Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Direct Heating Equipment, 20053-20075 [2021-07137]
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Signing Authority
This document of the Department of
Energy was signed on April 9, 2021, by
Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal
Deputy Assistant Secretary and Acting
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and Renewable Energy, pursuant to
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Signed in Washington, DC, on April 13,
2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S.
Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021–07818 Filed 4–15–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003]
RIN 1904–AE30
Energy Conservation Program: Test
Procedure for Direct Heating
Equipment
Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking
and request for comment.
AGENCY:
The U.S. Department of
Energy (DOE) proposes to amend the
test procedure for direct heating
equipment (DHE) to incorporate by
reference the most recent versions of the
industry consensus test standards
currently referenced in the Federal test
procedure. DOE also proposes to update
definitions regarding unvented heaters,
account for multiple operational modes,
specify the allowable measurement error
for oil pressure, specify the use of
manufacturer values for gas supply
pressure in certain circumstances,
reduce the number of thermocouples
required in the thermocouple grid for
models with small flues, and clarify
instructions for calculations regarding
condensate mass measurements. DOE
welcomes written comment from the
public on any subject within the scope
of this document (including topics not
raised in this proposal), as well as
submission of data and other relevant
information.
DATES: Comments: DOE will accept
comments, data, and information
regarding this notice of proposed
rulemaking (NOPR) on or before June
30, 2021. See section V, ‘‘Public
Participation,’’ for details.
Meeting: DOE will hold a webinar on
Friday, June 4th, 2021 from 9:00 a.m. to
4:00 p.m. See section V, ‘‘Public
Participation,’’ for webinar registration
SUMMARY:
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information, participant instructions,
and information about the capabilities
available to webinar participants.
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 by email to the
following address: DHE2019TP0003@
ee.doe.gov. Include and docket number
EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003 and/or RIN
number 1904–AE30 in the subject line
of the message. Submit electronic
comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft
Word, PDF, or ASCII file format, and
avoid the use of special characters or
any form of encryption.
Although DOE has routinely accepted
public comment submissions through a
variety of mechanisms, including postal
mail and hand delivery/courier, the
Department has found it necessary to
make temporary modifications to the
comment submission process in light of
the ongoing Covid–19 pandemic. DOE is
currently suspending receipt of public
comments via postal mail and hand
delivery/courier. If a commenter finds
that this change poses an undue
hardship, please contact Appliance
Standards Program staff at (202) 586–
1445 to discuss the need for alternative
arrangements. Once the Covid–19
pandemic health emergency is resolved,
DOE anticipates resuming all of its
regular options for public comment
submission, including postal mail and
hand delivery/courier.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be
accepted. For detailed instructions on
submitting comments and additional
information on the rulemaking process,
see section V of this document (Public
Participation).
Docket: The docket, which includes
Federal Register notices, webinar
attendee lists and transcripts,
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-TP-0003. The
docket web page contains instructions
on how to access all documents,
including public comments, in the
docket. See section V (Public
Participation) for information on how to
submit comments through https://
www.regulations.gov.
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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 72 / Friday, April 16, 2021 / Proposed Rules
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, review other public
comments and the docket, or participate
in the webinar, contact the Appliance
and Equipment Standards Program staff
at (202) 287–1445 or by email:
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
DOE
proposes to maintain a previously
approved incorporation by reference
and incorporate by reference the
following industry standards into the
Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) at 10
CFR part 430:
American National Standards
Institute (ANSI)/American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating, and AirConditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Standard 103–2017, (ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2017), ‘‘Method of Testing for
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of
Residential Central Furnaces and
Boilers,’’ approved July 3, 2017.
Copies of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017
can be obtained from the American
Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and
Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., 1791
Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329,
(800) 527–4723 or (404) 636–8400, or
online at: https://www.ashrae.org.
ANSI Standard Z21.86–2016 (ANSI
Z21.86–2016), ‘‘Vented Gas-Fired Space
Heating Appliances,’’ Sixth Edition,
approved December 21, 2016.
Copies of ANSI Z21.86–2016 can be
obtained from the American National
Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, (212)
642–4900, or online at: https://
www.ansi.org.
American Society for Testing and
Materials International (ASTM)
Standard D2156–09 (Reapproved 2018)
(ASTM D2156–09 (2018)), ‘‘Standard
Test Method for Smoke Density in Flue
Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels,’’
reapproved October 1, 2018.
Copies of ASTM D2156–09 (2018) can
be obtained from the American Society
for Testing and Materials International,
100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700,
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SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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West Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959 or
online at: www.astm.org.
International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) 62301 (Second
Edition), ‘‘Household electrical
appliances-Measurement of standby
power,’’ (Edition 2.0 2011–01).
Copies of IEC 62301 (Second Edition)
can be obtained from the American
National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd
Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036,
(212) 642–4900, or online at: https://
webstore.ansi.org.
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL)
Standard 729–2016, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Fired Floor Furnaces,’’
approved November 22, 2016.
UL Standard 730–2016, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Fired Wall Furnaces,’’
approved November 22, 2016.
UL Standard 896–2016, ‘‘Standard for
Safety for Oil-Burning Stoves,’’
approved November 22, 2016.
Copies of UL 729–2016, UL 730–2016,
and UL 896–2016 can be obtained from
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 2600
NW Lake Rd., Camas, WA 98607–8542
or online at: www.ul.com.
See section IV.M of this document for
a further discussion of these standards.
2. Harmonization With Industry Consensus
Standards
H. Compliance Date
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility
Act
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction
Act of 1995
D. Review Under the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995
H. Review Under the Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 1999
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
J. Review Under Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal
Energy Administration Act of 1974
M. Description of Materials Incorporated
by Reference
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared
General Statements for Distribution
C. Conduct of the Webinar
D. Submission of Comments
E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
Table of Contents
I. Authority and Background
Direct heating equipment 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)) DOE defines ‘‘direct
heating equipment’’ as vented home
heating equipment and unvented home
heating equipment. 10 CFR 430.2.
(Hereafter in this notice of proposed
rulemaking, the terms ‘‘vented heater’’
and ‘‘unvented heater’’ are used to
describe the two types of DHE). DOE’s
energy conservation standards and test
procedures for vented heaters are
currently prescribed at 10 CFR 430.32(i)
and 10 CFR part 430, subpart B,
Appendix O, ‘‘Uniform Test Method for
Measuring the Energy Consumption of
Vented Home Heating Equipment’’
(Appendix O), respectively. DOE’s test
procedures for unvented heaters are
prescribed at 10 CFR part 430, subpart
B, Appendix G, ‘‘Uniform Test Method
for Measuring the Energy Consumption
of Unvented Home Heating Equipment’’
(Appendix G). DOE currently does not
prescribe energy conservation standards
for unvented heaters because, as the
Department explained in an April 2010
final rule for DHE, DOE has previously
determined that a standard would
produce little energy savings (largely
due to the fact that any heat losses are
dissipated directly into the conditioned
space) and because of limitations in the
applicable DOE test procedure. 75 FR
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
B. Background
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking
III. Discussion
A. Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
2. Vented Heaters
B. Updates to Industry Consensus Test
Methods
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
C. Unvented Heaters
1. Calculation of Annual Energy
Consumption
2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy
Consumption
D. Vented Heaters
1. Models With Multiple Automatic
Operation Modes
2. Fuel Supply and Burner Adjustments
3. Flue Thermocouples
4. Cyclic Condensate Collection Test
a. Input Rate
b. Mass Measurement Requirements
5. Other Vented Heater Topics
a. Test Method for Condensing Vented
Home Heating Equipment
b. Determination of Balance Point
Temperature, Heating Load Fractions,
and Average Outdoor Temperature
c. Default Jacket Loss Value for Vented
Floor Furnaces
d. Draft Factors for Models with No
Measurable Airflow
e. Radiation Shielding
E. Performance and Utility
F. Additional Comment
G. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization,
and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
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20112, 20130 (April 16, 2010). The
unvented heaters test procedure,
Appendix G, includes neither a method
for measuring energy efficiency nor a
descriptor for representing the
efficiency of unvented heaters. Instead,
Appendix G provides a method to
measure and calculate the rated output
for all unvented heaters and annual
energy consumption of primary electric
unvented heaters. The following
sections discuss DOE’s authority to
establish and amend test procedures for
vented and unvented heaters, as well as
relevant background information
regarding DOE’s consideration of and
amendments to test procedures for these
products.
A. Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation
Act, as amended (EPCA),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 certain industrial
equipment. 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 document. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(9))
The energy conservation program
under EPCA consists essentially of four
parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3)
Federal energy conservation standards,
and (4) certification and enforcement
procedures. Relevant provisions of
EPCA specifically include definitions
(42 U.S.C. 6291), test procedures (42
U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42
U.S.C. 6294), energy conservation
standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the
authority to require information and
reports from manufacturers. (42 U.S.C.
6296)
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
energy conservation standards
promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C.
1 All
references to EPCA in this document refer
to the statute as amended through the Energy Act
of 2020, Public Law 116–260 (Dec. 27, 2020).
2 For editorial reasons, upon codification in the
U.S. Code, Part B was redesignated Part A.
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6295(s)) EPCA defines the efficiency
descriptor for DHE to be annual fuel
utilization efficiency (AFUE). (42 U.S.C.
6291(22)(A))
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(a)–(c)) DOE may, however, grant
waivers of Federal preemption in
limited circumstances for particular
State laws or regulations, in accordance
with the procedures and other
provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
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 shall 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 not be
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE
amend its test procedures for all covered
consumer 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 3 and 62087 4 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.)
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)) EPCA also
requires that, at least once every 7 years,
DOE evaluate test procedures for each
type of covered product, including the
DHE that are the subject of this NOPR,
to determine whether amended test
procedures would more accurately or
3 IEC 62301, Household electrical appliances—
Measurement of standby power (Edition 2.0, 2011–
01).
4 IEC 62087, Methods of measurement for the
power consumption of audio, video, and related
equipment (Edition 3.0, 2011–04).
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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
in the Federal Register its
determination not to amend the test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
DOE is publishing this NOPR in
satisfaction of the 7-year-lookback
review requirement specified in EPCA.
B. Background
As mentioned previously, 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,
which prescribed test procedures for
primary electric heaters and a
calculation of national and regional
average annual energy consumption. 43
FR 20128, 20132–20146. DOE amended
the test procedure for unvented heaters
on March 28, 1984 (March 1984 final
rule) to prescribe test procedures for
fossil-fuel-fired unvented heaters and to
add calculations of the rated output in
British thermal units per hour (Btu/h)
for electric heaters and unvented gas
and oil heaters and an estimated
operational cost per million Btu of
output. 49 FR 12148, 12157–12158. DOE
most recently updated Appendix G in a
final rule published December 17, 2012
(December 2012 final rule) to establish
procedures for measuring energy
consumption in standby mode and off
mode, pursuant to EPCA. 77 FR 74559,
74571–74572. However, in the
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December 2012 final rule, DOE did not
establish calculations for annual energy
consumption for supplementary heaters
or unvented gas and oil heaters, or
incorporate standby mode and off mode
energy into the annual energy
consumption calculations for primary
electric heaters because it determined
that a detailed annual energy
consumption accounting was not
appropriate for unvented heaters. Id. at
77 FR 74563.
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 procedure for vented heaters in
the March 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 (March 28, 1984).
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 manuallycontrolled vented heaters, and to update
the provisions for determining the
efficiency of manually-controlled
heaters with variable input rates. 62 FR
26140, 26156, 26162–26164. In the
December 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 (Dec. 17,
2012). In the most recent test procedure
rulemaking for DHE, DOE added
provisions for testing vented heaters
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 2015 final rule).
DOE determined at that time not to
amend the test procedure for unvented
heaters. Id. at 80 FR 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
in sections 2.1 and 3.1, respectively. For
all unvented heaters, Appendix G
includes provisions for determining the
rated output, in section 3.3 for electric
heaters and section 3.4 for natural gas,
propane, or oil heaters. Appendix G
does not contain provisions for
determining energy efficiency, as
unvented heaters generally are
considered to be 100-percent efficient
because any heat losses are lost to the
conditioned living space in which the
unit is installed. Accordingly, DOE has
not established energy conservation
standards for unvented heaters.
For vented heaters, Appendix O
includes provisions for determining
AFUE, which is the efficiency metric
used for determining compliance with
the energy conservation standards for
vented home heating equipment found
in 10 CFR 430.32(i)(2). Section 4.6 of
Appendix O also specifies provisions
for calculating the annual energy
consumption of vented heaters.
Manufacturers must use the test
procedure at Appendix O to
demonstrate compliance with the
current energy conservation standards
for vented heaters. Further, there are
currently no industry consensus test
methods to measure DHE energy
efficiency under the AFUE metric for
vented home heating equipment, so,
therefore, the test procedure in
Appendix O is used.
To better understand potential issues
with the current test procedures since
the last amendments, DOE published a
request for information (RFI) on
February 26, 2019 (February 2019 RFI).
84 FR 6088. The February 2019 RFI
requested comment from interested
parties on several aspects of the test
procedure, which are discussed further
in section III of this document. DOE
received 7 comments 5 in response to
the February 2019 RFI from the
interested parties listed in Table I.1.
TABLE I.1—FEBRUARY 2019 RFI WRITTEN COMMENTS
Organization(s)
Reference in this document
Appliance Standards Awareness Project, American Council for an Energy-Efficient
Economy, Natural Resources Defense Council.
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers ............................................................
Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute ...................................................
Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance ............................................................................
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and
Electric.
National Propane Gas Association ................................................................................
Kevin Woodall ................................................................................................................
Joint Advocates ..................
Efficiency Organizations.
AHAM .................................
AHRI ...................................
NEEA ..................................
CA IOUs .............................
Trade Association.
Trade Association.
Efficiency Organization.
Utility.
NPGA .................................
Woodall ..............................
Trade Association.
Individual.
