Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Direct Heating Equipment, 6088-6095 [2019-03269]
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Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 38 / Tuesday, February 26, 2019 / Proposed Rules
(42 U.S.C. 4332); Nuclear Waste Policy Act
of 1982, secs. 117(a), 132, 133, 134, 135, 137,
141, 145(g), 148, 218(a) (42 U.S.C. 10137(a),
10152, 10153, 10154, 10155, 10157, 10161,
10165(g), 10168, 10198(a)); 44 U.S.C. 3504
note.
2. In § 72.214, Certificate of
Compliance 1014 is revised to read as
follows:
For the Nuclear Regulatory Commission.
Margaret M. Doane,
Executive Director for Operations.
[FR Doc. 2019–02887 Filed 2–25–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 7590–01–P
■
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
§ 72.214 List of approved spent fuel
storage casks.
[EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003]
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Certificate Number: 1014.
Initial Certificate Effective Date: May
31, 2000.
Amendment Number 1 Effective Date:
July 15, 2002.
Amendment Number 2 Effective Date:
June 7, 2005.
Amendment Number 3 Effective Date:
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Amendment Number 4 Effective Date:
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Amendment Number 7 Effective Date:
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Amendment Number 8 Effective Date:
May 2, 2012, as corrected on November
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Amendment 8, Revision 1 Effective
Date: February 16, 2016.
Amendment Number 8, Revision 1
Effective Date: February 16, 2016.
Amendment Number 9 Effective Date:
March 11, 2014, superseded by
Amendment Number 9, Revision 1, on
March 21, 2016.
Amendment Number 9, Revision 1,
Effective Date: March 21, 2016, as
corrected (ADAMS Accession No.
ML17236A451).
Amendment Number 10 Effective
Date: May 31, 2016, as corrected
(ADAMS Accession No. ML17236A452).
Amendment Number 11 Effective
Date: February 25, 2019.
Amendment Number 12 Effective
Date: February 25, 2019.
Amendment Number 13 Effective
Date: May 13, 2019.
Safety Analysis Report (SAR)
Submitted by: Holtec International.
SAR Title: Final Safety Analysis
Report for the HI–STORM 100 Cask
System.
Docket Number: 72–1014.
Certificate Expiration Date: May 31,
2020.
Model Number: HI–STORM 100.
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Dated at Rockville, Maryland, this 14th day
of February 2019.
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Energy Conservation Program: Test
Procedure for Direct Heating
Equipment
Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information.
AGENCY:
The U.S. Department of
Energy (‘‘DOE’’) is initiating a data
collection process through this request
for information (‘‘RFI’’) to consider
whether to amend DOE’s test procedure
for direct heating equipment. To inform
interested parties and to facilitate this
process, DOE has gathered data,
identifying several issues associated
with the currently applicable test
procedures on which DOE is interested
in receiving comment. The issues
outlined in this document mainly
concern the evaluation of additional
calculations relevant to the unvented
direct heating equipment test procedure,
updates to applicable industry
standards incorporated by reference in
the vented direct heating equipment test
procedure, and any additional topics
that may inform DOE’s decisions in a
future test procedure rulemaking,
including methods to reduce regulatory
burden while ensuring the procedure’s
accuracy. DOE welcomes written
comments from the public on any
subject within the scope of this
document (including topics not raised
in this RFI).
DATES: Written comments and
information are requested and will be
accepted on or before April 12, 2019.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are
encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
Alternatively, interested persons may
submit comments, identified by docket
number EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003, by
any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: To DHE2019TP0003@
ee.doe.gov. Include docket number
EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003 in the subject
line of the message.
SUMMARY:
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3. Postal Mail: Appliance and
Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building
Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–5B,
Test Procedure RFI for Direct Heating
Equipment, Docket No. EERE–2019–BT–
TP–0003, 1000 Independence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC, 20585–0121. If
possible, please submit all items on a
compact disc (‘‘CD’’), in which case it is
not necessary to include printed copies.
4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance
and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building
Technologies Office, 950 L’Enfant Plaza
SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20024.
Telephone: (202) 287–1445. If possible,
please submit all items on a CD, in
which case it is not necessary to include
printed copies.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be
accepted. For detailed instructions on
submitting comments and additional
information on this process, see section
III of this document.
Docket: The docket for this activity,
which includes Federal Register
notices, comments, and other
supporting documents/materials, is
available for review at https://
www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the https://
www.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 docket web page can be found at
[https://www.regulations.gov/
docket?D=EERE-2019-BT-STD-0002].
The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all
documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section III of this
document for information on how to
submit comments through https://
www.regulations.gov.
Dr.
Stephanie Johnson, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE–5B, 1000
Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC, 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 287–
1943. Email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Mr. Eric Stas, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of the General Counsel,
GC–33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC, 20585–0121.
Telephone: (202) 586–5827. Email:
Eric.Stas@hq.doe.gov.
For further information on how to
submit a comment or review other
public comments and the docket,
contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287–
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
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Federal Register / Vol. 84, No. 38 / Tuesday, February 26, 2019 / Proposed Rules
1445 or by email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
A. Scope and Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
2. Vented Heaters
B. Updates to Industry Standards
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
2. ANSI Z21.86
C. Test Method for Unvented Heaters
D. Test Method for Vented Heaters
E. Performance and Utility
F. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
Direct heating equipment (DHE) is
included in the list of ‘‘covered
products’’ for which DOE is authorized
to establish and amend energy
conservation standards and test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(9)) The
definition of ‘‘direct heating equipment’’
includes vented home heating
equipment and unvented home heating
equipment. 10 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 430.2. (Hereafter in
this notice, the terms ‘‘vented heater’’
and ‘‘unvented heater’’ are used to
describe the two types of direct heating
equipment). DOE’s test procedures for
unvented heaters are prescribed at 10
CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix G
(‘‘Appendix G’’). DOE’s test procedures
for vented heaters are prescribed at 10
CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix O
(‘‘Appendix O’’). DOE prescribes energy
conservation standards for vented
heaters at 10 CFR 430.32(i). DOE does
not currently prescribe energy
conservation standards for unvented
heaters. The following sections discuss
DOE’s authority to establish and amend
test procedures for DHE, as well as
relevant background information
regarding DOE’s consideration of test
procedures for this product.
A. Authority and Background
The Energy Policy and Conservation
Act of 1975 (‘‘EPCA’’ or ‘‘the Act’’),1
Public Law 94–163 (42 U.S.C. 6291–
6317, as codified), among other things,
authorizes DOE to regulate the energy
efficiency of a number of consumer
products and industrial equipment. (42
U.S.C. 6291–6317, as codified) Title III,
1 All references to EPCA in this document refer
to the statute as amended through America’s Water
Infrastructure Act of 2018, Public Law 115–270
(Oct. 23, 2018).
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Part B 2 of EPCA established the Energy
Conservation Program for Consumer
Products Other Than Automobiles,
which sets forth a variety of provisions
designed to improve energy efficiency.
These products include DHE, the
subject of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(9))
Under EPCA, DOE’s energy
conservation program consists
essentially of four parts: (1) Testing, (2)
labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and
enforcement procedures. Relevant
provisions of the Act specifically
include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291),
energy conservation standards (42
U.S.C. 6295), test procedures (42 U.S.C.
6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C.
6294), and the authority to require
information and reports from
manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
Federal energy efficiency
requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally
supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing,
labeling, and standards. (42 U.S.C. 6297)
DOE may, however, grant waivers of
Federal preemption for particular State
laws or regulations, in accordance with
the procedures and other provisions of
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
The Federal 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 pursuant to EPCA (42
U.S.C. 6295(s)), and (2) making
representations about the efficiency of
those consumer products (42 U.S.C.
6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these
test procedures to determine whether
the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42
U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth
the criteria and procedures DOE must
follow when prescribing or amending
test procedures for covered products.
EPCA requires that any test procedures
prescribed or amended under this
section be reasonably designed to
produce test results which 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
requires that the test procedure not be
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
If DOE determines that a test
procedure amendment is warranted, it
must publish proposed test procedures
and offer the public an opportunity to
2 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the
U.S. Code, Part B was redesignated Part A.
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present oral and written comments on
them. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE
amend its test procedures for all covered
products to integrate measures of
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption into the overall energy
efficiency, energy consumption, or other
energy descriptor, taking into
consideration the most current versions
of Standards 62301 and 62087 of the
International Electrotechnical
Commission (‘‘IEC’’), unless the current
test procedure already incorporates the
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption, or if such integration is
technically infeasible. (42 U.S.C.
6295(gg)(2)(A)) If an integrated test
procedure is technically infeasible, DOE
must prescribe separate standby mode
and off mode energy use test procedures
for the covered product, if a separate
test is technically feasible. (Id.)
EPCA also requires that, at least once
every 7 years, DOE evaluate test
procedures for each type of covered
product, including DHE, to determine
whether amended test procedures
would more accurately or fully comply
with the requirements for the test
procedures to not be unduly
burdensome to conduct and be
reasonably designed to produce test
results that reflect energy efficiency,
energy use, and estimated operating
costs during a representative average
use cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(1)(A)) If the Secretary
determines, on his own behalf or in
response to a petition by any interested
person, that a test procedure should be
prescribed or amended, the Secretary
shall promptly publish in the Federal
Register proposed test procedures and
afford interested persons an opportunity
to present oral and written data, views,
and arguments with respect to such
procedures. The comment period on a
proposed rule to amend a test procedure
shall be at least 60 days and may not
exceed 270 days. In prescribing or
amending a test procedure, the
Secretary shall take into account such
information as the Secretary determines
relevant to such procedure, including
technological developments relating to
energy use or energy efficiency of the
type (or class) of covered products
involved. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)) If DOE
determines that test procedure revisions
are not appropriate, DOE must publish
its determination not to amend the test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)(ii))
DOE is publishing this RFI to collect
data and information to inform its
decision in satisfaction of the 7-year
review requirement specified in EPCA.
