection is available only on a sanitization cycle not 
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing (e.g., a cycle 
intended only for sanitizing the wash drum), such a cycle would not be 
required for consideration as part of the energy test cycle. Id.
    As described in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE tentatively determined 
that a parallel clarification regarding the inclusion of sanitization 
cycles is unnecessary in appendix J2. The methodology for determining 
the extra-hot wash temperature selection in appendix J2 requires 
including such a setting if it is available on the clothes washer and 
is recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing. Id.
    GE supports DOE's proposal that the sanitization cycle be included 
for testing in appendix J1 if the extra-hot temperature selection is 
only available in a sanitization cycle. (GE, No. 6 at p. 1)
    ALS has no position on DOE's proposal to include the sanitization 
cycle as part of the energy test cycle in appendix J1. (ALS, No. 5 at 
p. 4)
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to amend appendix J1's requirements to 
include a sanitization cycle in the energy test cycle for clothes 
washers with an extra-hot temperature selection that is available only 
on a sanitization cycle, if the cycle is recommended by the 
manufacturer for washing clothes and if doing so would contribute to an 
accurate representation of the energy consumption as used by consumers. 
AHAM stated that DOE's proposal will result in decreased MEF for some 
basic models, and that the sanitization cycle should not be included in 
the energy test cycle under appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3, 7-8)
    In its comments, AHAM stated that cycles such as a sanitization 
cycle have a special use and are not likely to be used often by 
consumers. AHAM stated that DOE presented no consumer use data to 
justify its proposal that the sanitization cycle should be included. 
AHAM presented a summary of data from a recent study \10\ conducted by 
Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) that measured laundry 
energy use over a month's time across 50 residential sites. The results 
of the field study indicated that the consumer usage rate of the 
sanitization cycle fell within the range of 1.31% and 15.38%, depending 
on which assumptions were used to analyze the data.\11\ AHAM

[[Page 46738]]

believes that these usage levels would not justify the burden of adding 
the sanitization cycle to the energy test cycle. In addition, AHAM 
stated that, to its knowledge, manufacturers are not recommending 
consumers use sanitization cycles to wash normally soiled cotton or 
linen clothes. Given the impact on measured efficiency that DOE's 
proposal would have, AHAM commented that DOE should avoid this issue 
with regards to appendix J1. Finally, AHAM commented that if DOE 
proceeds, over its objection, then DOE must adjust the standard in 
accordance with the change in measured efficiency that would result 
from inclusion of the sanitization cycle. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3, 7-8)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ ``Dryer Field Study.'' Northwest Energy Efficiency 
Alliance. November 19, 2014. Available online at https://www.neea.org/docs/default-source/reports/neea-clothes-dryer-field-study.pdf.
    \11\ The calculation of 1.31% assumes that the sanitization 
option was available on all 50 clothes washers and could be selected 
for all 1,376 wash cycles conducted across the 50 sites. The 
calculation of 15.38% assumes that the sanitization option was 
available only on the units where a sanitization cycle was recorded 
at least once. AHAM stated that the field data do not list the 
available cycle options for the participating units in the study; 
therefore, determining an exact percentage for how often a certain 
cycle was selected was not possible.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In consideration of AHAM's comments, DOE reiterates and affirms the 
following test procedure principles as described in prior rulemaking 
documents. On November 9, 2011, DOE published a supplemental notice of 
proposed rulemaking (``November 2011 SNOPR'') for its clothes washer 
test procedures. 76 FR 69869. In the November 2011 SNOPR, DOE stated 
that it had observed that the extra-hot wash and warm rinse temperature 
combinations are locked out of the ``Normal'' setting \12\ on some 
clothes washer models that offer such selections. DOE understood that, 
in cases where certain wash/rinse combinations are locked out of the 
Normal setting, some manufacturers were only testing the temperature 
selections available on the Normal setting, despite being able to 
access other wash/rinse temperature selections on other settings. 76 FR 
69870. DOE further stated that testing only the wash temperature 
selections available in the Normal setting may neglect part (B) of the 
energy test cycle definition, which requires manufacturers to switch 
out of the Normal setting to a different setting that allows the other 
temperature combinations to be selected and tested, if such testing 
``will contribute to an accurate representation of energy consumption 
as used by consumers.'' Id. at 69871. Because the temperature 
selections typically locked out of the Normal setting are those that 
use greater quantities of hot water and thus have higher water heating 
energy consumption, excluding them from the energy test cycle could 
increase (i.e., improve) a clothes washer's MEF rating. Id. at 69870- 
71. Wash/rinse temperature combinations that are locked out of the 
Normal setting should also be included in the energy test cycle, under 
the assumption that a consumer will switch to one of the alternate 
cycles to obtain that wash/rinse temperature combination. 76 FR 69875. 
DOE affirms these principles as applied to the issue of extra-hot wash 
temperature selections in this final rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ Here, DOE uses the term ``Normal setting'' to describe the 
cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen 
clothes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As noted in the November 2011 SNOPR, the temperature use factors 
(TUFs) in Table 4.1.1 of appendix J1 were developed to represent 
consumer selection of different temperature options available on a 
clothes washer. Each TUF represents the frequency with which consumers 
select a particular temperature option on machines offering that 
temperature option. Therefore, the energy test cycle should include any 
temperature combination for which a TUF has been developed.
    DOE interprets the results of the NEEA laundry study, as summarized 
by AHAM, as being consistent with the TUF for extra-hot wash, as 
codified in appendix J1. The extra-hot wash TUF of 5% falls within the 
range of 1.31% to 15.38% as indicated by the NEEA study. The results of 
the NEEA study suggest that although a sanitization cycle may be 
considered a specialty feature, consumers select this extra-hot wash 
feature at a frequency consistent with the extra-hot wash TUF codified 
in the test procedure.
    With regards to AHAM's statement that manufacturers do not 
recommend that consumers use sanitization cycles to wash normally 
soiled cotton or linen clothes, DOE notes that part (B) of the energy 
test cycle pertains to wash/rinse temperatures not available on the 
cycle that is recommended for washing cotton and linen clothes. Part 
(B) of the definition is intended to apply to wash/rinse temperature 
selections on cycles other than the cycle recommended for washing 
cotton and linen clothes, if doing so will contribute to an accurate 
representation of the energy consumption of the model as used by 
consumers. The results of the NEEA study support DOE's conclusion that, 
for clothes washers offering an extra-hot temperature selection only on 
a separate sanitization cycle, including the sanitization as part of 
the energy test cycle, with a 5% TUF weighting, accurately represents 
the energy consumption of the model as used by consumers.
    Furthermore, as discussed in DOE's warm rinse guidance document, 
DOE understands that some manufacturers may be relying on proprietary 
data about consumers' use of each wash/rinse temperature selection when 
applying part (B) of the energy test cycle to determine the energy 
consumption of such models. The Department's test procedure, however, 
cannot rely on proprietary data to which only the manufacturer has 
access. The procedure must be standardized, administrable, and 
enforceable. In the August 27, 1997 final rule that codified the 
appendix J1 test procedure, DOE explained that the clarification 
provided by part (B) of the energy test cycle definition was made 
primarily to address the issue of machines that ``locked out'' various 
wash/rinse temperatures from the Normal cycle, thereby excluding 
representative energy use from the test procedure measurement. 62 FR 
45484, 45496. Incorporating the ``locked out'' temperature options in 
accordance with the temperature use factors allows DOE to develop a 
testing standard that is clear, administrable, and standardized across 
all manufacturers and models.
    Finally, because RCW manufacturers were required to use appendix J2 
beginning March 7, 2015, the amendments to appendix J1 apply only to 
CCWs. DOE is not aware of any current models of CCWs listed in its 
compliance certification database \13\ that offer extra-hot wash 
temperatures greater than 135[emsp14][deg]F. Therefore, DOE has 
determined that this amendment will not change the measured MEF or WF 
values of any CCW models currently on the market that are covered by 
DOE standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ DOE's compliance certification database for commercial 
clothes washers is available at https://www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data/CCMS-79222370561.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In summary, after consideration of all comments and data submitted 
on this topic, DOE concludes that on clothes washers with an extra-hot 
temperature selection available only on a sanitization cycle that is 
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing, inclusion of the 
sanitization cycle in the energy test cycle is consistent with the 
intent of the test procedure and the 5 percent TUF is consistent with 
the consumer usage data described above.. Therefore, this final rule 
amends the energy test cycle definition in newly renumbered section 1.8 
of appendix J1 by clarifying that if an extra-hot temperature selection 
is available only on a sanitization cycle, the sanitization cycle 
should be included in the energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended 
by the manufacturer for washing clothing. The amendment also removes 
the clause ``and if doing so would contribute to an accurate 
representation of the energy consumption as used by consumers''

[[Page 46739]]

because, as discussed above, the available data indicates that 
including such a cycle contributes to an accurate representation of 
energy consumption as used by consumers. The amendment further 
clarifies that if the extra-hot temperature selection is available only 
on a sanitization cycle not recommended by the manufacturer for washing 
clothing (e.g., a cycle intended only for sanitizing the wash drum), 
such a cycle is not required for consideration as part of the energy 
test cycle. DOE confirms its prior determination that a parallel 
clarification for appendix J2 is unnecessary.
3. Default Cycle Settings
    Testing a clothes washer according to appendix J1 or appendix J2 
requires selecting specific wash/rinse temperatures and wash water fill 
levels for the wash cycles used to determine energy and water 
consumption. In addition, specific spin speeds must be selected for the 
wash cycle(s) used to determine the remaining moisture content. Other 
than these settings, the test procedure does not instruct the user to 
change any other optional settings during testing.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amending appendix J1 by 
modifying section 1.7(B) (redesignated as 1.8(B)) to clarify the 
requirement to use the manufacturer default settings for any cycle 
selections, except for: (1) The temperature selection, (2) the wash 
water fill levels, or (3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles 
used to determine remaining moisture content. 79 FR 23061, 23066 (Apr. 
25, 2014). Specifically, DOE proposed to require that the manufacturer 
default settings be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble 
operation, soil level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine 
energy and water consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse 
settings, water heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all 
other wash parameters or optional features applicable to that wash 
cycle. Id. DOE also proposed to require that any optional wash cycle 
feature (other than wash/rinse temperature, water fill level selection, 
or spin speed on cycle selections used to determine remaining moisture 
content) that is activated by default on the wash cycle under testing 
be included for testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend 
not selecting this option for washing normally soiled cotton or linen 
clothes. Id.
    In addition, DOE proposed amending appendix J2 to add a new section 
3.2.7 to address the use of default cycle settings in the same manner 
as the modification proposed for appendix J1. Id.
    AHAM supports DOE's proposal to clarify in both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 the requirement to use manufacturer default settings for 
cycle selections except for the temperature selection, the wash water 
fill levels, and, if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to 
determine remaining moisture content. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 8)
    AHAM also proposed that DOE further require that clothes washers 
with mechanical switches be tested either (1) with each switch in the 
position the manufacturer recommends in the use and care guide for the 
cottons and linens cycle or (2) if the manufacturer does not recommend 
a switch position, with the switch in its most energy/water intensive 
position. AHAM stated that this approach is consistent with current 
practice in manufacturer laboratories. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 8)
    ALS supports DOE's proposal to specify using the manufacturer 
default settings for any cycle selections in both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2. ALS stated that this is consistent with how ALS and the 
rest of the industry conduct testing. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to clarify the 
use of manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except 
for (1) the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or 
(3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine 
remaining moisture content.
    As described above, DOE proposed clarifying that any optional wash 
cycle feature that is activated by default on the wash cycle under test 
must be included for testing unless the manufacturer instructions 
recommend not selecting this option for washing normally soiled cotton 
or linen clothes (emphasis added). DOE has observed that clothes washer 
user manuals typically do not recommend against selecting certain 
options for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. Rather, 
descriptions in the user manual most often provide recommendations for 
selecting certain options for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. 
Therefore, this final rule modifies the wording of DOE's proposal as 
follows: ``Any optional wash cycle feature or setting . . . that is 
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for 
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting 
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing 
normally soiled cotton clothing.''
    In response to AHAM's comments, DOE has considered AHAM's proposal 
to provide further clarification for clothes washers with mechanical 
switches. To inform its decision, DOE investigated the control panels 
of 31 clothes washer models with mechanical switches, representing 
seven different brands on the market. DOE believes that this sample of 
models represents nearly the entire market for clothes washers with 
mechanical control switches.
    Based on this market survey, DOE identified the following ten 
parameters that are controlled by mechanical switches or dials on one 
or more clothes washer models: Load size, wash/rinse temperature, soil 
level, fabric type, rinse settings, spin settings, fabric softener, 
pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense. Of these 
ten parameters, the test procedure provides specific instructions for 
setting load size, wash/rinse temperature, and spin settings.
    Of the remaining seven parameters, DOE intends for this amendment 
to clarify that the soil level and fabric type settings should be those 
recommended for washing normally-soiled cotton \14\ clothing, as 
described further below. This would provide clarity for any soil level 
or fabric type settings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ As described in the Normal Cycle Definition section of this 
notice, the final rule removes the reference to ``linen clothing'' 
in the Normal cycle definition in appendix J2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Of the remaining five parameters (rinse settings, fabric softener, 
pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense), DOE 
observes that in almost all cases, the manufacturer does not provide 
recommendations for, or against, the use of these five parameters with 
respect to the level of soiling or fabric material on which they should 
be used; i.e., these five parameters are selected independently from 
other settings that are recommended for washing normally soiled cotton 
clothing. As summarized above, AHAM suggested that if a switch position 
is not recommended for the cottons and linens cycle, DOE should require 
the most energy/water intensive position to be used for the test. DOE's 
product survey indicates that in almost all cases, the switches or 
dials for these remaining five parameters would thus be tested in their 
most energy intensive positions, if DOE were to adopt AHAM's suggested 
wording.
    Although the inclusion of more energy- and water-consumptive 
features for testing would ultimately encourage more efficient overall 
performance, DOE has two major concerns with this aspect of AHAM's 
proposal: First, AHAM has

[[Page 46740]]

not presented any information to indicate whether testing in the most 
energy intensive position would provide a more accurate representation 
of consumer usage than testing in the default or as-shipped position. 
Second, DOE's experience working with third-party laboratories 
conflicts with AHAM's assertion that this approach is consistent with 
current practice in manufacturer laboratories. In DOE's experience, 
third-party laboratories typically test clothes washers with the 
switches for these five remaining parameters (rinse settings, fabric 
softener, pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense) 
in the default, or as-shipped, position. DOE has observed that these 
switches are mostly commonly shipped in the ``off'' position, or in a 
position other than the most energy intensive position.
    DOE has also observed that mechanical switches and dials are used 
almost exclusively on baseline or near-baseline products.\15\ DOE thus 
concludes that amending the test procedure to require that these 
parameters be tested in the most energy intensive position could 
negatively impact the measured efficiency of a substantial portion of 
baseline products. Since the intent of the amendments in this final 
rule is to provide clarification only, without impacting measured 
efficiency, DOE rejects AHAM's suggestion to require testing mechanical 
switches in the most energy intensive position if a switch position is 
not recommended for the cottons and linens cycle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ DOE defines a ``baseline product'' as one that just meets 
the minimum efficiency standard.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition, the notion of a ``default'' setting may apply more 
appropriately to clothes washers with electronic control panels than 
clothes washers with mechanical switches or dials. On most clothes 
washers with electronic controls, when the user selects a particular 
cycle (e.g., Normal, Cottons, or Whites), the control panel 
automatically activates the pre-programmed settings recommended for all 
the other optional cycle parameters. On clothes washers with mechanical 
switches or dials, however, selecting a particular cycle (e.g., Normal, 
Cottons, or Whites) does not automatically activate the other optional 
cycle parameters (e.g., rinse settings, fabric softener, pre-soak, 
stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense), each of which, if 
available on the machine, would have its own mechanical switch or dial 
that would need to be manually set by the end user. Given that the 
notion of a ``default'' setting does not apply to mechanical switches 
and knobs, DOE believes that the ``as-shipped'' position of a 
mechanical switch or knob represents the equivalent of a default 
setting.
    In some cases, however, the mechanical switch or dial position 
recommended to be used for normally soiled cotton clothing may not be 
the as-shipped position. For example, a soil level dial may offer 
light, normal, and heavy soil selections--in which case, the ``normal'' 
setting would be selected for testing, even if the product was shipped 
in the ``light'' position.
    For these reasons, DOE has determined that the test procedure must 
clarify that mechanical switches or dials for any optional settings 
must be in the position recommended by the manufacturer for washing 
normally soiled cotton clothing. DOE believes this clarification is 
consistent with AHAM's suggestion to further clarify for clothes 
washers with mechanical switches that testing take place with the 
switch in the position the manufacturer recommends in the use and care 
guide for the cottons and linens cycle. If the manufacturer 
instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial position to 
be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the switch or dial 
must remain in its ``as-shipped'' position.
    In summary, based on the reasons described above, this final rule 
adds the following clarification to newly created section 1.8(C) in 
appendix J1 and newly renumbered section 3.2.7 in appendix J2:
    ``For clothes washers with electronic control systems, use the 
manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except for (1) 
the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content. Specifically, the manufacturer default settings must 
be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble operation, soil 
level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water 
consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water 
heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash 
parameters or optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Any 
optional wash cycle feature or setting (other than wash/rinse 
temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed on cycle 
selections used to determine remaining moisture content) that is 
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for 
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting 
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing 
normally soiled cotton clothing.
    For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical 
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the 
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the 
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the 
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial 
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the 
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.''
4. Energy Test Cycle Definition
    As noted in the April 2014 NOPR, appendix J1 uses the term ``energy 
test cycle'' in two different ways. In some instances, ``energy test 
cycle'' refers to the complete set of wash/rinse temperature selections 
required for testing. In other instances, ``energy test cycle'' refers 
to the single wash cycle under test. DOE did not propose changing its 
usage of the term ``energy test cycle'' in appendix J1. DOE determined 
that in each instance where the term ``energy test cycle'' is used, the 
specific meaning of the term can be determined through context. 79 FR 
23061, 23066 (Apr. 25, 2014).
    In appendix J2, however, DOE proposed to simplify the definition of 
the term ``energy test cycle'' so that it refers only to the complete 
set of wash/rinse temperature selections required for testing. 79 FR 
23066. DOE further proposed defining the individual wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing under a new definition for 
``Normal cycle,'' in conjunction with a new flow chart methodology as 
provided in the April 2014 NOPR and described further below. The 
provisions within parts (D) and (E) of the current energy test cycle 
definition would be moved to sections 3.2.7 and 3.2.8, respectively. 
Id.
    In instances where the test procedure currently uses the term 
``energy test cycle'' to refer to an individual wash cycle, DOE 
proposed to use the generic term ``wash cycle'' or other similar 
terminology as appropriate for each instance. 79 FR 23066. DOE also 
proposed to improve overall clarity by providing the full wash/rinse 
temperature designation (e.g. ``Cold Wash/Cold Rinse'') throughout the 
test procedure. Id.
    ALS strongly objects to DOE's proposal to amend the energy test 
cycle definition in appendix J2, stating that

[[Page 46741]]

this is not a subtle change. ALS believes it is too late for DOE to 
make this change, and that such a change may lead to more confusion 
regarding how to test clothes washers. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 6, 7)
    DOE interprets the full context of ALS's comment as applying to the 
revised definition of the Normal cycle, as described in the next 
section, which serves the purpose of the current definition of the 
energy test cycle in appendix J2. DOE addresses all comments regarding 
the details of the Normal cycle definition in the next section of this 
notice.
    DOE received no other comments objecting to its proposal to provide 
greater consistency in its usage of the term ``energy test cycle'' such 
that when used, it refers only to the entire set of wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing. Therefore, this final rule 
implements this change as it was proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
5. Normal Cycle Definition
    DOE proposed adding a new definition in appendix J2 for ``Normal 
cycle,'' defined as ``the cycle selection recommended by the 
manufacturer as the most common consumer cycle for washing a full load 
of normally to heavily soiled cotton clothing. For machines where 
multiple cycle settings meet this description, then the Normal cycle is 
the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' 79 
FR 23066.
    DOE noted in the April 2014 NOPR that it first adopted a definition 
of ``Normal cycle'' for clothes washer testing in appendix J, which 
incorporated the general approach to calculating the energy consumption 
of automatic clothes washers contained in AHAM's standard HLW-2EC for 
clothes washers at the time. 42 FR 25329, 25330 (May 17, 1977); 42 FR 
49802, 49808 (Sept. 28, 1977). Over time, machine labeling and 
literature evolved to the point that the term ``normal'' as previously 
defined no longer captured all of the control settings most consumers 
would typically choose in operating the machine to wash their laundry. 
(See, e.g., 75 FR 57556, 57575 (Sept. 21, 2010)). Further, the range of 
cycle options and terminology on the control panels have changed such 
that many machines no longer refer to a ``Normal'' cycle, instead 
relying upon other terms. This evolution may have resulted in 
inaccurate representations of the energy usage of these machines due to 
differing interpretations regarding the appropriate test cycle. 79 FR 
23061, 23066 (Apr. 25, 2014).
    In order to add clarity and ensure consistent selection of the 
appropriate cycle for energy testing, DOE proposed adding a ``Normal 
cycle'' definition in newly designated section 1.25 and, for 
simplicity, to reference the term in the new energy test cycle 
flowcharts. DOE noted that it would consider manufacturer literature 
and markings on the machine when determining the Normal cycle of any 
particular unit. DOE specifically sought comment on this definition and 
whether it adequately covers the cycle setting most commonly chosen by 
users of washing machines.
    DOE received numerous comments from interested parties regarding 
its proposed definition for Normal cycle. DOE categorized each comment 
according to the specific element of the Normal cycle to which it 
pertains, and provides responses to all comments in the following 
subsections.
a. General Comments
    AHAM strongly opposes DOE's proposal to add a new definition for 
Normal cycle in appendix J2. AHAM believes that this new definition 
could change the cycle selections that would be tested. (AHAM, No. 4 at 
p. 9)
    ALS states that the new paragraph 1.25 ``Normal Cycle'' that has 
been added seems out-of-place because it is not in close proximity to 
the ``Energy Test Cycle'' definition. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 7)
    DOE notes that the creation of the Normal cycle definition is a 
separate issue from the actual wording of the Normal cycle definition, 
and notes that the majority of concerns expressed by interested parties 
related to the wording of the definition. DOE proposed adding a new 
definition for Normal cycle so that the new energy test cycle 
flowcharts, described later in this notice, can simply reference ``the 
Normal cycle'' rather than using the full text of the definition each 
time it is referenced in the flowcharts. DOE determined that because of 
the complex wording required in some of the flowchart diagrams, 
referencing the full text of the Normal cycle definition would render 
some of the flowchart boxes incomprehensible. Thus, a simpler phrase is 
required.
    For these reasons, this final rule adds a definition of Normal 
cycle, which is referenced for simplicity in the new flowchart 
diagrams. The Normal cycle definition was proposed as newly created 
section 1.25 of appendix J2 because DOE re-sorted the list of 
definitions in appendix J2 in alphabetical order. 79 FR 23066. DOE 
maintains the alphabetical sorting of definitions in this final rule.
    As explained further in the following subsections, DOE has revised 
the wording of the Normal cycle to address many of the concerns that 
were raised by interested parties.
b. Element #1: Most Common Consumer Cycle
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change ``cottons and linens'' to 
``most commonly used cycle.'' \16\ AHAM believes it is impossible for 
manufacturers to know which cycle is the most commonly used. AHAM added 
that, should DOE proceed with adding the definition of Normal cycle, 
DOE should remove the reference to ``most commonly used cycle'' from 
the definition. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 9)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ DOE notes that the proposed wording of this provision was 
``most common consumer cycle for washing a full load of normally to 
heavily soiled cotton clothing.'' 79 FR 23062, 23082.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ALS opposes the definition of Normal cycle because the definition 
of ``most common consumer cycle'' could also refer to ``regular'' or 
``permanent press'' cycles. ALS questions whether DOE conducted a 
consumer survey to arrive at the conclusion that Normal cycle is the 
most common consumer cycle. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 7)
    The CA IOUs support DOE's proposed updated definition for Normal 
cycle in order to adequately describe the most commonly chosen settings 
by users of washing machines, for testing and rating purposes. (CA 
IOUs, No. 3 at p. 3)
    DOE's test procedures are required to produce results that are 
representative of an average use cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(3)) DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify the cycle that 
the manufacturer recommends as the most common cycle for everyday use, 
as would be described in the user manual, product literature, or 
product labeling. DOE understands that this may be different than the 
cycle that would be most commonly selected during actual consumer use, 
and that manufacturers may not necessarily know which cycles are most 
commonly used by consumers. Without such consumer usage data, DOE can 
only assume that the cycle that the manufacturer recommends as the most 
common cycle for everyday use corresponds to the cycle most commonly 
used by consumers during actual use. The proposed phrasing was intended 
to prevent a manufacturer from recommending one setting to the consumer 
as the most common setting for everyday use, but using a different, 
less energy-intensive setting for DOE testing purposes. Using such a 
cycle for

[[Page 46742]]