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II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed
Rulemaking
In this NOPR, DOE proposes the
following changes to the test procedures
for unvented and vented heaters (10
CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendices G
and O, respectively) and several
associated definitions in 10 CFR 430.2,
as follows:
1. Update the definitions of ‘‘floor
electric heater,’’ ‘‘primary heater,’’
‘‘unvented gas heater,’’ ‘‘unvented home
heating equipment,’’ ‘‘unvented oil
heater,’’ ‘‘vented home heating
equipment,’’ and ‘‘vented room heater’’,
and update the terms ‘‘primary heater’’
and ‘‘supplementary heater’’ to
‘‘primary electric heater’’ and
‘‘supplementary electric heater,’’
respectively;
2. Update references to several
industry consensus standards to the
most recent versions, except that the test
procedure would maintain the current
oil pressure measurement error value
(which was omitted in the most recent
update to ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017),
and maintain the current maximum
post-purge period;
3. Provide explicit direction on the
operational mode for testing vented
heaters with multiple automatic
operation modes;
4. Clarify the required input rate for
the cyclic condensate collection tests;
5. Allow for use of manufacturerspecified gas inlet pressure range when
the required input rating cannot be
reached;
5 Comments in Docket No. EERE–2019–BT–TP–
0003 available at: https://www.regulations.gov/
docket?D=EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003.
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6. Explicitly state the regulator outlet
pressure and specific gravity tolerances
for the gas supply;
7. Reduce the number of
thermocouples required for the
thermocouple grid in models with small
(2-inch diameter or less) flues from nine
to five;
8. Clarify the wording of the cyclic
condensate collection test in the
calculation of the allowable variance in
condensate mass measurements; and
9. Provide explicit direction on the
methods to appropriately shield
thermocouples from radiation.
Table II.1 summarizes DOE’s
proposed actions compared to the
current test procedures, as well as the
reason for each proposed change.
TABLE II.1—SUMMARY OF CHANGES IN PROPOSED TEST PROCEDURES RELATIVE TO CURRENT TEST PROCEDURES
Current DOE test procedure
Proposed test procedure
Attribution
Definitions for electric heater, primary heater, supplementary heater, floor electric heater, unvented gas
heater, unvented home heating equipment, unvented
oil heater, vented home heating equipment, and vented room heater have various inconsistencies in terminology.
References ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007, ANSI Z21.86–
2008, ASTM D–2156–09, UL729–2003, UL 730–2003,
and UL 896–1993.
Updates the definitions to use consistent terminology ...
Clarification to ensure consistent use and application. Response to comments.
References ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 (but maintains
current oil pressure measurement error value and
maximum post-purge time), ANSI Z21.86–2016,
ASTM D–2156–09 (2018), UL 729–2016, UL 730–
2016, and UL 896–2016.
Explicitly provides that for units with multiple automatic
operational modes, the default or other similarly
named mode is used for testing.
Explicitly state at which input rate to conduct the cyclic
condensate collection test.
Update to most recent
versions of industry
standards. Response to
comments.
Permits use of manufacturer’s specified gas inlet pressure range, if the nameplate input rating ±2 percent
cannot be achieved at 7–10 inches water column.
Explicitly state that the regulator outlet pressure be
within the greater of ±10 percent of the manufacturerspecified manifold pressure or ±0.2 inches water column, and that the specific gravity for natural gas and
propane gas be 0.57–0.70 and 1.522–1.574, respectively.
For smaller size flues (2-inch diameter or less), require
a five-thermocouple grid.
Clarifies that the standard deviation must be less than
or equal to 20 percent of the mean value.
Ensure representativeness.
Explicitly states that any thermocouple with a direct line
of sight to the burner must be shielded from radiation
and that a radiation shield with an explicitly stated
material and minimum thickness must be used.
Clarification.
Does not provide specific direction for units with multiple
automatic operational modes.
Does not provide specific direction regarding the input
rate at which the cyclic condensate collection test is to
be conducted.
Specifies an inlet gas pressure level is to be between 7–
10 inches water column.
Does not provide specific values that the regulator outlet
pressure and specific gravity of the test gas must
meet.
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Requires use of a nine-thermocouple grid for measuring
flue gas temperature, regardless of flue size.
For the variance of the condensate mass measurements, requires that ‘‘the sample standard deviation is
within 20 percent of the mean value for three cycles’’
in order to stop at three cycles. Otherwise, six cycles
are required.
Does not provide specific direction for determining when
a radiation shield is needed or what an appropriate radiation shield would be.
DOE has tentatively determined that
the proposed amendments described in
section III of this NOPR would not alter
the measured efficiency of DHE, or
require retesting or recertification solely
as a result of DOE’s adoption of the
proposed amendments to the test
procedures, if made final. Additionally,
DOE has tentatively determined that the
proposed amendments, if made final,
would not increase the cost of testing.
Discussion of DOE’s proposed actions
are addressed in detail in section III of
this NOPR.
III. Discussion
A. Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
DOE defines ‘‘unvented home heating
equipment’’ as a class of home heating
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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. 10 CFR 430.2. In the February
2019 RFI, DOE requested comment on
whether any definitions related to
unvented heaters should be revised and
if so, how. 84 FR 6088, 6090–6091 (Feb.
26, 2019). In particular, DOE noted that
floor electric heaters are not currently
included in the examples listed in the
definition of ‘‘primary heater,’’ which is
defined as 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. 10 CFR 430.2. DOE noted that
floor electric heaters have similar output
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Ensure representativeness.
Response to comments.
Clarification.
Clarification to ensure consistent use and application.
Ensure representativeness.
Clarification.
capacities as other types of heaters that
are explicitly listed as primary heaters,
and requested comment on whether the
list of examples should include floor
electric heaters. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb.
26, 2019).
Regarding the definition of ‘‘unvented
home heating equipment,’’ the CA IOUs
suggested that unvented home heating
equipment should be defined using
similar language as ‘‘vented home
heating equipment,’’ and the definition
should say that unvented systems are
designed to furnish ‘‘warm air’’ rather
than ‘‘heat’’ so as to distinguish DHE
from hydronic or steam distribution
systems. Additionally, the CA IOUs
stated that floor heaters should be
included in the non-exhaustive list of
examples under the ‘‘primary heater’’
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definition. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 1) 6 The
Joint Advocates also stated that floor
electric heaters should be included in
the ‘‘primary heater’’ definition. (Joint
Advocates, No. 6 at p. 1) NEEA
provided conditional support for
expanding the primary heater definition
as long as the inclusion of electric heat
in the definition of primary heater
would not eliminate electric heat from
other classes of equipment including
heat pump technology, and would not
have the effect of including gas heating
technology in the same class of
equipment as electric. (NEEA, No. 7 at
p. 1)
After considering the comments, DOE
agrees that the definition of ‘‘unvented
home heating equipment’’ would benefit
from using language consistent with the
definition of ‘‘vented home heating
equipment.’’ Consistent with the
definition of ‘‘vented home heating
equipment’’ that is proposed in this
document (see section III.A.2), DOE is
proposing to change ‘‘furnishing heat’’
to ‘‘furnishing heated air’’ in the
definition of ‘‘unvented home heating
equipment’’ at 10 CFR 430.2. Similarly,
DOE also proposes to amend the
definitions of ‘‘unvented gas heater’’
and ‘‘unvented oil heater’’ from using
the phrase ‘‘furnishes warm air’’ to
‘‘furnishes heated air.’’ The term
‘‘warm’’ is subjective and does not
indicate that any process was used to
add heat to the air being furnished by
the heater, whereas ‘‘heated’’ does
indicate that thermal energy was added
to the air.
Additionally, DOE is proposing to
explicitly include floor electric heaters
as one of the examples provided in the
definition of a ‘‘primary heater.’’ To the
extent that a floor electric heater is the
principal source of heat for a structure,
it is a primary heater. The proposed
change would make such inclusion
explicit in the definition of ‘‘primary
heater’’ and would have no effect on the
scope of coverage for floor electric
heaters.
In response to NEEA’s comment, DOE
notes that including ‘‘floor electric
heaters’’ as an example of an unvented
electric heater type within the primary
heater definition would not eliminate
space heating fueled by electricity from
other classes of equipment including
heat pump technology, and would not
have the effect of including gas heating
technology in the same product class as
6 A notation in the form ‘‘CA IOUs, No. 8 at p.
1’’ identifies a written comment: (1) Made by the
CA IOUs; (2) recorded in document number 8 that
is filed in the docket of this rulemaking (Docket No.
EERE–2019–BT–TP–0003) and available for review
at https://www.regulations.gov; and (3) which
appears on page 1 of document number 8.
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electric. Space heating products that use
heat pump technology are defined
separately from DHE by EPCA. (42
U.S.C. 6292(a)(3) and (9)) Therefore,
DOE cannot consider heat pump
technology within the unvented electric
heater product class. For these reasons,
DOE proposes to include floor electric
heaters in the definition for ‘‘primary
heaters.’’ Further, to avoid confusion in
regard to applicability of the ‘‘primary
heater’’ and ‘‘supplementary heater’’
definitions, DOE proposes to amend the
terms to ‘‘primary electric heater’’ and
‘‘supplementary electric heater’’
consistent with Appendix G.
DOE has also tentatively determined
to add the phrase ‘‘a class of unvented
home heating equipment’’ to the
definitions of ‘‘electric heater,’’
‘‘unvented gas heater,’’ and ‘‘unvented
oil heater’’ to more clearly associate
these definitions as being unvented
home heating equipment.
DOE also proposes to clarify that
unvented home heating equipment
should be without exhaust venting, as
the current definition does not state this
explicitly.
No other comments were received
regarding the definitions relevant to
unvented heaters in response to the
February 2019 RFI.
DOE requests comment on its
proposed changes to the definitions for
‘‘electric heater,’’ ‘‘primary heater,’’
‘‘unvented gas heater,’’ ‘‘unvented home
heating equipment,’’ and ‘‘unvented oil
heater’’ in 10 CFR 430.2, as well as on
its proposed change in terminology from
‘‘primary heater’’ and ‘‘supplementary
heater’’ to ‘‘primary electric heater’’ and
‘‘supplementary electric heater,’’
respectively.
2. Vented Heaters
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE also
requested comment regarding whether
changes to any definitions applicable to
vented heaters in 10 CFR 430.2 are
necessary. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26,
2019). In response, AHRI responded that
no definitional changes are needed in 10
CFR 430.2 regarding vented heaters.
(AHRI, No. 5 at p. 1) To align the
definitions of unvented and vented
heaters throughout 10 CFR 430.2, DOE
proposes to change the phrasing of
‘‘warm’’ or ‘‘warmed’’ air to ‘‘heated’’ air
in the definitions of ‘‘vented home
heating equipment’’ and ‘‘vented room
heaters.’’ As discussed in the preceding
section, the term ‘‘warm’’ does not
indicate that heat is added to the air
being furnished by the heater, whereas
the term ‘‘heated’’ does indicate that
heat is added to the air by the heater.
DOE also proposes to further align the
definitions of ‘‘unvented home heating
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equipment’’ and ‘‘vented home heating
equipment,’’ as follows. The definition
for ‘‘unvented home heating
equipment’’ uses the phrase, ‘‘to a space
proximate to such heater directly from
the heater,’’ while the definition for
‘‘vented home heating equipment’’ uses
the phrase, ‘‘to the living space of a
residence, directly from the device.’’
DOE has tentatively determined that the
language from the unvented home
heating equipment definition is more
representative of DHE, so DOE proposes
to modify the vented home heating
equipment definition accordingly to be
consistent. Finally, DOE proposes to
clarify that vented home heating
equipment should include exhaust
venting, as the current definition does
not state this explicitly.
DOE also sought comment in the
February 2019 RFI regarding the
definitions relevant to vented heaters in
section 1.0 of Appendix O. 84 FR 6088,
6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE particularly
sought comment on whether the
definition for ‘‘manually controlled
vented heaters’’ should be changed to
exclude heaters ‘‘without automatic
means of control or operation,’’ rather
than ‘‘without thermostats’’ (as in the
current definition) to accommodate any
means of automatic control rather than
just thermostats. Id. In response, AHRI
recommended against this change
without added explanation. (AHRI, No.
5 at p. 3)
Subsequent to the February 2019 RFI,
DOE further examined models on the
market with automatic controls, and
found that all products identified with
automatic controls other than
thermostats (e.g., a timer control) also
include thermostatic control
mechanisms. Therefore, DOE has
tentatively determined that changing the
definition as discussed in the February
2019 RFI would not provide any
additional clarification to the
application of the definition and is not
proposing to amend this definition.
DOE also requested comment
generally on whether all other
definitions provided in section 1.0 of
Appendix O are all still appropriate, or
if other updates are needed. 84 FR 6088,
6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). AHRI responded
that the definitions in section 1.0 of
Appendix O are appropriate and do not
require changes. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3)
The CA IOUs recommended the
following definitional changes: Update
the ‘‘barometric draft regulator or
barometric damper’’ definition to
distinguish between traditional and
automatic; update the ‘‘flue gases’’
definition to ‘‘the combination of
reaction products resulting from the
combustion of a fuel with the oxygen in
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the air and inert gases, and any excess
air passing through the flue;’’ update the
definition for ‘‘induced draft’’ to clarify
‘‘mechanical means’’ and possibly
distinguish between induced draft and
forced draft, if appropriate; clarify the
‘‘infiltration parameter’’ definition, and
specifically whether it is conceptual or
a quantifiable parameter with units (e.g.,
volume, mass); update the ‘‘reduced
heat input rate’’ definition to include
fully modulating units; and update the
‘‘vaporizing-type oil burner’’ definition
to use ‘‘pot’’ instead of ‘‘bowl.’’ (CA
IOUs, No. 8 at pp. 5–6)
After considering the comments from
AHRI and the CA IOUs, DOE is not
proposing changes to the definitions in
section 1 of Appendix O. Regarding the
changes to the definitions of
‘‘barometric draft regulator or
barometric damper,’’ ‘‘flue gases,’’
‘‘induced draft,’’ and ‘‘vaporizing-type
oil burners’’ as suggested by the CA
IOUs, DOE has tentatively concluded
that these terms do not require further
direction or clarification, and that there
is no indication that they are being
inappropriately applied or
misunderstood. Regarding the suggested
update to the definition of ‘‘infiltration
parameter,’’ DOE notes that this value is
used to adjust the multiplication factor
to account for infiltration loss during
burner on-cycle when conducting the
ANSI/ASHRAE 103 test procedure and
is a dimensionless parameter (i.e., it has
no associated unit of measurement).