(42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
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B. Rulemaking History
DOE’s existing test procedures for
unvented heaters and vented heaters
appear at Appendix G and Appendix O,
respectively. DOE originally established
Appendix G in a final rule published in
the Federal Register on May 10, 1978.
43 FR 20128, 20132–20146. DOE
amended the test procedures for
unvented home heating equipment on
March 28, 1984 (‘‘March 28, 1984 final
rule’’) to prescribe test procedures for
fossil-fuel-fired unvented heaters and to
add a calculation of the estimated
operational cost per million British
thermal unit (Btu) of output. 49 FR
12148, 12157–12158. DOE most recently
updated Appendix G in a final rule
published December 17, 2012
(‘‘December 17, 2012 final rule’’) to
establish procedures for measuring
energy consumption in standby mode
and off mode, pursuant to EPCA. 77 FR
74559. 74571–74572. In the December
17, 2012 final rule, DOE did not
incorporate standby mode and off mode
energy into the annual energy
consumption calculations for unvented
heaters because it determined that a
detailed annual energy consumption
accounting was not appropriate for
unvented heaters, as described further
in section II.C of this document. 77 FR
74559, 74561.
DOE originally established Appendix
O in a final rule published in the
Federal Register on May 10, 1978. 43
FR 20147, 20182–20205. DOE amended
the test procedures for vented home
heating equipment in the March 28,
1984 final rule to include a simplified
procedure for heaters with modulating
controls, and to address manually
controlled vented heaters, vented
heaters equipped with thermal stack
dampers, and floor furnaces. 49 FR
12148, 12169–12178. DOE amended the
test procedure for vented heaters again
on May 12, 1997 to add calculations for
electrical energy consumption, to clarify
the pilot light energy measurement for
manually-controlled vented heaters, and
to update the provisions for determining
the efficiency of manually-controlled
heaters with variable input rates. 62 FR
26140, 26156–26157. In the December
17, 2012 final rule, DOE established
procedures for measuring power
consumption in standby mode and off
mode and for calculating the energy
consumption associated with operation
in standby mode and off mode. 77 FR
74559, 74561.
In the most recent test procedure
rulemaking for DHE, DOE added
provisions for testing vented home
heating equipment that utilize
condensing technology and
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incorporated by reference six industry
test standards to replace the outdated
test standards referred to in the then
existing DOE test procedure. 80 FR 792
(Jan. 6, 2015) (‘‘January 6, 2015 Final
Rule’’). DOE determined at that time not
to amend the test procedures for
unvented heaters. Id. at 793.
For unvented electric heaters that are
the primary heating source for the
home, Appendix G includes provisions
for measuring electric power and
calculating annual energy consumption.
For all electric and gas unvented
heaters, Appendix G includes
provisions for determining the rated
output. Appendix G does not contain
provisions for determining energy
efficiency, as all unvented heaters are
generally considered to be 100-percent
efficient. Accordingly, DOE has not
established energy conservation
standards for unvented heaters.
For vented heaters, Appendix O
includes provisions for determining
annual fuel utilization efficiency
(‘‘AFUE’’), which is the efficiency
metric used for determining compliance
with the energy conservation standards.
Appendix O also specifies provisions
for determining annual energy
consumption. Manufacturers must use
the test procedures at Appendix O to
demonstrate compliance with the
current energy conservation standards
for vented home heating equipment.
II. Request for Information
In the following sections, DOE has
identified a variety of issues on which
it seeks input to aid in the development
of the technical and economic analyses
regarding whether amended test
procedures for DHE may be warranted.
Specifically, DOE is requesting
comment on any opportunities to
streamline and simplify testing
requirements for DHE.
Additionally, DOE welcomes
comments on other issues relevant to
the conduct of this process that may not
be specifically identified in this
document. In particular, DOE notes that
under Executive Order 13771,
‘‘Reducing Regulation and Controlling
Regulatory Costs,’’ Executive Branch
agencies such as DOE are directed to
manage the costs associated with the
imposition of expenditures required to
comply with Federal regulations. See 82
FR 9339 (Feb. 3, 2017). Pursuant to that
Executive Order, DOE encourages the
public to provide input on measures
DOE could take to lower the cost of its
regulations applicable to DHE consistent
with the requirements of EPCA.
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A. Scope and Definitions
The test procedures for DHE cover
those products that meet the definitions
of ‘‘direct heating equipment’’ and
‘‘home heating equipment,’’ as codified
at 10 CFR 430.2 and defined as follows:
1. ‘‘Direct heating equipment’’ means
vented home heating equipment and
unvented home heating equipment.
2. ‘‘Home heating equipment, not
including furnaces’’ means vented home
heating equipment and unvented home
heating equipment.
1. Unvented Heaters
The unvented heaters test procedure
covers those products that meet the
definitions for ‘‘unvented home heating
equipment,’’ as codified at 10 CFR
430.2. DOE defines unvented heaters
and the various sub-types of unvented
heaters as follows:
1. ‘‘Unvented home heating
equipment’’ means a class of home
heating equipment, not including
furnaces, used for the purpose of
furnishing heat to a space proximate to
such heater directly from the heater and
without duct connections and includes
electric heaters and unvented gas and
oil heaters.
2. ‘‘Electric heater’’ means an electric
appliance in which heat is generated
from electrical energy and dissipated by
convection and radiation and includes
baseboard electric heaters, ceiling
electric heaters, floor electric heaters,
portable electric heaters, and wall
electric heaters.
3. ‘‘Primary heater’’ means a heating
device that is the principal source of
heat for a structure and includes
baseboard electric heaters, ceiling
electric heaters, and wall electric
heaters.
4. ‘‘Supplementary heater’’ means a
heating device that provides heat to a
space in addition to that which is
supplied by a primary heater.
Supplementary heaters include portable
electric heaters.
5. ‘‘Baseboard electric heater’’ means
an electric heater which is intended to
be recessed in or surface mounted on
walls at floor level, which is
characterized by long, low physical
dimensions, and which transfers heat by
natural convection and/or radiation.
6. ‘‘Ceiling electric heater’’ means an
electric heater which is intended to be
recessed in, surface mounted on, or
hung from a ceiling, and which transfers
heat by radiation and/or convection
(either natural or forced).
7. ‘‘Floor electric heater’’ means an
electric heater which is intended to be
recessed in a floor, and which transfers
by radiation and/or convection (either
natural or forced).
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8. ‘‘Portable electric heater’’ means an
electric heater which is intended to
stand unsupported, and can be moved
from place to place within a structure.
It is connected to electric supply by
means of a cord and plug, and transfers
heat by radiation and/or convention
(either natural or forced).
9. ‘‘Wall electric heater’’ means an
electric heater (excluding baseboard
electric heaters) which is intended to be
recessed in or surface mounted on
walls, which transfers heat by radiation
and/or convection (either natural or
forced) and which includes forced
convectors, natural convectors, radiant
heaters, high wall or valance heaters.
10. ‘‘Unvented gas heater’’ means an
unvented, self-contained, free-standing,
non-recessed gas-burning appliance
which furnishes warm air by gravity or
fan circulation.
11. ‘‘Unvented oil heater’’ means an
unvented, self-contained, free-standing,
non-recessed oil-burning appliance
which furnishes warm air by gravity or
fan circulation.
Issue A.1 DOE requests comment on
the definitions currently applicable to
unvented heaters and whether any of
the definitions should be revised, and if
so, how. Please provide a rationale for
any suggested change. DOE notes that
floor electric heaters are not currently
listed among the other types of heaters
included in the definition of a ‘‘primary
heater.’’ DOE understands that floor
electric heaters have similar heat output
as the types of heaters listed in the
definition of ‘‘primary heater’’ and may
provide the primary source of heat in
small dwellings. DOE requests comment
on whether floor electric heaters should
be specifically defined and also
included in the definition of ‘‘primary
heater.’’
2. Vented Heaters
The vented heaters test procedure
covers those products that meet the
definitions for ‘‘vented home heating
equipment,’’ as codified at 10 CFR
430.2. DOE defines vented heaters and
the various sub-types of vented heaters
as follows:
1. ‘‘Vented home heating equipment’’
or ‘‘vented heater’’ means a class of
home heating equipment, not including
furnaces, designed to furnish warmed
air to the living space of a residence,
directly from the device, without duct
connections (except that boots not to
exceed 10 inches beyond the casing may
be permitted) and includes: Vented wall
furnace, vented floor furnace, and
vented room heater.
2. ‘‘Vented floor furnace’’ means a
self-contained vented heater suspended
from the floor of the space being heated,
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taking air for combustion from outside
this space. The vented floor furnace
supplies heated air circulated by gravity
or by a fan directly into the space to be
heated through openings in the casing.
3. ‘‘Vented room heater’’ means a selfcontained, free standing, non-recessed,
vented heater for furnishing warmed air
to the space in which it is installed. The
vented room heater supplies heated air
circulated by gravity or by a fan directly
into the space to be heated through
openings in the casing.
4. ‘‘Vented wall furnace’’ means a
self-contained vented heater complete
with grilles or the equivalent, designed
for incorporation in, or permanent
attachment to, a wall of a residence and
furnishing heated air circulated by
gravity or by a fan directly into the
space to be heated through openings in
the casing.
Issue A.2 DOE requests comment on
the definitions currently applicable to
vented heaters and whether any of the
definitions should be revised, and if so,
how. Please provide a rationale for any
suggested change.
B. Updates to Industry Standards
DOE’s current test procedures for DHE
reference industry standards for various
aspects of the test procedures. All
materials incorporated by reference are
listed at 10 CFR 430.3 and within
Appendices G and O. DOE intends to
fully review all the referenced standards
in the DHE test procedures as part of
this evaluation. The following is a list
of the shorthand titles and full titles of
all the referenced industry standards
currently used in the DHE test
procedures.