DOE testing purposes would not provide test results that represent the 
average use cycle or period of use on such a clothes washer.
    To clarify the intent of this element of the Normal cycle 
definition, this final rule refers to the cycle recommended by the 
manufacturer for ``normal, regular, or typical use,'' rather than 
``most common consumer cycle.'' DOE believes this revised wording will 
eliminate the possible interpretation that determining the Normal cycle 
requires knowing the cycle most commonly used by consumers during 
actual use. This wording is consistent with the intent of the current 
test procedure to produce test results that measure energy efficiency, 
energy use or estimated annual operating cost of a covered product 
during a representative average use cycle, as required by EPCA. In 
addition, the final rule clarifies that the manufacturer recommendation 
is determined by considering manufacturer instructions, control panel 
labeling, and other markings on the clothes washer.
    In summary, this final rule revises Element #1 of the Normal cycle 
definition as, ``. . . the cycle recommended by the manufacturer 
(considering manufacturer instructions, control panel labeling, and 
other markings on the clothes washer) for normal, regular, or typical 
use . . .''
c. Element #2: Full Load
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to specify that the Normal cycle is to 
wash a ``full load,'' stating that the average load has the highest 
load usage factor in the test procedure based on consumer use data. 
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
    ALS questions why the Normal cycle only refers to ``washing a full 
load.'' ALS notes that the test procedure specifies minimum, average, 
and maximum load sizes, and the load usage factors favor the average 
load size. ALS also commented that ``full load'' is a new term not 
defined, which ALS believes adds confusion. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
    DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify that the cycle used for 
testing must not be a cycle for which the recommended maximum load size 
is less than a full load. DOE has observed multiple clothes washer 
models that provide maximum load size recommendations for each 
available cycle on the machine. Because the DOE test procedure 
approximates consumer usage habits by requiring minimum, average, and 
maximum load sizes, the cycle used for DOE testing purposes must not be 
a cycle for which the recommended load size is less than a full load, 
which the DOE maximum load size is designed to represent. The proposed 
phrasing was intended to prevent a manufacturer from certifying its 
product using a cycle that is only recommended for partial loads, and 
would thus use less water and energy than a cycle intended for washing 
up to a full load of clothing. Using such a cycle for DOE testing 
purposes would not provide test results that represent the average use 
cycle or period of use on such a clothes washer.
    To clarify the intent of this element of the Normal cycle 
definition, this final rule changes the wording of this element from 
``. . . for washing a full load . . .'' to ``. . . for washing up to a 
full load . . .'' DOE believes that this revised wording will address 
the concerns raised by interested parties by clarifying that the chosen 
cycle is intended for all load sizes, up to and including the maximum 
load size.
    DOE considered ALS' suggestion to provide a definition for ``full 
load.'' DOE believes, after due consideration, that quantifying the 
definition of ``full load'' could cause ambiguity or create an avenue 
for circumvention, because manufacturers' maximum design loads may not 
correspond exactly with the maximum load sizes defined in the DOE test 
procedure. DOE believes that the term ``full load'' is widely 
understood by the industry and consumers to mean a load size that takes 
advantage of the whole usable capacity of the clothes washer.
    In summary, this final rule revises Element #2 of the Normal cycle 
definition as, ``. . . for washing up to a full load. . . .''
d. Element #3: Normally to Heavily Soiled
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change ``normally soiled'' to 
``normally to heavily soiled'' because this change will introduce 
ambiguity, and thus variation, into the test procedure. AHAM added that 
if DOE proceeds with adding the new definition of Normal cycle, it 
should strike ``or heavily soiled'' from the definition. (AHAM, No. 4 
at p. 9)
    ALS commented that the phrase ``normally to heavily soiled cotton 
clothing'' presents issues because of the many special cycles available 
on today's clothes washers, such as ``Sturdy,'' ``Jeans,'' or ``Heavy 
Duty,'' which may also be cited in user instructions as cycles to be 
used for ``normally to heavily-soiled'' garments. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
    DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify a range of soil levels 
in order to distinguish which cycle should be selected in cases with 
overlapping ranges of recommended soil levels for different cycles. 
This phrasing was also intended to provide clarity in cases where the 
manufacturer's recommended soil levels do not include an indication for 
``normally soiled'' clothing. For example, a manufacturer may only 
provide options for ``light'' and ``heavy'' soil levels.
    DOE notes that the phrase ``normally soiled'' is not currently 
referenced in either appendix J1 or appendix J2; however, based on 
stakeholder comments submitted for this rulemaking and throughout the 
historical record of clothes washer test procedure rulemakings, DOE 
believes there is widespread acknowledgement among the industry that 
the DOE test procedure is intended for measuring the cycle recommended 
for washing ``normally soiled'' clothing. By inference, the phrase 
``normally'' is indicative of average or typical conditions. DOE 
believes that this is consistent with the historical intent of the DOE 
clothes washer test procedure.
    Upon further examination of clothes washer product manuals, DOE 
acknowledges that the phrase ``normally to heavily soiled'' could, in 
some cases, expand the scope of wash cycles that would be considered 
part of the DOE test cycle. Thus, applying the criteria ``normally to 
heavily soiled'' could result in a change in cycle selections on some 
models, which would consequently change the measured efficiency.
    In consideration of concerns expressed by interested parties, and 
after further additional research as described above, this final rule 
revises the wording of Element #3 of the Normal cycle definition to 
reference ``normally soiled'' clothing rather than ``normally to 
heavily soiled'' clothing.
e. Element #4: Cotton Clothing
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change the wording from ``cottons 
and linens'' to simply ``cotton.'' AHAM believes that this change could 
impact the cycle selected because of the removal of the word ``linen.'' 
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 9)
    DOE's intent in its proposal was to narrow the range of possible 
cycles that could be considered for testing by eliminating reference to 
``linen clothing'' and instead refer only to ``cotton clothing.'' DOE 
notes that the current energy test cycle definition refers to the cycle 
recommended for washing cotton and linen clothing (emphasis added). DOE 
has observed numerous clothes washer user manuals that contain cycles 
recommended for

[[Page 46743]]

washing ``linens'' or ``household linens,'' terms that refer to items 
such as bed sheets, pillowcases, towels, tablecloths, etc. Such items 
are distinctly different from linen clothing and are not intended for 
consideration by the DOE test procedure.
    DOE is not aware of any clothes washer models for which the phrase 
``cotton clothing'' would result in a different cycle selection for DOE 
testing than would be selected under the current phrase ``cotton or 
linen clothing'' (emphasis added). A different cycle selection would 
only occur if the cycle used for DOE testing purposes was a cycle 
intended for linen clothing, but not cotton clothing.
    For these reasons, this final rule implements the proposed wording 
of Element #4 of the Normal cycle definition to refer to ``cotton 
clothing.''
f. Element #5: If Multiple Cycles Meet This Description
    ALS objects to the proposed new requirement to test other cycles 
that ``meet this description (of Normal cycle),'' stating that there 
are a variety of other cycle names that meet the proposed new 
definition. ALS also noted that the new wording of the Normal cycle 
differs from the existing Part B of the energy test cycle definition, 
which essentially includes testing the TUFs that are available on the 
washer, but not available on the cycle selection described in Part A of 
the definition (so that one might need to test an additional TUF found 
in another cycle, but not have to test that whole cycle and use it in 
place of the other). (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
    ALS further commented that the following sentence should not be 
used in the definition: ``For machines where multiple cycle settings 
meet this description, then the Normal cycle is the cycle selection 
that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8) 
ALS stated that it could be irreparably harmed by the proposed 
definition of Normal cycle because there are other cycles that could be 
tested under this proposal that would have lower IMEF or MEF values, 
and which would not comply with the 2015 minimum standard. ALS added 
that its large investment in development of products for the 2015 
minimum standards could be stranded, and ALS could incur significant 
sales and income losses due to lost sales of RCWs in the U.S. (ALS, No. 
5 at p. 8)
    In its proposal, DOE intended to provide a final criterion that 
would be used to determine the DOE test cycle in cases where multiple 
cycles meet all the other criteria provided in the Normal cycle 
definition. For example, DOE has observed that on some clothes washers, 
the cycle names and descriptions correspond to the color of clothing 
rather than to the soil level or fabric type (for example, ``Colors'' 
and ``Whites'', or ``Darks'' and ``Brights''). On such a clothes 
washer, both cycles could be recommended for washing normally soiled 
cotton clothing. Therefore, to provide clarity and certainty, a final 
criterion is needed to determine which of the two or more cycles must 
be selected as the DOE test cycle.
    DOE did not intend in its proposal to include the consideration of 
all the cycles on a clothes washer that may be recommended for washing 
cotton clothing. DOE acknowledges that many clothes washers contain 
alternate cycles intended for washing cotton clothing that would result 
in a lower MEF or IMEF value compared to the cycle considered as the 
energy test cycle under the current test procedure. Rather, the intent 
of the proposal was to include for consideration only those cycles that 
satisfy every individual element (i.e. Elements #1 through 4 as 
described above) of the proposed Normal cycle definition.
    In consideration of concerns expressed by interested parties, and 
to provide further clarity regarding the intent of this final 
criterion, this final rule revises the wording of Element #5 of the 
Normal cycle definition as follows: ``For machines where multiple cycle 
settings are recommended by the manufacturer for normal, regular, or 
typical use for washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton 
clothing, then the Normal cycle is the cycle selection that results in 
the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' Based on its survey of clothes washers 
on the market, DOE expects that for the large majority of clothes 
washer models, the cycle selection required under this element of the 
Normal cycle definition will be the same as the cycle selection used 
for certification under the current energy test cycle definition.
    Finally, DOE notes that determination of the ``Normal cycle'' under 
this new definition corresponds to Part A of the current energy test 
cycle definition. Part B of the current energy test cycle definition, 
which involves individual wash/rinse temperatures not available in the 
Normal cycle, is executed through the new flowchart diagrams, which 
provide explicit instructions for testing additional wash/rinse 
temperatures available on other cycles.
g. Summary
    In summary, this final rule incorporates the following revised 
wording for the Normal cycle in newly renumbered section 1.25 of 
appendix J2: ``Normal cycle means the cycle recommended by the 
manufacturer (considering manufacturer instructions, control panel 
labeling, and other markings on the clothes washer) for normal, 
regular, or typical use for washing up to a full load of normally-
soiled cotton clothing. For machines where multiple cycle settings are 
recommended by the manufacturer for normal, regular, or typical use for 
washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing, then the 
Normal cycle is the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or 
MEF value.'' DOE believes that this revised definition reduces any 
potential ambiguity associated with selecting the cycle for testing 
that best fulfills the intent of DOE's test procedure.
    DOE also notes that this definition is similar in nature to the 
Normal cycle definition for dishwashers, which is defined as ``the 
cycle type, including washing and drying temperature options, 
recommended in the manufacturer's instructions for daily, regular, or 
typical use to completely wash a full load of normally soiled dishes.'' 
(10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix C1, section 1.12).
    This final definition of Normal cycle narrows the scope of 
potential cycles that could be considered for selection under the 
current definition of energy test cycle in appendix J2. By clarifying 
and narrowing the scope of allowable cycle selections, DOE understands 
that for a very small number of individual models, the revised Normal 
cycle definition may exclude a cycle selection that is permitted under 
the apparently ambiguous current definition of the energy test cycle. 
In these rare cases, the current regulations would permit more than one 
cycle to be considered the energy test cycle, rendering the test 
procedure unreproducible. Furthermore, the cycle selected as the energy 
test cycle will only change on such models if the manufacturer 
previously chose to test a different cycle than the one that is 
required as a result of the revised Normal cycle definition. Based on 
its survey of the market, DOE expects that for the large majority of 
clothes washer models, the cycle selection required under the revised 
Normal cycle definition will be the same as the cycle selection used 
for certification under the current energy test cycle definition. For 
the small segment of clothes washer models with more than one cycle 
that

[[Page 46744]]

could be selected as the energy test cycle under the current 
definition, only a subset of models will be impacted by the narrowing 
of the definition of the Normal cycle. In addition, because any cycle 
that could previously be selected as the energy test cycle under the 
current definition would be a cycle designed for washing cotton or 
linen clothes, DOE expects that any such alternate cycle previously 
selected would have energy and water consumption patterns very similar 
to the cycle required by the revised Normal cycle definition. 
Therefore, DOE concludes that the revised Normal cycle definition will 
not impact measured efficiency.
6. Determining the Energy Test Cycle With New Flowcharts
    In conjunction with the simplified energy test cycle definition and 
new Normal cycle definition, DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR a new 
approach to determining the wash/rinse temperature selections required 
for testing in appendix J2. 79 FR 32061, 23066. DOE proposed to 
translate the current methodology for determining the energy test cycle 
into a set of flowcharts that would be used to determine each wash/
rinse temperature selection for testing. In its proposal, DOE stated 
that the binary nature of each decision box within the flowcharts would 
provide increased clarity and ease in determining which wash/rinse 
temperature settings to use for testing. DOE proposed to include these 
flowcharts within newly renumbered section 2.12 in appendix J2. Id.
    As described in its proposal, DOE intended for the cycle selections 
as determined using the new energy test cycle flowcharts to be the same 
as the cycle selections as determined using the current energy test 
cycle definition in appendix J2. DOE requested comment on whether 
discrepancies exist when determining the wash/rinse temperature 
selections using the proposed flowcharts compared to using the current 
energy test cycle definition. If discrepancies exist, DOE requested 
that interested parties provide specific examples of cycle setting 
configurations that would lead to the discrepancies. DOE also requested 
comment on whether the methodology presented in the flowcharts could 
result in an efficiency rating that is unrepresentative of how a 
particular clothes washer would be used by consumers. 79 FR 23066.
    Because the proposed flowcharts would incorporate more precise 
definitions of warm and cold rinse temperatures, DOE also proposed to 
clarify the definition of ``cold rinse'' in appendix J2 so that it 
means the coldest rinse temperature available on the machine, as 
indicated to the user on the clothes washer control panel. Id. The 
phrase, ``as indicated to the user on the clothes washer control 
panel'' would prevent the unintended consequence of a wash/rinse 
temperature designation being excluded from the energy test cycle if 
the rinse portion of the cycle included a small amount of hot water 
(thus raising the rinse temperature slightly higher than the coldest 
rinse available on the machine), but was indicated on the control panel 
as being a cold rinse paired with the selected wash temperature. Id.
    Finally, DOE proposed to move the current section 2.13 of appendix 
J2, Energy consumption for the purpose of certifying the cycle 
selection(s) to be included in Part (B) of the energy test cycle 
definition, to newly created section 3.10, renamed as Energy 
consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle selection(s) to be 
included in the energy test cycle. 79 FR 23066.
    AHAM stated that it appreciates DOE's attempt to clarify the test 
procedure and does not oppose the proposed set of flowcharts that 
testers would use to determine each wash/rinse temperature selection to 
be used for testing. AHAM added that as manufacturers begin to use the 
new flowcharts, they may discover ambiguities or discrepancies, in 
which case they or AHAM will seek clarification. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
    However, as described in the previous section, AHAM opposes DOE's 
proposed definition for Normal cycle, and thus proposes that DOE revise 
the flowcharts to be consistent with the existing energy test cycle 
section and terminology, and not include a definition for, or reference 
to, the Normal cycle. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
    ALS suggested that the reference to ``Normal cycle'' in the flow 
charts be removed and replaced with the ``cycle selection recommended 
by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linens''. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 
7) ALS supports DOE's proposal to clarify the cold rinse definition by 
adding the text, ``as indicated to the user on the clothes washer 
control panel.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 6)
    As described in the previous section, this final rule incorporates 
a revised definition of ``Normal cycle'' that DOE believes provides 
improved clarity over the version presented in the April 2014 NOPR and 
addresses many of the concerns raised by interested parties. In 
addition, this final rule maintains the reference to the Normal cycle 
in the flowchart diagrams to reduce the complexity of wording 
throughout the flowchart boxes, as described earlier.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to include a set 
of flowcharts that would be used to determine each wash/rinse 
temperature selection to be used for testing. Therefore, this final 
rule amends appendix J2 to include these flowcharts in newly renumbered 
section 2.12, with additional revisions as follows.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed Figure 2.12.2 in appendix J2 
to show the flowchart for determining Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. 79 FR 23061, 
23087. Since publishing the April 2014 NOPR, DOE has determined that 
the wording of the proposed flowchart for determining Hot Wash/Cold 
Rinse would result in a change in cycle selection for clothes washers 
offering only two wash temperature selections (e.g., Cold and Hot), 
where both temperature selections are available in the Normal cycle. 
Under the current appendix J2 test procedure, both settings would be 
tested using the Normal cycle, pursuant to part (A) of the energy test 
cycle definition in section 1.13. Since such a clothes washer only 
offers two wash temperature selections, only the Cold and Hot TUFs 
apply, and both would be fulfilled under part (A) of the energy test 
cycle definition. Therefore, no testing would need to be performed on 
any alternate cycles under part (B) of the definition. However, the 
proposed flowchart for Hot Wash/Cold Rinse would have required 
evaluating the Hot setting on all cycles available on the clothes 
washer and choosing the one with the highest energy consumption. The 
path through the April 2014 proposed flowchart would have been as 
follows:
    1. Does the Normal cycle contain more than two available wash 
temperature selections with a cold rinse? Answer: No.
    2. Does the clothes washer offer more than one available wash 
temperature selection with a cold rinse, among all cycle selections 
available on the clothes washer, with a wash temperature less than or 
equal to 135 [deg]F? Answer: Yes.
    3. Result: Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the temperature setting with a 
cold rinse that provides the hottest wash temperature less than or 
equal to 135[emsp14][deg]F among all cycle selections available on the 
clothes washer. 79 FR 23087.
    This final rule revises the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse flow chart so that 
the evaluation of the flowchart would result in testing both the Cold 
and Hot temperature selections using the Normal cycle on such a clothes 
washer.

[[Page 46745]]

    This final rule also revises the wording of the Cold Wash/Cold 
Rinse flowchart to clarify the procedure for clothes washers with 
multiple wash temperature selections in the Normal cycle that do not 
use any hot water for any of the water fill levels or test load sizes 
required for testing. In the April 2014 NOPR proposed flowchart, DOE 
used the wording ``If multiple cold wash temperature selections in the 
Normal cycle do not use any hot water . . .'' (emphasis added). 79 FR 
23086. By using the phrase ``cold wash temperature selections,'' DOE 
believes it may have unintentionally implied that the word ``cold'' 
must be included in the control panel label in order for a cold-water-
only wash temperature selection to be considered for inclusion as the 
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse. Manufacturers may use a variety of descriptive 
terms to label their cold-water-only temperature selections (e.g., 
``Ecowash'', ``Energy Saver'', etc.), which may not include the word 
``cold.'' DOE's intent is that any cold-water-only wash temperature 
selection in the Normal cycle must be considered for inclusion as the 
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, regardless of its control 
panel label. Therefore, this final rule removes the word ``cold'' from 
this phrase in the flowchart so that its reads as follows: ``If 
multiple wash temperature selections in the Normal cycle do not use any 
hot water . . .'' (emphasis added).
    Furthermore, for clothes washers with multiple cold-water-only wash 
temperature selections, Cold Wash/Cold Rinse is the cold wash 
temperature selection, paired with a cold rinse, with the highest 
energy consumption, as measured according to section 3.10 of appendix 
J2, and the other cold wash temperature selections are excluded from 
testing. This final rule clarifies in the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse 
flowchart that any such cold-water-only cycles that are excluded from 
testing as the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse are also excluded from 
consideration as the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse and Warm Wash/Cold Rinse.
    DOE did not receive any comments objecting to its proposal to 
clarify the definition of cold rinse or to move the current section 
2.13 of appendix J2, Energy consumption for the purpose of certifying 
the cycle selection(s) to be included in Part (B) of the energy test 
cycle definition, to newly created section 3.10, to rename that section 
``Energy consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle 
selection(s) to be included in the energy test cycle,'' and to revise 
the text of newly created section 3.10 to reflect the new method for 
determining the appropriate energy test cycle selection(s) using the 
flowcharts in newly renumbered section 2.12. Therefore, this final rule 
adopts these changes as proposed.
    Finally, this final rule also modifies the wording in the flowchart 
boxes to make use of bullet points rather than complex sentences with 
multiple commas and semicolons. DOE believes that the use of bullet 
points provides improved clarity for interpreting each flowchart box.

H. Wash Time Setting

    DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to move the wash time setting 
provisions from section 2.10 of appendix J2 to a new section 3.2.5, 
which DOE believes is a more appropriate location in the amended test 
procedure since the wash time must be set prior to each individual wash 
cycle during testing. 79 FR 23067.
    ALS supports DOE's proposal to relocate the provisions for wash 
time setting from section 2.10 to new section 3.2.5, so that the 
provisions are located in a more logical location corresponding to the 
sequence in which they would be performed during testing. (ALS, No. 5 
at p. 9)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to move the wash 
time setting provisions from section 2.10 of appendix J2 to newly 
revised section 3.2.5. Therefore, for the reasons described above, this 
final rule implements this change.
    This final rule also implements a clarification to the procedure 
for setting the wash time on clothes washers for which the wash time is 
not prescribed by the wash cycle that is being tested. In such 
circumstances, the test procedure specifies setting the wash time at 
the higher of either the minimum or 70 percent of the maximum wash time 
available for the wash cycle under test, regardless of the labeling of 
suggested dial locations. DOE has become aware that in some cases, the 
allowable selection of wash times on such clothes washers may not be 
completely continuous, such that one dial position may provide a wash 
time just under 70 percent of the maximum, while the next dial position 
may provide a wash time just over 70 percent of the maximum. This final 
rule clarifies that if 70 percent of the maximum wash time is not 
available on a dial with a discreet number of wash time settings, the 
next-highest setting greater than 70 percent must be chosen. This 
clarification applies to section 2.10 of appendix J1 and newly 
renumbered section 3.2.5 of appendix J2. DOE's experience with third-
party laboratory testing suggests that this approach is already 
commonly used among the industry.

I. Standby and Off Mode Testing

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifications to the standby 
and off-mode power testing provisions in appendix J2. 79 FR 23067. In 
addition to minor wording clarifications in sections 3.9 and 3.9.1 of 
appendix J2, the proposed clarifications were as follows:
1. Testing Sequence
    DOE proposed clarifying that combined low-power mode testing in 
section 3.9 of appendix J2 should be performed after completing an 
energy test cycle, after removing the test load, and without 
disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes washer 
between completion of the energy test cycle and the start of combined 
low-power mode testing. This clarification would preclude performing 
combined low-power mode testing directly after connecting the clothes 
washer to the electrical energy supply, because such testing may not 
yield a value representative of the standby or off-mode power 
consumption after a clothes washer's first active mode wash cycle and 
all subsequent wash cycles. 79 FR 23067. DOE believes this 
clarification would ensure that the results of the combined low-power 
mode testing accurately represent the conditions most likely to be 
experienced in a residential setting, since the period of time after 
the clothes washer has been installed, but before its first active mode 
wash cycle, is likely to be short.
    AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to clarify how low-power mode 
testing in appendix J2 should be performed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10; ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 9) AHAM agrees that this proposal would seem to be 
consistent with how consumers will use a clothes washer. AHAM added, 
however, that it could not fully evaluate DOE's proposal without 
reviewing test data. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal that combined 
low-power mode testing in appendix J2 be performed after completing an 
energy test cycle, after removing the test load, and without 
disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes washer 
between completion of the energy test cycle and the start of combined 
low-power mode testing. Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this 
final rule incorporates this amendment in newly designated section 
3.9.1 of appendix J2.

[[Page 46746]]

2. Door Position
    In response to the April 2014 NOPR, AHAM sought clarification on 
whether the combined low-power mode testing is to be conducted with the 
clothes washer door open or closed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11, 12) AHAM 
believes it is clear, based on the nature of the test procedure 
sequence, that the door would be opened and closed before the low-power 
mode portion of the test is performed. AHAM requested that DOE 
expressly state in the test procedure, or issue guidance, that the low-
power mode portion of the test is to be conducted with the door closed. 
AHAM believes this is consistent with current practice. (AHAM, No. 4 at 
p. 11, 12) AHAM added that it is not aware of any consumer use data 
indicating that consumers leave the door open for an extended period of 
time after running the active mode cycle.
    DOE confirms that the intent of its test procedure is to perform 
the low-power mode portion with the door closed. DOE also confirms 
through its experience with third-party test laboratories that 
performing the low-power mode portion with the door closed is 
consistent with current practice. This final rule adds this 
clarification to newly designated section 3.9.1 of appendix J2.
3. Default Settings
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying that combined low-
power mode testing should be performed without changing the control 
panel settings used for the energy test cycle completed prior to 
combined low-power mode testing. 79 FR 23067. In its proposal, DOE 
noted that the test procedure currently requires using the manufacturer 
default settings for any wash cycle performed within the energy test 
cycle. The proposed clarification would preclude parties conducting 
low-power mode testing from activating or deactivating any optional 
control panel displays or other features not activated by default on 
the clothes washer when it is not being used to perform an active mode 
wash cycle. DOE stated that this clarification would ensure that the 
results of the combined low-power mode testing accurately represent the 
conditions most likely to be experienced in a residential setting. 79 
FR 23067.
    AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to require performing combined 
low-power mode testing without changing the control panel settings used 
for the energy test cycle completed prior to combined low-power mode 
testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p.11; ALS, No. 5 at p. 9) AHAM agreed that 
consumers are not likely to change their control panel settings after 
the active mode ends. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to require 
performing combined low-power mode testing without changing the control 
panel settings used for the energy test cycle completed prior to 
combined low-power mode testing. Therefore, for the reasons stated 
above, this final rule incorporates this amendment in newly designated 
section 3.9.1 of appendix J2.
4. Network Mode
    EPCA, as amended by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 
2007, Public Law 110-140 (Dec. 19, 2007), requires test procedures to 
include provisions for measuring standby and off mode energy 
consumption, taking into consideration the most current versions of the 
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards 62301 and 
62087.17 18 The most current version of IEC Standard 62301 
is Edition 2.0, issued in 2011 (``IEC 62301). In addition to defining 
off mode and standby mode, IEC 62301 also defines ``network mode'' as 
any product mode ``where the energy-using product is connected to a 
mains power source and at least one network function is activated (such 
as reactivation via network command or network integrity 
communication), but where the primary function is not active.'' (See 
section 3.7 of IEC 62301).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ IEC standards are available online at www.iec.ch.
    \18\ IEC Standard 62087 addresses the methods of measuring the 
power consumption of audio, video, and related equipment and is not 
relevant to clothes washers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE considered network mode as part of the March 2012 final rule. 
In the final rule, DOE explained that it was unaware of any clothes 
washers on the market with network mode capabilities at that time. 
Consequently, DOE could not thoroughly evaluate any network mode 
provisions, as would be required to justify incorporating network mode 
into DOE's test procedures at that time. DOE noted that although an 
individual appliance may consume some small amount of power in network 
mode, the potential exists for energy-related benefits that more than 
offset this additional power consumption if the appliance can be 
controlled by the ``smart grid'' to consume power during non-peak 
periods (often referred to as ``demand-response'' capabilities). The 
March 2012 final rule did not incorporate network mode provisions due 
to the lack of available data that would be required to justify their 
inclusion. 77 FR 13888, 13899-900.
    In response to the April 2014 NOPR, the CA IOUs recommended that 
DOE incorporate a definition, test procedure, and reporting 
requirements for network mode. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 1) The CA IOUs 
urged DOE to adopt the technical definition of network mode, and the 
test procedure for measuring the energy consumption of network mode, as 
prescribed by the IEC Standard 62301 Final Draft International Standard 
(FDIS).\19\ (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 2) The CA IOUs stated that if it is 
not possible for DOE to incorporate the network mode definition and 
associated test procedure in this rulemaking, that EPA should 
incorporate it into the future ENERGY STAR test method for clothes 
washers with connectivity. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 2)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \19\ IEC 62301 version FDIS was developed and issued in 2010 
prior to the issuance of the Second Edition.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The CA IOUs also proposed that DOE develop definitions for 
connectivity in demand response transactions. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4, 
5) The CA IOUs recommended that DOE develop a test method for demand 
response functionality to rate and measure the load reduction potential 
in terms of peak demand reduction, and potential energy-cost reduction 
for reporting purposes. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4, 5)
    The CA IOUs also presented information on five clothes washer 
models from three manufacturers that offer various network mode 
features in both top-loading and front-loading products. (CA IOUs, No. 
3 at p. 2) The CA IOUs referenced comments from the previous clothes 
washer test procedure rulemaking by the Appliance Standards Awareness 
Project (ASAP), Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), and American 
Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) \20\ suggesting that 
Network Mode could consume power continuously in the range of 2-5 
watts, translating to an additional 18 to 44 kWh annually. The CA IOUs 
encouraged DOE to develop a test method to rate the energy consumed by 
network mode, and incorporate it into the product's performance rating. 
(CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 3)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \20\ ACEEE, NRDC, ASAP. Comment Letter for Test Procedure for 
Residential Clothes Washers (December 2010): https://www.appliance-standards.org/sites/default/files/Comments%20on%20the%20Clothes%20Washers%20Test%20Procedures%20NOPR-%20December%206,%202010_0.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE surveyed the market and confirms that multiple clothes washer 
models available on the market offer wireless network connectivity to 
enable features such as remote monitoring and control via smartphone, 
as well as