Lastly, DOE notes that a ‘‘stepmodulating control’’ is defined in
section 1.33 of Appendix O as a control
that either cycles off and on at the low
input if the heating load is light, or
gradually increases the heat input to
meet any higher heating load that
cannot be met with the low firing rate.
DOE has tentatively determined that
units that would be described as ‘‘fully
modulating’’ meet the definition of a
step-modulating control. Thus, the
suggested change to the definition of
‘‘reduced heat input rate’’ to include
fully modulating units is not necessary,
as fully modulating units are included
under the ‘‘step-modulating control’’
definition, and the definition of
‘‘reduced heat input rate’’ already
includes such units.
DOE requests comment on its
proposed changes to the definitions for
‘‘vented home heating equipment’’ and
‘‘vented room heater’’ in 10 CFR 430.2.
DOE also requests additional comment
on the definitions for vented home
heating equipment in section 1.0 of
Appendix O, and on its tentative
determination that no changes are
necessary.
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B. Updates to Industry Consensus Test
Methods
The unvented heater test procedure in
Appendix G includes a reference to the
International Electrotechnical
Commission (IEC) 62301, ‘‘Household
electrical appliances—Measurement of
standby power,’’ (Second Edition). The
vented heater test procedure in
Appendix O references the following
industry standards:
• ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103–2007,
‘‘Method of Testing for Annual Fuel
Utilization Efficiency of Residential
Central Furnaces and Boilers’’ (ANSI/
ASHRAE 103–2007);
• ANSI Z21.86–2008, ‘‘Vented GasFired Space Heating Appliances’’ (ANSI
Z21.86–2008);
• ASTM D2156–09, ‘‘Standard Test
Method for Smoke Density in Flue
Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels’’
(ASTM D2156–09);
• IEC 62301 (Second Edition),
‘‘Household electrical appliances—
Measurement of standby power’’ (IEC
62301);
• UL 729–2003, ‘‘Standard for Safety
for Oil-Fired Floor Furnaces’’ (UL 729–
2003);
• UL 730–2003, ‘‘Standard for Safety
for Oil-Fired Wall Furnaces’’ (UL 730–
2003); and
• UL 896–1993, ‘‘Standard for Safety
for Oil-Burning Stoves’’ (UL 896–1993).
As described in the February 2019
RFI, all of the referenced industry
standards, except for ASTM D2156–09 7
and IEC 62301 (Second Edition), have
been superseded with a more recent
version. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26,
2019). The changes in the most recent
version of UL 729, UL 730, and UL 896
were to sections not referenced by the
DOE test procedure, and the changes to
the most recent version of ANSI Z21.86,
while affecting sections referenced by
the DOE test procedure, were nonsubstantive and unlikely to have any
impact on the test burden or measured
energy consumption under the DOE test
procedure. Id. Therefore, DOE has
tentatively determined to update
references to the industry standards to
their most recent versions for ASTM
D2156–09, UL 729, UL 730, UL 896, and
ANSI Z21.86.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE
described the substantive updates to
ANSI/ASHRAE 103 (see section III.B.1
of this document for additional
discussion of these changes) and
requested comment on whether the
changes are appropriate for adoption in
the vented heater test procedure. DOE
also requested comment on whether any
7 ASTM D2156–09 was reapproved in 2018
(ASTM D2156–09 (2018)) without modification.
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of the updates to the referenced
standards impact the test burden or
measured consumption under the DOE
test procedure. 84 FR 6088, 6091–6092
(Feb. 26, 2019).
NPGA responded generally in support
of the updates to the referenced industry
standards. (NPGA, No. 3 at p. 1) No
other comments were received regarding
the updated versions of the referenced
industry test procedures. As discussed
in section III.B.1 of this document, DOE
is adopting ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017
with certain modifications.
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007, currently
referenced in Appendix O, has been
superseded by ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2017. As described in the February 2019
RFI, there are several changes to
sections incorporated by reference
within the vented heater test procedure.
84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26, 2019). Many
of the changes are minor clarifications,
such as adding metric units or changing
the order of a sentence without affecting
its intent. However, other changes could
have a substantive effect on the vented
heater test procedure, if adopted by
DOE. Id.
DOE noted that ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2017 removed the allowable error in the
oil pressure measurement from section
6.3, and requested comment as to
whether this change is appropriate for
vented home heating equipment. 84 FR
6088, 6091–6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). In
response, the CA IOUs recommended
that the error value be retained for the
vented heater test procedure, stating
that their market research showed that
manufacturers still produce oil-fired
furnaces, and the error values are
beneficial in maintaining consistency
amongst these manufacturers. (CA IOUs,
No. 8 at p. 2) DOE has tentatively
determined that inclusion of the
pressure measurement error values from
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007 remains
appropriate and proposes to retain their
application by directly including them
in Appendix O.
In section 8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2017, titled ‘‘Jacket Loss Measurement,’’
figures 12 and 13 were replaced by a set
of equations. Figure 12 shows
graphically how to use the difference
between surface temperature and the
surrounding air temperature to
determine a value for hc, the coefficient
of convection for vertical and horizontal
surfaces; and Figure 13 shows
graphically how to use the surface
temperature to determine a value of Hri,
the coefficient of heat transfer by
radiation. In the February 2019 RFI,
DOE requested comment on whether
this change is appropriate for the vented
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heater test procedure. 84 FR 6088, 6092
(Feb. 26, 2019). In response, the CA
IOUs supported using the equations
from ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 rather
than the figures from ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2007, stating that the equations in
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 produce
similar and more accurate results than
the figures in ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007.
(CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 2) The CA IOUs
also suggested that DOE should
encourage ANSI/ASHRAE to publish
the data points used to create the 2007
graphs in order to compare those values
to the values obtained through the
equations. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 3)
DOE has preliminarily determined
that the calculations included in
ASHRAE 103–2017 to determine jacket
loss provide more accurate values as
compared to the figures provided in the
2007 version, and the equations mitigate
the possibility of human error in
interpreting the figures. As a result, DOE
is proposing to incorporate by reference
the calculations provided in section 8.6
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE also
noted updates made to section 9.10,
titled ‘‘Optional Test Procedures for
Condensing Furnaces and Boilers That
Have No Off-Period Flue Losses’’ in
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017. 84 FR 6088,
6091–6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). Specifically,
section 9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2007 specifies that for condensing units
designed with no measurable airflow
through the combustion chamber and
heat exchanger, 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 to 0.05 for units having
a post-purge period of less than 5
seconds. In contrast, section 9.10 of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 provides this
specification for units having a postpurge period of less than or equal to 30
seconds. DOE sought comment on
whether this change is appropriate for
the vented heater test procedure. Id. In
response, AHRI recommended that the
post-purge time should not increase
from less than or equal to 5 seconds to
less than or equal to 30 seconds. (AHRI,
No. 5 at p. 2)
After a thorough review of Appendix
O, ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007, ANSI/
ASHRAE 103–2017, and stakeholder
comments, DOE proposes to remove the
mentions of sections 8.8.3 and 9.10 of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103 within section
3.6.2.4.1 of Appendix O. Section 3.6.1 of
Appendix O provides explicit
instruction that the default draft factors
can be used if the test method described
in section 3.6.2 of Appendix O is met.
The test method in section 3.6.2 of
Appendix O does not address post-
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purge time and states that if the
conditions of the test method are met
that the default draft factors may be
used. Section 8.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE
103 states that the default draft factors
may be used for all units having no
measurable airflow through the
combustion chamber and heat
exchanger when the burners are off.
Therefore, all the information stated in
section 8.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 is
already stated in sections 3.6.1 and 3.6.2
of Appendix O. Section 9.10 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103 applies to condensing
units and includes the same
requirements as section 8.8.3 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103 with the addition of the
maximum post-purge time which was
previously discussed. If the post-purge
time is below the maximum allowed
and there is no measurable airflow
through the combustion chamber and
heat exchanger when the burners are off,
then section 9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103
allows the testing agency to use the
default draft factors and, at their
discretion, omit the heat-up and cooldown tests. Appendix O does not
include a heat-up test, and section 3.6
of Appendix O does not discuss a
maximum post-purge time when
establishing the cool-down test
procedures for determining the draft
factors or the test method to determine
if the default draft factor may be used.
Therefore, DOE has tentatively
determined that the inclusion of a
reference to section 9.10 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103 could cause confusion
due to the maximum post-purge
requirement which is not discussed
within Appendix O.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
incorporate by reference ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2017 with modifications. In
particular, DOE is interested in
receiving comment on its proposal to
add the oil pressure measurement error
value, which was omitted from ANSI/
ASHRAE 103–2017, to Appendix O, and
on its proposal to remove the mention
of sections 8.8.3 and 9.10 within section
3.6.2.4.2 of Appendix O.
C. Unvented Heaters
1. Calculation of Annual Energy
Consumption
For electric heaters, section 2.1 of
Appendix G specifies a requirement for
measuring and recording the maximum
electrical power consumed when
heating, in terms of kilowatts, and
section 3.3 specifies a requirement for
calculating a rated output. For primary
electric heaters only, section 3.1 of
Appendix G specifies a calculation for
the national average annual energy
consumption based on the maximum
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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
0.77,8 and a typical oversizing factor for
primary electric heaters of 1.2.9 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 1, depicting geographic regions
the United States and the associated
heating load hours for each region.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE noted
that Appendix G does not specify a
method for calculating annual fuel
energy consumption for unvented gas
and oil heaters. 84 FR 6088, 6092 (Feb.
26, 2019). DOE sought comment on
whether the calculations and
assumptions for calculating national
and regional annual energy
consumption of primary electric heaters
are still appropriate and whether
calculations for the annual fuel energy
consumption of gas, propane, and oil
heaters should be added to the test
procedure. Id.
AHRI stated that the assumptions for
calculating the national and regional
annual energy consumption are still
appropriate, and the organization
recommended against calculating
annual fuel energy consumption for
unvented gas and oil heaters because all
heat is contained within the
conditioned space, so they should be
considered 100-percent efficient. (AHRI,
No. 5 at p. 2) AHAM stated that it is not
aware of any data necessitating
changing the assumptions made for
national and regional values and urged
DOE not to change those values.
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2) NPGA stated that
if DOE pursues calculation of annual
fuel energy consumption for gas and oil
unvented heaters, it should do so using
full-fuel-cycle (FFC) analysis. NPGA
also asserted that DOE should apply
FFC to electric heating equipment as
well. (NPGA, No. 3 at p. 1–2) NEEA
recommended against requiring annual
fuel energy consumption to be
displayed on marketing material due to
concerns about reducing purchases of
high-efficiency vented heaters and
consumers purchasing products that do
8 The adjustment factor is a multiplier to adjust
the heating load hours to the approximate burner
operating hours experienced by the system.
9 The oversizing factor accounts for space heating
products generally being oversized when compared
to the actual required heating load.
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not fit their actual needs. NEEA stated
that unvented heaters have higher
efficiencies than vented heaters, because
all the heated air and combustion gases
are delivered to the consumer’s heated
space, and, as a result, such units will
typically have lower energy
consumption than vented heaters. NEEA
also stated that a lower energy
consumption value could lead to some
consumers choosing an unvented heater
over a vented heater, if the consumer
does not recognize the difference in
utility between the two types of heaters.
According to NEEA, unvented heaters,
in addition to providing heated air, also
increase the moisture content and
deliver combustion products to the
occupied space, and while appropriate
for some applications, the difference in
utility may not be clear to the consumer.
(NEEA, No. 7 at pp. 1–2) The Joint
Advocates recommended that DOE
require the annual fuel energy
consumption calculations for gas and oil
unvented heaters to ensure that any
representations of annual energy use for
these products would be based on a
consistent calculation methodology.
(Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 1)
After considering these comments,
DOE is not proposing changes to the
national and regional values used in the
calculations of annual energy
consumption in Appendix G for primary
electric heaters, as DOE has tentatively
determined that the existing
calculations and assumptions are still
appropriate. DOE also is not proposing
to add calculations for annual fuel
energy consumption of gas and oil
unvented heaters. DOE has tentatively
concluded that such calculations would
be unlikely to provide consumers with
valuable information, and as suggested
by NEEA, an annual fuel energy use
value for unvented gas and oil heaters
could potentially confuse consumers if
comparisons are made to the values for
vented heaters without full
understanding of the different
applications and utilities of each
product.
With regard to NPGA’s
recommendation to determine the
annual energy consumption based on
FFC, as DOE has noted for other
products such as residential furnaces
and boilers and cooking products (81 FR
2628, 2638–2639 (Jan. 15, 2016); 81 FR
91418, 91439 (Dec. 16, 2016)), DOE does
not believe the test procedure is the
appropriate vehicle for deriving an FFC
energy use metric for DHE. As discussed
in the Notice of Policy Amendment
Regarding Full-Fuel Cycle Analyses,
DOE uses the National Energy Modeling
System (NEMS) as the basis for deriving
the energy and emission multipliers
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used to conduct FFC analyses in
support of energy conservation
standards rulemakings. 77 FR 49701
(August 17, 2012). DOE also uses NEMS
to derive factors to convert site
electricity use or savings to primary
energy consumption by the electric
power sector. NEMS is updated
annually in association with the
preparation of the Energy Information
Administration’s (EIA’s) Annual Energy
Outlook. Based on its experience to
date, DOE expects that the energy and
emission multipliers used to conduct
FFC analyses would change each year.