• ‘‘ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007’’ means
the test standard published by the
American Society of Heating,
Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers titled, ‘‘Method of Test for
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of
Residential Central Furnaces and
Boilers.’’
• ‘‘ANSI Z21.86–2008’’ means the
standard published by the American
National Standards Institute titled,
‘‘Vented Gas-Fired Space Heating
Appliances.’’
• ‘‘ASTM D2156–09’’ means the
standard published by the American
Society of Testing and Materials
International titled, ‘‘Standard Test
Method for Smoke Density in Flue
Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels.’’
• ‘‘IEC 62301 (Second Edition)’’
means the standard published by the
International Electrotechnical
Commission titled, ‘‘Household
electrical appliances—Measurement of
standby power’’ (Edition 2.0 2011–01).
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• ‘‘UL 729–2003’’ means the test
standard published by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. titled, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Fired Floor Furnaces.’’
• ‘‘UL 730–2003’’ means the test
standard published by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. titled, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Fired Wall Furnaces.’’
• ‘‘UL 896–1993’’ means the test
standard published by Underwriters
Laboratories, Inc. titled, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Burning Stoves.’’
DOE conducted a preliminary
examination of the available industry
test standards and found that updates
exist for all the incorporated standards
except for ASTM D2156–09 and IEC
62301 (Second Edition). DOE reviewed
all of those updated industry test
standards.
However, when reviewing the revised
versions of UL 729–2003 (last revised
November 22, 2016), 730–2003 (last
revised November 22, 2016), and 896–
1993 (last revised November 22, 2016),
DOE found that no revisions have been
made to the sections incorporated by
reference to the vented heaters test
procedure.
Issue B.1 DOE requests any
information in relation to the revisions
to the existing standards that have been
incorporated by reference, including the
purpose of the updates and whether any
of the updates would be expected to
impact the test burden or measured
energy consumption under the DOE test
procedures for vented and unvented
heaters.
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
DOE is aware that ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2007 has been superseded by
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017. DOE
examined both versions of the ANSI/
ASHRAE 103 standard and found
several changes to sections incorporated
by reference within the vented heater
test procedure. DOE understands many
of the changes to be minor clarifications,
such as adding metric units or changing
the order of a sentence without affecting
its intent. However, other changes could
have a noticeable effect on the vented
heater test procedure, if adopted by
DOE. Specifically, in section 6.3, titled
‘‘Pressure,’’ the allowable error value for
oil pressure measurement was removed,
although the introductory text in the
sections still states that it applies to oil.
In section 6.8, titled ‘‘Smoke,’’ the
referenced standard ASTM D2156–94
was updated to ASTM D2156–09, which
is the standard that is currently
incorporated by reference in the vented
heater test procedure. In section 8.6,
titled ‘‘Jacket Loss Measurement,’’
figures 12 and 13 were replaced by a set
of equations. In section 9.10, titled
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‘‘Optional Test Procedures for
Condensing Furnaces and Boilers That
Have No Off-Period Flue Losses,’’ the
maximum post-purge period to use a
value of 0.05 for DF and DP increased
from less than 5 seconds to less than or
equal to 30 seconds for units with no
measurable airflow through the
combustion chamber and heat
exchanger.
Issue B.2 DOE requests comment on
whether removing the allowable error in
the oil pressure measurement value
from section 6.3 of the ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2017 standard was intentional. If
so, DOE requests comment on what
allowable error measurement should be
used within the vented heater test
procedure (Note: ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2007 stated ±0.5 psi).
Issue B.3 DOE requests comment on
whether the replacement of figures 12
and 13 with a set of equations in section
8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 is
appropriate for the vented heater test
procedure.
Issue B.4 DOE requests comment on
whether the maximum post-purge time
should be increased from less than 5
seconds to less than or equal to 30
seconds for vented heaters with no
measurable airflow through the
combustion chamber and heat
exchanger.
2. ANSI Z21.86
DOE is aware that ANSI Z21.86–2008
has been superseded by ANSI Z21.86–
2016. DOE examined both versions of
the ANSI Z21.86 standard and only
found minor changes to sections
incorporated by reference within the
vented heater test procedure. Section 6
was moved to section 9, and section 8
was moved to section 11. The figures
and tables referenced in these sections
were moved from the ‘‘Tables
Referenced In Part 1, Part II and
Exhibits’’ and ‘‘Figures Referenced In
Part 1, Part II and Exhibits’’ sections at
the end of the standard to throughout
the standard where they are first
referenced. Accordingly, DOE expects
that these changes would not
substantively impact the test burden or
measured energy consumption under
the DOE test procedures.
C. Test Method for Unvented Heaters
For electric heaters, section 2.1 of
Appendix G specifies measuring and
recording the maximum electrical
power consumed when heating, in
terms of kilowatts, and section 3.3
specifies calculating a rated output. For
primary electric heaters only, section
3.1 of Appendix G specifies the
calculation for the national average
annual energy consumption based on
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the maximum electrical power, and
section 3.2 specifies a calculation for the
annual energy consumption by
geographic region. The calculation of
national average annual energy
consumption in section 3.1 of Appendix
G is based on several assumptions,
including the national average annual
heating load hours of 2080, an
adjustment factor of 0.77,3 and a typical
oversizing factor for primary electric
heaters of 1.2.4 The calculation of
regional annual energy consumption in
section 3.2 of Appendix G is based on
the same assumptions as the national
value, except that regional heating load
hours are provided by a figure depicting
geographic regions the United States
and the associated heating load hours
for each region.
Issue C.1 DOE requests comment on
whether the assumptions for calculating
the national and regional values of
annual fuel energy consumption are still
appropriate.
For unvented natural gas, propane,
and oil heaters, section 2.2 of Appendix
G specifies measuring the maximum
fuel input rate of the heater over the
course of one hour. Section 2.1 of
Appendix G requires the maximum
auxiliary electrical power to be recorded
for unvented gas and oil heaters that use
auxiliary electrical energy. Section 3.4
of Appendix G provides calculations to
determine the rated output for unvented
gas and oil heaters based on the
measurements of the hourly input rate
and maximum electrical power. DOE
notes that Appendix G currently does
not specify calculating annual fuel
energy consumption for unvented gas
and oil heaters.
Issue C.2 DOE requests comment on
whether annual fuel energy
consumption should be calculated for
unvented natural gas, propane, and oil
heaters. If annual fuel energy
consumption should be calculated, DOE
requests comment on what equations
and assumptions should be used.
For unvented heaters equipped with a
pilot light and/or that use electrical
energy, sections 2.3 and 2.4 of
Appendix G specify measuring the fossil
fuel input rate and/or standby electrical
power, respectively. These values are
not used in any calculations. If the pilot
light is designed to be turned off by the
user when not in use, and the heater has
instructions for turning the unit off
provided on a label on the heater near
the gas control valve, then section 2.3.1
3 The adjustment factor is a multiplier to adjust
the heating load hours to the approximate burner
operating hours actually experienced by the system.
4 The oversizing factor accounts for space heating
products generally being oversized when compared
to the actual heating load.
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of Appendix G specifies that the
measurement of pilot light energy
consumption is not required. Similarly,
if the heater is designed to be turned off
when not in use, if turning the control
to ‘‘off’’ will shut off the electrical
supply, and if an instruction to turn off
the unit is provided on a label on the
heater, then section 2.4.1 of Appendix G
specifies that the standby electrical
power does not need to be measured.
In the December 17, 2012 final rule,
DOE determined not to include standby
mode and off mode energy use in the
annual energy consumption calculations
for unvented heaters because a detailed
annual energy consumption accounting
was not deemed appropriate for this
product type (i.e., there is no annual
accounting at all for supplemental
heaters and only a simplified assigned
value for primary heaters). 77 FR 74559,
74561. In the August 30, 2010 NOPR
that preceded the December 17, 2012
final rule, DOE explained that the
integration of standby mode and off
mode energy was not necessary or
appropriate for the following reasons:
1. The test procedure does not include
energy efficiency or energy use metrics that
would allow for the integration of standby
mode and off mode energy use.
2. Standby mode energy use (defined as
energy use during the heating season when
the heater is not on) is as effective in heating
the space as active mode energy use.
3. Off mode energy consumption (defined
as non-heating-season energy consumption)
could be considered ineffective energy use
and, accordingly, could be minimized by
prescribing a separate energy conservation
standard. However, DOE lacked data on
consumer use that would be needed to define
a representative off mode for unvented
heaters.5
See 75 FR 52892, 52898–52899 (Aug.
30, 2010).
Issue C.3 DOE requests comment on
whether annual fuel energy
consumption for unvented heaters
should include standby mode and off
mode energy use. DOE is also interested
in detailed information on any
additional test burden that would result
from calculating annual fuel energy
consumption with standby mode and off
mode energy use and if so, the nature
and extent of that burden.
Issue C.4 DOE requests any
information in relation to annual and/or
regional heating season data, heating
mode operating hours, standby mode
hours, and off mode hours for unvented
heaters.
5 For example, DOE lacked information on the
fraction of the year unvented heaters might be
unplugged or otherwise disconnected from the
energy source, and the extent to which pilot lights
are turned off during the non-heating season.
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D. Test Method for Vented Heaters
For vented heaters, Appendix O
specifies provisions for determining the
product’s AFUE, which is the efficiency
descriptor established by EPCA for
direct heating equipment. (42 U.S.C.
6291(22)(A))
As discussed above, section 3.8 of
Appendix O contains provisions for
testing vented heaters that utilize
condensing technology. Condensing
technology is a design strategy that
increases the efficiency of a heating
appliance by extracting additional
thermal energy from the flue gases.6
These provisions are essentially the
same as those contained in ANSI/
ASHRAE 103–2007 that are applicable
to condensing furnaces and boilers.
However, because of the numerous
additions and modifications needed to
apply the condensing technology
provisions to vented heaters, DOE
includes the condensing provisions in
Appendix O, rather than incorporating
by reference the relevant provisions of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007.