[[Page 46747]]

limited demand response features available through partnerships with a 
small number of local electric utilities. As suggested by the CA IOUs, 
the addition of network mode into the DOE test procedure may result in 
additional measured energy consumption that, when incorporated into the 
overall IMEF metric, would change the measured efficiency of the 
product. Because this final rule provides only clarifying edits, which 
would not alter the measured efficiency of a clothes washer, DOE defers 
further consideration of network mode and demand-response test methods 
for a future test procedure rulemaking.\21\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \21\ Information on ENERGY STAR test methods for clothes washers 
is available at https://www.energystar.gov/certified-products/detail/453/partners?fuseaction=products_for_partners.showClothesWashRes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

5. Clarified Procedure for Performing Inactive and Off Mode Power 
Measurements
    Section 1.28 of appendix J2 defines ``standby mode'' as any mode in 
which the product is connected to a mains power source and offers one 
or more of the following user-oriented or protective functions that may 
persist for an indefinite period of time: (1) A function that 
facilitates the activation of other modes (including activation or 
deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including remote 
control), internal sensor, or timer; or (2) continuous functions, 
including information or status displays (including clocks) or sensor-
based functions. The definition also clarifies that a timer is a 
continuous clock function (which may or may not be associated with a 
display) that provides regular, scheduled tasks (e.g., switching) and 
that operates on a continuous basis.
    Section 1.15 of appendix J2 defines ``inactive mode'' as a standby 
mode that facilitates the activation of active mode by remote switch 
(including remote control), internal sensor, or timer, or that provides 
continuous status display.
    Section 1.24 of appendix J2 defines ``off mode'' as a mode in which 
the clothes washer is connected to a mains power source and is not 
providing any active mode or standby function, and where the mode may 
persist for an indefinite period of time. The definition further states 
that an indicator that only shows the user that the product is in the 
off position is included within the classification of an off mode.
    Section 3.9 of the current appendix J2 provides the instructions 
for measuring ``combined low-power mode'' power, which is defined in 
section 1.8 of appendix J2 as the aggregate of available modes other 
than active washing mode, including inactive mode, off mode, delay 
start mode, and cycle finished mode. Specifically, section 3.9 requires 
the measurement of average inactive mode and/or average off mode power, 
which in combination provide a representative measure of the average 
power consumption in all possible low-power modes on the clothes 
washer. Section 3.9.1 instructs the testing party to measure average 
inactive mode power, if the clothes washer has an inactive mode. 
Similarly, section 3.9.2 instructs the testing party to measure average 
off mode power, if the clothes washer has an off mode. These sections 
thus require the testing party to determine whether the clothes washer 
has an inactive mode, an off mode, or both.
    Section 4.4 of appendix J2 provides the calculation of per-cycle 
low-power mode energy consumption based on the measurements performed 
under section 3.9. If a clothes washer has either inactive mode or off 
mode (but not both), the measured average power is multiplied by 8,465, 
representing the combined annual hours for inactive mode and off mode. 
If a clothes washer has both inactive mode and off mode, each of the 
two average power measurements are multiplied by one-half of 8,465 
(i.e. 4,232.5), and the results are summed. This represents an estimate 
that such a clothes washer would spend half of its low-power mode hours 
in inactive mode, and the other half of its low-power mode hours in off 
mode. The calculations performed in section 4.4, therefore, also depend 
on the testing party's determination in section 3.9 as to whether the 
clothes washer has an inactive mode, an off mode, or both.
    After publishing appendix J2, DOE received questions from 
interested parties regarding how to distinguish between inactive mode 
and off mode. On October 7, 2014, and December 8, 2014, DOE issued 
draft guidance clarifying the difference between inactive mode and off 
mode for clothes washers, clothes dryers, and dishwashers with various 
types of on/off switches and control panels.22 23
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \22\ DOE's draft guidance for clothes washers, clothes dryers, 
and dishwashers with a ``hard'' on/off switch or electromechanical 
dial that physically breaks the connection to the mains power supply 
is available at DOE's Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions Web 
site: https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/homeappliancemechonoffswitch-faq-2014-10-7.pdf. Comments 
submitted by interested parties can be viewed in the docket located 
at https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2014-BT-GUID-
0046.
    \23\ DOE's draft guidance for clothes washers, clothes dryers, 
and dishwashers with an electronic or ``soft'' on/off switch that 
does not physically break the connection to the mains power supply 
is available at https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/aham_offmode_faq_2014-12-2.pdf. Comments 
submitted by interested parties can be viewed in the docket located 
at https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2014-BT-GUID-
0056.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For a clothes washer with a ``hard'' on/off switch or 
electromechanical dial that physically breaks the connection to the 
mains power supply, DOE stated in the draft guidance document that it 
considers the clothes washer to be in off mode when the switch or dial 
is in the ``off'' position, as long as no standby mode or active mode 
functions are provided. Pursuant to the definition of off mode, an 
indicator light that illuminates to indicate that the switch or dial is 
in the off position is not considered a standby mode or active mode 
function. DOE considers the clothes washer to be in off mode when such 
an indicator is active in the absence of other standby mode functions.
    For a clothes washer with an electronic, or ``soft,'' on/off button 
or switch that does not physically break the connection to the mains 
power supply, DOE stated in the draft guidance document that it 
considers the clothes washer to be in standby mode when the button or 
switch is indicated as being in the ``off'' position. DOE also stated 
in the draft guidance that it considers the internal control panel 
component that detects the press of the electronic power button to be 
an internal sensor that facilitates the activation or deactivation of 
other modes (including active mode); therefore, the product would be in 
standby mode when the electronic button or switch is indicated as being 
in the ``off'' position. Because of its capability to detect the press 
of the electronic power button, this internal sensor differs from a 
hard on/off switch, which does not provide any such sensing 
capabilities but may include an indicator to show that the product is 
in off mode. Off mode as defined in appendix J2 would not apply to a 
product with an electronic power button, unless the clothes washer also 
has a hard on/off switch or dial that physically breaks the connection 
to the mains power supply and the clothes washer does not activate any 
standby mode or active mode features when the hard on/off switch is in 
the ``off'' position.
    AHAM agreed with DOE's draft guidance that clothes washers with a 
hard on/off switch or electromechanical dial that physically breaks the 
connection to the mains power supply

[[Page 46748]]

are considered to be in off mode when the switch or dial is in the 
``off'' position. (AHAM, No. 2 to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1). 
AHAM also agreed with DOE's draft guidance that clothes washers with an 
electronic or soft on/off switch that does not physically break the 
connection to the mains power supply are considered to be in standby 
mode when the switch or dial is in the ``off'' position. (AHAM, No. 4 
to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1).
    Intertek Electrical (``Intertek'') commented that the ``off'' state 
on some appliances is achieved through a software/firmware action 
rather than a hard on/off switch, and that it is not clear whether the 
product is providing any active mode or standby function while in the 
``off'' state. (Intertek, No. 3 to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1).
    UL Verification Services, Inc. (``UL'') commented on the difficulty 
for an independent third-party laboratory to determine if the on/off 
button is a hard switch or a soft switch. (UL, No. 5 to Docket EERE-
2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1). UL stated that if the third-party laboratory 
is unable to obtain this information from the manufacturer, the next 
best option is to review the product's electrical schematic. According 
to UL, however, the schematic is located on most clothes washers 
somewhere inside the machine, such as behind the console. Id. UL 
questioned whether a third-party laboratory could remove the console 
during testing to determine if the switch is a hard switch or soft 
switch. Alternatively, if the machine must not be disassembled, UL 
questioned whether DOE could specify another method to determine the 
type of switch. Id. UL suggested, for example, that the power 
consumption of a hard switch should be essentially zero watts unless an 
``off'' indicator is activated. UL questioned whether a minimum power 
consumption threshold could be used to determine if the machine is in 
standby mode or off mode. Id.
    DOE's draft guidance documents clarify that it considers soft 
switches to be associated with standby mode and hard switches to be 
associated with off mode when in the ``off'' position. DOE agrees with 
UL, however, that distinguishing between a hard switch and soft switch 
may not be possible without information from the manufacturer or access 
to the product's electrical schematic. Similarly, an independent third-
party laboratory may find it difficult or impossible to determine 
whether a clothes washer provides any standby mode functions when the 
product appears, to the end user, to be in the ``off'' state.
    To eliminate the need to distinguish between standby mode and off 
mode based on the position of a switch and internal functions of the 
clothes washer, or between hard switches and soft switches, this final 
rule clarifies the test provisions for measuring inactive mode \24\ and 
off mode. Currently, section 3.9.1 and section 3.9.2 of appendix J2 
provide separate symbol designations for the inactive mode and off mode 
power measurements: Pia and Po, respectively. If 
a clothes washer has either inactive mode or off mode (but not both), 
the average power consumption of the available mode is measured and 
labeled as either Pia or Po, accordingly. As 
described above, labeling the measurement as either Pia or 
Po requires a determination of the type of switch on the 
control panel and whether any standby functions are provided by the 
clothes washer when the switch is in the ``off'' position. Regardless 
of whether the average low-power measurement is designated as 
Pia or Po, however, section 4.4 of appendix J2 
applies the total 8,465 annual hours to the measurement, as described 
above. If both inactive mode and off mode are available on the clothes 
washer, section 4.4 applies 4,232.5 hours to each of the two average 
power measurements.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \24\ Inactive mode is the only type of standby mode required to 
be measured in appendix J2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In this final rule, DOE clarifies the testing methodology in 
section 3.9 of appendix J2 and the calculations in section 4.4 of 
appendix J2 by relabeling the symbols used for the combined low-power 
mode measurements. This final rule relabels these symbols 
Pia and Po as Pdefault and 
Plowest, respectively, and the assignment of each symbol to 
its respective measurement is based on observable and measureable 
characteristics of the clothes washer rather than the control panel 
switch type or internal functionality of the clothes washer. In 
addition, this final rule revises the wording of the testing 
instructions in section 3.9 of appendix J2 to clarify how the procedure 
corresponds to the sequence of events as they would be performed during 
testing. This revised procedure produces test results that yield the 
same measured energy as in section 3.9 of the current procedure for all 
clothes washer types currently on the market.
    The revised wording splits the current text of section 3.9 in 
appendix J2 into two newly designated subsections, 3.9.1 and 3.9.2, to 
provide further clarity. As described previously in this notice, the 
newly designated section 3.9.1 includes the requirement to perform 
combined low-power mode testing: (1) After completion of an active mode 
wash cycle included as part of the energy test cycle; (2) after 
removing the test load; (3) without changing the control panel settings 
used for the active mode wash cycle; (4) with the door closed; and (5) 
without disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes 
washer between completion of the active mode wash cycle and the start 
of combined low-power mode testing.
    Newly designated section 3.9.2 states that for a clothes washer 
that takes some time to automatically enter a stable inactive/off mode 
state from a higher power state, as discussed in Section 5, Paragraph 
5.1, note 1 of IEC 62301, allow sufficient time for the clothes washer 
to automatically reach the default inactive/off mode state before 
proceeding with the test measurement. The revised wording replaces the 
term ``lower power state'' currently used in section 3.9 of the test 
procedure with ``default inactive/off mode state,'' which clarifies 
that the lower power state that the clothes washer reaches by default 
may be either an inactive mode or an off mode.
    The amendments in this final rule move the procedural instructions 
for performing the power measurement, with revised labeling, into newly 
added section 3.9.3 of appendix J2. These instructions now state that 
once the stable inactive/off mode state has been reached, the default 
inactive/off mode power, Pdefault, in watts, is measured and 
recorded following the test procedure for the sampling method specified 
in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 62301.
    For clothes washers with electronic controls that offer an optional 
switch, dial, or button that can be selected by the end user to achieve 
a lower-power state than the default inactive/off mode state,\25\ 
including clothes washers with both an inactive mode and off mode as 
contemplated in the current test procedure, newly added section 3.9.4 
of appendix J2 requires that, after performing the measurement in 
section 3.9.3, the switch, dial, or button be activated to the position 
resulting in the lowest power consumption and the measurement procedure 
described in section 3.9.3 be repeated. The average power consumption 
is measured and recorded as the lowest-power standby/off mode power, 
Plowest, in watts.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \25\ Such a feature could be labeled on the control panel as a 
``master power'' or ``vacation mode'' feature, for example.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Section 4.4 of appendix J2 applies annual hours to the average 
power measurement(s) performed in section

[[Page 46749]]

3.9 of appendix J2, consistent with the current test procedure. For 
those clothes washers with a single low-power mode average power 
consumption measurement (newly labeled as Pdefault), the 
calculation applies the total 8,465 annual hours to this measurement. 
For those clothes washers with two average power measurements (newly 
labeled as Pdefault and Plowest), section 4.4 
applies 4,232.5 hours to each of the two measurements.
    The revised section 3.9, including newly added sections 3.9.3 and 
3.9.4, provides a clearer set of procedural instructions for performing 
the combined low-power mode measurements required in section 3.9 of the 
current test procedure. Under the revised section 3.9, the same 
sequence of measurements are performed as the current section 3.9, thus 
yielding the same combined low-power mode average power measurement(s) 
for clothes washers with standby mode, off mode, or both. Further, the 
same annual hours as are currently specified are applied to the average 
power measurement(s) in section 4.4 of appendix J2. Therefore, DOE has 
determined that these amendments to section 3.9 and section 4.4 of 
appendix J2 will not impact the measured efficiency of clothes washers.
6. Multiple Inactive Modes
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE stated that some residential 
appliances, including clothes washers, could have multiple modes that 
meet the definition of inactive mode currently provided in section 1.15 
of appendix J2 (redesignated as section 1.16). 79 FR 23067. DOE notes 
that it is currently unaware of any such clothes washers on the market, 
but believes that future clothes washers could be designed to have 
multiple inactive modes. DOE proposed clarifying that inactive mode is 
the lowest-power standby mode that facilitates the activation of active 
mode by remote switch (including remote control), internal sensor, or 
timer, or that provides continuous status display. DOE stated that 
specifying use of the lowest-power mode would clarify potential 
ambiguity regarding which inactive mode to use for testing if multiple 
inactive modes exist on a clothes washer. 79 FR 23067.
    AHAM stated that it does not oppose DOE's proposal to clarify the 
definition of inactive mode. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11) AHAM added, 
however, that it could not fully evaluate DOE's conclusion without 
viewing test data. Id.
    ALS supports DOE's proposed clarifications to the standby and off-
mode power testing regarding multiple possible inactive modes. (ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 9)
    DOE's revisions in this final rule to the combined low-power mode 
measurement provisions, as described in the previous section, clarify 
the measurement procedure for clothes washers that have multiple 
inactive modes. Therefore, DOE has determined that amending the 
definition of inactive mode as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR is not 
warranted. This final rule makes no changes to the definition of 
inactive mode in appendix J2.

J. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems

    Section 1.2 of appendix J1 defines adaptive water fill control 
system as ``a clothes washer water fill control system which is capable 
of automatically adjusting the water fill level based on the size or 
weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container, without 
allowing or requiring consumer intervention or actions.''
    Section 1.9 of appendix J1 defines manual water fill control system 
as ``a clothes washer water fill control system which requires the 
consumer to determine or select the water fill level.''
    The water fill settings, load sizes, and load usage factors (LUFs) 
used for testing depend upon the type of water fill control system 
available on the clothes washer, as defined in Table 2.8 and Table 
4.1.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. For clothes washers with 
manual water fill control systems, the minimum and maximum load sizes 
are tested using the minimum and maximum water fill settings, 
respectively, and the assigned LUF weightings of 28 and 72 percent, 
respectively. For clothes washers with adaptive water fill control 
systems, the minimum, average, and maximum load sizes are tested using 
the water fill levels as determined by the clothes washer for each load 
size, and the assigned LUF weightings of 14, 74, and 12 percent, 
respectively.
    As stated in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE is aware of clothes washers 
that have fixed water levels for all load sizes and no water fill 
selector or water fill control settings available to the user. 79 FR 
23067. As with adaptive water fill control systems, fixed water fill 
control systems do not require user action to determine the water fill 
level. Therefore, DOE proposed that a clothes washer with a fixed water 
fill control system be tested in the same manner as a clothes washer 
with an adaptive water fill control system--i.e., using the minimum, 
average, and maximum load sizes. Id.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amendments that would (1) add 
a definition for ``fixed water fill control system,'' (2) add a 
definition for ``automatic water fill control system,'' which would 
include both fixed water fill control systems and adaptive water fill 
control systems, and (3) amend the definition of ``adaptive water fill 
control system'' to clarify that it is considered a type of automatic 
water fill control system. Additionally, where appropriate, DOE 
proposed replacing instances of ``adaptive water fill control system'' 
throughout the test procedure with ``automatic water fill control 
system,'' to indicate that such testing provisions apply to both 
adaptive water fill control systems and fixed water fill control 
systems. DOE proposed these amendments for both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2.
    AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to add definitions for ``fixed 
water fill control system'' and ``automatic water fill control system'' 
and to amend the definition for ``adaptive water fill control system.'' 
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12) AHAM also does not oppose DOE's proposal to 
clarify in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 that a clothes washer with 
a fixed water fill control system be tested in the same manner as a 
clothes washer with an adaptive water fill system, i.e., using the 
minimum, average, and maximum load sizes. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
    ALS supports DOE's proposed approach for addressing ``fixed water 
fill control systems,'' although for appendix J2 only. ALS objects to 
DOE's proposed approach for addressing ``fixed water fill control 
systems'' in appendix J1, and noted that its existing CCW models 
containing a fixed water fill level were certified and tested based on 
testing only the minimum and maximum load sizes (corresponding to the 
procedure for manual water fill control systems), and not with minimum, 
average, and maximum load sizes. ALS stated that DOE's proposal would 
produce a minor change in MEF and WF. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to add 
definitions for fixed water fill control system, automatic water fill 
control system, and to amend the definition of adaptive water fill 
control system in appendix J2.
    To investigate the concerns raised by ALS regarding the proposed 
clarification to appendix J1, DOE conducted testing on two baseline 
top-loading CCWs featuring fixed water fill control systems. For each 
model, DOE used the same minimum and maximum load size data as the 
basis for comparison between the manual fill and

[[Page 46750]]

adaptive fill results. The results are summarized in Table III-3. The 
results indicated that testing these models as adaptive fill machines 
(i.e., using minimum, average, and maximum load sizes) produces a 
slightly more favorable MEF rating, in the range of 0.01-0.02 MEF, 
compared to the results when tested as manual water fill machines 
(i.e., using only the minimum and maximum load sizes). However, testing 
these models as adaptive fill machines produces a less favorable WF 
rating, in the range of 0.2-0.3 WF, compared to the results when tested 
as manual water fill machines.

                                                   Table III-3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                      Tested as manual fill    Tested as adaptive fill     Difference between
                                      (min, max load sizes)      (min, avg, max load       adaptive and manual
             Unit No.              --------------------------          sizes)                    results
                                                             ---------------------------------------------------
                                        MEF           WF          MEF           WF        MEF \a\      WFWF \b\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit #1...........................         1.65          7.7         1.66          8.0        +0.01         +0.3
Unit #2...........................         1.67          8.1         1.69          8.3        +0.02         +0.2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\a\ A higher MEF rating is more favorable.
\b\ A higher WF rating is less favorable.

    DOE first introduced water fill level distinctions in the original 
test procedure for clothes washers at appendix J to 10 CFR part 430 
subpart B (``appendix J''), as proposed in the May 17, 1977 NOPR (``May 
1977 NOPR'') and codified in the September 28, 1977 final rule 
(``September 1977 final rule''). 42 FR 25329 and 42 FR 49802. In the 
May 1977 NOPR, DOE explained that field usage data provided by Procter 
and Gamble (P&G) indicated that maximum fill is selected 72 percent of 
the time and minimum fill is selected 28 percent of the time. 42 FR 
25329, 25331. These data formed the basis for the ``usage fill 
factors'' codified in section 4.3 of appendix J in the September 1977 
final rule. 42 FR 49802, 49809.
    Appendix J included testing provisions only for manual fill control 
systems that required the user to determine or select the water fill 
level, which included all top-loading and front-loading clothes washers 
on the market at the time. Under section 2.8 of appendix J, top-loading 
clothes washers were tested without a test load. Front-loading clothes 
washers were tested with a 3-pound minimum load and 7-pound maximum 
load for the minimum and maximum water fill levels, respectively. 42 FR 
49808.
    During a meeting on February 16, 1995, hosted by AHAM for non-
industry stakeholders, AHAM presented a test procedure proposal that 
provided information for the subsequent development of DOE's test 
procedure at appendix J1.\26\ (AHAM, No. 25 to Docket EE-RM-94-230A, 
pp. 1-42). AHAM's proposal included provisions for testing clothes 
washers with adaptive water control systems, which had recently become 
available on the market. (Id., pp. 11-24). In its proposal, AHAM 
presented two sets of data from P&G: (1) Data showing that consumers 
manually select the maximum water fill 72 percent of the time and the 
minimum water fill level 28 percent of the time on clothes washers with 
manual water fill controls, and (2) data showing the distribution of 
actual clothing load sizes washed by consumers, which roughly 
corresponded to a normal (Gaussian) distribution centered around an 
average load size of 5.7 to 6.7 pounds, depending on the size of the 
washer. Id. The results from these two data sets led AHAM to conclude 
that, for clothes washers with manual water fill controls, consumers 
overuse the maximum water fill level and that automatically controlling 
the water fill level based on clothing load size (i.e., by providing 
adaptive water fill controls) would produce energy savings. Id. at p. 
20. AHAM also noted that an essential element of any adaptive control 
system is the removal of consumer judgment from some or all of the wash 
cycle selection process. Id. at p. 21.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \26\ AHAM's presentation was originally submitted to Docket #EE-
RM-94-230A as Comment #25. This presentation is available online at 
www.regulations.gov as part of Docket #EERE-2006-TP-0065, Comment 
#27: https://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EERE-2006-TP-
0065-0027.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    For manual water fill clothes washers, AHAM recommended requiring 
the use of a fixed 3-pound minimum load size and a maximum load size 
that would vary with capacity, while maintaining the 28-percent and 72-
percent LUFs, respectively. Id. at p. 24. For clothes washers with 
adaptive water fill controls, AHAM recommended requiring a third 
``average'' load size, in addition to the minimum and maximum load 
sizes, and corresponding minimum, average, and maximum LUFs of 14, 74, 
and 12 percent, respectively.\27\ These three load sizes and associated 
LUFs more closely approximated a normal (Gaussian) distribution of load 
sizes centered around the average load size, consistent with the P&G 
consumer usage data, and therefore, according to AHAM, provided a more 
accurate representation of the energy consumption of clothes washers 
with adaptive water fill controls. Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \27\ AHAM also recommended including ``above average'' and 
``below average'' load sizes for clothes washers that generate non-
linear results between the minimum, average, and maximum load sizes. 
If these additional loads were required, the results of the ``below 
average'', ``average'', and ``above average'' load sizes would be 
averaged with equal weightings to represent a single ``average'' 
data point. (AHAM, No. 25 to Docket EE-RM-94-230A, pp. 21-23)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE incorporated these recommendations as part of a new DOE test 
procedure at appendix J1, established in a final rule on August 27, 
1997.\28\ 62 FR 45484, 45486-87. DOE maintained these load sizes, water 
fill levels, and LUFs in the new appendix J2 test procedure codified by 
the March 2012 final rule. 77 FR 13888, 13910-11.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \28\ The August 27, 1997 final rule rejected the use of 
additional ``below average'' and ``above average'' test loads for 
clothes washers that generate non-linear results between the 
minimum, average, and maximum load sizes. DOE explained that the 
additional test burden associated with the extra load sizes is not 
warranted for the potential improvement in accuracy of the final 
test results. 62 FR 45483, 45487.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As described above, the key distinction between manual water fill 
controls and adaptive water fill controls is whether consumer judgment 
is required to establish the water fill level. Any water fill control 
system that requires consumer judgment to manually select a water fill 
must be tested using the procedures in section 3.2.3.3 of appendix J2 
for manual water fill control systems, in order to provide test results 
that are representative of consumer usage. Likewise, any water fill 
control system that does not require consumer judgment (i.e., does not 
allow

[[Page 46751]]

or require the consumer to select the water fill level) must be tested 
using the procedures in section 3.2.3.2 of appendix J2 for adaptive 
water fill control systems, in order to provide test results that are 
representative of consumer usage. Clothes washers with ``fixed water 
fill controls'' do not allow or require the consumer to select a water 
fill level; therefore, clothes washers with ``fixed water fill 
controls'' must be tested using the procedures for adaptive water fill 
control systems (i.e., using the minimum, average, and maximum load 
sizes and the water fill levels as determined by the clothes washer), 
in order to provide test results that are representative of consumer 
usage.
    For these reasons, this final rule maintains DOE's initial proposal 
to (1) add a definition for ``fixed water fill control system,'' (2) 
add a definition for ``automatic water fill control system,'' which 
includes both fixed water fill control systems and adaptive water fill 
control systems, (3) amend the definition of ``adaptive water fill 
control system'' to clarify that it is considered a type of automatic 
water fill control system, and (4) where appropriate, replace instances 
of ``adaptive water fill control system'' throughout the test procedure 
with ``automatic water fill control system,'' to indicate that such 
testing provisions apply to both adaptive water fill control systems 
and fixed water fill control systems. These amendments apply to both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2.
    The final rule provides a more technically precise description of 
``fixed water fill control system'' than the definition proposed in the 
April 2014 NOPR. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed defining fixed 
water fill control system as ``a clothes washer automatic water fill 
control system that does not adjust the water fill level based on the 
size or weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container.'' 
In this final rule, fixed water fill control system is defined as ``a 
clothes washer automatic water fill control system that automatically 
terminates the fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the 
clothes container.'' A fixed water fill system typically uses a single 
water pressure sensor, located at the bottom of the clothes container, 
which is calibrated to trigger at the water pressure corresponding to 
the manufacturer's pre-determined water fill height for the clothes 
washer. During the water fill portion of the wash cycle, when the 
height of the water in the clothes container reaches the pre-determined 
water fill level, the pressure sensor triggers and shuts off the 
incoming water supply. The revised definition more accurately reflects 
this mechanical design of a fixed water fill control system.
    In addition, the phrase ``water fill level'' in the proposed April 
2014 NOPR definition could create confusion depending on whether the 
testing party interprets this phrase to mean the physical height of the 
water in the clothes container, or the total volume of water in the 
clothes container. While the physical height of the water may be the 
same for all load sizes with a fixed water fill control system, the 
total volume of water changes slightly based on the load size because 
the clothing itself takes up space in the clothes container. 
Specifically, with a fixed water fill control system, a large clothing 
load will result in a slightly lower volume of water than a small 
clothing load, because the additional volume occupied by the larger 
clothing load offsets some of the total water volume. The revised 
definition in this final rule avoids this potential ambiguity.
    Finally, DOE's proposed definition in the April 2014 NOPR described 
a fixed water fill control system in terms of what it does not do, 
(i.e., it does not adjust the water fill level based on the size or 
weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container); whereas 
the revised definition describes what a fixed water fill system does, 
(i.e., it automatically terminates the fill when the water reaches an 
appropriate level in the clothes container).
    The final rule also slightly amends the definition of ``automatic 
water fill control system'' proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to clarify 
more explicitly that the key criteria is the lack of user action 
allowed or required to determine the water fill level. In this final 
rule, ``automatic water fill control system'' is defined as ``a clothes 
washer water fill control system that does not allow or require the 
user to determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive 
water fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.''