Consequently, if DOE were to include
an FFC energy descriptor as part of the
DHE test procedures, DOE would need
to update the test procedures annually,
as opposed to every 7 years as is
currently required by EPCA (see 42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)), which would
result in unnecessary regulatory burden.
Additionally, a change in the NEMSderived values would also result in all
products on the market being required
to recertify regardless of any other test
procedure change that could affect
efficiency.
2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy
Consumption
In the December 2012 final rule that
included DHE test procedures, 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., because there is no
annual accounting at all for
supplemental heaters, and only a
simplified assigned value for primary
heaters). 77 FR 74559, 74561 (Dec. 17,
2012). In the August 30, 2010 NOPR that
preceded the December 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 energy use during the non-heating season
when the heater is not on) 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.
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75 FR 52892, 52898–52899 (August 30,
2010).
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE
requested comment on whether standby
mode and off mode energy use should
be included in the annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters. 84
FR 6088, 6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE also
requested information on annual and/or
regional heating season data, and
operational mode hours that could
potentially be used to incorporate
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption. Id.
AHRI recommended against
incorporating standby mode and off
mode energy use into annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters,
stating that standby mode energy use is
just as effective in heating the space as
active mode energy use and that off
mode consumption is generally reduced
by the user turning off the pilot during
the non-heating seasons. (AHRI, No. 5 at
p. 2) In contrast, the Joint Advocates
stated that the annual energy
consumption should include standby
mode and off mode energy use. The
Joint Advocates commented that this is
a particular issue when determining the
fuel energy consumption, because for
units with a pilot light, the energy
consumption of the pilot during the
non-heating season could represent a
significant energy use. The Joint
Advocates also stated that including
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption for unvented heaters
should be consistent with the
calculation methodology for vented
heaters. (Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 1)
In response to DOE’s request for
information on annual and/or regional
heating season data and operational
hours for each mode, AHRI stated that
the requested data do not exist, as usage
patterns, structural characteristics, etc.,
vary for every heating region. (AHRI,
No. 5 at p. 2) NPGA supported use of
EIA data for information on national
and regional heating seasonal data.
(NPGA, No. 3 at p. 2) The CA IOUs
stated that current industry practice for
primary heating equipment is to use
heating degree days (HDD) as a proxy
for annual heating hours. However, the
CA IOUs commented that for
supplemental heating equipment, HDD
is not always directly linked to
operating hours and recommended that
DOE survey supplemental heating
operating conditions and hours to better
understand their operation. (CA IOUs,
No. 8 at pp. 4–5)
DOE is not proposing to include
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption in the annual energy
consumption calculation for unvented
heaters. DOE tentatively continues to
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determine, as confirmed by AHRI, that
the standby mode energy consumption
of unvented heaters is as effective at
heating the space as active mode energy,
and, therefore, it is unnecessary to
integrate. Regarding off mode energy
consumption, DOE has tentatively
concluded that some consumers could
potentially leave the pilot light on
during the non-heating season, thereby
resulting in consumption of additional
energy. However, in its review of the
market, DOE found that all identified
models with a pilot light included
instructions from the manufacturer for
turning the pilot light off during the
non-heating seasons. DOE lacks data for
the operational hours in off mode and
the percentage of consumers that do not
turn their pilot lights off during the nonheating seasons, thereby making it
impossible to determine whether a
problem actually exists or its
magnitude. Based on the presence of
manufacturer instructions and lack of
data on representative use, DOE is not
proposing to incorporate off mode
energy use in the test procedure.
DOE requests comment on its
tentative determination to not include
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption into the annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters.
D. Vented Heaters
For vented heaters, Appendix O
specifies provisions for determining the
product’s AFUE, which is the efficiency
descriptor established by EPCA for these
products. (42 U.S.C. 6291(22)(A))
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1. Models With Multiple Automatic
Operation Modes
Section 2.11 of the current test
procedure specifies that for equipment
that has both manual and automatic
thermostat control modes, the unit must
be tested according to the procedure for
its automatic control mode (i.e., singlestage, two-stage, or step-modulating).
However, when a unit has multiple
automatic operational modes, the test
procedure does not explicitly specify
what automatic operating mode must be
used for testing.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE
requested comment on whether vented
heaters having multiple automatic
operation modes exist, and if so,
whether further direction regarding the
tested operating mode is necessary. 84
FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). AHRI
responded that DHE with multiple
operating modes exist and
recommended that DOE clarify that the
least-efficient mode be used during
AFUE tests for such models. (AHRI, No.
5 at p. 3)
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As previously stated, EPCA requires
test procedures prescribed or amended
by DOE to be reasonably designed to
produce test results which measure the
energy efficiency of a covered product
during a representative average use
cycle or period of use and must not be
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) DOE does not have
data on the frequency of use by a
consumer of the least-efficient mode,
and commenters did not provide any
such data. It is not clear that the leastefficient mode, as recommended by
AHRI, would necessarily be the most
representative mode for testing models
with multiple automatic operating
modes. Through a review of
manufacturer’s product literature, DOE
was unable to find vented heaters with
multiple automatic operation modes
and seeks further comment on which
models are available with multiple
automatic operating modes.
DOE is proposing to explicitly specify
that models with multiple automatic
operation modes be tested in the mode
suggested by the manufacturer for
normal operation or the default mode as
defined in the manufacturer’s
installation and operations manual. If a
default mode is not defined in the
product literature, DOE proposes that
tests be conducted in the mode that the
product operates in as shipped from the
manufacturer.
DOE requests comment on its
proposal with regard to the automatic
operational mode for testing models
with multiple automatic operation
modes. DOE requests data and
information on the consumer use of
different automatic operational modes
when offered on a vented heater. DOE
is interested in receiving comment on
the characteristics of the mode
recommended by manufacturers for
normal operation, on how such mode is
described in the manufacturer’s
installation and operations manual
when provided, and on which models
currently available on the market
include multiple automatic operation
modes.
2. Fuel Supply and Burner Adjustments
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.3 of Appendix
O require that for natural gas-fueled and
propane gas-fueled vented heaters, the
gas supply be maintained at a normal
inlet test pressure immediately ahead of
all controls at 7 to 10 inches water
column and 11 to 13 inches water
column, respectively. In addition,
section 2.4.1 of Appendix O requires
that the fuel flow rate be set to obtain
a heat rate of within ±2 percent of the
hourly Btu rating specified by the
manufacturer, as measured after 15
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minutes of operation. During
exploratory testing performed for the
development of this NOPR, one unit
that was tested was unable to achieve
the nameplate input rate within 2
percent while maintaining a natural gas
supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches water
column. The manufacturer’s
recommended gas inlet pressure for this
model was 5 to 10.5 inches water
column, and the nameplate input rating
was achieved at a natural gas supply
pressure of 5 inches water column.
To ensure models are tested at
conditions representative of field
conditions while still maintaining
consistency and repeatability, DOE
proposes additional direction to address
situations in which the required fuel
rate cannot be achieved under the
conditions specified in the test
procedure (e.g., at 7–10 inches water
column for natural gas). DOE is
proposing that in such instances, it is
allowable to use any gas supply
pressure within the range specified by
the manufacturer.
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of Appendix
O also require the regulator outlet
pressure be maintained at ‘‘a normal test
pressure approximately at that
recommended by the manufacturer.’’
DOE proposes to clarify these
statements to require that the regulator
outlet pressure be maintained at the
greater of ±10 percent of the
manufacturer-specified manifold
pressure or ±0.2 inches water column.
This change would ensure consistency
in setting the regulator outlet pressure
and aligns the language within
Appendix O with the DOE test
procedures for other gas-fired heating
products (e.g., consumer water heaters
and commercial water heaters).
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of Appendix
O also require that the specific gravity
be approximately 0.65 or 1.53 for
natural gas or propane gas, respectively.
DOE proposes to require that the
specific gravity be between 0.57 and
0.70 for natural gas and 1.522 and 1.574
for propane gas. These specific gravity
ranges correspond to the values
presented in Annex G of ANSI Z21.86–
2016.
Finally, DOE proposes to remove the
phrase ‘‘normal’’ from ‘‘normal inlet test
pressure’’ in sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of
Appendix O and replace ‘‘normal
hourly Btu input rating’’ in section 2.4.2
of Appendix O with ‘‘maximum hourly
Btu input rating.’’ Section 2.4.1 of
Appendix O requires that the burners
for gas fueled vented heaters be adjusted
to provide an input rate within ±2
percent of the maximum Btu rating
specified by the manufacturer at the test
pressures specified in section 2.3 of
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Appendix O. As the test pressures
within section 2.3 of Appendix O are
proposed to be explicitly stated, the use
of the phrase ‘‘normal’’ is no longer
necessary. The proposed change to
replace ‘‘normal hourly Btu input
rating’’ with ‘‘maximum hourly Btu
input rating’’ in section 2.4.2 of
Appendix O, which describes the
burner adjustments for oil-fueled vented
heaters, aligns the input rate language
throughout section 2.4 of Appendix O.
DOE requests comment on its
proposals to allow a manufacturerspecified value for gas supply pressure
if test conditions are not achievable at
a gas supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches
water column for natural gas or 11–13
inches water column for propane gas, to
require the regulator outlet pressure be
within the greater of ±10 percent of the
manufacturer-specified manifold
pressure or ±0.2 inches water column, to
require the specific gravity of natural
gas be between 0.57 and 0.70 and for
propane gas be between 1.522 and
1.574, to remove the phrase ‘‘normal’’
from sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of
Appendix O, and to replace ‘‘normal
hourly Btu input rating’’ with
‘‘maximum hourly Btu input rating’’
within section 2.4.2 of Appendix O.
3. Flue Thermocouples
Section 2.6 of Appendix O requires
installation of nine thermocouples in
the vent for measuring flue gas
temperature for both gas-fueled and oilfueled vented heaters. As noted
previously, DOE conducted testing to
inform the development of this NOPR.
For one of the units tested, the exhaust
piping was 2 inches in diameter, and
the nine thermocouples significantly
restricted airflow in the vent, resulting
in flue gas temperature readings and
carbon monoxide levels above normal
operating conditions. To ensure that
measurements taken during testing of
models with smaller flues (i.e., 2 inches
diameter or less) are representative of
typical use, DOE proposes to allow
fewer thermocouples to be used for such
models when the use of nine
thermocouples prevents the unit from
operating within the allowable test
conditions. Specifically, DOE is
proposing to adopt a requirement to
allow the test lab to use five
thermocouples (which DOE notes is the
same as the requirement in ASHRAE
103–2017, section 7.6 and figure 10)
when the flue size is less than or equal
to 2 inches diameter. Given that the
cross-sectional flue area is smaller for
models with small vent diameter, fewer
thermocouples are needed to obtain
accurate flue gas temperature
measurements. Further, using fewer
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thermocouples would result in less flue
restriction, and could more closely
resemble operation in the field, thereby
providing more representative flue gas
readings.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to
allow the use of five thermocouples,
rather than nine thermocouples, in
vented heaters with a vent diameter of
2 inches or less.
4. Cyclic Condensate Collection Test
Section 3.8.2 of Appendix O specifies
the test procedure for collecting
condensate under cyclic conditions for
condensing vented heaters. During this
test, three to six cycles of a 4 minute oncycle followed by a 13 minute off-cycle
are completed. The total mass of
condensate and fuel energy input are
then used in section 4.0, ‘‘Calculations.’’
The cyclic condensate collection test
does not specify the input rate at which
the burner should fire during the oncycle times for units with modulating
controls.
a. Input Rate
The cyclic condensate collection test
was based on section 9.8 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103–2007, which specifies
that regarding the input rate for units
with modulating controls, the following
applies: (a) For step-modulating units,
the test is conducted at the reduced 10
input rate only, which is defined in
section 3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007;
or (b) for two-stage units, the test is
conducted at both the maximum and
reduced input rates unless the balancepoint temperature (TC) determined is
equal to or less than the typical outdoor
design temperature of 5 °F (¥5°C), in
which case test at the reduced input rate
only. The required input rate is
specified in all other tests within the
vented heater test procedure. Therefore,
DOE proposes to add input rate
instructions similar to ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2007 to section 3.8.2 of Appendix
O. This change would align the vented
heater test procedure with ANSI/
ASHRAE 103, on which Appendix O
was heavily dependent for
development.
DOE requests comment on its
proposal to specify input rate
instructions for the cyclic condensate
collection test.
b. Mass Measurement Requirements
Section 3.8.2 of Appendix O states
that if after three cycles ‘‘the sample
standard deviation is within 20 percent
10 ‘‘Reduced heat input rate’’ is defined in section
1 of Appendix O as the factory-adjusted lowest
reduced heat input rate for vented home heating
equipment equipped with either two-stage
thermostats or step-modulating thermostats.
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of the mean value for three cycles,’’ the
test can be ended, and the total mass
collected in the three cycles can be
used. Otherwise, three additional cycles
of condensate collection are required,
for a total of six cycles. DOE notes that
the existing language for checking
whether the variance of the condensate
collected during the first three cycles is
sufficiently small could be read to
require that the standard deviation be
‘‘within 20 percent’’ of the mean value
of the mass of condensate collected.
Such a reading would not be logical
because a small standard deviation is
desirable for consistent results, and,
therefore, the standard deviation value
should not be compared directly to the
mean and be required to be within 20
percent of the mean value. Rather, the
phrase requires that the standard
deviation be at or below ‘‘20 percent of
the mean value’’ (i.e., the sample
standard deviation should be less than
or equal to 20 percent of the mean). DOE
proposes to revise this statement to state
that the standard deviation must be less
than or equal to 20 percent of the mean
rather than ‘‘within 20 percent’’ of the
mean. This proposed change would
clarify the wording to avoid confusion
that could result from the existing text.