Issue D.1 DOE requests comment
and data on manufacturers’ and test
laboratories’ experience with the
condensing provisions in Appendix O.
DOE requests detailed information
regarding any test burden associated
with conducting the condensing
provisions, including the nature and
extent of any such burden. DOE also
requests comment on ways to
potentially reduce any test burden of the
provisions specific to condensing
technology.
DOE has identified several areas of
the vented heater test procedure that
may warrant further review to
determine whether additional detail or
specification may be needed to improve
the readability and ease of
implementation of the test procedure.
In the definitions in section 1.0 of
Appendix O, section 1.21 defines
‘‘manually controlled vented heaters’’ as
either gas or oil fueled vented heaters
equipped without thermostats. DOE
believes some vented heaters could
potentially be designed to operate with
timers or electronic controls without
being equipped with thermostats, but
that are not manually controlled. DOE
questions whether ‘‘manually controlled
vented heaters’’ should be defined to
exclude those ‘‘without automatic
means of control or operation,’’ as
6 In a condensing system, water vapor contained
within the flue gas (as a byproduct of the
combustion process) is condensed and drained out
of the system. The process of condensing water
vapor into liquid water releases latent heat, which
is transferred to the air stream, thereby increasing
the heating efficiency.
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opposed to only those ‘‘without
thermostats.’’
Issue D.2 DOE requests comment on
whether the definition for ‘‘Manually
controlled vented heater’’ should be
amended, and if so, how.
Issue D.3 DOE also requests
comment on whether the other
definitions provided in section 1.0 of
Appendix O are all still appropriate, or
if other updates are needed.
Within section 4.0 of Appendix O,
titled ‘‘Calculations,’’ the balance point
temperature (TC) can be determined
either with an equation or using the
values provided in Table 3 of Appendix
O. DOE recognizes that a value of TC
derived from the equation may not be
the same as that obtained from Table 3.
Similarly, values for the fraction of
the heating load and average outdoor
temperature at the reduced and
maximum operating modes (variables
X1, X2, TOA, and TOA*) are determined
using either Table 3 or Figure 1 of
Appendix O (which provides a graph
showing TOA, and TOA* variables for any
balance point temperature between
16 °F and 62 °F), or Figure 2 of
Appendix O (which provides a graph
showing variables X1 and X2 for any
balance point temperature between 0 °F
and 62 °F). DOE recognizes that Table 3,
Figure 1, and Figure 2 may yield
different results because Table 3
provides discreet values for X1, X2, TOA,
and TOA*, whereas Figure 1 and Figure
2 provide continuous graphical curves
for determining the relevant variables.
DOE reviewed a limited amount of test
data in an effort to estimate the impact
of the different methods for determining
the aforementioned variables on the
measured AFUE value. DOE found that
the different methods resulted in a
difference on the order of hundredths of
a percentage point of AFUE, which DOE
would not expect to affect the measured
AFUE in most cases when rounded to a
whole number. However, DOE seeks to
further understand this issue and
whether there are any known or
potential impacts from the difference in
values.
Issue D.4 DOE requests comment on
whether the differences in the balance
point temperature (TC) produced by the
equation and as obtained from Table 3
can result in different results in the
values for the fraction of the heating
load (X1 and X2) and average outdoor
temperature at the reduced and
maximum operating modes (TOA and
TOA*), and if so, the extent of any such
difference.
Issue D.5 DOE requests comment on
whether any differences in the values of
X1, X2, TOA, and TOA* within Table 3
and Figures 1 and 2 could produce
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6093
different results, especially in AFUE,
and if so, the extent of such differences.
If any such difference in results would
occur, DOE requests comment on
whether any of these variables should
be obtained using equations instead of
Table 3 or Figures 1 and 2.
In a notice of proposed rulemaking
published October 24, 2013, DOE
proposed an optional use of a default
jacket loss value of 1 percent for vented
floor furnaces, as an alternative to
performing a jacket loss test. 78 FR
63410, 63415. In the January 6, 2015
final rule, DOE decided not to adopt the
1 percent default jacket loss value for
vented floor furnaces after reviewing
test data that revealed an average jacket
loss of 3.05 percent. 80 FR 792, 794.
Issue D.6 DOE requests comment
and test data on whether a higher
default jacket loss value should be
considered for vented floor furnaces.
DOE previously stated that DHE that
can operate in manual or automatic
modes should be tested in automatic
mode. 80 FR 792, 795 (Jan. 6, 2015).
Issue D.7 DOE requests comment on
whether DHE that have multiple
automatic operation modes exist, and if
so, whether further direction regarding
the tested operating mode is necessary.
Section 3.6.1 of Appendix O specifies
that on units with no measurable
airflow through the unit when not in
heating mode (as determined by a
smoke stick test defined in section 3.6.2
of Appendix O), both the off-cycle flue
gas draft factor (DF) and the ratio of flue
gas mass flow during the off-period to
the flue gas mass flow during the onperiod (DP) may be set equal to 0.05.
DOE is considering whether to allow
models using condensing or induced
draft technology to automatically be
considered to have no measurable
airflow, and, thus, be able to use the
defined value of 0.05 for DF and DP
without performing the smoke stick test.
Issue D.8 DOE requests comment on
the extent to which vented heaters
currently use the provisions in 3.6.1 and
3.6.2 of Appendix O, whether models
with induced draft or condensing
technology are always capable of
meeting the conditions to use the
default draft factor, and whether
provisions should be added to the
vented heater test procedure to allow
condensing or induced draft DHE to be
considered to have no measurable
airflow and to use a constant value of
0.05 for DF and DP without confirmation
testing.
E. Performance and Utility
DHE provides space heating (warm
air) directly to the consumer’s living
space without the use of duct
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connections. Relevant to DHE may also
be the ability to provide ‘‘quiet’’
operation, non-heating air circulation,
and space humidification, as well as the
aesthetic appearance of the unit.
Issue E.1 DOE requests comment
whether the test procedures impact the
availability of such features on DHE.
F. Other Test Procedure Topics
In addition to the issues identified
earlier in this document, DOE welcomes
comment on any other aspect of the
existing test procedures for DHE not
already addressed by the specific areas
identified in this document. DOE
particularly seeks information that
would improve the repeatability,
reproducibility, and consumer
representativeness of the test
procedures. DOE also requests
information that would help DOE create
a procedure that would limit
manufacturer test burden through
streamlining or simplifying testing
requirements. Comments regarding the
repeatability and reproducibility are
also welcome.
DOE also requests feedback on any
potential amendments to the existing
test procedure(s) that could be
considered to address impacts on
manufacturers, including small
businesses. Regarding the Federal test
method, DOE seeks comment on the
degree to which the DOE test procedure
should consider and be harmonized
with the most recent relevant industry
standards for DHE and whether any
changes to the Federal test method
would provide additional benefits to the
public. DOE also requests comment on
the benefits and burdens of adopting
any industry/voluntary consensus-based
or other appropriate test procedure,
without modification.
Additionally, DOE requests comment
on whether the existing test procedures
limit a manufacturer’s ability to provide
additional features to consumers of
DHE. DOE particularly seeks
information on how the test procedures
could be amended to reduce the cost of
new or additional features and make it
more likely that such features are
included on DHE.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to
submit in writing by April 12, 2019,
comments and information on matters
addressed in this notice and on other
matters relevant to DOE’s consideration
of amended test procedures for DHE.
These comments and information will
aid in the development of a test
procedure NOPR for DHE if DOE
determines that amended test
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procedures may be appropriate for these
products.
Submitting comments via https://
www.regulations.gov. The https://
www.regulations.gov web page will
require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact
information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your
contact information will not be publicly
viewable except for your first and last
names, organization name (if any), and
submitter representative name (if any).
If your comment is not processed
properly because of technical
difficulties, DOE will use this
information to contact you. If DOE
cannot read your comment due to
technical difficulties and cannot contact
you for clarification, DOE may not be
able to consider your comment.
However, your contact information
will be publicly viewable if you include
it in the comment or in any documents
attached to your comment. Any
information that you do not want to be
publicly viewable should not be
included in your comment, nor in any
document attached to your comment.
Persons viewing comments will see only
first and last names, organization
names, correspondence containing
comments, and any documents
submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to https://
www.regulations.gov information for
which disclosure is restricted by statute,
such as trade secrets and commercial or
financial information (hereinafter
referred to as Confidential Business
Information (‘‘CBI’’)). Comments
submitted through https://
www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed
as CBI. Comments received through the
website will waive any CBI claims for
the information submitted. For
information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information
section.
DOE processes submissions made
through https://www.regulations.gov
before posting. Normally, comments
will be posted within a few days of
being submitted. However, if large
volumes of comments are being
processed simultaneously, your
comment may not be viewable for up to
several weeks. Please keep the comment
tracking number that https://
www.regulations.gov provides after you
have successfully uploaded your
comment.
Submitting comments via email, hand
delivery, or postal mail. Comments and
documents submitted via email, hand
delivery, or postal mail also will be
posted to https://www.regulations.gov. If
you do not want your personal contact
information to be publicly viewable, do
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not include it in your comment or any
accompanying documents. Instead,
provide your contact information in a
cover letter. Include your first and last
names, email address, telephone
number, and optional mailing address.
The cover letter will not be publicly
viewable as long as it does not include
any comments.
Include contact information each time
you submit comments, data, documents,
and other information to DOE. If you
submit via postal mail or hand delivery,
please provide all items on a CD, if
feasible. It is not necessary to submit
printed copies. No telefacsimiles (faxes)
will be accepted.
Comments, data, and other
information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in
PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file
format. Provide documents that are not
secured, written in English, and free of
any defects or viruses. Documents
should not contain special characters or
any form of encryption and, if possible,
they should carry the electronic
signature of the author.
Campaign form letters. Please submit
campaign form letters by the originating
organization in batches of between 50 to
500 form letters per PDF or as one form
letter with a list of supporters’ names
compiled into one or more PDFs. This
reduces comment processing and
posting time.