K. Maximum Water Fill Levels on Electronic Manual Water Fill Control 
Systems

    DOE has become aware of clothes washers with electronic manual 
water fill control systems where the maximum water fill level setting 
that can be selected on some cycle settings required for testing as 
part of the energy test cycle is less than the maximum water fill level 
setting available on the clothes washer.
    For clothes washers with manual water fill control systems, Section 
3.2.3.3 of appendix J1 and appendix J2 (newly renumbered as section 
3.2.6.1 in appendix J2) requires setting the water fill selector to the 
maximum water level available on the clothes washer (emphasis added) 
for the maximum test load size, which is based on the clothes washer 
capacity and defined in Table 5.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. 
Neither test procedure addresses how to proceed with testing if the 
maximum water fill level setting available on the clothes washer cannot 
be selected for one or more of the wash cycles settings required for 
testing under this provision. Therefore, a manufacturer may need to 
submit a petition for waiver, pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27, to establish 
an acceptable test procedure that can accommodate testing of the 
maximum water fill level setting on such a clothes washer. As described 
in 10 CFR 430.27, the petition process includes opportunities for 
public comment in direct response to the waiver petition. As soon as 
practicable after the granting of any waiver, DOE must publish in the 
Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend its 
regulations so as to eliminate any need for the continuation of such 
waiver. (10 CFR 430.27(l)) Any such NOPR would also offer an 
opportunity for interested parties to submit comments. This final rule 
does not contain any amendments regarding this potential issue.

L. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions

    Section 3.2.2 of appendix J2 states that total water consumption 
during the energy test cycle shall be measured, including hot and cold 
water consumption, during wash, deep rinse, and spray rinse. In the 
April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising section 3.2.8 to include the 
entire active washing mode, and exclude any delay start or cycle 
finished modes, for each wash cycle tested. 79 FR 23061, 23067 (Apr. 
25, 2014). Active washing mode is defined in section 1.2 as including 
the main functions of washing, soaking, tumbling, agitating, rinsing, 
and/or removing water from the clothing. As described in the April 2014 
NOPR, DOE believes that the proposed revision to 3.2.8 is clearer and 
more complete than the wording in the current 3.2.2 regarding the 
portions of the wash cycle to be included and measured for testing. 
Therefore, DOE proposed to delete section 3.2.2 from appendix J2 and to 
renumber the subsequent subsections accordingly. 79 FR 23067.
    Furthermore, since section 3.2.2 is the only location within the 
test procedure where the terms ``deep rinse'' and ``spray rinse'' 
occur, DOE also proposed

[[Page 46752]]

to remove those two definitions from the section 1 of appendix J2. 79 
FR 23067.
    AHAM supports DOE's proposal to revise appendix J2 to include the 
entire active washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle 
finished mode for each wash cycle tested. AHAM also supports DOE's 
proposal to remove the definitions for ``deep rinse'' and ``spray 
rinse'' from appendix J2. ALS also supports DOE's proposal to remove 
the definition of ``deep rinse cycle.''
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to revise 
section 3.2.8 of appendix J2 to include the entire active washing mode 
and exclude any delay start or cycle finished modes for each wash cycle 
tested, or to remove the definitions of deep rinse and spray rinse. 
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates 
these amendments in appendix J2.

M. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures

    Section 1.17 of appendix J1 and section 1.32 of appendix J2 provide 
the definition of uniformly distributed warm wash temperature 
selections. Under this definition, a clothes washer has uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperature selections if (A) the warm wash 
temperatures have a linear relationship with all discrete warm wash 
selections when the water temperatures are plotted against equally 
spaced consecutive warm wash selections between the hottest warm wash 
and the coldest warm wash, and the mean water temperature of the 
warmest and the coldest warm selections coincide with the mean of the 
hot wash and cold wash water temperatures within 3.8 
[deg]F; or (B) on a clothes washer with only one warm wash temperature 
selection, the warm wash temperature selection has a water temperature 
that coincides with the mean of the hot wash and cold wash water 
temperatures within 3.8 14;[deg]F. For clothes washers with 
uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections, the reported 
values to be used for the warm wash setting are the arithmetic average 
of the measurements for the hot and cold wash selections. This is a 
``shortcut'' calculation only; no testing is required.
    DOE noted in the April 2014 NOPR that the criteria for determining 
whether the warm wash temperatures are uniformly distributed are based 
on water temperature only; total water consumption is not considered. 
79 FR 23068. On a clothes washer with electronic control systems, a 
clothes washer's warm wash cycles could be programmed to use larger 
quantities of water than the cold wash and hot wash cycles, yet the 
data to be used to represent the warm wash cycle would be the average 
of the cold and hot wash cycles, rather than actual data from testing. 
79 FR 23068. Since the warm wash temperature selection has the highest 
temperature use factor at 0.49, DOE proposed that the warm wash 
temperature selection(s) on such a clothes washer be tested. Therefore, 
DOE proposed to remove the definition of uniformly distributed warm 
wash temperature selections from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, and 
to remove any provisions within the test procedures pertaining to 
uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections. Id.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE requested comment on any potential 
increase in test burden as a result of its proposal to eliminate the 
separate testing provisions for clothes washers with uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperatures. 79 FR 23068. DOE estimated that the 
resulting total testing time would be no greater than for clothes 
washers with the same number of warm wash temperature options, but with 
non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE observed constitutes 
the majority of the market. Id.
    The CA IOUs support DOE's proposal to remove the testing provisions 
for clothes washers with uniformly distributed wash temperatures. (CA 
IOUs, No. 3 at p. 5)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to remove the 
definition of uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections 
from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, and to remove the ``shortcut'' 
provisions within the test procedures pertaining to uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperature selections. Therefore, for the 
reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates these amendments 
into both appendix J1 and appendix J2.

N. Determining Extra-Hot Wash Temperature

    Section 3.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines Extra-Hot 
Wash as having a maximum wash temperature greater than 
135[emsp14][deg]F. Determining the maximum wash temperature requires 
measuring the water temperature during the wash cycle. DOE understands 
that, in practice, measuring the wash water temperature can be 
difficult due to factors such as the geometry of front-loading clothes 
container design, the increasing use of door locks, and, in high-
efficiency clothes washers, the lack of a standing pool of wash water 
in which to measure the temperature.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed adding guidance to section 3.3 
of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 on one possible method for 
determining whether the maximum wash water temperature exceeds 135 
[deg]F. In the proposed method, non-reversible temperature indicator 
labels would be adhered to the inside of the clothes container to 
determine the maximum water temperature during an energy test cycle. 79 
FR 23068. If the temperature indicator label method was used when 
testing a front-loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered 
along the inner circumference of the clothes container drum, midway 
between the front and the back of the clothes container. For a top-
loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered along the inner 
circumference of the clothes container drum, as close to the bottom of 
the container as possible. Id.
    DOE acknowledges that manufacturers may be able to use alternate 
methods for determining the maximum wash temperature during an energy 
test cycle; however, DOE is unaware of any other direct measurement 
methods that could be used by a third-party laboratory without 
requiring partial disassembly of the clothes washer or permanently 
altering the machine.
    AHAM stated that it would need more information to evaluate DOE's 
proposal, including specifications for the labels that would be used to 
determine the maximum wash water temperature. Furthermore, AHAM 
suggested that DOE should not finalize its label approach until further 
study is done to demonstrate that the approach is repeatable and 
reproducible, and that the labels can be calibrated for accurate 
readings. Finally, AHAM stated that the temperature tolerance in the 
test procedure should correspond to the temperature tolerance in the 
measurement method. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
    ALS stated that it is not aware of a source for waterproof, non-
reversing temperature indicating labels that would remain adhered to 
the metal cylinder surface. Until more information is available 
regarding the source for such labels, their effectiveness, and their 
reliability, ALS does not support DOE's proposed wash water temperature 
measurement approach. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
    To address concerns raised in these comments, DOE investigated a 
non-reversible temperature label that provides temperature indicators 
in 5-degree increments between 105 [deg]F and 120 [deg]F and 10-degree 
increments between 120 [deg]F and 160 [deg]F. DOE is not

[[Page 46753]]

aware of any temperature labels from any manufacturer offering a 
temperature indicator of 135 [deg]F.
    For this final rule, DOE tested both top-loading and front-loading 
clothes washers using the methodology proposed in the April 2014 NOPR. 
DOE provides the results of these tests in a separate test report 
accompanying this final rule, which is available in the regulations.gov 
docket for this rulemaking.\29\ The test report provides specific 
details regarding the temperature indicator labels that DOE tested.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \29\ The docket for this rulemaking is available at https://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE observed the following during these additional tests:
     The labels used for testing remained waterproof in all 
cases.
     The labels used for testing remained intact and adhered to 
the wash drum throughout the entire wash cycle, in both top-loading and 
front-loading clothes washers.
     Multiple labels tested in a single wash cycle demonstrated 
consistent maximum temperature readings.
     On front-loading clothes washers, labels placed adjacent 
to the wash drum baffles experienced less wear compared to labels 
located midway between two baffles.
    DOE also performed testing to confirm the accuracy of these 
temperature indicators. Section 2.5.3 of appendix J1 and section 2.5.4 
of appendix J2 specify an allowable error no greater than 1 
[deg]F for a temperature measuring device over the range being 
measured. DOE's testing determined that the labels provide an average 
accuracy within 1 [deg]F for temperatures less than 120 
[deg]F, and an average accuracy within 3 [deg]F for 
temperatures 120 [deg]F and greater. The calibrated temperatures 
recorded at the 140 [deg]F indicator threshold ranged from 136.2 [deg]F 
to 140.2 [deg]F. Although the accuracy of the labels at 140 [deg]F 
indicator threshold falls outside the range of 1 [deg]F, 
the pattern and range of activation temperatures observed by DOE 
suggests that activation of the 140 [deg]F indicator on the label is 
sufficient to demonstrate that the maximum wash temperature exceeded 
135 [deg]F during the cycle under test.
    DOE recognizes, however, that the 140 [deg]F indicator may not 
activate at all wash temperatures greater than 135 [deg]F and less than 
140 [deg]F. In such cases, other measurement techniques would still 
need to be used to identify an extra-hot wash temperature.
    Based on these conclusions, this final rule amends section 3.3 of 
both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to allow (but not require) the use of 
a non-reversible temperature indicator label to confirm that an extra-
hot wash temperature has been achieved during a wash cycle, provided 
that the label has been demonstrated to remain waterproof, intact, and 
adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire wash cycle; to provide 
consistent maximum temperature readings; and to provide repeatable 
temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate that a wash 
temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved. The 
amendments also clarify that the label must have been verified to 
consistently indicate temperature measurements with an accuracy of 
1 [deg]F if the label provides a temperature indicator at 
135 [deg]F. If the label does not provide a temperature indicator at 
135 [deg]F, the label must have been verified to consistently indicate 
temperature measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if 
the next highest temperature indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and 
less than 140 [deg]F, or 3 [deg]F if the next highest 
temperature indicator is 140 [deg]F or greater. If the label does not 
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, DOE notes that failure 
to activate the next-highest temperature indicator does not necessarily 
indicate the lack of an extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a 
result would not be considered a valid test due to the lack of 
verification of the water temperature requirement, in which case an 
alternative method must be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash 
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash 
cycle.
    In addition, the amendments incorporate the proposed guidance 
regarding placement of a temperature label within the clothing drum, 
with minor wording changes for clarification, and to further clarify 
that the temperature labels for front-loaders should be located 
adjacent to one of the baffles in the clothing drum.

O. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy

    Section 4.1.4 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 provides 
equations for calculating per-cycle hot water energy consumption using 
gas-heated or oil-heated water. The result of this calculation is not 
used in any downstream calculations within the DOE test procedure. The 
calculated result is referenced within 10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and 
(ii)(B); however, these values are not included as part of DOE's 
certification requirements for clothes washers in 10 CFR 429.20 and 
429.46, nor are they required for other DOE regulatory purposes. DOE 
stated in the April 2014 NOPR that it was unaware of any other 
regulatory programs that require the calculation of per-cycle hot water 
energy using gas- or oil-heated water for clothes washers. Therefore, 
DOE proposed to remove section 4.1.4 from both appendix J1 and appendix 
J2, and to remove the related sections of 10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and 
(ii)(B), adjusting the subsequent section numberings accordingly. 79 FR 
23068.
    AHAM supports DOE's proposal to remove the equations for 
calculating per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated or 
oil-heated water. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
    ALS objects to DOE's proposal to remove the per-cycle gas hot water 
heating calculation from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, because this 
calculation is required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) under 16 
CFR part 305, The Appliance Labeling Rule, for determining the 
``Estimated Yearly Cost for Gas Water Heating'' on the clothes washer 
EnergyGuide label. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5) ALS supports DOE's proposal to 
remove the calculation for per-cycle oil-heated hot water, because it 
is not used by either DOE or FTC. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
    DOE confirms that the FTC EnergyGuide label includes an estimated 
yearly cost for gas water heating, which is based on the calculation 
for determining per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated 
or oil-heater water in section 4.1.4 of both appendix J1 and appendix 
J2. Therefore, this final rule leaves intact this calculation in both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2, as well as the associated calculations in 
10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and (ii)(B). For clarification, DOE amends 
the title of section 4.1.4 to read, ``Total per-cycle hot water energy 
consumption using gas-heated or oil-heated water, for product labeling 
requirements.''

P. Out-of-Balance Loads

    DOE has observed that some clothes washers may terminate the wash 
cycle prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected. Because 
the test procedure defines an energy test cycle as including the 
agitation/tumble operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times 
applicable to each cycle, the data from a wash cycle that terminates 
prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected, and thus does 
not include these required elements, should be discarded. In the April 
2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amendments to provide this clarification in 
section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new section 3.2.9 of appendix J2. 79 
FR 23068.

[[Page 46754]]

    AHAM supports DOE's attempt to clarify how out-of-balance loads 
should be addressed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3) AHAM suggested that DOE add 
language to its proposal to indicate that if there is a visual or audio 
indicator that would alert the user about an out-of-balance load, the 
test should be stopped and the results discarded. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3) 
AHAM also suggested that to address possible circumvention concerns 
(e.g., that a product would be designed to terminate at any indication 
of out-of-balance condition), that DOE consider a similar approach used 
in IEC 60456, section 9.1 and the related note,\30\ which limits the 
number of additional test runs and requires reporting the reason for 
the rejection of a test run. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \30\ Section 9.1 of IEC 60456 does not contain a note. DOE 
infers from the context of AHAM's comment that AHAM is referring to 
the note in section 8.2.5, which references section 9.1, and states 
that the reason for rejection of a test run from a test series 
should be explained in the test report.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    ALS supports AHAM's suggestion regarding visual or audio indicators 
that communicate to the user when an out-of-balance load has occurred. 
(ALS, No. 5 at p. 5) ALS also supports AHAM's suggestion that DOE 
require reporting the reason for any rejection of a test run. (ALS, No. 
5 at p. 5) ALS supports, with qualification, DOE's proposal concerning 
how to proceed or to know when an out-of-balance condition has occurred 
during an RMC test. ALS suggested that DOE provide more clarification 
as to when a test run should be considered invalid. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 
5)
    DOE agrees with commenters that if a clothes washer provides a 
visual or audio indicator that would alert a user that an out-of-
balance condition has been detected, the test should be stopped and the 
results discarded. Therefore, this final rule adds this additional 
clarification to section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new section 3.2.9 of 
appendix J2. Other than a visual or audio indicator, or early 
termination of a cycle, DOE is unaware of any other methods that a test 
laboratory could use to identify when an individual test run should be 
invalidated.
    Section 9.1 of IEC 60456 Ed. 5.0, ``Clothes Washing Machines for 
Household Use--Methods for Measuring the Performance,'' \31\ states the 
following:

    \31\ IEC 60456 Ed. 5.0 is available at https://webstore.iec.ch/webstore/webstore.nsf/artnum/043760.

    In case of an invalid test run (in either the test washing 
machine or the reference machine) neither the test run result in the 
test washing machine nor the corresponding test run result from the 
reference machine shall be used for any evaluation of that test 
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
washing machine within the test series.

    The related note in section 8.2.5 states the following:

    NOTE Refer to 9.1 regarding evaluation of results where more 
than 5 test runs\32\ are undertaken in a test series. The reason for 
rejection of a test run from a test series should be explained in 
the test report. . . . If more than one test run is invalid in a 
test series, then the whole test series is invalid, irrespective of 
the reason.

    \32\ IEC 60456 requires completing five test runs to measure 
each aspect of clothes washer performance, which includes the 
following: Washing performance, rinsing performance, water 
extraction performance, and water and energy measurement.

    Unlike IEC 60456, which requires five identical test run 
replications to measure each aspect of clothes washer performance, the 
DOE test procedure does not require the replication of any identical 
test runs; i.e., each DOE test run is only performed once, with each 
test run having a unique set of conditions including load size, wash/
rinse temperature, and/or spin speed. The data from each unique test 
condition is required for the calculation of MEF/IMEF and WF/integrated 
water factor (IWF); therefore, a valid test run must be performed at 
each set of required conditions. The DOE test procedure cannot limit 
the number of attempts needed to obtain the data for a particular test 
condition if multiple test runs are invalided due to out-of-balance 
conditions. For this reason, DOE partially rejects AHAM's suggestion to 
use the approach in IEC 60456, section 9.1, and the related note to 
limit the number of additional test runs that would be required. 
However, DOE agrees with AHAM's suggestion that the reason for 
rejecting any test run during testing should be noted in the test 
report for that unit.
    For these reasons, this final rule implements DOE's proposal to 
discard any data from a wash cycle that terminates prematurely due to 
an out-of-balance load condition or provides a visual or audio 
indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition has been 
detected. The amendments also require documenting the rejection of any 
test run and the reason for the rejection in the test report for that 
unit. These amendments apply to section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new 
section 3.2.9 of appendix J2.

Q. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed reordering the subsections 
within section 2 of appendix J2 (Testing Conditions) to improve the 
clarity and overall flow of the section. 79 FR 23068. After reordering, 
the general progression of section 2 would be as follows:

 Laboratory infrastructure requirements
 Instrumentation requirements
 Test cloth requirements
 Test load composition and handling
 Clothes washer installation and preconditioning procedures
 Energy test cycle determination

    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to reorder the 
subsections within section 2 of appendix J2 to improve the clarity and 
overall flow of the section. Therefore, for the reasons stated above, 
this final rule incorporates these amendments into appendix J2.

R. Table 3.2 Edits

    Table 3.2 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines the sections 
within the test procedure that govern the tests of particular clothes 
washers, based on the number of wash/rinse temperature selections 
available on the model. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying 
one of the headings in Table 3.2 of appendix J1. 79 FR 23068. DOE also 
proposed amending the current heading, ``Number of wash temp. 
selections'' to ``Number of wash temp. selections in the energy test 
cycle.'' In addition, DOE proposed fixing a typographical error in 
Table 3.2 in appendix J1 regarding the misspelling of the word 
``heating.'' Id.
    DOE also proposed simplifying the overall structure of Table 3.2 in 
appendix J2 (renumbered 3.2.2) by using the clarified wash/rinse 
temperature nomenclature within the revised energy test cycle 
definition and flowcharts. As stated in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE does 
not intend for any of the required test sections to change as a result 
of the proposed revisions to the table. 79 FR 23068-23069.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table 
3.2 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2. Therefore, for the reasons 
stated above, this final rule incorporates these amendments.

S. Table 4.1.1 Edits

    Table 4.1.1 in appendix J2 provides the temperature use factors. In 
the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed improving the clarity of the overall 
structure of Table 4.1.1 in appendix J2 by reorganizing the columns in 
the table to more closely match the wash/rinse temperature nomenclature 
within the revised energy test cycle definition and flowcharts. 79 FR 
23069. As explained in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE does not

[[Page 46755]]

intend for any of the temperature use factors to change as a result of 
the proposed revisions to the table. Id.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table 
4.1.1 in appendix J2 to improve its clarity and overall structure. 
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates 
this amendment into appendix J2.

T. Table 2.8 Edits

    Table 2.8 in appendix J2 (``Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings 
Required'') contains a formatting error that combined the average and 
minimum test load sizes into a single row for clothes washers with an 
adaptive water fill control system. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE 
proposed amending the layout of Table 2.8 in both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 to improve its overall clarity. 79 FR 23069. DOE also 
proposed changing the heading of the relevant column to ``automatic 
water fill control system'' rather than ``adaptive water fill control 
system.'' Id.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table 
2.8 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to correct a formatting error 
and improve its overall clarity. Therefore, for the reasons stated 
above, this final rule incorporates these amendment into appendix J1 
and appendix J2.

U. Replacing ``Consumer'' With ``User''

    Both appendix J1 and appendix J2 refer to the ``consumer'' in 
various parts of the test procedures. In each instance, the word 
``consumer'' refers to the individual using the clothes washer. DOE 
notes that the word ``consumer'' may be misconstrued as the original 
purchaser or owner of the clothes washer. In some cases, particularly 
coin-operated laundries and multi-family housing common laundry rooms, 
the purchaser or owner of the clothes washer is not the end user of the 
clothes washer.
    The distinction between the owner and the end user may be relevant 
to the test procedure if certain settings, such as water fill levels, 
may be customized by the owner of the clothes washer but are not 
adjustable by the end user. To prevent any possible ambiguity implied 
by the word ``consumer,'' DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR replacing 
the word ``consumer'' with ``user'' or ``end user'' throughout the test 
procedures in all instances where the word ``consumer'' is currently 
used. 79 FR 23061, 23069 (Apr. 25, 2014).
    ALS supports DOE's proposal to replace the word ``consumer'' with 
the word ``user'' in all instances, because CCWs need to have the 
distinction that the test provisions are relevant to the end-user and 
not the purchaser of the laundry equipment. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to replace the 
word ``consumer'' with ``user'' or ``end user.'' Therefore, for the 
reasons stated above, this final rule implements these changes 
throughout appendix J1 and appendix J2.

V. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising section 430.23(j)(3) 
to contain only the provisions for calculating annual water consumption 
when using either appendix J1 or appendix J2. 79 FR 23069. DOE proposed 
adding a new section 430.23(j)(4) containing the provisions for 
determining water factor and integrated water factor. Id.
    DOE also proposed creating a new section 430.23(j)(5) containing 
the following statement: ``Other useful measures of energy consumption 
for automatic or semi-automatic clothes washers shall be those measures 
of energy consumption that the Secretary determines are likely to 
assist consumers in making purchasing decisions and that are derived 
from the application of appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.'' 
79 FR 23069. This statement is currently contained in section 
430.23(j)(3). Moving the statement to a dedicated subsection would 
maintain consistency with DOE's test procedure provisions for other 
products within 10 CFR part 430. In its proposal, DOE noted that the 
measurement or reporting of any additional measures of energy or water 
consumption would be adopted through the rulemaking process. Id.
    Finally, to eliminate any potential ambiguity, DOE proposed 
replacing the phrase ``can be determined'' with ``must be determined'' 
throughout the text of 10 CFR 430.23(j)(3) through (j)(5). 79 FR 23069.
    ALS supports DOE's proposed amendments to paragraphs (j)(3) through 
(j)(5) under 10 CFR part 430.23. (ALS, No. 5 at pp. 2-3) ALS also 
supports DOE's proposal to replace the word ``shall'' with ``must'' to 
avoid ambiguity. ALS added that most safety standards use the word 
``shall,'' and then add a note clarifying that it means ``mandatory.'' 
However, ALS believes that the word ``must'' assures that the item 
needs to be done and conveys a much stronger meaning than the word 
``shall,'' which is often considered as an optional directive.
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend 10 CFR 
430.23(j)(3) through (j)(5) to improve overall clarity and consistency. 
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule implements 
these changes.