DOE requests comment on its
proposed rewording of the variance
condition between cycles to clarify that
the standard deviation must be less than
or equal to 20 percent of the mean, for
determining whether the cyclic
condensate mass collection must be
performed for three cycles or six cycles.
5. Other Vented Heater Topics
a. Test Method for Condensing Vented
Home Heating Equipment
Section 3.8 of Appendix O contains
provisions for testing vented heaters
that utilize condensing technology.
Condensing technology is a design
strategy to increase the efficiency of a
heating appliance by extracting
additional thermal energy from the flue
gases. The provisions for condensing
vented heaters in Appendix O are based
on those contained in ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2007, which are applicable to
condensing furnaces and boilers.
However, because the application of the
condensing technology test provisions
to vented heaters requires modifications
not needed for furnaces and boilers,
DOE includes the condensing
provisions in Appendix O, rather than
incorporating by reference the relevant
provisions of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2007.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE
requested comment on the test method
for condensing vented heaters,
specifically including information on
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the test burden and on ways to
potentially reduce burden. 84 FR 6088,
6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). AHRI stated that
the provisions for testing condensing
equipment are appropriate and do not
need to be updated. (AHRI, No. 5 at p.
3) DOE received no other comment on
this issue.
Consequently, DOE is not proposing
to change the existing provisions for
testing condensing vented heaters in the
Federal test procedure for DHE.
b. Determination of Balance Point
Temperature, Heating Load Fractions,
and Average Outdoor Temperature
In section 4.1.10 of Appendix O, titled
‘‘Steady-state efficiency,’’ the balance
point temperature 11 (TC) can be
determined either with an equation or
using the values provided in Table 3 of
Appendix O. The two options may not
yield the exact same result because
Table 3 provides a single balance point
temperature value for a range of heat
output ratios (R), while the equation
provides a specific value for each heat
output ratio. In other words, to use
Table 3, first the heat output ratio is
determined, then the corresponding
range in Table 3 is selected to identify
the balance point temperature for units
with heat output ratios in the given
range. To use the equation method,
however, the heat output ratio is
plugged into the equation, and balance
point temperature is calculated.
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, for TOA and
TOA*, 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)
and, for X1 and X2, 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). 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.
For the February 2019 RFI, DOE
reviewed test data to estimate the
impact of the different methods for
determining the aforementioned
variables on the measured AFUE value.
11 The ‘‘balance point temperature’’ is defined in
section 4 of Appendix O and represents a
temperature used to apportion the annual heating
load between the reduced input cycling mode and
either the modulating mode or maximum input
cycling mode.
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The different methods resulted in a
difference on the order of hundredths of
a percentage point of AFUE, which DOE
tentatively concluded would not be
likely to affect the measured AFUE in
most cases when rounded to a whole
number. 84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26,
2019). DOE requested 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 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. DOE also requested
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. Id.
DOE did not receive any comments in
response to these issues. As discussed,
based on DOE’s analysis, any changes in
AFUE resulting from the differences in
the equation, table, and figures are
minimal. Therefore, DOE is not
proposing any changes to the test
method related to these issues.
c. Default Jacket Loss Value for Vented
Floor Furnaces
The test procedure for vented floor
furnaces requires the measurement of
jacket losses when determining the
AFUE. Section 3.2, Appendix O. In the
NOPR published in the Federal Register
as part of the rulemaking for the January
2015 final rule, 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
(Oct. 24, 2013). In the January 2015 final
rule, DOE decided not to adopt the 1percent 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 (Jan.
6, 2015).
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE
requested comment and test data on
whether a higher default jacket loss
value should be considered for vented
floor furnaces. 84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb.
26, 2019). The Joint Advocates urged
DOE not to include a default jacket loss
value for vented floor furnaces, stating
that a default value would allow
products to have a jacket loss higher
than the default without incurring a
penalty, and could lead to efficiency
ratings that are not representative of
actual energy use. (Joint Advocates, No.
6 at p. 2) NEEA expressed support for
a default jacket loss value that is
representative of the jacket loss
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performance of the worst 25 models on
the market. NEEA also stated that it
prefers that testing for jacket loss still be
allowed or for a calculation method to
be developed, in lieu of a default value,
to encourage innovation in decreasing
jacket losses. (NEEA, No. 7 at p. 2)
After carefully considering these
comments and the available
information, DOE is not proposing a
default jacket loss value. DOE has
tentatively concluded that a default
jacket loss value for vented floor
furnaces would provide less
representative ratings than the current
test method, which requires
measurement of the jacket loss in floor
furnaces.
D. Draft Factors for Models With No
Measurable Airflow
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 DF and DP may be
set equal to 0.05. In the February 2019
RFI, DOE requested comment on
whether models using condensing or
induced draft technology are always
capable of meeting the criteria required
to use the default draft factors of 0.05.
84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE
also sought comment on whether such
models should automatically be
considered to have no measurable
airflow, and, thus, allowed to use the
defined value of 0.05 for DF and DP
without performing the smoke stick test.
Id.
AHRI recommended against allowing
condensing or induced draft DHE to be
considered to have no measurable
airflow and use constant values for DF
and DP without confirmation testing.
(AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3)
After carefully considering comment
on this issue in response to the February
2019 RFI, DOE is not proposing use of
the default DF and DP values for
condensing and induced draft vented
heaters without first performing the test
in section 3.6.2 of Appendix O to
confirm that there is no measurable
airflow. DOE has tentatively concluded
that the provisions in the current test
procedure for ensuring there is no
airflow through the unit when not in
heating mode before allowing the
default draft factors, are appropriate,
particularly since the smoke stick test
was not identified as overly burdensome
by stakeholders or during DOE’s testing.
Further verification of no airflow
ensures that representative draft factors
are applied during testing.
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e. Radiation Shielding
Sections 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.9 of
Appendix O require that radiation
shields be used to protect
thermocouples that could receive direct
radiation from the fire. However, no
instruction is given on how to
determine if a thermocouple could
receive direct radiation from the fire,
and if so, what type of radiation
shielding would be required. DOE has
tentatively proposed to require that all
thermocouples be shielded from the fire
if there is a direct line of sight between
the fire and the thermocouple. Further,
if radiation shielding is required, then a
radiation shield meeting the material
and minimum thickness requirements
stated in section 8.14.1 of ANSI Z21.86–
2016 shall be used.
DOE requests comment its proposed
changes to the radiation shielding
requirements within sections 2.6.1,
2.6.2, and 2.9 of Appendix O. In
particular, DOE seeks information as to
what methods are currently being used
to determine whether a thermocouple
would require a radiation shield and
also what types of materials are
currently used as radiation shields.
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E. Performance and Utility
DHE provides space heating (heated
air) directly to the consumer’s living
space without the use of duct
connections. Also relevant to DHE may
be the ability to provide ‘‘quiet’’
operation, non-heating air circulation,
and space humidification, as well as the
aesthetic appearance of the unit. In the
February 2019 RFI, DOE requested
comment on whether the test
procedures impact the availability of
such features on DHE. 84 FR 6088, 6094
(Feb. 26, 2019).
The CA IOUs stated that the current
procedures do not have an effect on
manufacturers’ ability to produce quiet
or aesthetically pleasing products. (CA
IOUs, No. 8 at p. 6) However, the CA
IOUs stated that the current test
procedures potentially could impact
non-heating air circulation and space
humidification, and recommended
testing under different ambient
conditions and monitoring the resulting
energy use or operational efficiency to
determine the impact on non-heating air
circulation. Regarding space
humidification, the CA IOUs also stated
that the test procedure would likely
impact space humidification since it
involves heating the space, which in
turn will change the dry/latent heat
composition. The CA IOUs noted that
section 3.8 of Appendix O, which
addresses the measurement of
condensate for condensing vented
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heaters, requires that the space
humidity not exceed 80 percent relative
humidity, stated that the heating
requirements of a humidified space are
different from a dehumidified space,
and recommended further testing to
ascertain the effects of the test
procedure on the availability of space
humidification features. (CA IOUs, No.
8 at p. 6–7)
DOE is not proposing any changes to
the test procedure related to the issues
raised by the CA IOUs and has
tentatively determined that the other
proposed changes to Appendix O would
not have an effect on the issues raised
by the CA IOUs. DOE does not have any
data or test results to indicate that the
current test procedure negatively
impacts non-heating air circulation and
space humidification. Non-heating air
circulation energy use is not captured
by the test procedure; therefore, there is
no impact on this potential feature.
Relative humidity requirements are
specified only for condensing vented
heaters because the effect of the ambient
relative humidity on the energy
efficiency is most significant for
condensing vented heaters. DOE is not
aware of condensing vented heaters on
the market that provide space
humidification that would cause the
ambient relative humidity to exceed 80
percent. DOE has tentatively determined
that the relative humidity requirement
for condensing vented heaters of 80
percent is not burdensome to maintain
and is likely higher than the highest
humidity that would be observed in a
home, so, therefore, the test procedure
should not affect the potential space
humidification feature.
DOE seeks additional comment and
data on whether the DHE test method
affects DHE utility or performance,
specifically including whether there are
impacts on features such as air
circulation and space humidification.
F. Additional Comment
In response to the February 2019 RFI,
Woodall suggested mandating
electronically-commutated motors as
replacements for permanent splitcapacitor motors that are common in the
DHE market as a means to reduce power
consumption in both vented and
unvented systems. (Woodall, No. 2 at
p. 1)
A requirement as suggested by the
commenter is outside the scope of
DOE’s authority for DHE as provided
under EPCA. At 42 U.S.C. 6291(6),
EPCA defines the term ‘‘energy
conservation standard’’ to mean a
performance standard that prescribes a
minimum level of energy efficiency or a
maximum quantity of energy use (or
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water use for certain specified covered
products), as determined under the
applicable DOE test procedure. That
same definition does allow for adoption
of a design requirement for certain
enumerated covered products; however,
DHE is not on that list. Thus, the statute
does not permit DOE to adopt a
standard requiring an electronicallycommutated motor, as suggested by
Woodall.
G. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization,
and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
EPCA requires that test procedures
proposed by DOE not be unduly
burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(3)) In this NOPR, DOE proposes
to amend the existing test procedures
for DHE (including both unvented and
vented heaters) by updating definitions
regarding unvented heaters,
incorporating by reference the most
recent versions of several industry
standards, explicitly specifying the
operational mode for testing units with
multiple automatic operational modes,
allowing the use of manufacturerspecified values for gas supply pressure
in certain circumstances, reducing the
number of thermocouples required for
measuring the flue gas temperature in
models with small flues, clarifying
instructions for cyclic condensate mass
measurements, and clarifying when
radiation shielding is necessary. DOE
has tentatively determined that these
proposed amendments would not be
unduly burdensome for manufacturers
to conduct and would not change test
burden for manufacturers.
DOE anticipates that the amendments
proposed in this NOPR would not
increase test costs.
Specifically, DOE is proposing to
change certain definitions to unvented
heaters. These definitional changes are
for consistency, and such changes do
not affect the applicability of the test
procedures or classification of any
unvented heaters. As a result, the
definitional changes would not require
additional testing or impact testing
costs.
DOE is also proposing to update the
industry consensus standards
incorporated by reference to the most
recent versions of those test methods.
All of the updated industry consensus
standards, except ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2017, do not contain any significant
changes in the sections referenced in the
DOE test procedures for DHE. For ASNI/
ASHRAE 103, the 2017 version differs
from the 2007 version currently
referenced in the DOE test procedure in
relation to the oil pressure measurement
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error allowance and the post-purge time
for applying default draft factor values.
DOE is proposing to adopt the updated
standard with modification to retain the
oil pressure measurement error
allowance and maximum post-purge
time for applying default draft factor
values from the currently-referenced
2007 version of the standard. These two
revisions were the only significant
differences between the 2007 and 2017
versions that would potentially impact
testing of vented heaters. Retention of
these requirements should not result in
any additional burden or costs, as
manufacturers are already complying
with those provisions under the current
test procedure.
DOE is proposing to specify that
models with multiple automatic
operational modes should be tested in
the default mode (or similarly-named
mode identified for normal operation). If
a default mode is not defined in the
product literature, the model would be
tested in the mode that the equipment
operates in as shipped from the
manufacturer. As discussed, DOE did
not identify any models currently on the
market that are capable of multiple
automatic operation modes. Thus, DOE
tentatively concludes that, if adopted,
this change would not require
additional testing nor would it impact
testing costs.
DOE is proposing to explicitly state
the required input rate for the cyclic
condensate collection test in section
3.8.2. The proposed input rate
instruction is identical to the instruction
in section 9.8 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2007, which is the industry test
procedure on which the cyclic
condensate collection test in section
3.8.2 is based. DOE notes this
instruction is also included in the most
recent version of ANSI/ASHRAE 103–
2017. DOE tentatively concludes that
because the input rate is not specified
in DOE’s current test procedure, but is
explicitly stated in the industry test
method, manufacturers are already
testing as instructed by the industry test
method. Therefore, this change would
not require additional testing, nor
would it impact testing costs.
DOE is proposing to allow for use of
manufacturer-specified gas inlet
pressure ranges when the required input
rating (i.e., the nameplate input rating
±2 percent) cannot be achieved at 7–10
inches water column, as currently
required in Appendix O. Aside from the
tested unit that presented this issue,
DOE is unaware of this issue more
broadly occurring in manufacturer
testing. Were this issue to occur, a valid
test as prescribed by the test procedure
could not be performed, and a
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manufacturer would need to seek a
waiver from the test procedure under 10
CFR 430.27. DOE has not received any
such waivers. As such, this proposal
would not require retesting of units on
the market and would not be expected
to impact test burden.
DOE is proposing a tolerance on the
regulator outlet temperature to be
within the greater of ±10 percent of the
manufacturer-specified manifold
pressure or ±0.2 inches water column.
This tolerance is consistent with other
DOE test procedures and would not be
expected to require retesting of units on
the market or to impact test burden.