Confidential Business Information.
Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person
submitting information that he or she
believes to be confidential and exempt
by law from public disclosure should
submit via email, postal mail, or hand
delivery two well-marked copies: One
copy of the document marked
‘‘confidential’’ including all the
information believed to be confidential,
and one copy of the document marked
‘‘non-confidential’’ with the information
believed to be confidential deleted.
Submit these documents via email or on
a CD, if feasible. DOE will make its own
determination about the confidential
status of the information and treat it
according to its determination.
Factors of interest to DOE when
evaluating requests to treat submitted
information as confidential include: (1)
A description of the item; (2) whether
and why such items are customarily
treated as confidential within the
industry; (3) whether the information is
generally known by or available from
other sources; (4) whether the
information has previously been made
available to others without obligation
concerning its confidentiality; (5) an
explanation of the competitive injury to
the submitting person which would
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result from public disclosure; (6) when
such information might lose its
confidential character due to the
passage of time, and (7) why disclosure
of the information would be contrary to
the public interest.
It is DOE’s policy that all comments
may be included in the public docket,
without change and as received,
including any personal information
provided in the comments (except
information deemed to be exempt from
public disclosure).
DOE considers public participation to
be a very important part of the process
for developing test procedures and
energy conservation standards. DOE
actively encourages the participation
and interaction of the public during the
comment period in each stage of this
process. Interactions with and between
members of the public provide a
balanced discussion of the issues and
assist DOE in the process. Anyone who
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing
list to receive future notices and
information about this process should
contact Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287–
1445 or via email at
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Signed in Washington, DC, on February 13,
2019.
Steven Chalk,
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy
Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy.
[FR Doc. 2019–03269 Filed 2–25–19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE–2019–BT–STD–0002]
Energy Conservation Program: Energy
Conservation Standards for Direct
Heating Equipment
Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information.
AGENCY:
The U.S. Department of
Energy (‘‘DOE’’) is initiating an effort to
determine whether to amend the current
energy conservation standards for direct
heating equipment. Under the Energy
Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, as
amended (‘‘EPCA’’), DOE must
periodically review these standards and
publish either a notice of proposed
rulemaking (‘‘NOPR’’) to propose new
standards for direct heating equipment
or a notice of determination that the
SUMMARY:
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existing standards do not need to be
amended. This request for information
(‘‘RFI’’) solicits information from the
public to help DOE determine whether
amended standards for direct heating
equipment would result in significant
energy savings and whether such
standards would be technologically
feasible and economically justified. DOE
welcomes written comments from the
public on any subject within the scope
of this document (including topics not
raised in this RFI).
DATES: Written comments and
information are requested and will be
accepted on or before April 12, 2019.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are
encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at
https://www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
Alternatively, interested persons may
submit comments, identified by docket
number EERE–2019–BT–STD–0002, by
any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://
www.regulations.gov. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: DHE2019STD0002@
ee.doe.gov. Include the docket number
EERE–2019–BT–STD–0002 in the
subject line of the message.
3. Postal Mail: Appliance and
Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building
Technologies Office, Mailstop EE–5B,
Energy Conservation Standards RFI for
Direct Heating Equipment, Docket No.
EERE–2019–BT–STD–0002, 1000
Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC, 20585–0121. If possible, please
submit all items on a compact disc
(‘‘CD’’), in which case it is not necessary
to include printed copies.
4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance
and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building
Technologies Office, 950 L’Enfant Plaza
SW, 6th Floor, Washington, DC, 20024.
Telephone: (202) 287–1445. If possible,
please submit all items on a CD, in
which case it is not necessary to include
printed copies.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be
accepted. For detailed instructions on
submitting comments and additional
information on this process, see section
III of this document.
Docket: The docket for this activity,
which includes Federal Register
notices, comments, and other
supporting documents/materials, is
available for review at https://
www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the https://
www.regulations.gov index. However,
some documents listed in the index,
such as those containing information
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that is exempt from public disclosure,
may not be publicly available.
The docket web page can be found at
https://www.regulations.gov/
#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2019-BT-STD0002. The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all
documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section III of this
document for information on how to
submit comments through https://
www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr.
Stephanie Johnson, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE–5B, 1000
Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC, 20585–0121. Telephone: (202) 287–
1943. Email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
Mr. Eric Stas, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of the General Counsel,
GC–33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW,
Washington, DC 20585–0121.
Telephone: (202) 586–5827. Email:
Eric.Stas@hq.doe.gov.
For further information on how to
submit a comment or review other
public comments and the docket,
contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287–
1445 or by email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking Process
II. Request for Information and Comments
A. Products Covered by This Process
1. Unvented Heaters
2. Vented Heaters
B. Market and Technology Assessment
1. Product Classes
2. Technology Assessment
C. Screening Analysis
D. Engineering Analysis
1. Baseline Efficiency Levels
2. Maximum Available and Maximum
Technologically Feasible Levels
3. Manufacturer Production Costs and
Manufacturing Selling Price
E. Mark-Up Analysis
1. Distribution Channels
2. Mark-Ups
F. Energy Use Analysis
1. Sample Development
2. Energy Use Calculations
G. Life-Cycle Cost and Payback Period
Analysis
1. Total Installed Cost
2. Operating Costs
H. Shipments Analysis
I. Manufacturer Impact Analysis
J. Other Energy Conservation Standards
Topics
1. Market Failures
E:\FR\FM\26FEP1.SGM
26FEP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 84, Number 38 (Tuesday, February 26, 2019)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 6088-6095]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2019-03269]
=======================================================================
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003]
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Direct Heating
Equipment
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is initiating a data
collection process through this request for information (``RFI'') to
consider whether to amend DOE's test procedure for direct heating
equipment. To inform interested parties and to facilitate this process,
DOE has gathered data, identifying several issues associated with the
currently applicable test procedures on which DOE is interested in
receiving comment. The issues outlined in this document mainly concern
the evaluation of additional calculations relevant to the unvented
direct heating equipment test procedure, updates to applicable industry
standards incorporated by reference in the vented direct heating
equipment test procedure, and any additional topics that may inform
DOE's decisions in a future test procedure rulemaking, including
methods to reduce regulatory burden while ensuring the procedure's
accuracy. DOE welcomes written comments from the public on any subject
within the scope of this document (including topics not raised in this
RFI).
DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be
accepted on or before April 12, 2019.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at https://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested
persons may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2019-BT-
TP-0003, by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: https://www.regulations.gov. Follow
the instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: To DHE2019TP0003@ee.doe.gov. Include docket number EERE-
2019-BT-TP-0003 in the subject line of the message.
3. Postal Mail: Appliance and Equipment Standards Program, U.S.
Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop EE-5B,
Test Procedure RFI for Direct Heating Equipment, Docket No. EERE-2019-
BT-TP-0003, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC, 20585-0121. If
possible, please submit all items on a compact disc (``CD''), in which
case it is not necessary to include printed copies.
4. Hand Delivery/Courier: Appliance and Equipment Standards
Program, U.S. Department of Energy, Building Technologies Office, 950
L'Enfant Plaza SW, Suite 600, Washington, DC, 20024. Telephone: (202)
287-1445. If possible, please submit all items on a CD, in which case
it is not necessary to include printed copies.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see section III of this document.
Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials,
is available for review at https://www.regulations.gov. All documents in
the docket are listed in the https://www.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 docket web page can be found at [https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2019-BT-STD-0002]. The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section III of this document for information on how
to submit comments through https://www.regulations.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Dr. Stephanie Johnson, U.S. Department
of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington,
DC, 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-1943. Email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ee.doe.gov.
Mr. Eric Stas, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC, 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 586-5827. Email: Eric.Stas@hq.doe.gov.
For further information on how to submit a comment or review other
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-
[[Page 6089]]
1445 or by email: ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ee.doe.gov.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Introduction
A. Authority and Background
B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
A. Scope and Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
2. Vented Heaters
B. Updates to Industry Standards
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
2. ANSI Z21.86
C. Test Method for Unvented Heaters
D. Test Method for Vented Heaters
E. Performance and Utility
F. Other Test Procedure Topics
III. Submission of Comments
I. Introduction
Direct heating equipment (DHE) is included in the list of ``covered
products'' for which DOE is authorized to establish and amend energy
conservation standards and test procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(9)) The
definition of ``direct heating equipment'' includes vented home heating
equipment and unvented home heating equipment. 10 Code of Federal
Regulations (CFR) 430.2. (Hereafter in this notice, the terms ``vented
heater'' and ``unvented heater'' are used to describe the two types of
direct heating equipment). DOE's test procedures for unvented heaters
are prescribed at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix G (``Appendix
G''). DOE's test procedures for vented heaters are prescribed at 10 CFR
part 430, subpart B, appendix O (``Appendix O''). DOE prescribes energy
conservation standards for vented heaters at 10 CFR 430.32(i). DOE does
not currently prescribe energy conservation standards for unvented
heaters. The following sections discuss DOE's authority to establish
and amend test procedures for DHE, as well as relevant background
information regarding DOE's consideration of test procedures for this
product.
A. Authority and Background
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (``EPCA'' or ``the
Act''),\1\ Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317, as codified), among
other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the energy efficiency of a
number of consumer products and industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-
6317, as codified) Title III, Part B \2\ of EPCA established the Energy
Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles,
which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve energy
efficiency. These products include DHE, the subject of this RFI. (42
U.S.C. 6292(a)(9))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through America's Water Infrastructure Act of 2018,
Public Law 115-270 (Oct. 23, 2018).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under EPCA, DOE's energy conservation program consists essentially
of four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy
conservation standards, and (4) certification and enforcement
procedures. Relevant provisions of the Act specifically include
definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C.
6295), test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C.