W. Reporting and Verification Requirements

1. Remaining Moisture Content
    DOE has observed the potential for significant variation in the RMC 
measurement at the maximum spin speed setting on some clothes washer 
models. During testing of front-loading clothes washer models, DOE 
observed that the maximum target spin speed may not be achieved during 
the final spin portion of the cycle if the load size is not evenly 
distributed around the circumference of the wash drum. DOE believes 
that in such cases, the spin speed may be automatically reduced as a 
safety precaution and to prevent damage to the clothes washer caused by 
the asymmetric rotation of the unbalanced load within the wash basket.
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE presented example RMC test data 
obtained from one front-loading clothes washer model. 79 FR 23069-
23070. DOE performed the RMC measurement using the cold wash cycle at 
the maximum available spin speed setting. The RMC measurement was 
performed a total of twelve times using three different test cloth 
lots. The corrected RMC measurement \33\ varied between 32.3 percent 
and 46.2 percent, with an average of 37.0 percent. Id. DOE explained 
that it has observed similar variations of this magnitude on multiple 
front-loading clothes washer models. Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \33\ Corrected RMC measurements are obtained using the test 
cloth correction factors developed for each test cloth lot, as 
applied in section 2.6.7 of appendix J1 and appendix J2. DOE 
publishes a list of the test cloth correction factors developed for 
test cloth Lots 5 through 20 at https://www2.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/residential/clothes_washer_test_cloth_correction.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The RMC measurement is used to determine the per-cycle energy 
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load--i.e., the 
``drying energy'' portion of the MEF and IMEF calculations. The drying 
energy represents between 59 and 87 percent of a clothes washer's total 
energy consumption; \34\ hence, the RMC

[[Page 46756]]

measurement significantly impacts the overall MEF and IMEF 
calculations.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \34\ Percentages derived from Table 7.2.1 and 7.2.2 in the May 
31, 2012 direct final rule technical support document for the 
residential clothes washer energy conservations standards 
rulemaking, available at https://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EERE-2008-BT-STD-0019-0047.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE also proposed adding a new section 
3.8.5 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to specify that manufacturers 
may perform up to two additional replications of the RMC measurement, 
for a total of three independent RMC measurements for the tested unit, 
and use the average of the three measurements as the basis for the 
calculation of per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture 
from the test load. 79 FR 23070.
    DOE also proposed adding the RMC measurement to the list of public 
product-specific information contained in the certification reports for 
RCWs, as described in 10 CFR 429.20(b)(2)(i) and (ii). DOE also 
proposed creating a new section, 10 CFR 429.20(a)(4), which would 
specify that the certified RMC value of any clothes washer basic model 
shall be the mean of the final RMC value measured for all tested units 
of the basic model. 79 FR 23070.
    Finally, DOE proposed creating another new section, 10 CFR 
429.134(c)(1), which would specify that during assessment or 
enforcement testing, the measured RMC value of a tested unit would be 
considered the tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value 
was within two RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the 
basic model (expressed as a percentage), or if the measured RMC value 
was lower than the certified RMC value. 79 FR 23070. DOE proposed a 
threshold of two RMC percentage points because such a variation would 
limit the variation in the overall MEF or IMEF calculation to roughly 
five percent. Id.
    For cases where the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more 
than two RMC percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of 
the basic model, DOE proposed performing two additional replications of 
the RMC measurement, each pursuant to the provisions of newly added 
section 3.8.5 of appendix J1 and appendix J2, for a total of three 
independent RMC measurements of the tested unit. 79 FR 23070. Under 
DOE's proposal, the average of the three RMC measurements would be 
considered the tested unit's final RMC value and would be used as the 
basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy consumption for removal 
of moisture from the test load for that unit. Id.
    AHAM agrees with DOE's proposal to add a new section to both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2 to specify that manufacturers may perform 
up to two additional replications of the RMC measurement, for a total 
of three independent RMC measurements for the tested unit, and use the 
average of the three measurements as the basis for the calculation of 
per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from the test 
load. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13) AHAM acknowledges that these multiple 
measurements could increase test burden; however, AHAM believes the 
benefit outweighs the potential increase in test burden. (AHAM, No. 4 
at p. 13)
    AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to add the RMC measurement to 
the list of public product-specific information contained in 
certification reports for RCWs. AHAM stated that it assumes that DOE is 
proposing to make this information publicly available to give a 
reference point to third-party test laboratories who might be 
conducting verification testing, and that based on that reasoning, AHAM 
does not oppose the proposal. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13)
    AHAM noted that DOE provided example RMC test data obtained from 
testing one front-loading clothes washer, but could more fully evaluate 
DOE's conclusions if DOE had provided additional data on similar 
testing conducted on other models. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13)
    AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposed approach for measuring RMC 
during assessment or enforcement testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13; ALS, 
No. 5 at p. 2))
    ALS supports DOE's proposed revisions to 10 CFR 429.20(b)(2)(i) and 
(b)(2)(ii). (ALS, No. 5 at p. 1)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to allow 
performing up to three RMC replications, adding the RMC measurement to 
the list of public product-specific information contained in the 
certification reports for RCWs, and adding a new approach for measuring 
RMC during assessment or enforcement testing. Therefore, for the 
reasons stated above, this final rule implements these amendments as 
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed adding a new paragraph at 10 
CFR 429.20(c) to specify the rounding requirements of all reported 
values for RCWs as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the 
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the 
nearest 0.1 cu ft. 79 FR 23070.
    AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposed specification of rounding 
requirements for MEF and IMEF, WF and IWF, RMC, and clothes container 
capacity. (AHAM, No. 4 at pp.13-14; ALS, No. 5 at p.1)
    DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to add a new 
paragraph at 10 CFR 429.20(c) to specify rounding requirements for all 
reported values for RCWs. Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this 
final rule implements this amendment.
3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
    10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) requires certification reports based on testing 
conducted in accordance with appendix J2 to include a list of all cycle 
selections comprising the complete energy test cycle for each basic 
model. Because the difference in wording of the energy test cycle 
definition in appendix J1 makes cycle selections less clear, DOE 
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR amending 10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) to require 
a list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test 
cycle for each basic model, regardless of whether the certification is 
based on testing conducted in accordance with appendix J1 or appendix 
J2. 79 FR 23070.
    AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to revise its regulations to require a 
list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test cycle 
for each basic model, regardless of whether the certification is based 
on testing conducted in accordance with appendix J1 or appendix J2. 
AHAM noted that this amendment would only affect appendix J1 testing 
and that it is unlikely that the proposed requirement will ever be 
mandatory. AHAM believes it is too late to make the energy test cycle 
selection reporting requirement changes, and believes the changes will 
also increase certification reporting burden. (AHAM, No. 4 at p.14)
    ALS supports DOE's proposed amendment to 10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) to 
require a list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy 
test cycle for each basic model. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 1, 2) ALS questioned 
why the proposed wording in 429.20(b)(3) uses the word ``shall'' rather 
than the word ``must.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 2)
    The potential ambiguity regarding energy test cycle selection under 
appendix J1 primarily affects RCWs, more so than CCWs, due to the 
increasing use of electronic control panels on RCWs, which provide 
numerous cycle selection options. Because the use of appendix J2 became 
mandatory on March 7, 2015 for RCWs, and only CCWs will continue to use 
appendix J1, this final rule retains the current requirement in 10 CFR 
429.20(b)(3) to include a list of all cycle selections comprising the 
complete energy test cycle for each basic model

[[Page 46757]]

only when using appendix J2. DOE is, however, amending this requirement 
in this final rule to use the word ``must'' rather than ``shall.''
4. Product Firmware Updates
    In response to the April 2014 NOPR, the CA IOUs suggested that DOE 
should evaluate the potential for firmware updates to materially affect 
the energy and water use of products. The CA IOUs proposed that if 
firmware updates significantly affect the energy and water use of 
products, DOE should assess how such changes should be managed through 
certified energy and water ratings. The CA IOUs recommended that DOE 
consider requiring manufacturers to report the magnitude of the 
anticipated impact on annual energy consumption associated with 
firmware upgrades when they are released. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4)
    DOE is aware of clothes washer models on the market that offer the 
capability to download custom wash cycles directly from the 
manufacturer. DOE has observed that as currently implemented on the 
market, such downloadable cycles are typically niche cycles that would 
not be considered part of the DOE energy test cycle. However, DOE 
believes that this technology could be readily used to update the 
Normal cycle, or any alternate cycles that may be included in the 
energy test cycle, which could change the energy and water use of the 
cycle used for DOE testing.
    If a manufacturer provides new or modified cycle settings for an 
already-certified basic model, DOE believes that the new or modified 
cycle settings must be included among the suite of options considered 
when determining the energy test cycle. Thus, if one of the new or 
modified cycle settings that becomes available would meet the criteria 
to be selected as part of the energy test cycle, and including the new 
or modified cycle settings would invalidate the basic model's ratings 
(i.e., the rating would no longer be supported by the test data 
underlying the certification), then the manufacturer would be required 
to retest, rerate, and recertify as a new basic model.
    To provide further clarification of this in the test procedure, 
this final rule adds the following statement to newly created section 
1.8(D) in appendix J1 and newly renumbered section 2.12 in appendix J2: 
``The determination of the energy test cycle must take into 
consideration all cycle settings available to the end user for the 
basic model under test, including any cycle selections or cycle 
attributes associated with that basic model that are provided by the 
manufacturer via software or firmware updates.''

IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that test 
procedure rulemakings do not constitute ``significant regulatory 
actions'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory 
Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this 
action was not subject to review under the Executive Order by the 
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the OMB.

B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., as amended by 
the Small Business Regulatory Fairness Act of 1996) requires 
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (IFRA) for 
any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment and a final 
regulatory flexibility analysis (FRFA) for any such rule that an agency 
adopts as a final rule, unless the agency certifies that the rule, if 
promulgated, will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. A regulatory flexibility analysis 
examines the impact of the rule on small entities and considers 
alternative ways of reducing negative effects. Also, as required by 
Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small Entities in 
Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE published 
procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that the 
potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly 
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made 
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General 
Counsel's Web site: https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
    DOE reviewed this final rule under the provisions of the Regulatory 
Flexibility Act and the procedures and policies published on February 
19, 2003. The final rule amends DOE's test procedure by codifying 
guidance interpreting DOE's existing regulations, providing further 
clarifying interpretation of the relevant test procedure provisions, 
correcting formatting errors, providing improved overall organization, 
and removing certain testing provisions within the current test 
procedures. DOE has concluded that this final rule will not have a 
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The 
factual basis for this certification is as follows:
    The Small Business Administration (SBA) considers a business entity 
to be a small business, if, together with its affiliates, it employs 
less than a threshold number of workers specified in 13 CFR part 121. 
These size standards and codes are established by the 2007 North 
American Industry Classification System (NAICS). The threshold number 
for NAICS classification code 335224, which applies to household 
laundry equipment manufacturers and includes RCW manufacturers, is 
1,000 employees. Searches of the SBA Web site \35\ to identify clothes 
washer manufacturers within this NAICS code identified one small 
business. This small business manufactures laundry appliances, 
including RCWs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \35\ A searchable database of certified small businesses is 
available online at: https://dsbs.sba.gov/dsbs/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    The threshold number for NAICS classification code 333312--which 
applies to commercial laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing machine 
manufacturers--is 500 employees. Searches of the SBA Web site to 
identify CCW manufacturers within this NAICS classification number did 
not identify any small businesses that manufacture CCWs. Additionally, 
DOE checked its own publicly available Compliance Certification 
Database \36\ to identify manufacturers of CCWs and also did not 
identify any manufacturers of CCWs that employ less than 500 people.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \36\ DOE's Compliance Certification Database is available online 
at: https://www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE estimates that the clarified description of the capacity 
measurement would take the same amount of time to conduct as the 
capacity measurement as described in the current DOE test procedure. 
DOE believes that use of an alternate bracing method for front-loading 
clothes washers that do not contain shipping bolts or other bracing 
hardware is already current practice among manufacturers of such 
clothes washers. Additionally, DOE notes that the identified small 
business produces only a single platform of top-loading clothes 
washers, for which the proposed alternate bracing method would not be 
applicable.
    DOE assessed the potential increased testing burden associated with 
maintaining a five degree tolerance on supply water temperatures for 
clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption or water energy 
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature. One method for 
achieving this temperature tolerance would be to use electronically

[[Page 46758]]

controlled water mixing valves on both the cold and hot water supply 
lines. DOE estimates a capital cost of approximately $2,500 for 
installing electronically controlled water mixing valves on a single 
test stand. DOE notes that the identified small business currently does 
not manufacturer this type of clothes washer; therefore, DOE does not 
expect this final rule amendment to require any changes to the testing 
hardware currently used by the small business.
    DOE does not expect any of the clarifications to the energy test 
cycle definition or the standby and off mode measurements to affect the 
total length of testing time. Regarding any potential increase in test 
burden as a result of eliminating the separate testing provisions for 
clothes washers with uniformly distributed warm wash temperatures, DOE 
notes that the total testing time would be no greater than for clothes 
washers with the same number of warm wash temperature options, but with 
non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE observes constitutes 
the majority of the market. DOE also notes that the clothes washers 
manufactured by the identified small business do not contain uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperatures, and thus the small business will 
not be affected by this amendment.
    Finally, the changes in this final rule are intended to clarify the 
existing test methods without adding any additional requirements and 
therefore would not result in additional burden.
    For the reasons stated above, DOE certifies that these test 
procedure amendments would not have a significant impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. DOE has submitted a certification 
and supporting statement of factual basis to the Chief Counsel for 
Advocacy of the SBA for review under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Manufacturers of both residential and commercial clothes washers 
must certify to DOE that their products comply with any applicable 
energy conservation standards. In certifying compliance, manufacturers 
must test their products according to the DOE test procedures for 
clothes washers, including any amendments adopted for those test 
procedures. DOE has established regulations for the certification and 
recordkeeping requirements for all covered consumer products and 
commercial equipment, including both residential and commercial clothes 
washers. 10 CFR part 429, subpart B. The collection-of-information 
requirement for the certification and recordkeeping is subject to 
review and approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA).
    In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE estimated the public reporting burden 
for certification to be 20 hours per response, including the time for 
reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and 
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. AHAM commented that it disagreed with DOE's 
estimate of an average of 20 hours per response for public reporting 
burden for certification. According to AHAM, no clothes washer 
manufacturer reported a burden of less than 50 hours, and some 
manufacturers reported a burden as high as 100 hours. AHAM requested 
that DOE revise its public reporting burden estimate. (AHAM, No. 4 at 
p. 14)
    DOE has amended its estimate to an average of 30 hours per company, 
which reflects that some manufacturers (particularly small businesses) 
may only submit 1 or 2 certification reports per year, while other 
manufacturers (such as many of the large companies represented by AHAM) 
may submit a certification report as often as once a week. This 
requirement has been approved by OMB under OMB control number 1910-
1400. See 80 FR 5099 (Jan. 30, 2015). Public reporting burden for the 
certification is estimated to average 30 hours per response, including 
the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, 
gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing 
the collection of information.
    Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is 
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays 
a currently valid OMB Control Number.

D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    In this final rule, DOE amends its test procedure for clothes 
washers. DOE has determined that this rule falls into a class of 
actions that are categorically excluded from review under the National 
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and DOE's 
implementing regulations at 10 CFR part 1021. Specifically, this rule 
amends an existing rule without affecting the amount, quality or 
distribution of energy usage, and, therefore, will not result in any 
environmental impacts. Thus, this rulemaking is covered by Categorical 
Exclusion A5 under 10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, which applies to any 
rulemaking that interprets or amends an existing rule without changing 
the environmental effect of that rule. Accordingly, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999) 
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing 
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have Federalism 
implications. The Executive Order requires agencies to examine the 
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would 
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess 
the necessity for such actions. The Executive Order also requires 
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely 
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory 
policies that have Federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE 
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental 
consultation process it will follow in the development of such 
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE examined this final rule and determined 
that it will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal preemption of State 
regulations as to energy conservation for the products that are the 
subject of this final rule. States can petition DOE for exemption from 
such preemption to the extent, and based on criteria, set forth in 
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further action is required by Executive 
Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

    Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation 
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil 
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal 
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1) 
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity; (2) write regulations to 
minimize litigation; (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected 
conduct rather than a general standard; and (4) promote simplification 
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988 
specifically requires that Executive agencies make every reasonable 
effort to ensure that the

[[Page 46759]]

regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the preemptive effect, if any; (2) 
clearly specifies any effect on existing Federal law or regulation; (3) 
provides a clear legal standard for affected conduct while promoting 
simplification and burden reduction; (4) specifies the retroactive 
effect, if any; (5) adequately defines key terms; and (6) addresses 
other important issues affecting clarity and general draftsmanship 
under any guidelines issued by the Attorney General. Section 3(c) of 
Executive Order 12988 requires Executive agencies to review regulations 
in light of applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine 
whether they are met or it is unreasonable to meet one or more of them. 
DOE has completed the required review and determined that, to the 
extent permitted by law, this final rule meets the relevant standards 
of Executive Order 12988.

G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) 
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal 
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the 
private sector. Pub. L. 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531). 
For a regulatory action resulting in a rule that may cause the 
expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the aggregate, 
or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one year 
(adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a 
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the 
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy. 
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to 
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers 
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant 
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving 
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small 
governments before establishing any requirements that might 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997, 
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for 
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available 
at https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this final 
rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and determined that 
the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate, nor a mandate 
that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or more in any year, 
so these requirements do not apply.

H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
1999

    Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family 
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being. 
The final rule will not have any impact on the autonomy or integrity of 
the family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it is 
not necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking Assessment.

I. Review Under Executive Order 12630

    DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this regulation will not 
result in any takings that might require compensation under the Fifth 
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
2001

    Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most 
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines 
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by 
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and 
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has 
reviewed this final rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has 
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those 
guidelines.

K. Review Under Executive Order 13211

    Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355 
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB, 
a Statement of Energy Effects for any significant energy action. A 
``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an agency 
that promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a final 
rule, and that: (1) Is a significant regulatory action under Executive 
Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to have a 
significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of 
energy; or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a 
significant energy action. For any significant energy action, the 
agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on energy 
supply, distribution, or use if the regulation is implemented, and of 
reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected benefits on 
energy supply, distribution, and use.
    This regulatory action is not a significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it would not have a significant 
adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy, nor has 
it been designated as a significant energy action by the Administrator 
of OIRA. Therefore, it is not a significant energy action, and, 
accordingly, DOE has not prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.

L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of 
1974

    Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act 
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the 
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal 
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; FEAA) 
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed 
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of 
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of 
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with 
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission 
(FTC) concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on 
competition.
    DOE is not requiring the use of any new commercial standards in 
this final rule, so these requirements do not apply.

M. Congressional Notification

    As required by 5 U.S.C. 801, DOE will report to Congress on the 
promulgation of this rule before its effective date. The report will 
state that it has been determined that the rule is not a ``major rule'' 
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).

V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this final 
rule.

List of Subjects

10 CFR Part 429

    Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation, 
Household appliances, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.

10 CFR Part 430

    Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation, 
Household appliances, Incorporation by reference.


[[Page 46760]]


    Issued in Washington, DC, on July 17, 2015.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy.

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE amends parts 429 and 
430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set forth 
below:

PART 429--CERTIFICATION, COMPLIANCE, AND ENFORCEMENT FOR CONSUMER 
PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT

0
1. The authority citation for part 429 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6317.


0
2. Section 429.20 is amended by adding paragraphs (a)(3) and (4), 
revising paragraphs (b)(2)(i), (b)(2)(ii), and (b)(3), and adding 
paragraph (c) to read as follows:


Sec.  429.20  Residential clothes washers.

    (a) * * *
    (3) The capacity of a basic model reported in accordance with 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean of the measured 
clothes container capacity, C, of all tested units of the basic model.
    (4) The remaining moisture content (RMC) of a basic model reported 
in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean 
of the final RMC value measured for all tested units of the basic 
model.
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with 
Appendix J1: The modified energy factor (MEF) in cubic feet per 
kilowatt hour per cycle (cu ft/kWh/cycle), the capacity in cubic feet 
(cu ft), the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC) expressed as a 
percentage, and, for standard-size residential clothes washers, a water 
factor (WF) in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (gal/cycle/cu ft).
    (ii) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with 
Appendix J2: The integrated modified energy factor (IMEF) in cu ft/kWh/
cycle, the integrated water factor (IWF) in gal/cycle/cu ft, the 
capacity in cu ft, the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC) 
expressed as a percentage, and the type of loading (top-loading or 
front-loading).
    (3) Pursuant to Sec.  429.12(b)(13), a certification report must 
include the following additional product-specific information: A list 
of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test cycle for 
each basic model.
    (c) Reported values. Values reported pursuant to this subsection 
must be rounded as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the 
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the 
nearest 0.1 cu ft.
0
3. Section 429.134(c) is added to read as follows:


Sec.  429.134  Product-specific enforcement provisions.

* * * * *
    (c) Clothes washers. (1) Determination of Remaining Moisture 
Content. The procedure for determining remaining moisture content (RMC) 
will be performed once in its entirety, pursuant to the test 
requirements of section 3.8 of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B 
of part 430, for each unit tested.
    (i) The measured RMC value of a tested unit will be considered the 
tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value is within two 
RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the basic model 
(expressed as a percentage), or is lower than the certified RMC value.
    (ii) If the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more than two 
RMC percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of the basic 
model, DOE will perform two additional replications of the RMC 
measurement procedure, each pursuant to the provisions of section 3.8.5 
of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430, for a total of 
three independent RMC measurements of the tested unit. The average of 
the three RMC measurements will be the tested unit's final RMC value 
and will be used as the basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy 
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load for that unit.
    (2) [Reserved].
* * * * *

PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

0
4. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.


0
5. Section 430.23 is amended by revising paragraph (j)(3) and adding 
paragraphs (j)(4) and (5) to read as follows:


Sec.  430.23  Test procedures for the measurement of energy and water 
consumption.

* * * * *
    (j) * * *
    (3) The annual water consumption of a clothes washer must be 
determined as:
    (i) When using appendix J1, the product of the representative 
average-use of 392 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle 
water consumption in gallons per cycle determined according to section 
4.2.2 of appendix J1.
    (ii) When using appendix J2, the product of the representative 
average-use of 295 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle 
water consumption for all wash cycles, in gallons per cycle, determined 
according to section 4.2.11 of appendix J2.
    (4)(i) The water factor must be determined according to section 
4.2.3 of appendix J1 (when using appendix J1) or section 4.2.12 of 
appendix J2 (when using appendix J2), with the result rounded to the 
nearest 0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
    (ii) The integrated water factor must be determined according to 
section 4.2.13 of appendix J2, with the result rounded to the nearest 
0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
    (5) Other useful measures of energy consumption for automatic or 
semi-automatic clothes washers shall be those measures of energy 
consumption that the Secretary determines are likely to assist 
consumers in making purchasing decisions and that are derived from the 
application of appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.
* * * * *
0
6. Appendix J1 to subpart B of part 430 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text after the heading, and sections 1.1 
and 1.2;
0
b. Removing section 1.17;
0
c. Redesignating the sections in the ``Old sections'' column into the 
sections in the ``New sections'' column as shown in the following 
table:

------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Old sections                         New sections
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.18 through 1.23.........................  1.19 through 1.24.
1.8 through 1.16..........................  1.10 through 1.18.
1.3 through 1.7...........................  1.4 through 1.8.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

0
d. Adding new section 1.3;
0
e. Revising newly redesignated section 1.8;
0
f. Adding new section 1.9;
0
g. Revising newly redesignated sections 1.11 and 1.12;
0
h. Revising section 2.3;
0
i. Removing sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2,
0
j. Revising section 2.6.4.6;
0
k. Removing sections 2.6.4.6.1 and 2.6.4.6.2;
0
l. Revising sections 2.6.5,
0
m. Removing sections, 2.6.6, and 2.6.7;
0
n. Revising section 2.8, Table 2.8, and section 2.8.3;

[[Page 46761]]

0
o. Adding sections 2.8.3.1. and 2.8.3.2;
0
p. Revising section 2.10;
0
q. Revising sections 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.4, and 3.1.5;
0
r. Adding section 3.1.6;
0
s. Revising section 3.2;
0
t. Removing section 3.2.1.3;
0
u. Revising sections 3.2.3, 3.2.3.1, 3.2.3.2, 3.2.3.2.2, and 3.2.3.3, 
Table 3.2, and sections 3.3, 3.3.3, 3.4.3, 3.5, 3.5.1, 3.5.2;
0
v. Removing sections 3.5.2.1, 3.5.2.2, and 3.5.2.3;
0
w. Adding section 3.5.3;
0
x. Revising section 3.6.3;
0
y. Adding section 3.8.5; and
0
z. Revising Table 4.1.3 and section 4.1.4.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

Appendix J1 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers

    Note: Any representation related to the energy or water consumption 
of a residential clothes washer must be based upon results generated 
using Appendix J2.
    Before January 1, 2018, any representation related to the energy or 
water consumption of commercial clothes washers must be based on 
results generated using Appendix J1. Specifically, before February 1, 
2016, representations must be based upon results generated either under 
this appendix or under Appendix J1 as it appeared in the 10 CFR parts 
200-499 edition revised as of January 1, 2015. Any representations made 
on or after February 1, 2016, but before January 1, 2018, must be made 
based upon results generated using this appendix. Any representations 
made on or after January 1, 2018, must be based upon results generated 
using Appendix J2.
* * * * *
    1.1 Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control system, 
other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is capable of 
automatically adjusting washer operation or washing conditions based on 
characteristics of the clothes load placed in the clothes container, 
without allowing or requiring user intervention or actions. The 
automatic adjustments may, for example, include automatic selection, 
modification, or control of any of the following: Wash water 
temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, number of rinse cycles, or 
spin speed. The characteristics of the clothes load, which could 
trigger such adjustments, could, for example, consist of or be 
indicated by the presence of either soil, soap, suds, or any other 
additive laundering substitute or complementary product.
    1.2 Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically 
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the 
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
    1.3 Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that does not allow or require the user to 
determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive water 
fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.
* * * * *
    1.8 Energy test cycle for a basic model includes:
    (A) All wash/rinse temperature selections and water levels offered 
in the cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or 
linen clothes, and
    (B) For each other wash/rinse temperature selection or water level 
available on that basic model, the portion(s) of other cycle(s) with 
that temperature selection or water level that, when tested pursuant to 
these test procedures, will contribute to an accurate representation of 
the energy consumption of the basic model as used by end users.
    If a warm rinse temperature selection is available on the clothes 
washer but is not available in the cycle recommended for washing cotton 
or linen clothes, the energy test cycle shall include the warm rinse 
temperature selection in the cycle most comparable to the cycle 
recommended for washing cotton or linen clothes.
    If an extra-hot temperature selection is available only on a 
sanitization cycle, the sanitization cycle should be included in the 
energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended by the manufacturer for 
washing clothing. If the extra-hot temperature selection is available 
only on a sanitization cycle not recommended by the manufacturer for 
washing clothing (e.g., a cycle intended only for sanitizing the wash 
drum), such a cycle is not required for consideration as part of the 
energy test cycle.
    (C) For clothes washers with electronic control systems, use the 
manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except for (1) 
the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content. Specifically, the manufacturer default settings must 
be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble operation, soil 
level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water 
consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water 
heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash 
parameters or optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Any 
optional wash cycle feature or setting (other than wash/rinse 
temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed on wash cycles 
used to determine remaining moisture content) that is activated by 
default on the wash cycle under test must be included for testing 
unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting this 
option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing normally 
soiled cotton clothing.
    For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical 
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the 
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the 
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the 
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial 
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the 
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.
    (D) The determination of the energy test cycle must take into 
consideration all cycle settings available to the end user, including 
any cycle selections or cycle modifications provided by the 
manufacturer via software or firmware updates to the product, for the 
basic model under test.
    1.9 Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that automatically terminates the 
fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the clothes 
container.
* * * * *
    1.11 Manual control system means a clothes washer control system 
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer 
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse 
temperature selections, and wash time before starting the cycle.
    1.12 Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer water 
fill control system that requires the user to determine or select the 
water fill level.
* * * * *
    2.3 Supply Water. Maintain the temperature of the hot water supply 
at

[[Page 46762]]

the water inlets between 130 [deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and 135 [deg]F (57.2 
[deg]C), using 135 [deg]F as the target temperature. Maintain the 
temperature of the cold water supply at the water inlets between 55 
[deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and 60 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C), using 60 [deg]F as 
the target temperature. A water meter shall be installed in both the 
hot and cold water lines to measure water consumption.
* * * * *
    2.6.4.6 The moisture absorption and retention shall be evaluated 
for each new lot of test cloth by the standard extractor Remaining 
Moisture Content (RMC) test specified in appendix J3 to 10 CFR part 430 
subpart B.
    2.6.5 Application of RMC correction curve.
    2.6.5.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in appendix J3 to 
10 CFR part 430 subpart B:

RMCcorr = A x RMC + B

    2.6.5.2 Substitute RMCcorr values in calculations in 
section 3.8 of this appendix.
* * * * *
    2.8 Use of Test Loads. Use the test load sizes and corresponding 
water fill settings defined in Table 2.8 when measuring water and 
energy consumptions. Automatic water fill control system and manual 
water fill control system are defined in section 1 of this appendix.