DOE is proposing that the specific
gravity of natural gas be between 0.57
and 0.70 and of propane gas be between
1.522 and 1.574. These ranges include
the previously required values and align
with the industry’s required specific
value ranges stated in Annex G of ANSI
Z21.86–2016. As such, these proposed
changes would not require retesting of
units on the market and would not be
expected to impact test burden.
DOE also proposes to allow the testing
agency to determine whether to use nine
or five thermocouples when testing
models with small (2-inch or less
diameter) flues. DOE has tentatively
determined that the results of testing
with five thermocouples instead of nine
would be comparable. In models where
the currently required nine
thermocouples restrict the flow to the
point of causing the unit to operate
outside of the allowable test and/or
operational conditions (such as the
maximum outlet air temperature), a test
meeting all the required test conditions
cannot be completed. Therefore, for
impacted models, this change would
allow testing to the required test
conditions to be conducted, which are
designed to produce results
representative of a typical average use
cycle. DOE has tentatively determined
that performing a test with five
thermocouples instead of nine will
impose no additional testing costs.
DOE also proposes to clarify the
calculation for the allowable variance of
the condensate mass measurements
during the cyclic condensate test when
determining whether to conduct three
cycles or six. The proposed wording
would not change the intent of the test
or the test requirements, nor would it
have an impact on test cost.
Finally, DOE proposes to clarify when
radiation shielding is necessary to
install and, when shielding is necessary,
that appropriate shielding materials are
used. Radiation shielding requirements
are already included in the current test
procedure, and the proposed changes
would not change the intent of the test
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or the test requirements, nor would it
have an impact on test cost.
DOE has tentatively determined that,
should any of these proposed
amendments be finalized,
manufacturers would be able to rely on
data generated under the current test
procedure and that retesting should not
be necessary.
2. Harmonization With Industry
Consensus Standards
As discussed, Appendices G and O
incorporate by reference certain
provisions of numerous industry
standards. Both appendices incorporate
by reference IEC 62301 (Edition 2.0,
2011–01), which provides methods for
measuring electrical standby mode and
off mode power consumption.
Appendix O also incorporates by
reference ANSI/ASHRAE 103, which is
a test method for determining the
annual fuel utilization efficiency of
residential central furnaces and boilers;
ANSI Z21.86, which is a standard for
construction and safety performance of
vented gas space heating appliance;
ASTM D–2156, which is a standard for
determining smoke density; and UL 729,
UL 730, and UL 896, which are
standards pertaining to the installation
of oil-fired vented heaters. DOE notes
that the only industry standard
referenced in Appendix G is IEC 62301.
DOE requests comment on the
benefits and burdens of the proposed
updates and additions to industry
standards referenced in the test
procedures for DHE.
H. Compliance Date
EPCA prescribes that, if DOE amends
a test procedure, all representations of
energy efficiency and energy use,
including those made on marketing
materials and product labels, must be
made in accordance with that amended
test procedure, beginning 180 days after
publication of such a test procedure
final rule in the Federal Register. (42
U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) If DOE were to
publish an amended test procedure,
EPCA provides an allowance for
individual manufacturers to petition
DOE for an extension of the 180-day
period if the manufacturer may
experience undue hardship in meeting
the deadline. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(3)) To
receive such an extension, petitions
must be filed with DOE no later than 60
days before the end of the 180-day
period and must detail how the
manufacturer will experience undue
hardship. (Id.)
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IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory
Review
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A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) has determined that this test
procedure proposed rulemaking does
not constitute a ‘‘significant regulatory
action’’ under section 3(f) of Executive
Order 12866, ‘‘Regulatory Planning and
Review,’’ 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993).
Accordingly, this action was not subject
to review under the Executive Order by
the Office of Information and Regulatory
Affairs (OIRA) in OMB.
B. Review Under the Regulatory
Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5
U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires preparation
of an initial regulatory flexibility
analysis (IRFA) for any rule that by law
must be proposed for public comment,
unless the agency certifies that the rule,
if promulgated, will not have a
significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. As
required by Executive Order 13272,
‘‘Proper Consideration of Small Entities
in Agency Rulemaking,’’ 67 FR 53461
(August 16, 2002), DOE published
procedures and policies on February 19,
2003, to ensure that the potential
impacts of its rules on small entities are
properly considered during the DOE
rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE
has made its procedures and policies
available on the Office of the General
Counsel’s website: https://energy.gov/gc/
office-general-counsel.
The Small Business Administration
(SBA) considers a business entity to be
a small business, if, together with its
affiliates, it employs less than a
threshold number of workers specified
in 13 CFR part 121. The size standards
and codes are established by the 2017
North American Industry Classification
System (NAICS). DHE manufacturers are
classified under NAICS code 333414,
‘‘Heating Equipment (except Warm Air
Furnaces) Manufacturing.’’ The SBA
sets a threshold of 500 employees or
fewer for an entity to be considered as
a small business. DOE used available
public information to identify potential
small manufacturers of the covered
product. DOE accessed the Compliance
System Management System’s (CCMS)
Compliance Certification Database and
the AHRI’s certified product directory to
create a list of companies that import or
otherwise manufacture DHE covered by
this proposal. Using these sources, DOE
identified a total of five manufacturers
of DHE. Of these manufacturers, four are
potential small businesses. However,
due to the nature of DOE’s proposed
rule, which generally updates the
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incorporations by reference to the latest
version of applicable industry
consensus standards (which saw no
substantive changes to the relevant
provisions) and makes a number of
clarifications and minor modifications
designed to reduce burden, the
Department has tentatively determined
that this proposed rule, if finalized,
would not impose a significant burden
on small manufacturers who produce
this specific type of product.
More specifically, in this document,
DOE proposes the following changes to
the test procedure for unvented and
vented heaters, as well as several
associated changes to definitions at 10
CFR 430.2. First, to ensure consistent
use and application of the test
procedure, DOE proposes updates: To
the definitions of ‘‘floor electric heater,’’
‘‘primary heater,’’ ‘‘unvented gas
heater,’’ ‘‘unvented home heating
equipment,’’ ‘‘unvented oil heater,’’
‘‘vented home heating equipment,’’ and
‘‘vented room heater’’; to update the
terms ‘‘primary heater’’ and
‘‘supplementary heater’’ to ‘‘primary
electric heater’’ and ‘‘supplementary
electric heater,’’ respectively; to add the
current oil pressure measurement error
value to the test procedure; to explicitly
state the regulator outlet pressure and
specific gravity tolerances for the gas
supply; and, to clarify the wording of
the cyclic condensate collection test in
the calculation of the allowable variance
in condensate mass measurements.
Second, to align with the most recent
industry consensus standards, DOE
proposes: To update the references to
the industry consensus standards to the
most recent versions; to clarify the
required input rate for the cyclic
condensate collection tests; and, to
explicitly state the methods to
appropriately shield thermocouples
from radiation. Third, to ensure the
representativeness of the test procedure,
DOE proposes: To explicitly state the
operational mode for testing vented
heaters with multiple automatic
operation modes; to allow for use of
manufacturer-specified gas inlet
pressure range when the required input
rating cannot be reached; and, to reduce
the number of thermocouples required
for the thermocouple grid in models
with small (2-inch diameter or less)
flues from nine to five.
All proposed changes are either
clarifications to ensure consistent use
and application (which does not affect
the results of the test procedure or how
the test procedure is run) or
amendments which ensure the
representativeness of the test procedure
as compared to products installed in the
field. These amendments are all in line
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with the most recent industry consensus
standards.
As stated, DOE has reviewed this
proposed rule to amend the test
procedures for DHE under the
provisions of the Regulatory Flexibility
Act and the procedures and policies
published on February 19, 2003, and the
Department has initially determined
that if finalized as proposed, this
rulemaking would not have any cost
impact. Therefore, DOE initially
concludes that the impacts of the test
procedure amendments proposed in this
NOPR would not have a ‘‘significant
economic impact on a substantial
number of small entities,’’ and that the
preparation of an IRFA is not warranted.
Accordingly, DOE will transmit the
certification and supporting statement
of factual basis to the Chief Counsel for
Advocacy of the Small Business
Administration for review under 5
U.S.C. 605(b).
C. Review Under the Paperwork
Reduction Act of 1995
Manufacturers of DHE must certify to
DOE that their products comply with
any applicable energy conservation
standards. To certify compliance,
manufacturers must first obtain test data
for their products according to the DOE
test procedures, including any
amendments adopted for those test
procedures. DOE has established
regulations for the certification and
recordkeeping requirements for all
covered consumer products and
commercial equipment, including DHE.
(See generally 10 CFR part 429.) The
collection-of-information requirement
for certification and recordkeeping is
subject to review and approval by OMB
under the Paperwork Reduction Act
(PRA). This requirement has been
approved by OMB under OMB control
number 1910–1400. Public reporting
burden for the certification is estimated
to average 35 hours per response,
including the time for reviewing
instructions, searching existing data
sources, gathering and maintaining the
data needed, and completing and
reviewing the collection of information.
Notwithstanding any other provision
of the law, no person is required to
respond to, nor shall any person be
subject to a penalty for failure to comply
with, a collection of information subject
to the requirements of the PRA, unless
that collection of information displays a
currently valid OMB Control Number.
D. Review Under the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969
DOE is analyzing this proposed
regulation in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act of
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1969 (NEPA) and DOE’s NEPA
implementing regulations (10 CFR part
1021). DOE’s regulations include a
categorical exclusion for rulemakings
interpreting or amending an existing
rule or regulation that does not change
the environmental effect of the rule or
regulation being amended. 10 CFR part
1021, subpart D, appendix A5. DOE
anticipates that this rulemaking
qualifies for categorical exclusion A5
because it is an interpretive rulemaking
that does not change the environmental
effect of the rule and otherwise meets
the requirements for application of a
categorical exclusion. See 10 CFR
1021.410. DOE will complete its NEPA
review before issuing the final rule.
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E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
Executive Order 13132, ‘‘Federalism,’’
64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999), imposes
certain requirements on agencies
formulating and implementing policies
or regulations that preempt State law or
that have Federalism implications. The
Executive Order requires agencies to
examine the constitutional and statutory
authority supporting any action that
would limit the policymaking discretion
of the States and to carefully assess the
necessity for such actions. The
Executive Order also requires agencies
to have an accountable process to
ensure meaningful and timely input by
State and local officials in the
development of regulatory policies that
have Federalism implications. On
March 14, 2000, DOE published a
statement of policy describing the
intergovernmental consultation process
it will follow in the development of
such regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE has
examined this proposed rule and has
determined that it would not have a
substantial direct effect on the States, on
the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various
levels of government. EPCA governs and
prescribes Federal preemption of State
regulations as to energy conservation for
the products that are the subject of this
proposed rule. States can petition DOE
for exemption from such preemption to
the extent, and based on criteria, set
forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No
further action is required by Executive
Order 13132.
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
Regarding the review of existing
regulations and the promulgation of
new regulations, section 3(a) of
Executive Order 12988, ‘‘Civil Justice
Reform,’’ 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996),
imposes on Federal agencies the general
duty to adhere to the following
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requirements: (1) Eliminate drafting
errors and ambiguity; (2) write
regulations to minimize litigation; (3)
provide a clear legal standard for
affected conduct rather than a general
standard, and (4) promote simplification
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of
Executive Order 12988 specifically
requires that Executive agencies make
every reasonable effort to ensure that the
regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the
preemptive effect, if any; (2) clearly
specifies any effect on existing Federal
law or regulation; (3) provides a clear
legal standard for affected conduct
while promoting simplification and
burden reduction; (4) specifies the
retroactive effect, if any; (5) adequately
defines key terms, and (6) addresses
other important issues affecting clarity
and general draftsmanship under any
guidelines issued by the Attorney
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order
12988 requires Executive agencies to
review regulations in light of applicable
standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b) to
determine whether they are met or it is
unreasonable to meet one or more of
them. DOE has completed the required
review and determined that, to the
extent permitted by law, the proposed
rule meets the relevant standards of
Executive Order 12988.
G. Review Under the Unfunded
Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Title II of the Unfunded Mandates
Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA) requires
each Federal agency to assess the effects
of Federal regulatory actions on State,
local, and Tribal governments and the
private sector. Public Law 104–4, sec.
201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531). For a
proposed regulatory action likely to
result in a rule that may cause the
expenditure by State, local, and Tribal
governments, in the aggregate, or by the
private sector of $100 million or more
in any one year (adjusted annually for
inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires
a Federal agency to publish a written
statement that estimates the resulting
costs, benefits, and other effects on the
national economy. (2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b))
The UMRA also requires a Federal
agency to develop an effective process
to permit timely input by elected
officers of State, local, and Tribal
governments on a proposed ‘‘significant
intergovernmental mandate,’’ and
requires an agency plan for giving notice
and opportunity for timely input to
potentially affected small governments
before establishing any requirements
that might significantly or uniquely
affect small governments. On March 18,
1997, DOE published a statement of
policy on its process for
intergovernmental consultation under
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UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available at
https://energy.gov/gc/office-generalcounsel. DOE examined this proposed
rule according to UMRA and its
statement of policy and determined that
the rule contains neither an
intergovernmental mandate, nor a
mandate that may result in the
expenditure of $100 million or more in
any year, so these requirements do not
apply.
H. Review Under the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105–277) requires
Federal agencies to issue a Family
Policymaking Assessment for any rule
that may affect family well-being. This
proposed rule would not have any
impact on the autonomy or integrity of
the family as an institution.
Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it
is not necessary to prepare a Family
Policymaking Assessment.
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
DOE has determined, under Executive
Order 12630, ‘‘Governmental Actions
and Interference with Constitutionally
Protected Property Rights,’’ 53 FR 8859
(March 18, 1988), that this regulation
would not result in any takings that
might require compensation under the
Fifth Amendment to the U.S.
Constitution.