6294), and the authority to require information and reports from
manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42
U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption for
particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with the procedures
and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
The Federal 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 pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)),
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for
covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or
amended under this section be reasonably designed to produce test
results which 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 requires that the test procedure
not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
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))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE amend its test procedures for
all covered products to integrate measures of standby mode and off mode
energy consumption into the overall energy efficiency, energy
consumption, or other energy descriptor, taking into consideration the
most current versions of Standards 62301 and 62087 of the International
Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC''), unless the current test
procedure already incorporates the standby mode and off mode energy
consumption, or if such integration is technically infeasible. (42
U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) If an integrated test procedure is technically
infeasible, DOE must prescribe separate standby mode and off mode
energy use test procedures for the covered product, if a separate test
is technically feasible. (Id.)
EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate
test procedures for each type of covered product, including DHE, to
determine whether amended test procedures would more accurately or
fully comply with the requirements for the test procedures to not be
unduly burdensome to conduct and be reasonably designed to produce test
results that reflect energy efficiency, energy use, and estimated
operating costs during a representative average use cycle or period of
use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) If the Secretary determines, on his own
behalf or in response to a petition by any interested person, that a
test procedure should be prescribed or amended, the Secretary shall
promptly publish in the Federal Register proposed test procedures and
afford interested persons an opportunity to present oral and written
data, views, and arguments with respect to such procedures. The comment
period on a proposed rule to amend a test procedure shall be at least
60 days and may not exceed 270 days. In prescribing or amending a test
procedure, the Secretary shall take into account such information as
the Secretary determines relevant to such procedure, including
technological developments relating to energy use or energy efficiency
of the type (or class) of covered products involved. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(2)) If DOE determines that test procedure revisions are not
appropriate, DOE must publish its determination not to amend the test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)(ii)) DOE is publishing this RFI to
collect data and information to inform its decision in satisfaction of
the 7-year review requirement specified in EPCA. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(1)(A))
[[Page 6090]]
B. Rulemaking History
DOE's existing test procedures for unvented heaters and vented
heaters appear at Appendix G and Appendix O, respectively. DOE
originally established Appendix G in a final rule published in the
Federal Register on May 10, 1978. 43 FR 20128, 20132-20146. DOE amended
the test procedures for unvented home heating equipment on March 28,
1984 (``March 28, 1984 final rule'') to prescribe test procedures for
fossil-fuel-fired unvented heaters and to add a calculation of the
estimated operational cost per million British thermal unit (Btu) of
output. 49 FR 12148, 12157-12158. DOE most recently updated Appendix G
in a final rule published December 17, 2012 (``December 17, 2012 final
rule'') to establish procedures for measuring energy consumption in
standby mode and off mode, pursuant to EPCA. 77 FR 74559. 74571-74572.
In the December 17, 2012 final rule, DOE did not incorporate standby
mode and off mode energy into the annual energy consumption
calculations for unvented heaters because it determined that a detailed
annual energy consumption accounting was not appropriate for unvented
heaters, as described further in section II.C of this document. 77 FR
74559, 74561.
DOE originally established Appendix O in a final rule published in
the Federal Register on May 10, 1978. 43 FR 20147, 20182-20205. DOE
amended the test procedures for vented home heating equipment in the
March 28, 1984 final rule to include a simplified procedure for heaters
with modulating controls, and to address manually controlled vented
heaters, vented heaters equipped with thermal stack dampers, and floor
furnaces. 49 FR 12148, 12169-12178. DOE amended the test procedure for
vented heaters again on May 12, 1997 to add calculations for electrical
energy consumption, to clarify the pilot light energy measurement for
manually-controlled vented heaters, and to update the provisions for
determining the efficiency of manually-controlled heaters with variable
input rates. 62 FR 26140, 26156-26157. In the December 17, 2012 final
rule, DOE established procedures for measuring power consumption in
standby mode and off mode and for calculating the energy consumption
associated with operation in standby mode and off mode. 77 FR 74559,
74561.
In the most recent test procedure rulemaking for DHE, DOE added
provisions for testing vented home heating equipment that utilize
condensing technology and incorporated by reference six industry test
standards to replace the outdated test standards referred to in the
then existing DOE test procedure. 80 FR 792 (Jan. 6, 2015) (``January
6, 2015 Final Rule''). DOE determined at that time not to amend the
test procedures for unvented heaters. Id. at 793.
For unvented electric heaters that are the primary heating source
for the home, Appendix G includes provisions for measuring electric
power and calculating annual energy consumption. For all electric and
gas unvented heaters, Appendix G includes provisions for determining
the rated output. Appendix G does not contain provisions for
determining energy efficiency, as all unvented heaters are generally
considered to be 100-percent efficient. Accordingly, DOE has not
established energy conservation standards for unvented heaters.
For vented heaters, Appendix O includes provisions for determining
annual fuel utilization efficiency (``AFUE''), which is the efficiency
metric used for determining compliance with the energy conservation
standards. Appendix O also specifies provisions for determining annual
energy consumption. Manufacturers must use the test procedures at
Appendix O to demonstrate compliance with the current energy
conservation standards for vented home heating equipment.
II. Request for Information
In the following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues
on which it seeks input to aid in the development of the technical and
economic analyses regarding whether amended test procedures for DHE may
be warranted. Specifically, DOE is requesting comment on any
opportunities to streamline and simplify testing requirements for DHE.
Additionally, DOE welcomes comments on other issues relevant to the
conduct of this process that may not be specifically identified in this
document. In particular, DOE notes that under Executive Order 13771,
``Reducing Regulation and Controlling Regulatory Costs,'' Executive
Branch agencies such as DOE are directed to manage the costs associated
with the imposition of expenditures required to comply with Federal
regulations. See 82 FR 9339 (Feb. 3, 2017). Pursuant to that Executive
Order, DOE encourages the public to provide input on measures DOE could
take to lower the cost of its regulations applicable to DHE consistent
with the requirements of EPCA.
A. Scope and Definitions
The test procedures for DHE cover those products that meet the
definitions of ``direct heating equipment'' and ``home heating
equipment,'' as codified at 10 CFR 430.2 and defined as follows:
1. ``Direct heating equipment'' means vented home heating equipment
and unvented home heating equipment.
2. ``Home heating equipment, not including furnaces'' means vented
home heating equipment and unvented home heating equipment.
1. Unvented Heaters
The unvented heaters test procedure covers those products that meet
the definitions for ``unvented home heating equipment,'' as codified at
10 CFR 430.2. DOE defines unvented heaters and the various sub-types of
unvented heaters as follows:
1. ``Unvented home heating equipment'' means a class of home
heating equipment, not including furnaces, used for the purpose of
furnishing heat to a space proximate to such heater directly from the
heater and without duct connections and includes electric heaters and
unvented gas and oil heaters.
2. ``Electric heater'' means an electric appliance in which heat is
generated from electrical energy and dissipated by convection and
radiation and includes baseboard electric heaters, ceiling electric
heaters, floor electric heaters, portable electric heaters, and wall
electric heaters.
3. ``Primary heater'' means a heating device that is the principal
source of heat for a structure and includes baseboard electric heaters,
ceiling electric heaters, and wall electric heaters.
4. ``Supplementary heater'' means a heating device that provides
heat to a space in addition to that which is supplied by a primary
heater. Supplementary heaters include portable electric heaters.
5. ``Baseboard electric heater'' means an electric heater which is
intended to be recessed in or surface mounted on walls at floor level,
which is characterized by long, low physical dimensions, and which
transfers heat by natural convection and/or radiation.
6. ``Ceiling electric heater'' means an electric heater which is
intended to be recessed in, surface mounted on, or hung from a ceiling,
and which transfers heat by radiation and/or convection (either natural
or forced).
7. ``Floor electric heater'' means an electric heater which is
intended to be recessed in a floor, and which transfers by radiation
and/or convection (either natural or forced).
[[Page 6091]]
8. ``Portable electric heater'' means an electric heater which is
intended to stand unsupported, and can be moved from place to place
within a structure. It is connected to electric supply by means of a
cord and plug, and transfers heat by radiation and/or convention
(either natural or forced).
9. ``Wall electric heater'' means an electric heater (excluding
baseboard electric heaters) which is intended to be recessed in or
surface mounted on walls, which transfers heat by radiation and/or
convection (either natural or forced) and which includes forced
convectors, natural convectors, radiant heaters, high wall or valance
heaters.
10. ``Unvented gas heater'' means an unvented, self-contained,
free-standing, non-recessed gas-burning appliance which furnishes warm
air by gravity or fan circulation.
11. ``Unvented oil heater'' means an unvented, self-contained,
free-standing, non-recessed oil-burning appliance which furnishes warm
air by gravity or fan circulation.
Issue A.1 DOE requests comment on the definitions currently
applicable to unvented heaters and whether any of the definitions
should be revised, and if so, how. Please provide a rationale for any
suggested change. DOE notes that floor electric heaters are not
currently listed among the other types of heaters included in the
definition of a ``primary heater.'' DOE understands that floor electric
heaters have similar heat output as the types of heaters listed in the
definition of ``primary heater'' and may provide the primary source of
heat in small dwellings. DOE requests comment on whether floor electric
heaters should be specifically defined and also included in the
definition of ``primary heater.''
2. Vented Heaters
The vented heaters test procedure covers those products that meet
the definitions for ``vented home heating equipment,'' as codified at
10 CFR 430.2. DOE defines vented heaters and the various sub-types of
vented heaters as follows:
1. ``Vented home heating equipment'' or ``vented heater'' means a
class of home heating equipment, not including furnaces, designed to
furnish warmed air to the living space of a residence, directly from
the device, without duct connections (except that boots not to exceed
10 inches beyond the casing may be permitted) and includes: Vented wall
furnace, vented floor furnace, and vented room heater.
2. ``Vented floor furnace'' means a self-contained vented heater
suspended from the floor of the space being heated, taking air for
combustion from outside this space. The vented floor furnace supplies
heated air circulated by gravity or by a fan directly into the space to
be heated through openings in the casing.