       Table 2.8--Required Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water fill control system type    Test load size     Water fill setting
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control       Max..............  Max.
 system.                        Min..............  Min.
Automatic water fill control    Max..............  As determined by the
 system.                        Avg..............   clothes washer.
                                Min..............
------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    2.8.3 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping them 
in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as 
illustrated in Figure 2.8.3 of this appendix.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.000

BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
    For all clothes washers, follow any manufacturer loading 
instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing 
within the clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer 
instructions regarding the placement of clothing within the clothes 
container, the following loading instructions apply.
    2.8.3.1 To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes 
washer, arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of 
rotation of the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise 
orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer 
across its horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding 
a new layer. Figure 2.8.3.1 of this appendix illustrates the correct 
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.

[[Page 46763]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.001

    2.8.3.2 To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes 
washer, grasp each test cloth in the center as indicated in section 
2.8.3 of this appendix, and then place each cloth into the clothes 
container prior to activating the clothes washer.
* * * * *
    2.10 Wash time setting. If one wash time is prescribed in the 
energy test cycle, that shall be the wash time setting; otherwise, the 
wash time setting shall be the higher of either the minimum or 70 
percent of the maximum wash time available in the energy test cycle, 
regardless of the labeling of suggested dial locations. If 70% of the 
maximum wash time is not available on a dial with a discreet number of 
wash time settings, choose the next-highest setting greater than 70%. 
If the clothes washer is equipped with an electromechanical dial 
controlling wash time, reset the dial to the minimum wash time and then 
turn it in the direction of increasing wash time to reach the 
appropriate setting. If the appropriate setting is passed, return the 
dial to the minimum wash time and then turn in the direction of 
increasing wash time until the appropriate setting is reached.
    3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the 
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled 
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of 
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity measurement.
    If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include 
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash 
drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by other 
means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any temporary 
bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a fixed position, 
relative to the geometry of the door and door seal components, that is 
representative of the position of the wash drum during normal 
operation. The method used must avoid damage to the unit that would 
affect the results of the energy and water testing.
    For a front-loading clothes washer that does not include shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping, the test report must document the alternative method 
used to support the wash drum during capacity measurement, and, 
pursuant to Sec.  429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer must retain 
such documentation as part of its test records.
    3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag. All clothes washer components that 
occupy space within the clothes container and that are recommended for 
use during a wash cycle must be in place and must be lined with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag to prevent water from entering any 
void space.
* * * * *
    3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F 
 5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) or 100 
[deg]F  10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  5.5 [deg]C) 
water to its uppermost edge. For a top-loading, vertical-axis clothes 
washer, the uppermost edge of the clothes container is defined as the 
highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub cover. Figure 
3.1.4.1 illustrates the maximum fill level for top-loading vertical-
axis clothes washers. Figure 3.1.4.2 shows the location of the maximum 
fill level for a variety of example tub cover designs.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

[[Page 46764]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.002

BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
    For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the 
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door and 
the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would occupy the 
measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude the volume that 
the door or gasket portion

[[Page 46765]]

would occupy from the measurement. For a front-loading horizontal-axis 
clothes washer with a concave door shape, include any additional volume 
above the plane defined by the highest point of contact between the 
door and the door gasket, if that area can be occupied by clothing 
during washer operation. For a top-loading horizontal-axis clothes 
washer, include any additional volume above the plane of the door hinge 
that clothing could occupy during washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.3 
illustrates the maximum fill volumes for all horizontal-axis clothes 
washer types.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.003

    For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be occupied 
by the clothing load during operation.
    3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds. 
Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:

C = W/d

where:
C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).

W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100 [deg]F (993 kg/m\3\ for 
37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60 [deg]F (998 kg/m\3\ for 15.6 
[deg]C)).

    3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the nearest 
0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load sizes per 
Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent calculations in this 
appendix that include the clothes container capacity.
* * * * *
    3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values on 
all automatic and semi-automatic washers. All energy consumption tests 
shall be performed under the energy test cycle(s), unless otherwise 
specified. Table 3.2 indicates the sections below that govern tests of 
particular clothes washers, based on the number of wash/rinse 
temperature selections available on the model and also, in some 
instances, method of water heating. The procedures prescribed are 
applicable regardless of a clothes washer's washing capacity, loading 
port location, primary axis of rotation of the clothes container, and 
type of control system. Data from a wash cycle that provides a visual 
or audio indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition 
has been detected, or that terminates prematurely if an out-of-balance 
condition is detected, and thus does not include the agitation/tumble 
operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times applicable to the 
wash cycle under test, shall be discarded. The test report must 
document the rejection of data from any wash cycle during testing and 
the reason for the rejection.
* * * * *
    3.2.3 Clothes washers with automatic water fill/manual water fill 
control systems
    3.2.3.1 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system 
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of 
manual controls as an alternative, then both manual and automatic modes 
shall be tested and, for each mode, the energy consumption 
(HET, MET, and DE) and water 
consumption (QT) values shall be calculated as set forth in 
section 4. Then the average of the two values (one from each mode, 
automatic and manual) for each variable shall be used in section 4 for 
the clothes washer.
    3.2.3.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system.
* * * * *
    3.2.3.2.2 User-adjustable. Four tests shall be conducted on clothes 
washers with user-adjustable automatic water fill controls that affect 
the relative wash water levels. The first test shall be conducted using 
the maximum test load and with the automatic water fill control system 
set in the setting that will give the most energy intensive result. The 
second test shall be conducted with the minimum test load and with the 
automatic water fill control system set in the setting that will give 
the least energy intensive result. The third test shall be conducted 
with the average test load and with the automatic water fill control 
system set in the setting that will give the most energy intensive 
result for the given test load. The fourth test shall be conducted with 
the average test load and with the automatic water fill control system 
set in the setting that will give the least energy intensive result for 
the given test load. The energy and water consumption for the average 
test load and water level shall be the average of the third and fourth 
tests.
    3.2.3.3 Clothes washers with manual water fill control system. In 
accordance with Table 2.8, the water fill selector shall be set to the 
maximum water level available for the wash cycle under test for the 
maximum test load size and the minimum water level available for the 
wash cycle under test for the minimum test load size.

[[Page 46766]]



                                        Table 3.2--Test Section Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Max. wash temp. available                     <=135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)      >135 [deg]F (57.2
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------      [deg]C) \2\
                                                                                           ---------------------
 Number of wash temp. Selections in the energy test cycle      1          2          >2         3          >3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Sections Required to be Followed....................  .........  .........  .........        3.3        3.3
                                                           .........        3.4        3.4  .........        3.4
                                                           .........  .........        3.5        3.5        3.5
                                                                 3.6        3.6        3.6        3.6        3.6
                                                             \1\ 3.7    \1\ 3.7    \1\ 3.7    \1\ 3.7    \1\ 3.7
                                                                 3.8        3.8        3.8        3.8        3.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Only applicable to machines with warm rinse in any cycle.
\2\ This only applies to water heating clothes washers on which the maximum wash temperature available exceeds
  135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C).

    3.3 ``Extra-Hot Wash'' (Max Wash Temp 135 [deg]F (57.2 
[deg]C)) for water heating clothes washers only. Water and electrical 
energy consumption shall be measured for each water fill level and/or 
test load size as specified in 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 for the hottest wash 
setting available.
    Non-reversible temperature indicator labels, adhered to the inside 
of the clothes container, may be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash 
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash 
cycle, under the following conditions. The label must remain 
waterproof, intact, and adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire 
wash cycle; provide consistent maximum temperature readings; and 
provide repeatable temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate 
that a wash temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved. 
The label must have been verified to consistently indicate temperature 
measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the label 
provides a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F. If the label does not 
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, the label must have been 
verified to consistently indicate temperature measurements with an 
accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature 
indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and less than 140 [deg]F, or 
3 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature indicator is 140 
[deg]F or greater. If the label does not provide a temperature 
indicator at 135 [deg]F, failure to activate the next-highest 
temperature indicator does not necessarily indicate the lack of an 
extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a result would not be 
considered a valid test due to the lack of verification of the water 
temperature requirement, in which case an alternative method must be 
used to confirm that an extra-hot wash temperature greater than 135 
[deg]F has been achieved during the wash cycle.
    If using a temperature indicator label to test a front-loading 
clothes washer, adhere the label along the interior surface of the 
clothes container drum, midway between the front and the back of the 
drum, adjacent to one of the baffles. If using a temperature indicator 
label to test a top-loading clothes washer, adhere the label along the 
interior surface of the clothes container drum, on the vertical portion 
of the sidewall, as close to the bottom of the container as possible.
* * * * *
    3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with an 
automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot water 
consumption (Hma), cold water consumption (Cma), 
and electrical energy consumption (Ema) for an extra-hot 
wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load size as 
determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.4.3  Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hha), cold water consumption 
(Cha), and electrical energy consumption (Eha) 
for a hot wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load 
size as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.5 ``Warm Wash.'' Water and electrical energy consumption shall be 
determined for each water fill level and/or test load size as specified 
in 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 for the applicable warm water wash 
temperature(s). For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete warm 
wash selections, test all warm wash temperature selections. For a 
clothes washer that offers four or more warm wash selections, test at 
all discrete selections, or test at the 25 percent, 50 percent, and 75 
percent positions of the temperature selection device between the 
hottest hot (<=135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash and the coldest cold 
wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 50 or 75 percent 
position, in place of each such unavailable selection use the next 
warmer setting. Each reportable value to be used for the warm water 
wash setting shall be the arithmetic average of the results from all 
tests conducted pursuant to this section.
    3.5.1  Maximum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption 
(Hwx), cold water consumption (Cwx), and electrical energy consumption 
(Ewx) shall be measured with the controls set for the maximum water 
fill level. The maximum test load size is to be used and shall be 
determined per Table 5.1.
    3.5.2  Minimum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption 
(Hwn), cold water consumption (Cwn), and electrical energy consumption 
(Ewn) shall be measured with the controls set for the minimum water 
fill level. The minimum test load size is to be used and shall be 
determined per Table 5.1.
    3.5.3  Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption (Cwa), and electrical 
energy consumption (Ewa) with an average test load size as determined 
per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with an 
automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot water 
consumption (Hca), cold water consumption (Cca), 
and electrical energy consumption (Eca) for a cold wash/cold 
rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load size as determined 
per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.8.5 The procedure for calculating RMC as defined in section 
3.8.2.5, 3.8.3.3., or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be replicated twice in 
its entirety, for a total of three independent RMC measurements. If 
three replications of the RMC measurement are performed, use the 
average of the three RMC measurements as the final RMC in section 4.3 
of this appendix.
* * * * *

[[Page 46767]]



                     Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Water fill control
                                                            system
                 Load usage factor                  --------------------
                                                      Manual   Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =.............................................     0.72    0.12 \2\
                                                         \1\
Favg =.............................................  .......    0.74 \2\
Fmin =.............................................     0.28    0.14 \2\
                                                         \1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Reference 3.2.3.3.
\2\Reference 3.2.3.2.

    4.1.4 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated 
or oil-heated water, for product labeling requirements. Calculate for 
the energy test cycle the per-cycle hot water consumption, 
HETG, using gas-heated or oil-heated water, expressed in Btu 
per cycle (or megajoules per cycle) and defined as:

HETG = HET x 1/e x 3412 Btu/kWh or 
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3.6 MJ/kWh

where:

e = Nominal gas or oil water heater efficiency = 0.75.
HET = As defined in 4.1.3.

* * * * *

0
7. Appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430 is revised to read as follows:

Appendix J2 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers

    Note: Any representation related to the energy or water consumption 
of residential clothes washers must be based upon results generated 
using Appendix J2. Specifically, before February 1, 2016, 
representations must be based upon results generated either under this 
appendix or under Appendix J2 as it appeared in the 10 CFR parts 200-
499 edition revised as of January 1, 2015. Any representations made on 
or after February 1, 2016 must be made based upon results generated 
using this appendix.
    Before January 1, 2018, any representation related to the energy or 
water consumption of commercial clothes washers must be based on 
results generated using Appendix J1. Any representations made on or 
after January 1, 2018, must be based upon results generated using 
Appendix J2.

1. Definitions and Symbols

    1.1  Active mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source, has been activated, and is 
performing one or more of the main functions of washing, soaking, 
tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water from the clothing, 
or is involved in functions necessary for these main functions, such as 
admitting water into the washer or pumping water out of the washer. 
Active mode also includes delay start and cycle finished modes.
    1.2  Active washing mode means a mode in which the clothes washer 
is performing any of the operations included in a complete cycle 
intended for washing a clothing load, including the main functions of 
washing, soaking, tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water 
from the clothing.
    1.3  Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control system, 
other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is capable of 
automatically adjusting washer operation or washing conditions based on 
characteristics of the clothes load placed in the clothes container, 
without allowing or requiring user intervention or actions. The 
automatic adjustments may, for example, include automatic selection, 
modification, or control of any of the following: wash water 
temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, number of rinse cycles, or 
spin speed. The characteristics of the clothes load, which could 
trigger such adjustments, could, for example, consist of or be 
indicated by the presence of either soil, soap, suds, or any other 
additive laundering substitute or complementary product.
    1.4  Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically 
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the 
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
    1.5  Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that does not allow or require the user to 
determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive water 
fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.
    1.6  Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has 
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10 
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again for 
10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1 
percent or less.
    1.7  Clothes container means the compartment within the clothes 
washer that holds the clothes during the operation of the machine.
    1.8  Cold rinse means the coldest rinse temperature available on 
the machine, as indicated to the user on the clothes washer control 
panel.
    1.9  Combined low-power mode means the aggregate of available modes 
other than active washing mode, including inactive mode, off mode, 
delay start mode, and cycle finished mode.
    1.10  Compact means a clothes washer that has a clothes container 
capacity of less than 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L).
    1.11  Cycle finished mode means an active mode that provides 
continuous status display, intermittent tumbling, or air circulation 
following operation in active washing mode.
    1.12 Delay start mode means an active mode in which activation of 
active washing mode is facilitated by a timer.
    1.13  Energy test cycle means the complete set of wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing, as determined according to 
section 2.12. Within the energy test cycle, the following definitions 
apply:
    (a) Cold Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.1 of this 
appendix.
    (b) Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.2 of this 
appendix.
    (c) Warm Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.3 of this 
appendix.
    (d) Warm Wash/Warm Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.4 of this 
appendix.
    (e) Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature 
selection determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.5 of 
this appendix.
    1.14  Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that automatically terminates the 
fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the clothes 
container.
    1.15  IEC 62301 means the test standard published by the 
International Electrotechnical Commission, entitled ``Household 
electrical appliances--Measurement of standby power,'' Publication 
62301, Edition 2.0 2011-01 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3).
    1.16  Inactive mode means a standby mode that facilitates the 
activation of active mode by remote switch (including remote control), 
internal sensor, or timer, or that provides continuous status display.
    1.17  Integrated modified energy factor means the quotient of the 
cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by the 
total clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such energy 
consumption expressed as the sum of:
    (a) The machine electrical energy consumption;

[[Page 46768]]

    (b) The hot water energy consumption;
    (c) The energy required for removal of the remaining moisture in 
the wash load; and
    (d) The combined low-power mode energy consumption.
    1.18  Integrated water factor means the quotient of the total 
weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash cycles in gallons 
divided by the cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
    1.19  Load usage factor means the percentage of the total number of 
wash loads that a user would wash a particular size (weight) load.
    1.20  Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured with 
the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous process.
    1.21  Manual control system means a clothes washer control system 
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer 
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse 
temperature selections and wash time, before starting the cycle.
    1.22  Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer water 
fill control system that requires the user to determine or select the 
water fill level.
    1.23  Modified energy factor means the quotient of the cubic foot 
(or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by the total 
clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such energy 
consumption expressed as the sum of the machine electrical energy 
consumption, the hot water energy consumption, and the energy required 
for removal of the remaining moisture in the wash load.
    1.24  Non-water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer that 
does not have an internal water heating device to generate hot water.
    1.25  Normal cycle means the cycle recommended by the manufacturer 
(considering manufacturer instructions, control panel labeling, and 
other markings on the clothes washer) for normal, regular, or typical 
use for washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing. 
For machines where multiple cycle settings are recommended by the 
manufacturer for normal, regular, or typical use for washing up to a 
full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing, then the Normal cycle is 
the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.
    1.26  Off mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source and is not providing any active or 
standby mode function, and where the mode may persist for an indefinite 
time.
    1.27  Roll means a subset of a lot.
    1.28  Standard means a clothes washer that has a clothes container 
capacity of 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L) or greater.
    1.29 Standby mode means any mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source and offers one or more of the 
following user oriented or protective functions that may persist for an 
indefinite time:
    (a) Facilitating the activation of other modes (including 
activation or deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including 
remote control), internal sensor, or timer;
    (b) Continuous functions, including information or status displays 
(including clocks) or sensor-based functions.
    A timer is a continuous clock function (which may or may not be 
associated with a display) that provides regular scheduled tasks (e.g., 
switching) and that operates on a continuous basis.
    1.30 Symbol usage. The following identity relationships are 
provided to help clarify the symbology used throughout this procedure.

C--Capacity
C (with subscripts)--Cold Water Consumption
D--Energy Consumption for Removal of Moisture from Test Load
E--Electrical Energy Consumption
F--Load Usage Factor
H--Hot Water Consumption
HE--Hot Water Energy Consumption
ME--Machine Electrical Energy Consumption
P--Power
Q--Water Consumption
RMC--Remaining Moisture Content
S--Annual Hours
TUF--Temperature Use Factor
V--Temperature-Weighted Hot Water Consumption
W--Mass of Water
WC--Weight of Test Load After Extraction
WI--Initial Weight of Dry Test Load

Subscripts:

a or avg--Average Test Load
c--Cold Wash (minimum wash temp.)
corr--Corrected (RMC values)
h--Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. <=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C))
ia--Inactive Mode
LP--Combined Low-Power Mode
m--Extra-Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. >135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C))
n--Minimum Test Load
o--Off Mode
oi--Combined Off and Inactive Modes
T--Total
w--Warm Wash
ww--Warm Wash/Warm Rinse
x--Maximum Test Load

    The following examples are provided to show how the above symbols 
can be used to define variables:

Emx = ``Electrical Energy Consumption'' for an ``Extra-Hot 
Wash'' and ``Maximum Test Load''
HEmin = ``Hot Water Energy Consumption'' for the ``Minimum 
Test Load''
Qhmin = ``Water Consumption'' for a ``Hot Wash'' and 
``Minimum Test Load''
TUFm = ``Temperature Use Factor'' for an ``Extra-Hot Wash''

    1.31 Temperature use factor means, for a particular wash/rinse 
temperature setting, the percentage of the total number of wash loads 
that an average user would wash with that setting.
    1.32 Thermostatically controlled water valves means clothes washer 
controls that have the ability to sense and adjust the hot and cold 
supply water.
    1.33 Water factor means the quotient of the total weighted per-
cycle water consumption for cold wash divided by the cubic foot (or 
liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
    1.34 Water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer where some 
or all of the hot water for clothes washing is generated by a water 
heating device internal to the clothes washer.

2. Testing Conditions

    2.1 Electrical energy supply.
    2.1.1 Supply voltage and frequency. Maintain the electrical supply 
at the clothes washer terminal block within 2 percent of 120, 120/240, 
or 120/208Y volts as applicable to the particular terminal block wiring 
system and within 2 percent of the nameplate frequency as specified by 
the manufacturer. If the clothes washer has a dual voltage conversion 
capability, conduct test at the highest voltage specified by the 
manufacturer.
    2.1.2 Supply voltage waveform. For the combined low-power mode 
testing, maintain the electrical supply voltage waveform indicated in 
Section 4, Paragraph 4.3.2 of IEC 62301. If the power measuring 
instrument used for testing is unable to measure and record the total 
harmonic content during the test measurement period, total harmonic 
content may be measured and recorded immediately before and after the 
test measurement period.
    2.2 Supply water. Maintain the temperature of the hot water supply 
at the water inlets between 130[emsp14][deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and 
135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C), using 135[emsp14][deg]F as the target 
temperature. Maintain the temperature of the cold water supply at the 
water inlets between 55[emsp14][deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and 
60[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 [deg]C), using 60[emsp14][deg]F as the target 
temperature.
    2.3 Water pressure. Maintain the static water pressure at the hot 
and cold

[[Page 46769]]

water inlet connection of the clothes washer at 35 pounds per square 
inch gauge (psig)  2.5 psig (241.3 kPa  17.2 
kPa) when the water is flowing.
    2.4 Test room temperature. For all clothes washers, maintain the 
test room ambient air temperature at 75  5 [deg]F (23.9 
 2.8 [deg]C) for active mode testing and combined low-power 
mode testing. Do not use the test room ambient air temperature 
conditions specified in Section 4, Paragraph 4.2 of IEC 62301 for 
combined low-power mode testing.
    2.5 Instrumentation. Perform all test measurements using the 
following instruments, as appropriate:
    2.5.1 Weighing scales.
    2.5.1.1 Weighing scale for test cloth. The scale used for weighing 
test cloth must have a resolution of no larger than 0.2 oz (5.7 g) and 
a maximum error no greater than 0.3 percent of the measured value.
    2.5.1.2 Weighing scale for clothes container capacity measurement. 
The scale used for performing the clothes container capacity 
measurement must have a resolution no larger than 0.50 lbs (0.23 kg) 
and a maximum error no greater than 0.5 percent of the measured value.
    2.5.2 Watt-hour meter. The watt-hour meter used to measure 
electrical energy consumption must have a resolution no larger than 1 
Wh (3.6 kJ) and a maximum error no greater than 2 percent of the 
measured value for any demand greater than 50 Wh (180.0 kJ).
    2.5.3 Watt meter. The watt meter used to measure combined low-power 
mode power consumption must comply with the requirements specified in 
Section 4, Paragraph 4.4 of IEC 62301 (incorporated by reference, see 
Sec.  430.3). If the power measuring instrument used for testing is 
unable to measure and record the crest factor, power factor, or maximum 
current ratio during the test measurement period, the crest factor, 
power factor, and maximum current ratio may be measured and recorded 
immediately before and after the test measurement period.
    2.5.4 Water and air temperature measuring devices. The temperature 
devices used to measure water and air temperature must have an error no 
greater than 1[emsp14][deg]F (0.6 [deg]C) over 
the range being measured.
    2.5.5 Water meter. A water meter must be installed in both the hot 
and cold water lines to measure water flow and/or water consumption. 
The water meters must have a resolution no larger than 0.1 gallons (0.4 
liters) and a maximum error no greater than 2 percent for the water 
flow rates being measured.
    2.5.6 Water pressure gauge. A water pressure gauge must be 
installed in both the hot and cold water lines to measure water 
pressure. The water pressure gauges must have a resolution of 1 pound 
per square inch gauge (psig) (6.9 kPa) and a maximum error no greater 
than 5 percent of any measured value.
    2.6 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must 
heat the test cloth load above 210[deg]F (99 [deg]C).
    2.7 Test cloths.
    2.7.1 Energy test cloth. The energy test cloth must be made from 
energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.7.4 of this 
Appendix, that is 24  \1/2\ inches by 36  \1/2\ 
inches (61.0  1.3 cm by 91.4  1.3 cm) and has 
been hemmed to 22 \ 1/2\ inches by 34  \1/2\ 
inches (55.9  1.3 cm by 86.4  1.3 cm) before 
washing. The energy test cloth must be clean and must not be used for 
more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as specified in 2.7.3 of 
this appendix). All energy test cloth must be permanently marked 
identifying the lot number of the material. Mixed lots of material must 
not be used for testing a clothes washer.
    2.7.2 Energy stuffer cloth. The energy stuffer cloth must be made 
from energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.7.4 of this 
Appendix, that is 12  \1/4\ inches by 12  \1/
4\inches (30.5  0.6 cm by 30.5  0.6 cm) and has 
been hemmed to 10  \1/4\ inches by 10  \1/4\ 
inches (25.4  0.6 cm by 25.4  0.6 cm) before 
washing. The energy stuffer cloth must be clean and must not be used 
for more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as specified in 
section 2.7.3 of this Appendix). All energy stuffer cloth must be 
permanently marked identifying the lot number of the material. Mixed 
lots of material must not be used for testing a clothes washer.
    2.7.3 Preconditioning of test cloths. The new test cloths, 
including energy test cloths and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-
conditioned in a clothes washer in the following manner:
    Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with 
AHAM Standard Detergent Formula 3 and the last three without detergent. 
Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the maximum water 
level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 ppm hardness or 
less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of cloth load of AHAM 
Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash temperature is to be controlled 
to 135 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C  2.8 
[deg]C) and the rinse temperature is to be controlled to 60 [deg]F 
5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C). Repeat the 
cycle with detergent and then repeat the cycle three additional times 
without detergent, bone drying the load between cycles (for a total of 
five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles).
    2.7.4 Energy test cloth material. The energy test cloths and energy 
stuffer cloths must be made from fabric meeting the following 
specifications:
    2.7.4.1 The test cloth material should come from a roll of material 
with a width of approximately 63 inches and approximately 500 yards per 
roll. However, other sizes may be used if the test cloth material meets 
the specifications listed in sections 2.7.4.2 through 2.7.4.7.
    2.7.4.2 Nominal fabric type. Pure finished bleached cloth made with 
a momie or granite weave, which is nominally 50 percent cotton and 50 
percent polyester.
    2.7.4.3 Fabric weight. 5.60  0.25 ounces per square 
yard (190.0  8.4 g/m\2\).
    2.7.4.4 Thread count. 65 x 57 per inch (warp x fill), 2 
percent.
    2.7.4.5 Fiber content of warp and filling yarn. 50 percent 4 percent cotton, with the balance being polyester, open end 
spun, 15/1 5 percent cotton count blended yarn.
    2.7.4.6 Water repellent finishes, such as fluoropolymer stain 
resistant finishes, must not be applied to the test cloth. Verify the 
absence of such finishes using both of the following:
    2.7.4.6.1 AATCC Test Method 118-2007 (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3) for each new lot of test cloth (when purchased from 
the mill) to confirm the absence of ScotchguardTM or other 
water repellent finish (required scores of ``D'' across the board).
    2.7.4.6.2 AATCC Test Method 79-2010 (incorporated by reference; see 
Sec.  430.3) for each new lot of test cloth (when purchased from the 
mill) to confirm the absence of ScotchguardTM or other water 
repellent finish (time to absorb one drop should be on the order of 1 
second).
    2.7.4.7 The maximum shrinkage after preconditioning must not be 
more than 5 percent of the length and width. Measure per AATCC Test 
Method 135-2010 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.7.5 The moisture absorption and retention must be evaluated for 
each new lot of test cloth using the standard extractor Remaining 
Moisture Content (RMC) procedure specified in Appendix J3 to 10 CFR 
part 430 subpart B.
    2.8 Test load sizes. Use Table 5.1 of this appendix to determine 
the maximum, minimum, and, when required, average test load sizes based 
on the clothes container capacity as measured in section 3.1 of this 
appendix. Test loads must consist of energy test cloths and no more 
than five

[[Page 46770]]

energy stuffer clothes per load to achieve the proper weight.
    Use the test load sizes and corresponding water fill settings 
defined in Table 2.8 of this appendix when measuring water and energy 
consumption. Use only the maximum test load size when measuring RMC.