J. Review Under Treasury and General
Government Appropriations Act, 2001
Section 515 of the Treasury and
General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides
for agencies to review most
disseminations of information to the
public under guidelines established by
each agency pursuant to general
guidelines issued by OMB. OMB’s
guidelines were published at 67 FR
8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and DOE’s
guidelines were published at 67 FR
62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has reviewed
this proposed rule under the OMB and
DOE guidelines and has concluded that
it is consistent with applicable policies
in those guidelines.
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
Executive Order 13211, ‘‘Actions
Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply,
Distribution, or Use,’’ 66 FR 28355 (May
22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to
prepare and submit to OMB, a
Statement of Energy Effects for any
proposed significant energy action. A
‘‘significant energy action’’ is defined as
any action by an agency that
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promulgated or is expected to lead to
promulgation of a final rule, and that:
(1) Is a significant regulatory action
under Executive Order 12866, or any
successor order; and (2) is likely to have
a significant adverse effect on the
supply, distribution, or use of energy; or
(3) is designated by the Administrator of
OIRA as a significant energy action. For
any proposed significant energy action,
the agency must give a detailed
statement of any adverse effects on
energy supply, distribution, or use
should the proposal be implemented,
and of reasonable alternatives to the
action and their expected benefits on
energy supply, distribution, and use.
The proposed regulatory action to
amend the test procedure for measuring
the energy efficiency of DHE is not a
significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it
would not have a significant adverse
effect on the supply, distribution, or use
of energy, nor has it been designated as
a significant energy action by the
Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it is
not a significant energy action, and,
accordingly, DOE has not prepared a
Statement of Energy Effects.
L. Review Under Section 32 of the
Federal Energy Administration Act of
1974
Under section 301 of the Department
of Energy Organization Act (Pub. L. 95–
91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply
with section 32 of the Federal Energy
Administration Act of 1974, as amended
by the Federal Energy Administration
Authorization Act of 1977 (FEAA). (15
U.S.C. 788) Section 32 essentially
provides in relevant part that, where a
proposed rule authorizes or requires use
of commercial standards, the notice of
proposed rulemaking must inform the
public of the use and background of
such standards. In addition, section
32(c) requires DOE to consult with the
Attorney General and the Chairman of
the Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
concerning the impact of the
commercial or industry standards on
competition.
The proposed amendments to the
Federal test procedure for DHE are
primarily in response to modifications
to certain sections of the applicable
industry consensus standards (i.e.,
ASNI/ASHRAE 103–2017, ANSI
Z21.86–2016, ASTM D2156–09 (2018),
IEC 62301 (edition 2.0, 2011–01), UL
729–2016, UL 730–2016, and UL 897–
2016). DOE has evaluated these
standards and is unable to conclude
whether they fully comply with the
requirements of section 32(b) of the
FEAA (i.e., whether they were
developed in a manner that fully
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provides for public participation,
comment, and review.) DOE will
consult with both the Attorney General
and the Chairman of the FTC
concerning the impact of these test
procedures on competition, prior to
prescribing a final rule.
M. Description of Materials
Incorporated by Reference
In this NOPR, DOE proposes to
incorporate by reference the following
test standards:
(1) The test standard published by
ANSI/ASHRAE, titled ‘‘Method of
Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency of Residential Central
Furnaces and Boilers,’’ ANSI/ASHRAE
103–2017. ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 is
an industry-accepted test procedure for
determining the annual fuel utilization
efficiency of consumer furnaces and
boilers. Specifically, the test procedure
amendments proposed by this NOPR
reference sections of that industry
consensus standard regarding test set-up
for oil-fueled DHE (including
instrumentation and measurement
descriptions for oil burner adjustments),
and instructions on calculating jacket
losses in vented floor heaters and
calculations for draft factors. Copies of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 can be
obtained from ASHRAE, 1791 Tullie
Circle NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, (800)
527–4723 or (404) 636–8400, or online
at: https://www.ashrae.org.
(2) The test standard published by
ANSI, titled ‘‘Vented Gas-fired Space
Heating Appliances,’’ ANSI Z21.86–
2016. ANSI Z21.86 is an industryaccepted test procedure for vented gasfired space heating appliances.
Specifically, the test procedure
amendments proposed by this NOPR
reference sections of that industry
consensus standard regarding the set-up
specifications for vented wall DHE,
instructions for gas usage other than
natural gas or propane, instructions for
measuring discharge temperatures of
forced air, vented, wall DHE, and
descriptions of thermocouple
installation in gas-fueled, vented DHEs.
Copies of ANSI Z21.86–2016 can be
obtained from ANSI, 25 W 43rd Street,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, (212)
642–4900, or online at: https://
www.ansi.org.
(3) The test standard published by
ASTM, titled ‘‘Standard Test Method for
Smoke Density in Flue Gases from
Burning Distillate Fuels,’’ ASTM
D2156–09 (2018). ASTM D2156 is an
industry-accepted test procedure for
measuring smoke density in flue gases
from burning distillate fuels.
Specifically, the test procedure
amendments proposed by this NOPR
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reference sections of that industry
consensus standard regarding providing
smoke density levels which are
measured during for the steady-state
test. Copies of ASTM D2156–09 (2018)
can be obtained from ASTM, 100 Barr
Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West
Conshohocken, PA 19428–2959 or
online at: www.astm.org.
(4) The test standard published by
IEC, titled ‘‘Household electrical
appliances-Measurement of standby
power,’’ IEC 62301 (Edition 2.0, 2011–
01). IEC 62301 is an industry-accepted
test procedure for the measurement of
standby power modes in household
electrical appliances. Specifically, the
test procedure amendments proposed by
this NOPR reference sections of that
industry consensus standard regarding
measurment of electrical standby mode
and off mode power consumption.
Copies of IEC 62301 (Second Edition)
can be obtained from the American
National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd
Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036,
(212) 642–4900, or online at: https://
webstore.ansi.org.
(5)–(7) The test standards published
by UL: ‘‘Standard for Safety for Oil-fired
Floor Furnaces,’’ ‘‘Standard for Safety
for Oil-fired Wall Furnaces,’’ and
‘‘Standard for Safety for Oil-burning
Stoves,’’ UL 729–2016, UL 730–2016,
and UL 896–2016, respectively. UL 729,
UL 730, UL 896 are industry-accepted
test procedures for oil-fired floor
furnaces, oil-fired wall furnaces, and
oil-burning stoves respectively.
Specifically, the test procedure
amendments proposed by this NOPR
reference sections of those industry
consensus standards regarding vented
floor and wall DHE test installation and
instructions for flue and thermocouple
installation for oil fueled, vented floor
DHEs. Copies of UL 729–2016, UL 730–
2016, and UL 896–2016 can be obtained
from UL at 2600 NW Lake Rd., Camas,
WA 98607–8542 or online at:
www.ul.com.
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
The time and date of the webinar are
listed in the DATES section at the
beginning of this document. Webinar
registration information, participant
instructions, and information about the
capabilities available to webinar
participants will be published on DOE’s
website: https://www1.eere.energy.gov/
buildings/appliance_standards/
product.aspx/productid/41. Participants
are responsible for ensuring their
systems are compatible with the
webinar software.
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B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared
General Statements for Distribution
Any person who has an interest in the
topics addressed in this proposed
rulemaking, or who is representative of
a group or class of persons that has an
interest in these issues, may request an
opportunity to make an oral
presentation at the webinar. Such
persons may submit requests to speak
by email to the Appliance and
Equipment Standards Program,
ApplianceStandardsQuestions@
ee.doe.gov. Persons who wish to speak
should include with their request a
computer file in WordPerfect, Microsoft
Word, PDF, or text (ASCII) file format
that briefly describes the nature of their
interest in this rulemaking and the
topics they wish to discuss. Such
persons should also provide a daytime
telephone number where they can be
reached.
Persons requesting to speak should
briefly describe the nature of their
interest in this rulemaking and provide
a telephone number for contact. DOE
requests persons selected to make an
oral presentation to submit an advance
copy of their statements at least two
weeks before the webinar. At its
discretion, DOE may permit persons
who cannot supply an advance copy of
their statement to participate, if those
persons have made advance alternative
arrangements with the Building
Technologies Office. As necessary,
requests to give an oral presentation
should ask for such alternative
arrangements.
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C. Conduct of the Webinar
DOE will designate a DOE official to
preside at the webinar and may also use
a professional facilitator to aid
discussion. The meeting will not be a
judicial or evidentiary-type public
hearing, but DOE will conduct it in
accordance with section 336 of EPCA
(42 U.S.C. 6306). A court reporter will
be present to record the proceedings and
prepare a transcript. DOE reserves the
right to schedule the order of
presentations and to establish the
procedures governing the conduct of the
webinar. There shall not be discussion
of proprietary information, costs or
prices, market share, or other
commercial matters regulated by U.S.
anti-trust laws. After the webinar and
until the end of the comment period,
interested parties may submit further
comments on the proceedings and any
aspect of the rulemaking.
The webinar will be conducted in an
informal, conference style. DOE will
present summaries of comments
received before the webinar, allow time
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for prepared general statements by
participants, and encourage all
interested parties to share their views on
issues affecting this rulemaking. Each
participant will be allowed to make a
general statement (within time limits
determined by DOE), before the
discussion of specific topics. DOE will
permit, as time permits, other
participants to comment briefly on any
general statements.
At the end of all prepared statements
on a topic, DOE will permit participants
to clarify their statements briefly and
comment on statements made by others.
Participants should be prepared to
answer questions by DOE and by other
participants concerning these issues.
DOE representatives may also ask
questions of participants concerning
other matters relevant to this
rulemaking. The official conducting the
webinar will accept additional
comments or questions from those
attending, as time permits. The
presiding official will announce any
further procedural rules or modification
of the above procedures that may be
needed for the proper conduct of the
webinar.
A transcript of the webinar will be
included in the docket, which can be
viewed as described in the Docket
section at the beginning of this NOPR.
In addition, any person may buy a copy
of the transcript from the transcribing
reporter.
D. Submission of Comments
DOE will accept comments, data, and
information regarding this proposed
rule no later than the date provided in
the DATES section at the beginning of
this proposed rule. Interested parties
may submit comments using any of the
methods described in the ADDRESSES
section at the beginning of this
document.
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
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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.
Comments and documents submitted
via email 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. 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,
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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 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. DOE
will make its own determination about
the confidential status of the
information and treat it according to its
determination.
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).
E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
Although DOE welcomes comments
on any aspect of this proposal, DOE is
particularly interested in receiving
comments and views of interested
parties concerning the following issues:
(1) DOE requests comment on its
proposed changes to the definitions for
‘‘electric heater,’’ ‘‘primary heater,’’
‘‘unvented gas heater,’’ ‘‘unvented home
heating equipment,’’ and ‘‘unvented oil
heater’’ in 10 CFR 430.2, as well as on
its proposed change in terminology from
‘‘primary heater’’ and ‘‘supplementary
heater’’ to ‘‘primary electric heater’’ and
‘‘supplementary electric heater,’’
respectively.
(2) DOE requests comment on its
proposed changes to the definitions for
‘‘vented home heating equipment’’ and
‘‘vented room heater’’ in 10 CFR 430.2.
DOE also requests additional comment
on the definitions for vented home
heating equipment in section 1.0 of
Appendix O, and on its tentative
determination that no changes are
necessary.
(3) DOE seeks comment on its
proposal to incorporate by reference
ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017 with
modifications. In particular, DOE is
interested in receiving comment on its
proposal to add the oil pressure
measurement error value, which was
omitted from ANSI/ASHRAE 103–2017,
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to Appendix O, and on its proposal to
remove the mention of sections 8.8.3
and 9.10 within section 3.6.2.4.2 of
Appendix O.
(4) DOE requests comment on its
tentative determination to not include
standby mode and off mode energy
consumption into the annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters.
(5) DOE requests comment on its
proposal with regard to the automatic
operational mode for testing models
with multiple automatic operation
modes. DOE requests data and
information on the consumer use of
different automatic operational modes
when offered on a vented heater. DOE
is interested in receiving comment on
the characteristics of the mode
recommended by manufacturers for
normal operation, on how such mode is
described in the manufacturer’s
installation and operations manual
when provided, and on which models
currently available on the market
include multiple automatic operation
modes.
(6) DOE requests comment on its
proposals to allow a manufacturerspecified value for gas supply pressure
if test conditions are not achievable at
a gas supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches
water column for natural gas or 11–13
inches water column for propane gas, to
require the regulator outlet pressure be
within the greater of ± 10 percent of the
manufacturer-specified manifold
pressure or ± 0.2 inches water column,
to require the specific gravity of natural
gas be between 0.57 and 0.70 and for
propane gas be between 1.522 and
1.574, to remove the phrase ‘‘normal’’
from sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of
Appendix O, and to replace ‘‘normal
hourly Btu input rating’’ with
‘‘maximum hourly Btu input rating’’
within section 2.4.2 of Appendix O.
(7) DOE seeks comment on its
proposal to allow the use of five
thermocouples, rather than nine
thermocouples, in vented heaters with a
vent diameter of 2 inches or less.
(8) DOE requests comment on its
proposal to specify input rate
instructions for the cyclic condensate
collection test.
(9) DOE requests comment on its
proposed rewording of the variance
condition between cycles to clarify that
the standard deviation must be less than
or equal to 20 percent of the mean, for
determining whether the cyclic
condensate mass collection must be
performed for three cycles or six cycles.
(10) DOE requests comment its
proposed changes to the radiation
shielding requirements within sections
2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.9 of Appendix O. In
particular, DOE seeks information as to
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20071
what methods are currently being used
to determine whether a thermocouple
would require a radiation shield and
also what types of materials are
currently used as radiation shields.
(11) DOE seeks additional comment
and data on whether the DHE test
method affects DHE utility or
performance, specifically including
whether there are impacts on features
such as air circulation and space
humidification.
(12) DOE requests comment on the
benefits and burdens of the proposed
updates and additions to industry
standards referenced in the test
procedures for DHE.