3. ``Vented room heater'' means a self-contained, free standing,
non-recessed, vented heater for furnishing warmed air to the space in
which it is installed. The vented room heater supplies heated air
circulated by gravity or by a fan directly into the space to be heated
through openings in the casing.
4. ``Vented wall furnace'' means a self-contained vented heater
complete with grilles or the equivalent, designed for incorporation in,
or permanent attachment to, a wall of a residence and furnishing heated
air circulated by gravity or by a fan directly into the space to be
heated through openings in the casing.
Issue A.2 DOE requests comment on the definitions currently
applicable to vented heaters and whether any of the definitions should
be revised, and if so, how. Please provide a rationale for any
suggested change.
B. Updates to Industry Standards
DOE's current test procedures for DHE reference industry standards
for various aspects of the test procedures. All materials incorporated
by reference are listed at 10 CFR 430.3 and within Appendices G and O.
DOE intends to fully review all the referenced standards in the DHE
test procedures as part of this evaluation. The following is a list of
the shorthand titles and full titles of all the referenced industry
standards currently used in the DHE test procedures.
``ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007'' means the test standard published
by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning
Engineers titled, ``Method of Test for Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and Boilers.''
``ANSI Z21.86-2008'' means the standard published by the
American National Standards Institute titled, ``Vented Gas-Fired Space
Heating Appliances.''
``ASTM D2156-09'' means the standard published by the
American Society of Testing and Materials International titled,
``Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning
Distillate Fuels.''
``IEC 62301 (Second Edition)'' means the standard
published by the International Electrotechnical Commission titled,
``Household electrical appliances--Measurement of standby power''
(Edition 2.0 2011-01).
``UL 729-2003'' means the test standard published by
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. titled, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-
Fired Floor Furnaces.''
``UL 730-2003'' means the test standard published by
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. titled, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-
Fired Wall Furnaces.''
``UL 896-1993'' means the test standard published by
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. titled, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-
Burning Stoves.''
DOE conducted a preliminary examination of the available industry
test standards and found that updates exist for all the incorporated
standards except for ASTM D2156-09 and IEC 62301 (Second Edition). DOE
reviewed all of those updated industry test standards.
However, when reviewing the revised versions of UL 729-2003 (last
revised November 22, 2016), 730-2003 (last revised November 22, 2016),
and 896-1993 (last revised November 22, 2016), DOE found that no
revisions have been made to the sections incorporated by reference to
the vented heaters test procedure.
Issue B.1 DOE requests any information in relation to the revisions
to the existing standards that have been incorporated by reference,
including the purpose of the updates and whether any of the updates
would be expected to impact the test burden or measured energy
consumption under the DOE test procedures for vented and unvented
heaters.
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
DOE is aware that ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 has been superseded by ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE examined both versions of the ANSI/ASHRAE 103
standard and found several changes to sections incorporated by
reference within the vented heater test procedure. DOE understands many
of the changes to be minor clarifications, such as adding metric units
or changing the order of a sentence without affecting its intent.
However, other changes could have a noticeable effect on the vented
heater test procedure, if adopted by DOE. Specifically, in section 6.3,
titled ``Pressure,'' the allowable error value for oil pressure
measurement was removed, although the introductory text in the sections
still states that it applies to oil. In section 6.8, titled ``Smoke,''
the referenced standard ASTM D2156-94 was updated to ASTM D2156-09,
which is the standard that is currently incorporated by reference in
the vented heater test procedure. In section 8.6, titled ``Jacket Loss
Measurement,'' figures 12 and 13 were replaced by a set of equations.
In section 9.10, titled
[[Page 6092]]
``Optional Test Procedures for Condensing Furnaces and Boilers That
Have No Off-Period Flue Losses,'' the maximum post-purge period to use
a value of 0.05 for DF and DP increased from less
than 5 seconds to less than or equal to 30 seconds for units with no
measurable airflow through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger.
Issue B.2 DOE requests comment on whether removing the allowable
error in the oil pressure measurement value from section 6.3 of the
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 standard was intentional. If so, DOE requests
comment on what allowable error measurement should be used within the
vented heater test procedure (Note: ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 stated 0.5 psi).
Issue B.3 DOE requests comment on whether the replacement of
figures 12 and 13 with a set of equations in section 8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE
103-2017 is appropriate for the vented heater test procedure.
Issue B.4 DOE requests comment on whether the maximum post-purge
time should be increased from less than 5 seconds to less than or equal
to 30 seconds for vented heaters with no measurable airflow through the
combustion chamber and heat exchanger.
2. ANSI Z21.86
DOE is aware that ANSI Z21.86-2008 has been superseded by ANSI
Z21.86-2016. DOE examined both versions of the ANSI Z21.86 standard and
only found minor changes to sections incorporated by reference within
the vented heater test procedure. Section 6 was moved to section 9, and
section 8 was moved to section 11. The figures and tables referenced in
these sections were moved from the ``Tables Referenced In Part 1, Part
II and Exhibits'' and ``Figures Referenced In Part 1, Part II and
Exhibits'' sections at the end of the standard to throughout the
standard where they are first referenced. Accordingly, DOE expects that
these changes would not substantively impact the test burden or
measured energy consumption under the DOE test procedures.
C. Test Method for Unvented Heaters
For electric heaters, section 2.1 of Appendix G specifies measuring
and recording the maximum electrical power consumed when heating, in
terms of kilowatts, and section 3.3 specifies calculating a rated
output. For primary electric heaters only, section 3.1 of Appendix G
specifies the calculation for the national average annual energy
consumption based on the maximum electrical power, and section 3.2
specifies a calculation for the annual energy consumption by geographic
region. The calculation of national average annual energy consumption
in section 3.1 of Appendix G is based on several assumptions, including
the national average annual heating load hours of 2080, an adjustment
factor of 0.77,\3\ and a typical oversizing factor for primary electric
heaters of 1.2.\4\ The calculation of regional annual energy
consumption in section 3.2 of Appendix G is based on the same
assumptions as the national value, except that regional heating load
hours are provided by a figure depicting geographic regions the United
States and the associated heating load hours for each region.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ The adjustment factor is a multiplier to adjust the heating
load hours to the approximate burner operating hours actually
experienced by the system.
\4\ The oversizing factor accounts for space heating products
generally being oversized when compared to the actual heating load.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Issue C.1 DOE requests comment on whether the assumptions for
calculating the national and regional values of annual fuel energy
consumption are still appropriate.
For unvented natural gas, propane, and oil heaters, section 2.2 of
Appendix G specifies measuring the maximum fuel input rate of the
heater over the course of one hour. Section 2.1 of Appendix G requires
the maximum auxiliary electrical power to be recorded for unvented gas
and oil heaters that use auxiliary electrical energy. Section 3.4 of
Appendix G provides calculations to determine the rated output for
unvented gas and oil heaters based on the measurements of the hourly
input rate and maximum electrical power. DOE notes that Appendix G
currently does not specify calculating annual fuel energy consumption
for unvented gas and oil heaters.
Issue C.2 DOE requests comment on whether annual fuel energy
consumption should be calculated for unvented natural gas, propane, and
oil heaters. If annual fuel energy consumption should be calculated,
DOE requests comment on what equations and assumptions should be used.
For unvented heaters equipped with a pilot light and/or that use
electrical energy, sections 2.3 and 2.4 of Appendix G specify measuring
the fossil fuel input rate and/or standby electrical power,
respectively. These values are not used in any calculations. If the
pilot light is designed to be turned off by the user when not in use,
and the heater has instructions for turning the unit off provided on a
label on the heater near the gas control valve, then section 2.3.1 of
Appendix G specifies that the measurement of pilot light energy
consumption is not required. Similarly, if the heater is designed to be
turned off when not in use, if turning the control to ``off'' will shut
off the electrical supply, and if an instruction to turn off the unit
is provided on a label on the heater, then section 2.4.1 of Appendix G
specifies that the standby electrical power does not need to be
measured.
In the December 17, 2012 final rule, DOE determined not to include
standby mode and off mode energy use in the annual energy consumption
calculations for unvented heaters because a detailed annual energy
consumption accounting was not deemed appropriate for this product type
(i.e., there is no annual accounting at all for supplemental heaters
and only a simplified assigned value for primary heaters). 77 FR 74559,
74561. In the August 30, 2010 NOPR that preceded the December 17, 2012
final rule, DOE explained that the integration of standby mode and off
mode energy was not necessary or appropriate for the following reasons:
1. The test procedure does not include energy efficiency or
energy use metrics that would allow for the integration of standby
mode and off mode energy use.
2. Standby mode energy use (defined as energy use during the
heating season when the heater is not on) is as effective in heating
the space as active mode energy use.
3. Off mode energy consumption (defined as non-heating-season
energy consumption) could be considered ineffective energy use and,
accordingly, could be minimized by prescribing a separate energy
conservation standard. However, DOE lacked data on consumer use that
would be needed to define a representative off mode for unvented
heaters.\5\
\5\ For example, DOE lacked information on the fraction of the
year unvented heaters might be unplugged or otherwise disconnected
from the energy source, and the extent to which pilot lights are
turned off during the non-heating season.
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See 75 FR 52892, 52898-52899 (Aug. 30, 2010).
Issue C.3 DOE requests comment on whether annual fuel energy
consumption for unvented heaters should include standby mode and off
mode energy use. DOE is also interested in detailed information on any
additional test burden that would result from calculating annual fuel
energy consumption with standby mode and off mode energy use and if so,
the nature and extent of that burden.
Issue C.4 DOE requests any information in relation to annual and/or
regional heating season data, heating mode operating hours, standby
mode hours, and off mode hours for unvented heaters.
[[Page 6093]]
D. Test Method for Vented Heaters
For vented heaters, Appendix O specifies provisions for determining
the product's AFUE, which is the efficiency descriptor established by
EPCA for direct heating equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291(22)(A))
As discussed above, section 3.8 of Appendix O contains provisions
for testing vented heaters that utilize condensing technology.