                          Table 2.8--Required Test Load Siszes and Water Fill Settings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 Water fill control system type    Test load size                        Water fill setting
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control        Max..............  Max.
 system.                         Min..............  Min.
Automatic water fill control     Max..............  As determined by the clothes washer.
 system.                         Avg..............
                                 Min..............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    2.9 Use of test loads.
    2.9.1 Test loads for energy and water consumption measurements must 
be bone dry prior to the first cycle of the test, and dried to a 
maximum of 104 percent of bone dry weight for subsequent testing.
    2.9.2 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping them 
in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as 
illustrated in Figure 2.9.2 of this appendix.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.004

BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
    For all clothes washers, follow any manufacturer loading 
instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing 
within the clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer 
instructions regarding the placement of clothing within the clothes 
container, the following loading instructions apply.
    2.9.2.1 To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes 
washer, arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of 
rotation of the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise 
orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer 
across its horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding 
a new layer. Figure 2.9.2.1 of this appendix illustrates the correct 
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.

[[Page 46771]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.005

    2.9.2.2 To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes 
washer, grasp each test cloth in the center as indicted in section 
2.9.2 of this appendix, and then place each cloth into the clothes 
container prior to activating the clothes washer.
    2.10 Clothes washer installation. Install the clothes washer in 
accordance with manufacturer's instructions. For combined low-power 
mode testing, install the clothes washer in accordance with Section 5, 
Paragraph 5.2 of IEC 62301 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3), disregarding the provisions regarding batteries and the 
determination, classification, and testing of relevant modes.
    2.11 Clothes washer pre-conditioning.
    2.11.1 Non-water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer has 
not been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, pre-condition it 
by running it through a cold rinse cycle and then draining it to ensure 
that the hose, pump, and sump are filled with water.
    2.11.2 Water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer has not 
been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, or if it has not been 
in the test room at the specified ambient conditions for 8 hours, pre-
condition it by running it through a cold rinse cycle and then draining 
it to ensure that the hose, pump, and sump are filled with water.
    2.12 Determining the energy test cycle. To determine the energy 
test cycle, evaluate the wash/rinse temperature selection flowcharts in 
the order in which they are presented in this section. The 
determination of the energy test cycle must take into consideration all 
cycle settings available to the end user, including any cycle 
selections or cycle modifications provided by the manufacturer via 
software or firmware updates to the product, for the basic model under 
test. The energy test cycle does not include any cycle that is 
recommended by the manufacturer exclusively for cleaning, deodorizing, 
or sanitizing the clothes washer.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

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BILLING CODE 6450-01-C

3. Test Measurements

    3.1 Clothes container capacity. Measure the entire volume that a 
clothes load could occupy within the clothes container during active 
mode washer operation according to the following procedures:
    3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the 
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled 
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of 
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity measurement.
    If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include 
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash 
drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by other 
means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any temporary 
bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a fixed position, 
relative to the geometry of the door and door seal components, that is 
representative of the position of the wash drum during normal 
operation. The method used must avoid damage to the unit that would 
affect the results of the energy and water testing.
    For a front-loading clothes washer that does not include shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping, the laboratory must fully document the alternative 
method used to support the wash drum during capacity measurement, 
include such documentation in the final test report, and pursuant to 
Sec.  429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer must retain such 
documentation as part its test records.
    3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag. All clothes washer components that 
occupy space within the clothes container and that are recommended for 
use during a wash cycle must be in place and must be lined with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag to prevent water from entering any 
void space.
    3.1.3 Record the total weight of the machine before adding water.
    3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F 
 5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) or 100 
[deg]F  10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  5.5 [deg]C) 
water, with the door open. For a top-loading vertical-axis clothes 
washer, fill the clothes container to the uppermost edge of the 
rotating portion, including any balance ring. Figure 3.1.4.1 of this 
appendix illustrates the maximum fill level for top-loading clothes 
washers.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.011

    For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the 
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door and 
the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would occupy the 
measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude from the 
measurement the volume that the door or gasket portion would occupy. 
For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer with a concave door 
shape, include any additional volume above the plane defined by the 
highest point of contact between the door and the door gasket, if that 
area can be occupied by clothing during washer operation. For a top-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, include any additional volume 
above the plane of the door hinge that clothing could occupy during 
washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.2 of this appendix illustrates the 
maximum fill volumes for all horizontal-axis clothes washer types.

[[Page 46778]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.012

    For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be occupied 
by the clothing load during operation.
    3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds.
    3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:

C = W/d

where:

C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).
W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100[emsp14][deg]F (993 kg/
m\3\ for 37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60[emsp14][deg]F (998 
kg/m\3\ for 15.6 [deg]C)).

    3.1.7 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the nearest 
0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load sizes per 
Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent calculations that 
include the clothes container capacity.
    3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values on 
all automatic and semi-automatic washers.
    3.2.1 Perform all energy consumption tests under the energy test 
cycle.
    3.2.2 Perform the test sections listed in Table 3.2.2 in accordance 
with the wash/rinse temperature selections available in the energy test 
cycle.

                   Table 3.2.2--Test Section Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Corresponding
  Wash/rinse temperature  selections available in the      test section
                   energy test cycle                        reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra-Hot/Cold.........................................              3.3
Hot/Cold...............................................              3.4
Warm/Cold..............................................              3.5
Warm/Warm..............................................              3.6
Cold/Cold..............................................              3.7
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Test Sections Applicable to all Clothes Washers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remaining Moisture Content.............................              3.8
Combined Low-Power Mode Power..........................              3.9
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.2.3 Hot and cold water faucets.
    3.2.3.1 For automatic clothes washers, open both the hot and cold 
water faucets.
    3.2.3.2 For semi-automatic washers:
    (1) For hot inlet water temperature, open the hot water faucet 
completely and close the cold water faucet;
    (2) For warm inlet water temperature, open both hot and cold water 
faucets completely;
    (3) For cold inlet water temperature, close the hot water faucet 
and open the cold water faucet completely.
    3.2.4 Wash/rinse temperature selection. Set the wash/rinse 
temperature selection control to obtain the desired wash/rinse 
temperature selection within the energy test cycle.
    3.2.5 Wash time setting. If one wash time is prescribed for the 
wash cycle under test, that shall be the wash time setting; otherwise, 
the wash time setting shall be the higher of either the minimum or 70 
percent of the maximum wash time available for the wash cycle under 
test, regardless of the labeling of suggested dial locations. If 70% of 
the maximum wash time is not available on a dial with a discreet number 
of wash time settings, choose the next-highest setting greater than 
70%. If the clothes washer is equipped with an electromechanical dial 
controlling wash time, reset the dial to the minimum wash time and then 
turn it in the direction of increasing wash time to reach the 
appropriate setting. If the appropriate setting is passed, return the 
dial to the minimum wash time and then turn in the direction of 
increasing wash time until the appropriate setting is reached.
    3.2.6 Water fill levels.
    3.2.6.1 Clothes washers with manual water fill control system. Set 
the water fill selector to the maximum water level available for the 
wash cycle under test for the maximum test load size and the minimum 
water level available for the wash cycle under test for the minimum 
test load size.
    3.2.6.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system.
    3.2.6.2.1 Not user adjustable. The maximum, minimum, and average 
water levels as described in the following sections refer to the amount 
of water fill that is automatically selected by the control system when 
the respective test loads are used.
    3.2.6.2.2 User adjustable. Conduct four tests on clothes washers 
with user adjustable automatic water fill controls that affect the 
relative wash water levels. Conduct the first test using the maximum 
test load and with the automatic water fill control system set in the 
setting that will give the most energy intensive result. Conduct the 
second test using the minimum test load and with the automatic water 
fill control system set in the setting that will give the least energy 
intensive result. Conduct the third test using the average test load 
and with the automatic water fill control system set in the setting 
that will give the most energy intensive result for the given test 
load. Conduct the fourth test using the average test load and with the 
automatic water fill control system set in the setting that will give 
the least energy intensive result for the given test load. Average the 
results of the third and fourth tests to obtain the energy and water 
consumption values for the average test load size.

[[Page 46779]]

    3.2.6.3 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system 
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of 
manual controls as an alternative, test both manual and automatic modes 
and, for each mode, calculate the energy consumption (HET, 
MET, and DE) and water consumption 
(QT) values as set forth in section 4 of this appendix. 
Then, calculate the average of the two values (one from each mode, 
automatic and manual) for each variable (HET, 
MET, DE, and QT) and use the average 
value for each variable in the final calculations in section 4 of this 
appendix.
    3.2.7 Manufacturer default settings. For clothes washers with 
electronic control systems, use the manufacturer default settings for 
any cycle selections, except for (1) the temperature selection, (2) the 
wash water fill levels, or (3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash 
cycles used to determine remaining moisture content. Specifically, the 
manufacturer default settings must be used for wash conditions such as 
agitation/tumble operation, soil level, spin speed on wash cycles used 
to determine energy and water consumption, wash times, rinse times, 
optional rinse settings, water heating time for water heating clothes 
washers, and all other wash parameters or optional features applicable 
to that wash cycle. Any optional wash cycle feature or setting (other 
than wash/rinse temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed 
on wash cycles used to determine remaining moisture content) that is 
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for 
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting 
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing 
normally soiled cotton clothing.
    For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical 
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the 
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the 
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the 
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial 
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the 
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.
    3.2.8 For each wash cycle tested, include the entire active washing 
mode and exclude any delay start or cycle finished modes.
    3.2.9 Discard the data from a wash cycle that provides a visual or 
audio indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition has 
been detected, or that terminates prematurely if an out-of-balance 
condition is detected, and thus does not include the agitation/tumble 
operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times applicable to the 
wash cycle under test. Document in the test report the rejection of 
data from any wash cycle during testing and the reason for the 
rejection.
    3.3 Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical 
energy consumption for each water fill level and test load size as 
specified in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix for the 
Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse as defined within the energy test cycle.
    Non-reversible temperature indicator labels, adhered to the inside 
of the clothes container, may be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash 
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash 
cycle, under the following conditions. The label must remain 
waterproof, intact, and adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire 
wash cycle; provide consistent maximum temperature readings; and 
provide repeatable temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate 
that a wash temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved. 
The label must have been verified to consistently indicate temperature 
measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the label 
provides a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F. If the label does not 
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, the label must have been 
verified to consistently indicate temperature measurements with an 
accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature 
indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and less than 140 [deg]F, or 
3 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature indicator is 140 
[deg]F or greater. If the label does not provide a temperature 
indicator at 135 [deg]F, failure to activate the next-highest 
temperature indicator does not necessarily indicate the lack of an 
extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a result would not be 
considered a valid test due to the lack of verification of the water 
temperature requirement, in which case an alternative method must be 
used to confirm that an extra-hot wash temperature greater than 135 
[deg]F has been achieved during the wash cycle.
    If using a temperature indicator label to test a front-loading 
clothes washer, adhere the label along the interior surface of the 
clothes container drum, midway between the front and the back of the 
drum, adjacent to one of the baffles. If using a temperature indicator 
label to test a top-loading clothes washer, adhere the label along the 
interior surface of the clothes container drum, on the vertical portion 
of the sidewall, as close to the bottom of the container as possible.
    3.3.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hmx), cold water consumption 
(Cmx), and electrical energy consumption (Emx) 
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.3.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hmn), cold water consumption 
(Cmn), and electrical energy consumption (Emn) 
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hma), cold water consumption 
(Cma), and electrical energy consumption (Ema) 
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size 
as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4 Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy 
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified 
in sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix for the Hot Wash/Cold 
Rinse temperature selection, as defined within the energy test cycle.
    3.4.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hhx), cold water consumption 
(Chx), and electrical energy consumption (Ehx) 
for a Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the maximum 
water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified in Table 
5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hhn), cold water consumption 
(Chn), and electrical energy consumption (Ehn) 
for a Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the minimum 
water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified in Table 
5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water

[[Page 46780]]

consumption (Hha), cold water consumption (Cha), 
and electrical energy consumption (Eha) for a Hot Wash/Cold 
Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as specified in Table 5.1 
of this appendix.
    3.5 Warm Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy 
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified 
in sections 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix for the applicable 
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection(s), as defined within the 
energy test cycle.
    For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm Wash/Cold 
Rinse temperature selections, test all Warm Wash/Cold Rinse selections. 
For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm Wash/Cold Rinse 
selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at the 25 percent, 
50 percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature selection 
device between the hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash 
and the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 
50 or 75 percent position, in place of each such unavailable selection, 
use the next warmer setting. For each reportable value to be used for 
the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, calculate the average 
of all Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selections tested pursuant to 
this section.
    3.5.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwx), cold water consumption 
(Cwx), and electrical energy consumption (Ewx) 
for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.5.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwn), cold water consumption 
(Cwn), and electrical energy consumption (Ewn) 
for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.5.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption 
(Cwa), and electrical energy consumption (Ewa) 
for a Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6 Warm Wash/Warm Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy 
consumption for each water fill level and/or test load size as 
specified in sections 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix for the 
applicable Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selection(s), as defined 
within the energy testy cycle.
    For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm Wash/Warm 
Rinse temperature selections, test all Warm Wash/Warm Rinse selections. 
For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm Wash/Warm Rinse 
selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at 25 percent, 50 
percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature selection device 
between the hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash and 
the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 50 or 
75 percent position, in place of each such unavailable selection use 
the next warmer setting. For each reportable value to be used for the 
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selection, calculate the arithmetic 
average of all Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selections tested 
pursuant to this section.
    3.6.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwwx), cold water consumption 
(Cwwx), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwx) 
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwwn), cold water consumption 
(Cwwn), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwn) 
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified 
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwwa), cold water consumption 
(Cwwa), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwa) 
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7 Cold Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy 
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified 
in sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix for the applicable 
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, as defined within the 
energy test cycle.
    3.7.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hcx), cold water consumption 
(Ccx), and electrical energy consumption (Ecx) 
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the maximum 
water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified in Table 
5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hcn), cold water consumption 
(Ccn), and electrical energy consumption (Ecn) 
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the minimum 
water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified in Table 
5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hca), cold water consumption 
(Cca), and electrical energy consumption (Eca) 
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.8 Remaining moisture content (RMC).
    3.8.1 The wash temperature must be the same as the rinse 
temperature for all testing. Use the maximum test load as defined in 
Table 5.1 of this appendix for testing.
    3.8.2 Clothes washers with cold rinse only.
    3.8.2.1 Record the actual ``bone dry'' weight of the test load 
(WIx), then place the test load in the clothes washer.
    3.8.2.2 Set the water level controls to maximum fill.
    3.8.2.3 Run the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle.
    3.8.2.4 Record the weight of the test load immediately after 
completion of the wash cycle (WCx).
    3.8.2.5 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the maximum 
test load, RMCx, defined as:

RMCx = (WCx - WIx)/WIx

    3.8.2.6 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of 
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content, 
RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage as follows:

RMCcorr = (A x RMCx + B) x 100%

where:

A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined 
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCx = As defined in section 3.8.2.5 of this appendix.

    3.8.2.7 Use RMCcorr as the final corrected RMC in 
section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.8.3 Clothes washers with both cold and warm rinse options.
    3.8.3.1 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this appendix 
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Calculate the remaining moisture 
content of the maximum test load for Cold Wash/Cold Rinse, 
RMCCOLD, defined as:


[[Page 46781]]


RMCCOLD = (WCx - WIx)/WIx

    3.8.3.2 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of 
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content for 
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse, RMCCOLD,corr, expressed as a 
percentage, as follows:

RMCCOLD,corr = (A x RMCCOLD + B) x 100%

where:

A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined 
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCCOLD = As defined in section 3.8.3.1 of this appendix.

    3.8.3.3 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this appendix 
using a Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle instead. Calculate the remaining 
moisture content of the maximum test load for Warm Wash/Warm Rinse, 
RMCWARM, defined as:

RMCWARM = (WCx-WIx)/WIx

    3.8.3.4 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of 
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content for 
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse, RMCWARM,corr, expressed as a 
percentage, as follows:

RMCWARM,corr = (A x RMCWARM + B) x 100%

where:

A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined 
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCWARM = As defined in section 3.8.3.3 of this appendix.

    3.8.3.5 Calculate the corrected remaining moisture content of the 
maximum test load, RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage as 
follows:

RMCcorr = RMCCOLD,corr x (1 - TUFww) + 
RMCWARM,corr x (TUFww)

where:

RMCCOLD,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.2 of this 
Appendix.
RMCWARM,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.4 of this 
Appendix.
TUFww is the temperature use factor for Warm Wash/Warm 
Rinse as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.

    3.8.3.6 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.3.5 as 
the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.8.4 Clothes washers that have options such as multiple selections 
of spin speeds or spin times that result in different RMC values, and 
that are available within the energy test cycle.
    3.8.4.1 Complete sections 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as 
applicable, using the maximum and minimum extremes of the available 
spin options, excluding any ``no spin'' (zero spin speed) settings. 
Combine the calculated values RMCcorr,max extraction and 
RMCcorr,min extraction at the maximum and minimum settings, 
respectively, as follows:

RMCcorr = 0.75 x RMCcorr,max extraction + 0.25 x 
RMCcorr,min extraction

where:

RMCcorr, max extraction is the corrected remaining 
moisture content using the maximum spin setting, calculated 
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.
RMCcorr, min extraction is the corrected remaining 
moisture content using the minimum spin setting, calculated 
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.

    3.8.4.2 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.4.1 as 
the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.8.5 The procedure for calculating the corrected RMC as described 
in section 3.8.2, 3.8.3, or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be replicated 
twice in its entirety, for a total of three independent corrected RMC 
measurements. If three replications of the RMC measurement are 
performed, use the average of the three corrected RMC measurements as 
the final corrected RMC in section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.9 Combined low-power mode power. Connect the clothes washer to a 
watt meter as specified in section 2.5.3 of this appendix. Establish 
the testing conditions set forth in sections 2.1, 2.4, and 2.10 of this 
appendix.
    3.9.1 Perform combined low-power mode testing after completion of 
an active mode wash cycle included as part of the energy test cycle; 
after removing the test load; without changing the control panel 
settings used for the active mode wash cycle; with the door closed; and 
without disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes 
washer between completion of the active mode wash cycle and the start 
of combined low-power mode testing.
    3.9.2 For a clothes washer that takes some time to automatically 
enter a stable inactive mode or off mode state from a higher power 
state as discussed in Section 5, Paragraph 5.1, note 1 of IEC 62301 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), allow sufficient time for 
the clothes washer to automatically reach the default inactive/off mode 
state before proceeding with the test measurement.
    3.9.3 Once the stable inactive/off mode state has been reached, 
measure and record the default inactive/off mode power, 
Pdefault, in watts, following the test procedure for the 
sampling method specified in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 62301.
    3.9.4 For a clothes washer with a switch, dial, or button that can 
be optionally selected by the end user to achieve a lower-power 
inactive/off mode state than the default inactive/off mode state 
measured in section 3.9.3 of this appendix, after performing the 
measurement in section 3.9.3, activate the switch, dial, or button to 
the position resulting in the lowest power consumption and repeat the 
measurement procedure described in section 3.9.3. Measure and record 
the lowest-power inactive/off mode power, Plowest, in Watts.
    3.10 Energy consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle 
selection(s) to be included in the energy test cycle. This section is 
implemented only in cases where the energy test cycle flowcharts in 
section 2.12 require the determination of the wash/rinse temperature 
selection with the highest energy consumption.
    3.10.1 For the wash/rinse temperature selection being considered 
under this section, establish the testing conditions set forth in 
section 2 of this appendix. Select the applicable cycle selection and 
wash/rinse temperature selection. For all wash/rinse temperature 
selections, the manufacturer default settings shall be used as 
described in section 3.2.7 of this appendix.
    3.10.2 Use the clothes washer's maximum test load size, determined 
from Table 5.1 of this appendix, for testing under this section.
    3.10.3 For clothes washers with a manual fill control system, user-
adjustable automatic water fill control system, or automatic water fill 
control system with alternate manual water fill control system, use the 
water fill selector setting resulting in the maximum water level 
available for each cycle selection for testing under this section.
    3.10.3 Each wash cycle tested under this section shall include the 
entire active washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle 
finished modes.
    3.10.4 Measure each wash cycle's electrical energy consumption 
(EX) and hot water consumption (HX). Calculate 
the total energy consumption for each cycle selection (ETX), 
as follows:

ETX = EX + (HX x T x K)

where:

EX is the electrical energy consumption, expressed in 
kilowatt-hours per cycle.
HX is the hot water consumption, expressed in gallons per 
cycle.
T = nominal temperature rise = 75 [deg]F (41.7 [deg]C).
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F = 
0.00240 kWh/gal -[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C).

[[Page 46782]]

4. Calculation of Derived Results From Test Measurements

    4.1 Hot water and machine electrical energy consumption of clothes 
washers.
    4.1.1 Per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption for all 
maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels tested. Calculate the 
per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption for the maximum 
water fill level, Vhx, the average water fill level, 
Vha, and the minimum water fill level, Vhn, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

(a) Vhx = [Hmx x TUFm] + 
[Hhx x TUFh] + [Hwx x TUFw] 
+ [Hwwx x TUFww] + [Hcx x 
TUFc]
(b) Vha = [Hma x TUFm] + 
[Hha x TUFh] + [Hwa x TUFw] 
+ [Hwwa x TUFww] + [Hca x 
TUFc]
(c) Vhn = [Hmn x TUFm] + 
[Hhn x TUFh] + [Hwn x TUFw] 
+ [Hwwn x TUFww] + [Hcn x 
TUFc]

where:

    Hmx, Hma, and Hmn, are reported 
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured 
in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
    Hhx, Hha, and Hhn, are reported 
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix.
    Hwx, Hwa, and Hwn, are reported 
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix.
    Hwwx, Hwwa, and Hwwn, are 
reported hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or 
liters per cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill 
levels, respectively, for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, as 
measured in sections 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix.
    Hcx, Hca, and Hcn, are reported 
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix.
    TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, 
TUFww, and TUFc are temperature use factors 
for Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse, Hot Wash/Cold Rinse, Warm Wash/Cold 
Rinse, Warm Wash/Warm Rinse, and Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature 
selections, respectively, as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this 
appendix.

                                                          Table 4.1.1--Temperature Use Factors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                Clothes washers with cold rinse only                 Clothes washers with both cold and
                                                 -----------------------------------------------------------------               warm rinse
 Wash/Rinse Temperature Selections Available in                                                                   --------------------------------------
              the Energy Test Cycle                   C/C        H/C C/C    H/C W/C C/C  XH/C H/C C/  XH/C H/C W/  H/C W/C W/W  XH/C H/C W/  XH/C H/C W/
                                                                                              C          C C/C         C/C         W C/C      C W/W C/C
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUFm (Extra-Hot/Cold)...........................  ...........  ...........  ...........         0.14         0.05  ...........         0.14         0.05
TUFh (Hot/Cold).................................  ...........         0.63         0.14       * 0.49         0.09         0.14       * 0.22         0.09
TUFw (Warm/Cold)................................  ...........  ...........         0.49  ...........         0.49         0.22  ...........         0.22
TUFww (Warm/Warm)...............................  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........  ...........         0.27         0.27         0.27
TUFc (Cold/Cold)................................         1.00         0.37         0.37         0.37         0.37         0.37         0.37         0.37
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* On clothes washers with only two wash temperature selections <=135 [deg]F, the higher of the two wash temperatures is classified as a Hot Wash/Cold
  Rinse, in accordance with the wash/rinse temperature definitions within the energy test cycle.

    4.1.2 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption for all maximum, 
average, and minimum water fill levels tested. Calculate the total per-
cycle hot water energy consumption for the maximum water fill level, 
HEmax, the average water fill level, HEavg, and 
the minimum water fill level, HEmin, expressed in kilowatt-
hours per cycle and defined as:
(a) HEmax = [Vhx x T x K] = Total energy when a 
maximum load is tested.
(b) HEavg = [Vha x T x K] = Total energy when an 
average load is tested.
(c) HEmin = [Vhn x T x K] = Total energy when a 
minimum load is tested.

where:

Vhx, Vha, and Vhn are defined in 
section 4.1.1 of this appendix.
T = Temperature rise = 75 [deg]F (41.7 [deg]C).
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F = 
0.00240 kWh/gal-[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C).

    4.1.3 Total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption. 
Calculate the total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption, 
HET, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:

HET = [HEmax x Fmax] + 
[HEavg x Favg] + HEmin x 
Fmin]

where:
    HEmax, HEavg, and HEmin are 
defined in section 4.1.2 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are the 
load usage factors for the maximum, average, and minimum test loads 
based on the size and type of the control system on the washer being 
tested, as defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

                     Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                      Water fill control
                                                            system
                 Load usage factor                  --------------------
                                                      Manual   Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =.............................................     0.72        0.12
Favg =.............................................  .......        0.74
Fmin =.............................................     0.28        0.14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4.1.4 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated 
or oil-heated water, for product labeling requirements. Calculate for 
the energy test cycle the per-cycle hot water consumption, 
HETG, using gas-heated or oil-heated water, expressed in Btu 
per cycle (or megajoules per cycle) and defined as:

HETG = HET x 1/e x 3412 Btu/kWh or 
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3.6 MJ/kWh

where:

e = Nominal gas or oil water heater efficiency = 0.75.
HET = As defined in section 4.1.3 of this Appendix.

    4.1.5 Per-cycle machine electrical energy consumption for all 
maximum, average, and minimum test load sizes. Calculate the total per-
cycle machine electrical energy consumption for the maximum water fill 
level, MEmax, the average water fill level, 
MEavg, and the minimum water fill level, MEmin, 
expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:

(a) MEmax = [Emx x TUFm] + 
[Ehx x TUFh] + [Ewx x TUFw] 
+ [Ewwx x TUFww] + [Ecx x 
TUFc]
(b) MEavg = [Ema x TUFm] + 
[Eha x TUFh] + [Ewa x TUFw] 
+ [Ewwa x TUFww] + [Eca x 
TUFc]
(c) MEmin = [Emn x TUFm] + 
[Ehn x TUFh] + [Ewn x TUFw] 
+ [Ewwn x TUFww] + [Ecn x 
TUFc]


[[Page 46783]]


where:

    Emx, Ema, and Emn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.3.1 
through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
    Ehx, Eha, and Ehn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.4.1 through 
3.4.3 of this appendix.
    Ewx, Ewa, and Ewn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.5.1 through 
3.5.3 of this appendix.
    Ewwx, Ewwa, and Ewwn, are 
reported electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per 
cycle, at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, 
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.6.1 
through 3.6.3 of this appendix.
    Ecx, Eca, and Ecn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.7.1 through 
3.7.3 of this appendix.
    TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, 
TUFww, and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of 
this appendix.

    4.1.6 Total weighted per-cycle machine electrical energy 
consumption. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle machine electrical 
energy consumption, MET, expressed in kilowatt-hours per 
cycle and defined as:

MET = [MEmax x Fmax] + 
[MEavg x Favg] + [MEmin x 
Fmin]

where:
    MEmax, MEavg, and MEmin are 
defined in section 4.1.5 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are 
defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.1.7 Total per-cycle energy consumption when electrically heated 
water is used. Calculate the total per-cycle energy consumption, 
ETE, using electrically heated water, expressed in kilowatt-
hours per cycle and defined as:

ETE = HET + MET


where:

MET = As defined in section 4.1.6 of this appendix.
HET = As defined in section 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2 Water consumption of clothes washers.
    4.2.1 Per-cycle water consumption for Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Extra-Hot 
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:

Qmmax = [Hmx + Cmx]
Qmavg = [Hma + Cma]
Qmmin = [Hmn + Cmn]

where:

    Hmx, Cmx, Hma, Cma, 
Hmn, and Cmn are defined in section 3.3 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.2 Per-cycle water consumption for Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Hot Wash/
Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qhmax = [Hhx + Chx]
Qhavg = [Hha + Cha]
Qhmin = [Hhn + Chn]

where:
    Hhx, Chx, Hha, Cha, 
Hhn, and Chn are defined in section 3.4 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.3 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Cold Rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm 
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qwmax = [Hwx + Cwx]
Qwavg = [Hwa + Cwa]
Qwmin = [Hwn + Cwn]

where:

    Hwx, Cwx, Hwa, Cwa, 
Hwn, and Cwn are defined in section 3.5 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.4 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Warm Rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm 
Wash/Warm Rinse cycle and defined as:

Qwwmax = [Hwwx + Cwwx]
Qwwavg = [Hwwa + Cwwa]
Qwwmin = [Hwwn + Cwwn]

where:
    Hwwx, Cwwx, Hwwa, 
Cwwa, Hwwn, and Cwwn are defined in 
section 3.7 of this appendix.

    4.2.5 Per-cycle water consumption for Cold Wash/Cold Rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Cold 
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qcmax = [Hcx + Ccx]
Qcavg = [Hca + Cca]
Qcmin = [Hcn + Ccn]

where:
    Hcx, Ccx, Hca, Cca, 
Hcn, and Ccn are defined in section 3.6 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.6 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Extra-Hot 
Wash/Cold Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water 
consumption for the Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QmT, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QmT = [Qmmax x Fmax] + 
[Qmavg x Favg] + [Qmmin x 
Fmin]

where:
    Qmmax, Qmavg, Qmmin are defined 
in section 4.2.1 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.7 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Hot Wash/Cold 
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the 
Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QhT, expressed in gallons per 
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QhT = [Qhmax x Fmax] + 
[Qhavg x Favg] + [Qhmin x 
Fmin]

where:

    Qhmax, Qhavg, Qhmin are defined 
in section 4.2.2 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.8 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Cold 
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the 
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QwT, expressed in gallons per 
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QwT = [Qwmax x Fmax] + 
[Qwavg x Favg] + [Qwmin x 
Fmin]

where:

    Qwmax, Qwavg, Qwmin are defined 
in section 4.2.3 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.9 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Warm 
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the 
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, QwwT, expressed in gallons per 
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QwwT = [Qwwmax x Fmax] + 
[Qwwavg x Favg] + [Qwwmin x 
Fmin]

where:

    Qwwmax, Qwwavg, Qwwmin are 
defined in section 4.2.4 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.10 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Cold Wash/
Cold Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption 
for the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QcT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QcT = [Qcmax x Fmax] + 
[Qcavg x Favg] + [Qcmin x 
Fmin]

where:

    Qcmax, Qcavg, Qcmin are defined 
in section 4.2.5 of this appendix.
    Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.11 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash 
cycles. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle

[[Page 46784]]

water consumption for all wash cycles, QT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QT = [QmT x TUFm] + [QhT x 
TUFh] + [QwT x TUFw] + 
[QwwT x TUFww] + [QcT x 
TUFc]

where:

    QmT, QhT, QwT, QwwT, 
and QcT are defined in sections 4.2.6 through 4.2.10 of 
this appendix.
    TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, 
TUFww, and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.12 Water factor. Calculate the water factor, WF, expressed in 
gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liters per cycle per liter), as:

WF = QcT/C

where:

QcT = As defined in section 4.2.10 of this appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.

    4.2.13 Integrated water factor. Calculate the integrated water 
factor, IWF, expressed in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liters 
per cycle per liter), as:

IWF = QT/C

where:

QT = As defined in section 4.2.11 of this appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.

    4.3 Per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from test 
load. Calculate the per-cycle energy required to remove the remaining 
moisture of the test load, DE, expressed in kilowatt-hours 
per cycle and defined as:
    DE = [(Fmax x Maximum test load weight) + 
(Favg x Average test load weight) + (Fmin x 
Minimum test load weight)] x (RMCcorr - 4%) x (DEF) x (DUF)

where:

    Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are 
defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
    Maximum, average, and minimum test load weights are defined in 
Table 5.1 of this appendix.

RMCcorr = As defined in section 3.8.2.6, 3.8.3.5, or 
3.8.4.1 of this Appendix.
DEF = Nominal energy required for a clothes dryer to remove moisture 
from clothes = 0.5 kWh/lb (1.1 kWh/kg).
DUF = Dryer usage factor, percentage of washer loads dried in a 
clothes dryer = 0.91.
    4.4 Per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption. Calculate 
the per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption, 
ETLP, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:

ETLP = [(Pdefault x Sdefault) + 
(Plowest x Slowest)] x Kp/295

where:

    Pdefault = Default inactive/off mode power, in watts, 
as measured in section 3.9.3 of this appendix.

Plowest = Lowest-power inactive/off mode power, in watts, 
as measured in section 3.9.4 of this appendix for clothes washers 
with a switch, dial, or button that can be optionally selected by 
the end user to achieve a lower-power inactive/off mode than the 
default inactive/off mode; otherwise, Plowest=0.
Sdefault= Annual hours in default inactive/off mode, 
defined as 8,465 if no optional lowest-power inactive/off mode is 
available; otherwise 4,232.5.
Slowest= Annual hours in lowest-power inactive/off mode, 
defined as 0 if no optional lowest-power inactive/off mode is 
available; otherwise 4,232.5.
Kp = Conversion factor of watt-hours to kilowatt-hours = 
0.001.
295 = Representative average number of clothes washer cycles in a 
year.
8,465 = Combined annual hours for inactive and off mode.
4,232.5 = One-half of the combined annual hours for inactive and off 
mode.

    4.5 Modified energy factor. Calculate the modified energy factor, 
MEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-hour per cycle (or liters per 
kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined as:

MEF = C/(ETE + DE)

where:

    C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
    ETE = As defined in section 4.1.7 of this appendix.
    DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.

    4.6 Integrated modified energy factor. Calculate the integrated 
modified energy factor, IMEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-hour 
per cycle (or liters per kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined as:

IMEF = C/(ETE + DE + ETLP)

where:

C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
ETE = As defined in section 4.1.7 of this appendix.
DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.
ETLP = As defined in section 4.4 of this appendix.

5. Test Loads

                                           Table 5.1--Test Load Sizes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Container volume                     Minimum load          Maximum load          Average load
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
            cu. ft.                  liter
-----------------------------------------------     lb         kg         lb         kg         lb         kg
             >= <                    >= <
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.00-0.80.....................       0.00-22.7       3.00       1.36       3.00       1.36       3.00       1.36
0.80-0.90.....................       22.7-25.5       3.00       1.36       3.50       1.59       3.25       1.47
0.90-1.00.....................       25.5-28.3       3.00       1.36       3.90       1.77       3.45       1.56
1.00-1.10.....................       28.3-31.1       3.00       1.36       4.30       1.95       3.65       1.66
1.10-1.20.....................       31.1-34.0       3.00       1.36       4.70       2.13       3.85       1.75
1.20-1.30.....................       34.0-36.8       3.00       1.36       5.10       2.31       4.05       1.84
1.30-1.40.....................       36.8-39.6       3.00       1.36       5.50       2.49       4.25       1.93
1.40-1.50.....................       39.6-42.5       3.00       1.36       5.90       2.68       4.45       2.02
1.50-1.60.....................       42.5-45.3       3.00       1.36       6.40       2.90       4.70       2.13
1.60-1.70.....................       45.3-48.1       3.00       1.36       6.80       3.08       4.90       2.22
1.70-1.80.....................       48.1-51.0       3.00       1.36       7.20       3.27       5.10       2.31
1.80-1.90.....................       51.0-53.8       3.00       1.36       7.60       3.45       5.30       2.40
1.90-2.00.....................       53.8-56.6       3.00       1.36       8.00       3.63       5.50       2.49
2.00-2.10.....................       56.6-59.5       3.00       1.36       8.40       3.81       5.70       2.59
2.10-2.20.....................       59.5-62.3       3.00       1.36       8.80       3.99       5.90       2.68
2.20-2.30.....................       62.3-65.1       3.00       1.36       9.20       4.17       6.10       2.77
2.30-2.40.....................       65.1-68.0       3.00       1.36       9.60       4.35       6.30       2.86
2.40-2.50.....................       68.0-70.8       3.00       1.36      10.00       4.54       6.50       2.95
2.50-2.60.....................       70.8-73.6       3.00       1.36      10.50       4.76       6.75       3.06
2.60-2.70.....................       73.6-76.5       3.00       1.36      10.90       4.94       6.95       3.15
2.70-2.80.....................       76.5-79.3       3.00       1.36      11.30       5.13       7.15       3.24

[[Page 46785]]

 
2.80-2.90.....................       79.3-82.1       3.00       1.36      11.70       5.31       7.35       3.33
2.90-3.00.....................       82.1-85.0       3.00       1.36      12.10       5.49       7.55       3.42
3.00-3.10.....................       85.0-87.8       3.00       1.36      12.50       5.67       7.75       3.52
3.10-3.20.....................       87.8-90.6       3.00       1.36      12.90       5.85       7.95       3.61
3.20-3.30.....................       90.6-93.4       3.00       1.36      13.30       6.03       8.15       3.70
3.30-3.40.....................       93.4-96.3       3.00       1.36      13.70       6.21       8.35       3.79
3.40-3.50.....................       96.3-99.1       3.00       1.36      14.10       6.40       8.55       3.88
3.50-3.60.....................      99.1-101.9       3.00       1.36      14.60       6.62       8.80       3.99
3.60-3.70.....................     101.9-104.8       3.00       1.36      15.00       6.80       9.00       4.08
3.70-3.80.....................     104.8-107.6       3.00       1.36      15.40       6.99       9.20       4.17
3.80-3.90.....................     107.6-110.4       3.00       1.36      15.80       7.16       9.40       4.26
3.90-4.00.....................     110.4-113.3       3.00       1.36      16.20       7.34       9.60       4.35
4.00-4.10.....................     113.3-116.1       3.00       1.36      16.60       7.53       9.80       4.45
4.10-4.20.....................     116.1-118.9       3.00       1.36      17.00       7.72      10.00       4.54
4.20-4.30.....................     118.9-121.8       3.00       1.36      17.40       7.90      10.20       4.63
4.30-4.40.....................     121.8-124.6       3.00       1.36      17.80       8.09      10.40       4.72
4.40-4.50.....................     124.6-127.4       3.00       1.36      18.20       8.27      10.60       4.82
4.50-4.60.....................     127.4-130.3       3.00       1.36      18.70       8.46      10.85       4.91
4.60-4.70.....................     130.3-133.1       3.00       1.36      19.10       8.65      11.05       5.00
4.70-4.80.....................     133.1-135.9       3.00       1.36      19.50       8.83      11.25       5.10
4.80-4.90.....................     135.9-138.8       3.00       1.36      19.90       9.02      11.45       5.19
4.90-5.00.....................     138.8-141.6       3.00       1.36      20.30       9.20      11.65       5.28
5.00-5.10.....................     141.6-144.4       3.00       1.36      20.70       9.39      11.85       5.38
5.10-5.20.....................     144.4-147.2       3.00       1.36      21.10       9.58      12.05       5.47
5.20-5.30.....................     147.2-150.1       3.00       1.36      21.50       9.76      12.25       5.56
5.30-5.40.....................     150.1-152.9       3.00       1.36      21.90       9.95      12.45       5.65
5.40-5.50.....................     152.9-155.7       3.00       1.36      22.30      10.13      12.65       5.75
5.50-5.60.....................     155.7-158.6       3.00       1.36      22.80      10.32      12.90       5.84
5.60-5.70.....................     158.6-161.4       3.00       1.36      23.20      10.51      13.10       5.93
5.70-5.80.....................     161.4-164.2       3.00       1.36      23.60      10.69      13.30       6.03
5.80-5.90.....................     164.2-167.1       3.00       1.36      24.00      10.88      13.50       6.12
5.90-6.00.....................     167.1-169.9       3.00       1.36      24.40      11.06      13.70       6.21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes: (1) All test load weights are bone dry weights.
(2) Allowable tolerance on the test load weights is 0.10 lbs (0.05 kg).

6. Waivers and Field Testing

    6.1 Waivers and Field Testing for Nonconventional Clothes Washers. 
Manufacturers of nonconventional clothes washers, such as clothes 
washers with adaptive control systems, must submit a petition for 
waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27 to establish an acceptable test 
procedure for that clothes washer if the washer cannot be tested 
pursuant to the DOE test procedure or the DOE test procedure yields 
results that are so unrepresentative of the clothes washer's true 
energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate 
comparative data. In such cases, field testing may be appropriate for 
establishing an acceptable test procedure. The following are guidelines 
for field testing that may be used by manufacturers in support of 
petitions for waiver. These guidelines are not mandatory and the 
Department may determine that they do not apply to a particular model. 
Depending upon a manufacturer's approach for conducting field testing, 
additional data may be required. Manufacturers are encouraged to 
communicate with the Department prior to the commencement of field 
tests that may be used to support a petition for waiver. Section 6.3 of 
this appendix provides an example of field testing for a clothes washer 
with an adaptive water fill control system. Other features, such as the 
use of various spin speed selections, could be the subject of field 
tests.
    6.2 Nonconventional Wash System Energy Consumption Test. The field 
test may consist of a minimum of 10 of the nonconventional clothes 
washers (``test clothes washers'') and 10 clothes washers already being 
distributed in commerce (``base clothes washers''). The tests should 
include a minimum of 50 wash cycles per clothes washer. The test 
clothes washers and base clothes washers should be identical in 
construction except for the controls or systems being tested. Equal 
numbers of both the test clothes washer and the base clothes washer 
should be tested simultaneously in comparable settings to minimize 
seasonal or end-user laundering conditions or variations. The clothes 
washers should be monitored in such a way as to accurately record the 
average total energy and water consumption per cycle, including water 
heating energy when electrically heated water is used, and the energy 
required to remove the remaining moisture of the test load. Standby and 
off mode energy consumption should be measured according to section 4.4 
of this test procedure. The field test results should be used to 
determine the best method to correlate the rating of the test clothes 
washer to the rating of the base clothes washer.
    6.3 Adaptive water fill control system field test. (1) Section 
3.2.6.3 of this appendix defines the test method for measuring energy 
consumption for clothes washers that incorporate both adaptive 
(automatic) and alternate manual water fill control systems. Energy 
consumption calculated by the method defined in section 3.2.6.3 of this 
appendix assumes the adaptive cycle will be used 50 percent of the 
time. This section can be used to develop field test

[[Page 46786]]

data in support of a petition for waiver when it is believed that the 
adaptive cycle will be used more than 50 percent of the time. The field 
test sample size should be a minimum of 10 test clothes washers. The 
test clothes washers should be representative of the design, 
construction, and control system that will be placed in commerce. The 
duration of field testing in the user's house should be a minimum of 50 
wash cycles, for each unit. No special instructions as to cycle 
selection or product usage should be given to the field test 
participants, other than inclusion of the product literature pack that 
would be shipped with all units, and instructions regarding filling out 
data collection forms, use of data collection equipment, or basic 
procedural methods. Prior to the test clothes washers being installed 
in the field test locations, baseline data should be developed for all 
field test units by conducting laboratory tests as defined by section 1 
through section 5 of this appendix to determine the energy consumption, 
water consumption, and remaining moisture content values. The following 
data should be measured and recorded for each wash load during the test 
period: wash cycle selected, the mode of the clothes washer (adaptive 
or manual), clothes load dry weight (measured after the clothes washer 
and clothes dryer cycles are completed) in pounds, and type of articles 
in the clothes load (e.g., cottons, linens, permanent press). The wash 
cycles used in calculating the in-home percentage split between 
adaptive and manual cycle usage should be only those wash cycles that 
conform to the definition of the energy test cycle.
    Calculate:

T = The total number of wash cycles run during the field test.
Ta = The total number of adaptive control wash cycles.
Tm = The total number of manual control wash cycles.

    The percentage weighting factors:

Pa = (Ta/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting 
for adaptive control selection)
Pm = (Tm/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting 
for manual control selection)

    (2) Energy consumption (HET, MET, and 
DE) and water consumption (QT) values calculated 
in section 4 of this appendix for the manual and adaptive modes should 
be combined using Pa and Pm as the weighting 
factors.

0
8. Add Appendix J3 to subpart B of part 430 to read as follows:

Appendix J3 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Moisture Absorption and Retention Characteristics of New Energy 
Test Cloth Lots

    Note: DOE maintains an historical record of the standard extractor 
test data and final correction curve coefficients for each approved lot 
of energy test cloth. These can be accessed through DOE's Web page for 
standards and test procedures for residential clothes washers at DOE's 
Building Technologies Office Appliance and Equipment Standards Web 
site.

1. Objective

    The following procedure is used to evaluate the moisture absorption 
and retention characteristics of a new lot of test cloth by measuring 
the remaining moisture content (RMC) in a standard extractor at a 
specified set of conditions. The results are used to develop a set of 
coefficients that correlate the measured RMC values of the new test 
cloth lot with a set of standard RMC values established as an 
historical reference point. These correction coefficients are applied 
to the RMC measurements performed during testing according to appendix 
J1 or appendix J2 to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B, ensuring that the final 
corrected RMC measurement for a clothes washer remains independent of 
the test cloth lot used for testing.

2. Definitions

    2.1 AHAM means the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
    2.2 Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has 
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10 
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again for 
10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1 
percent or less.
    2.3 Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured with 
the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous process.

3. Testing Conditions

    3.1 Table 3.1 of this appendix provides the matrix of test 
conditions. In the table, ``g Force'' represents units of gravitational 
acceleration. When this matrix is repeated 3 times, a total of 60 
extractor RMC test runs are required. For the purpose of the extractor 
RMC test, the test cloths may be used for up to 60 test runs (after 
preconditioning as specified in appendix J1 or appendix J2).

                               Table 3.1--Matrix of Extractor RMC Test Conditions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Warm soak                         Cold soak
                 ``g Force''                 -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                15 min. spin     4 min. spin      15 min. spin     4 min. spin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.........................................  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
200.........................................  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
350.........................................  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
500.........................................  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
650.........................................  ...............  ...............  ...............  ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.2 Perform the standard extractor RMC tests using a North Star 
Engineered Products Inc. (formerly Bock) Model 215 extractor (having a 
basket diameter of 20 inches, height of 11.5 inches, and volume of 2.09 
ft\3\), with a variable speed drive (North Star Engineered Products, 
P.O. Box 5127, Toledo, OH 43611) or an equivalent extractor with same 
basket design (i.e., diameter, height, volume, and hole configuration) 
and variable speed drive. Table 3.2 shows the extractor spin speed, in 
revolutions per minute (RPM), that must be used to attain each required 
g-force level.

[[Page 46787]]



        Table 3.2--Extractor Spin Speeds for Each Test Condition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        ``g Force''                              RPM
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100........................................................   594  1
200........................................................   840  1
350........................................................  1,111  1
500........................................................  1,328  1
650........................................................  1,514  1
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.3 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must 
heat the test cloth and energy stuffer cloths above 210 [deg]F (99 
[deg]C).

4. Test Loads

    4.1  Preconditioning. New test cloths, including energy test cloths 
and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-conditioned in a clothes washer 
in the following manner:
    Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with 
current AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3 and the last three without 
detergent. Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the maximum 
water level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 ppm 
hardness or less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of cloth load 
of AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash temperature is to be 
controlled to 135[deg]F  5[deg]F (57.2 [deg]C  
2.8 [deg]C) and the rinse temperature is to be controlled to 60[deg]F 
 5;[deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C). Repeat the 
cycle with detergent and then repeat the cycle three additional times 
without detergent, bone drying the load between cycles (for a total of 
five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles).
    4.2  Test load composition. Test loads must be comprised of 
randomly selected cloth at the beginning, middle and end of a lot.
    4.3  Test load size. Use a test load size of 8.4 lbs. Two test 
loads may be used for standard extractor RMC tests, with each load used 
for half of the total number of required tests.

5. Test Measurements

    5.1 Dry the test cloth until it is ``bone-dry'' according to the 
definition in section 2.2 of this appendix. Record the bone-dry weight 
of the test load (WI).
    5.2 Prepare the test load for soak by grouping four test cloths 
into loose bundles. Create the bundles by hanging four cloths 
vertically from one corner and loosely wrapping the test cloth onto 
itself to form the bundle. Bundles should be wrapped loosely to ensure 
consistency of water extraction. Then place the bundles into the water 
to soak. Eight to nine bundles will be formed depending on the test 
load. The ninth bundle may not equal four cloths but can incorporate 
energy stuffer cloths to help offset the size difference.
    5.3 Soak the test load for 20 minutes in 10 gallons of soft (<17 
ppm) water. The entire test load must be submerged. Maintain a water 
temperature of 100 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) at all times between the start and end of the soak.
    5.4 Remove the test load and allow each of the test cloth bundles 
to drain over the water bath for a maximum of 5 seconds.
    5.5 Manually place the test cloth bundles in the basket of the 
extractor, distributing them evenly by eye. The draining and loading 
process must take no longer than 1 minute. Spin the load at a fixed 
speed corresponding to the intended centripetal acceleration level 
(measured in units of the acceleration of gravity, g)  1g 
for the intended time period  5 seconds. Begin the timer 
when the extractor meets the required spin speed for each test.
    5.6 Record the weight of the test load immediately after the 
completion of the extractor spin cycle (WC).
    5.7 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the test load as 
(WC-WI)/WI.
    5.8 Draining the soak tub is not necessary if the water bath is 
corrected for water level and temperature before the next extraction.
    5.9 Drying the test load in between extraction runs is not 
necessary. However, the bone dry weight must be checked after every 12 
extraction runs to make sure the bone dry weight is within tolerance 
(8.4  0.1 lb).
    5.10 The test load must be soaked and extracted once following bone 
drying, before continuing with the remaining extraction runs. Perform 
this extraction at the same spin speed used for the extraction run 
prior to bone drying, for a time period of 4 minutes. Either warm or 
cold soak temperature may be used.
    5.11 Measure the remaining moisture content of the test load at 
five g levels: 100 g, 200 g, 350 g, 500 g, and 650 g, using two 
different spin times at each g level: 4 minutes and 15 minutes.
    5.12 Repeat sections 5.1 through 5.11 of this appendix using soft 
(<17 ppm) water at 60[emsp14][deg]F5[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 
[deg]C  2.8 [deg]C).

6. Calculation of RMC Correction Curve

    6.1 Average the values of 3 test runs, and fill in Table 3.1 of 
this appendix. Perform a linear least-squares fit to determine 
coefficients A and B such that the standard RMC values shown in Table 
6.1 of this appendix (RMCstandard) are linearly related to 
the RMC values measured in section 5 of this appendix 
(RMCcloth):

RMCstandard ~ A * RMCcloth + B

where A and B are coefficients of the linear least-squares fit.

                                  Table 6.1--Standard RMC Values (RMCstandard)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                        RMC Percentage
                                             -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Warm soak                         Cold soak
                 ``g Force''                 -------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                15 min. spin     4 min. spin      15 min. spin     4 min. spin
                                                 (percent)        (percent)        (percent)        (percent)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.........................................             45.9             49.9             49.7             52.8
200.........................................             35.7             40.4             37.9             43.1
350.........................................             29.6             33.1             30.7             35.8
500.........................................             24.2             28.7             25.5             30.0
650.........................................             23.0             26.4             24.1             28.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    6.2 Perform an analysis of variance with replication test using two 
factors, spin speed and lot, to check the interaction of speed and lot. 
Use the values from Table 3.1 and Table 6.1 of this appendix in the 
calculation. The ``P'' value of the F-statistic for interaction between 
spin speed and lot in the variance analysis must be greater than or 
equal to 0.1. If the ``P'' value is less than 0.1, the test cloth is 
unacceptable. ``P'' is a theoretically based measure of interaction 
based on an analysis of variance.

[[Page 46788]]

7. Application of the RMC Correction Curve

    7.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in section 6.1 of 
this appendix:

RMCcorr = A x RMC + B

    7.2 Apply this RMC correction curve to measured RMC values in 
appendix J1 and appendix J2.

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