Condensing technology is a design strategy that increases the
efficiency of a heating appliance by extracting additional thermal
energy from the flue gases.\6\ These provisions are essentially the
same as those contained in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 that are applicable to
condensing furnaces and boilers. However, because of the numerous
additions and modifications needed to apply the condensing technology
provisions to vented heaters, DOE includes the condensing provisions in
Appendix O, rather than incorporating by reference the relevant
provisions of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007.
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\6\ In a condensing system, water vapor contained within the
flue gas (as a byproduct of the combustion process) is condensed and
drained out of the system. The process of condensing water vapor
into liquid water releases latent heat, which is transferred to the
air stream, thereby increasing the heating efficiency.
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Issue D.1 DOE requests comment and data on manufacturers' and test
laboratories' experience with the condensing provisions in Appendix O.
DOE requests detailed information regarding any test burden associated
with conducting the condensing provisions, including the nature and
extent of any such burden. DOE also requests comment on ways to
potentially reduce any test burden of the provisions specific to
condensing technology.
DOE has identified several areas of the vented heater test
procedure that may warrant further review to determine whether
additional detail or specification may be needed to improve the
readability and ease of implementation of the test procedure.
In the definitions in section 1.0 of Appendix O, section 1.21
defines ``manually controlled vented heaters'' as either gas or oil
fueled vented heaters equipped without thermostats. DOE believes some
vented heaters could potentially be designed to operate with timers or
electronic controls without being equipped with thermostats, but that
are not manually controlled. DOE questions whether ``manually
controlled vented heaters'' should be defined to exclude those
``without automatic means of control or operation,'' as opposed to only
those ``without thermostats.''
Issue D.2 DOE requests comment on whether the definition for
``Manually controlled vented heater'' should be amended, and if so,
how.
Issue D.3 DOE also requests comment on whether the other
definitions provided in section 1.0 of Appendix O are all still
appropriate, or if other updates are needed.
Within section 4.0 of Appendix O, titled ``Calculations,'' the
balance point temperature (TC) can be determined either with
an equation or using the values provided in Table 3 of Appendix O. DOE
recognizes that a value of TC derived from the equation may
not be the same as that obtained from Table 3.
Similarly, values for the fraction of the heating load and average
outdoor temperature at the reduced and maximum operating modes
(variables X1, X2, TOA, and
TOA*) are determined using either Table 3 or Figure 1 of
Appendix O (which provides a graph showing TOA, and
TOA* variables for any balance point temperature between 16
[deg]F and 62 [deg]F), or Figure 2 of Appendix O (which provides a
graph showing variables X1 and X2 for any balance
point temperature between 0 [deg]F and 62 [deg]F). DOE recognizes that
Table 3, Figure 1, and Figure 2 may yield different results because
Table 3 provides discreet values for X1, X2,
TOA, and TOA*, whereas Figure 1 and Figure 2
provide continuous graphical curves for determining the relevant
variables. DOE reviewed a limited amount of test data in an effort to
estimate the impact of the different methods for determining the
aforementioned variables on the measured AFUE value. DOE found that the
different methods resulted in a difference on the order of hundredths
of a percentage point of AFUE, which DOE would not expect to affect the
measured AFUE in most cases when rounded to a whole number. However,
DOE seeks to further understand this issue and whether there are any
known or potential impacts from the difference in values.
Issue D.4 DOE requests comment on whether the differences in the
balance point temperature (TC) produced by the equation and
as obtained from Table 3 can result in different results in the values
for the fraction of the heating load (X1 and X2)
and average outdoor temperature at the reduced and maximum operating
modes (TOA and TOA*), and if so, the extent of
any such difference.
Issue D.5 DOE requests comment on whether any differences in the
values of X1, X2, TOA, and
TOA* within Table 3 and Figures 1 and 2 could produce
different results, especially in AFUE, and if so, the extent of such
differences. If any such difference in results would occur, DOE
requests comment on whether any of these variables should be obtained
using equations instead of Table 3 or Figures 1 and 2.
In a notice of proposed rulemaking published October 24, 2013, DOE
proposed an optional use of a default jacket loss value of 1 percent
for vented floor furnaces, as an alternative to performing a jacket
loss test. 78 FR 63410, 63415. In the January 6, 2015 final rule, DOE
decided not to adopt the 1 percent default jacket loss value for vented
floor furnaces after reviewing test data that revealed an average
jacket loss of 3.05 percent. 80 FR 792, 794.
Issue D.6 DOE requests comment and test data on whether a higher
default jacket loss value should be considered for vented floor
furnaces.
DOE previously stated that DHE that can operate in manual or
automatic modes should be tested in automatic mode. 80 FR 792, 795
(Jan. 6, 2015).
Issue D.7 DOE requests comment on whether DHE that have multiple
automatic operation modes exist, and if so, whether further direction
regarding the tested operating mode is necessary.
Section 3.6.1 of Appendix O specifies that on units with no
measurable airflow through the unit when not in heating mode (as
determined by a smoke stick test defined in section 3.6.2 of Appendix
O), both the off-cycle flue gas draft factor (DF) and the
ratio of flue gas mass flow during the off-period to the flue gas mass
flow during the on-period (DP) may be set equal to 0.05. DOE
is considering whether to allow models using condensing or induced
draft technology to automatically be considered to have no measurable
airflow, and, thus, be able to use the defined value of 0.05 for
DF and DP without performing the smoke stick
test.
Issue D.8 DOE requests comment on the extent to which vented
heaters currently use the provisions in 3.6.1 and 3.6.2 of Appendix O,
whether models with induced draft or condensing technology are always
capable of meeting the conditions to use the default draft factor, and
whether provisions should be added to the vented heater test procedure
to allow condensing or induced draft DHE to be considered to have no
measurable airflow and to use a constant value of 0.05 for
DF and DP without confirmation testing.
E. Performance and Utility
DHE provides space heating (warm air) directly to the consumer's
living space without the use of duct
[[Page 6094]]
connections. Relevant to DHE may also be the ability to provide
``quiet'' operation, non-heating air circulation, and space
humidification, as well as the aesthetic appearance of the unit.
Issue E.1 DOE requests comment whether the test procedures impact
the availability of such features on DHE.
F. Other Test Procedure Topics
In addition to the issues identified earlier in this document, DOE
welcomes comment on any other aspect of the existing test procedures
for DHE not already addressed by the specific areas identified in this
document. DOE particularly seeks information that would improve the
repeatability, reproducibility, and consumer representativeness of the
test procedures. DOE also requests information that would help DOE
create a procedure that would limit manufacturer test burden through
streamlining or simplifying testing requirements. Comments regarding
the repeatability and reproducibility are also welcome.
DOE also requests feedback on any potential amendments to the
existing test procedure(s) that could be considered to address impacts
on manufacturers, including small businesses. Regarding the Federal
test method, DOE seeks comment on the degree to which the DOE test
procedure should consider and be harmonized with the most recent
relevant industry standards for DHE and whether any changes to the
Federal test method would provide additional benefits to the public.
DOE also requests comment on the benefits and burdens of adopting any
industry/voluntary consensus-based or other appropriate test procedure,
without modification.
Additionally, DOE requests comment on whether the existing test
procedures limit a manufacturer's ability to provide additional
features to consumers of DHE. DOE particularly seeks information on how
the test procedures could be amended to reduce the cost of new or
additional features and make it more likely that such features are
included on DHE.
III. Submission of Comments
DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by April
12, 2019, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice
and on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of amended test
procedures for DHE. These comments and information will aid in the
development of a test procedure NOPR for DHE if DOE determines that
amended test procedures may be appropriate for these products.
Submitting comments via https://www.regulations.gov. The https://www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties,
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment.
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names,
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any
documents submitted with the comments.
Do not submit to https://www.regulations.gov information for which
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted
through https://www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments
received through the website will waive any CBI claims for the
information submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the
Confidential Business Information section.
DOE processes submissions made through https://www.regulations.gov
before posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of
being submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being
processed simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to
several weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that https://www.regulations.gov provides after you have successfully uploaded your
comment.
Submitting comments via email, hand delivery, or postal mail.
Comments and documents submitted via email, hand delivery, or postal
mail also will be posted to https://www.regulations.gov. If you do not
want your personal contact information to be publicly viewable, do not
include it in your comment or any accompanying documents. Instead,
provide your contact information in a cover letter. Include your first
and last names, email address, telephone number, and optional mailing
address. The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it
does not include any comments.
Include contact information each time you submit comments, data,
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via postal mail
or hand delivery, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is
not necessary to submit printed copies. No telefacsimiles (faxes) will
be accepted.
Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that
are not secured, written in English, and free of any defects or
viruses. Documents should not contain special characters or any form of
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature
of the author.
Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting
time.
Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any
person submitting information that he or she believes to be
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via
email, postal mail, or hand delivery two well-marked copies: One copy
of the document marked ``confidential'' including all the information
believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked ``non-
confidential'' with the information believed to be confidential
deleted. Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE
will make its own determination about the confidential status of the
information and treat it according to its determination.
Factors of interest to DOE when evaluating requests to treat
submitted information as confidential include: (1) A description of the
item; (2) whether and why such items are customarily treated as
confidential within the industry; (3) whether the information is
generally known by or available from other sources; (4) whether the
information has previously been made available to others without
obligation concerning its confidentiality; (5) an explanation of the
competitive injury to the submitting person which would
[[Page 6095]]
result from public disclosure; (6) when such information might lose its
confidential character due to the passage of time, and (7) why
disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public interest.
It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public
docket, without change and as received, including any personal
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be
exempt from public disclosure).
DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of
the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation
standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of
the public during the comment period in each stage of this process.
Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced
discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices
and information about this process should contact Appliance and
Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@ee.doe.gov.
Signed in Washington, DC, on February 13, 2019.
Steven Chalk,
Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
[FR Doc. 2019-03269 Filed 2-25-19; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