VI. Approval of the Office of the
Secretary
The Secretary of Energy has approved
publication of this proposed rule.
List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and
procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation,
Household appliances, Imports,
Incorporation by reference,
Intergovernmental relations, Reporting
and recordkeeping requirements, Small
businesses.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of
Energy was signed on April 2, 2021, by
Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal
Deputy Assistant Secretary and Acting
Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency
and Renewable Energy, pursuant to
delegated authority from the Secretary
of Energy. That document with the
original signature and date is
maintained by DOE. For administrative
purposes only, and in compliance with
requirements of the Office of the Federal
Register, the undersigned DOE Federal
Register Liaison Officer has been
authorized to sign and submit the
document in electronic format for
publication, as an official document of
the Department of Energy. This
administrative process in no way alters
the legal effect of this document upon
publication in the Federal Register.
Signed in Washington, DC, on April 2,
2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S.
Department of Energy.
For the reasons stated in the
preamble, DOE is proposing to amend
part 430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code
of Federal Regulations as set forth
below:
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PART 430—ENERGY CONSERVATION
PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER
PRODUCTS
1. The authority citation for part 430
continues to read as follows:
■
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291–6309; 28 U.S.C.
2461 note.
2. Section 430.2 is amended by
revising the definitions of ‘‘Electric
heater,’’ ‘‘Floor electric heater,’’
‘‘Primary heater,’’ ‘‘Supplementary
heater,’’ ‘‘Unvented gas heater,’’
‘‘Unvented home heating equipment or
unvented heater,’’ ‘‘Unvented oil
heater,’’ ‘‘Vented home heating
equipment or vented heater,’’ and
‘‘Vented room heater’’ to read as
follows:
■
§ 430.2
Definitions.
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*
*
*
*
*
Electric heater means an electric
appliance which is a class of unvented
home heating equipment 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.
*
*
*
*
*
Floor electric heater means an electric
heater which is intended to be recessed
in a floor, and which transfers heat by
radiation and/or convection (either
natural or forced).
*
*
*
*
*
Primary electric heater means an
electric heater that is the principal
source of heat for a structure and
includes baseboard electric heaters,
ceiling electric heaters, floor electric
heaters, and wall electric heaters.
*
*
*
*
*
Supplementary electric heater means
an electric heater that provides heat to
a space in addition to that which is
supplied by a primary electric heater
and includes portable electric heaters.
*
*
*
*
*
Unvented gas heater means a class of
unvented home heating equipment
which is a self-contained, free-standing,
nonrecessed gas-burning appliance that
furnishes heated air by gravity or fan
circulation.
Unvented home heating equipment or
unvented heater means a class of home
heating equipment, not including
furnaces, designed to furnish heated air
to a space proximate to such heater,
directly from the heater, without inlet
duct connections and without exhaust
venting, and includes: Electric heater,
unvented gas heater, and unvented oil
heater.
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Unvented oil heater means a class of
unvented home heating equipment
which is a self-contained, free-standing,
nonrecessed oil-burning appliance that
furnishes heated air by gravity or fan
circulation.
*
*
*
*
*
Vented home heating equipment or
vented heater means a class of home
heating equipment, not including
furnaces, designed to furnish heated air
to a space proximate to such heater,
directly from the heater, without inlet
duct connections (except that boots not
to exceed 10 inches beyond the casing
may be permitted), and with exhaust
venting, and includes: Vented wall
furnace, vented floor furnace, and
vented room heater.
Vented room heater means a selfcontained, free standing, nonrecessed,
vented heater for furnishing heated 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.
*
*
*
*
*
■ 3. Section 430.3 is amended by:
■ a. Revising paragraphs (e)(25) and
(g)(12);
■ b. Redesignating paragraphs (g)(13)
and (14) as (g)(14) and (15), respectively;
■ c. Adding new paragraph (g)(13);
■ d. Revising paragraph (j)(1) and
adding paragraph (j)(3); and
■ e. Revising paragraphs (v)(1) through
(3).
The revisions and additions read as
follows:
§ 430.3 Materials incorporated by
reference.
*
*
*
*
*
(e) * * *
(25) ANSI Z21.86–2016, (‘‘ANSI
Z21.86–2016’’), Vented Gas-Fired Space
Heating Appliances, Sixth Edition,
approved December 21, 2016, IBR
approved for appendix O to subpart B.
*
*
*
*
*
(g) * * *
(12) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103–
2007, (‘‘ASHRAE 103–2007’’), Method
of Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency of Residential Central
Furnaces and Boilers, ANSI approved
March 25, 2008, IBR approved for
appendix AA to subpart B.
(13) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103–
2017, (‘‘ASHRAE 103–2017’’), Method
of Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization
Efficiency of Residential Central
Furnaces and Boilers, ANSI approved
July 3, 2017, IBR approved for appendix
O to subpart B.
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(1) ASTM D2156–09, (‘‘ASTM
D2156’’), Standard Test Method for
Smoke Density in Flue Gases from
Burning Distillate Fuels, ASTM
approved December 1, 2009, IBR
approved for appendix E to subpart B.
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(3) ASTM D2156–09 (Reapproved
2018) (‘‘ASTM D2156–09 (RA 2018)’’),
Standard Test Method for Smoke
Density in Flue Gases from Burning
Distillate Fuels, approved October 1,
2018, IBR approved for appendix O to
subpart B.
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(1) UL 729–2003 (‘‘UL 729–2003 (RA
2016)’’), Standard for Safety for OilFired Floor Furnaces, Sixth Edition,
dated August 29, 2003, including
revisions through November 22, 2016,
IBR approved for appendix O to subpart
B.
(2) UL 730–2003 (‘‘UL 730–2003 (RA
2016)’’), Standard for Safety for OilFired Wall Furnaces, Fifth Edition,
dated August 29, 2003, including
revisions through November 22, 2016,
IBR approved for appendix O to subpart
B.
(3) UL 896–1993 (‘‘UL 896–1993 (RA
2016)’’), Standard for Safety for OilBurning Stoves, Fifth Edition, dated July
29, 1993, including revisions through
November 22, 2016, IBR approved for
appendix O to subpart B.
■ 4. Appendix O to subpart B of part
430 is amended by:
■ a. Revising the introductory note;
■ b. Adding section 0; and
■ c. Revising sections 2.0, 3.1.2, 3.2,
3.6.2.4.2, and 3.8.2;
The additions and revisions read as
follows:
Appendix O to Subpart B of Part 430—
Uniform Test Method for Measuring the
Energy Consumption of Vented Home
Heating Equipment
Note: Prior to [DATE 180 DAYS AFTER
PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL RULE IN THE
Federal Register], representations with
respect to the energy use or efficiency of
vented home heating equipment, including
compliance certifications, must be based on
testing conducted in accordance with either
this appendix as it now appears or appendix
O as it appeared at 10 CFR part 430, subpart
B revised as of January 1, 2019.
On and after [DATE 180 DAYS AFTER
DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL
RULE IN THE Federal Register],
representations with respect to energy use or
efficiency of vented home heating
equipment, including compliance
certifications, must be based on testing
conducted in accordance with this appendix.
0. Incorporated by Reference
DOE incorporated by reference in § 430.3:
ANSI Z21.86–2016; ASHRAE Standard 103–
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2017; ASTM D2156–09 (2018); IEC 62301; UL
729–2003 (RA 2016); UL 730–2003 (RA
2016); and UL 896–1993– (RA 2016) in their
entirety. However, only enumerated
provisions of ANSI Z21.86–2016; ASHRAE
103–2017, UL 729–2003 (RA 2016), UL 730–
2003 (RA 2016); and UL 896–1993 (RA 2016)
are applicable to this appendix, as follows:
(1) ANSI Z21.86–2016
(i) Section 5.2—Test gases
(ii) Section 9.1.3
(iii) Section 11.1.3
(iv) Section 11.7—Temperature at
discharge air opening and surface
temperatures
(2) ASHRAE 103–2017
(i) Section 6—INSTRUMENTS
(ii) Section 8.2.2.3.1—Oil Supply
(iii) Section 8.6—Jacket Loss Measurement
(iv) Section 8.8.3—Additional Optional
Method of Testing for Determining DP
and DF for Furnaces and Boilers
(v) Section 9.10—Optional Test Procedures
for Condensing Furnaces and Boilers that
Have no OFF-Period Flue Losses
(3) UL 729–2003 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 38.1—Enclosure
(ii) Section 38.2—Chimney connector
(4) UL 730–2003 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 36.1—Enclosure
(ii) Section 36.2—Chimney connector
(iii) Sections 37.5.8 through 37.5.18
(5) UL 896–1993 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 37.1.2
(ii) Section 37.1.3
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2.0 Testing conditions.
2.1 Installation of test unit.
2.1.1 Vented wall furnaces (including
direct vent systems). Install non-direct vent
gas fueled vented wall furnaces as specified
in section 11.1.3 of ANSI Z21.86–2016
(incorporated by reference, see § 430.3).
Install direct vent gas fueled vented wall
furnaces as specified in section 9.1.3 of ANSI
Z21.86–2016 (incorporated by reference, see
§ 430.3). Install oil-fueled vented wall
furnaces as specified in section 36.1 of UL
730–2016 (incorporated by reference, see
§ 430.3).
2.1.2 Vented floor furnaces. Install vented
floor furnaces for test as specified in section
38.1 of UL 729–2003 (RA 2016) (incorporated
by reference, see § 430.3).
2.1.3 Vented room heaters. Install vented
room heaters for test in accordance with the
manufacturer’s installation and operations
(I&O) manual provided with the unit.
2.2 Flue and stack requirements.
2.2.1 Gas fueled vented home heating
equipment employing integral draft diverters
and draft hoods (excluding direct vent
systems). Attach to, and vertically above the
outlet of gas-fueled vented home heating
equipment employing draft diverters or draft
hoods with vertically discharging outlets, a
five (5) foot long test stack having a crosssectional area the same size as the draft
diverter outlet.
Attach to the outlet of vented heaters
having a horizontally discharging draft
diverter or draft hood outlet a 90 degree
elbow, and a five (5) foot long vertical test
stack. A horizontal section of pipe may be
used on the floor furnace between the
diverter and the elbow, if necessary, to clear
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any framing used in the installation. Use the
minimum length of pipe possible for this
section. Use stack, elbow, and horizontal
section with same cross-sectional area as the
diverter outlet.
2.2.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating
equipment (excluding direct vent systems).
Use flue connections for oil-fueled vented
floor furnaces as specified in section 38.2 of
UL 729–2003 (RA 2016), sections 36.2 of UL
730–2003 (RA 2016) for oil-fueled vented
wall furnaces, and sections 37.1.2 and 37.1.3
of UL 896–1993 (RA 2016) (all incorporated
by reference, see § 430.3) for oil-fueled
vented room heaters.
2.2.3 Direct vent systems. Have the
exhaust/air intake system supplied by the
manufacturer in place during all tests. Test
units intended for installation with a variety
of vent pipe lengths with the minimum
length recommended by the manufacturer in
the I&O manual. Do not connect a heater
employing a direct vent system to a chimney
or induced draft source. Vent the gas solely
on the provision for venting incorporated in
the heater and the vent/air intake system
supplied with it.
2.2.4 Condensing vented heater,
additional flue requirements. The flue pipe
installation must not allow condensate
formed in the flue pipe to flow back into the
unit. An initial downward slope from the
unit’s exit, an offset with a drip leg, annular
collection rings, or drain holes must be
included in the flue pipe installation without
disturbing normal flue gas flow. Flue gases
should not flow out of the drain with the
condensate. For condensing vented heaters
that do not include means for collection of
condensate, a means to collect condensate
must be supplied by the test lab for the
purposes of testing.
2.3 Fuel supply.
2.3.1 Natural gas. For a gas-fueled vented
heater, maintain the gas supply to the unit
under test at an inlet test pressure
immediately ahead of all controls at 7 to 10
inches water column. If the heater is
equipped with a gas appliance pressure
regulator, maintain the regulator outlet
pressure within the greater of ±10 percent of
the manufacturer’s specified manifold
pressure on the nameplate of the unit or in
the I&O manual or ±0.2 inches water column.
Use natural gas having a specific gravity
between 0.57 and 0.70 and a higher heating
value within ±5 percent of 1,025 Btus per
standard cubic foot. Determine the actual
higher heating value in Btu’s per standard
cubic foot for the natural gas to be used in
the test with an error no greater than one
percent. If the burner cannot be adjusted to
obtain a heat input rate of within ±2 percent
of the hourly Btu rating specified by the
manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or
in the I&O manual, as required by section
2.4.1, the gas supply to the unit under test
at an inlet test pressure immediately ahead
of all controls may be set to any value within
the range specified on the nameplate of the
unit or in the I&O manual.
2.3.2 Propane gas. For a propane-gasfueled vented heater, maintain the gas supply
to the unit under test at an inlet pressure of
11 to 13 inches water column. If the heater
is equipped with a gas appliance pressure
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regulator, maintain the regulator outlet
pressure within the greater of ± 10 percent of
the manufacturer’s specified manifold
pressure on the nameplate of the unit or in
the I&O manual or ± 0.2 inches water column
. Use propane having a specific gravity
between 1.522 and 1.574 and a higher
heating value within ±5 percent of 2,500 Btus
per standard cubic foot. Determine the actual
higher heating value in Btu’s per standard
cubic foot for the propane to be used in the
test. If the burner cannot be adjusted to
obtain a heat input rate of within ± 2 percent
of the hourly Btu rating specified by the
manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or
in the I&O manual, as required by section
2.4.1, the gas supply to the unit under test
at an inlet test pressure immediately ahead
of all controls may be set to any value within
the range specified on the nameplate of the
unit or in the I&O manual.
2.3.3 Other test gas. For vented heaters
fueled by other test gases, use test gases with
characteristics as described in Table 3 of
section 5.2 of ANSI Z21.86–2016
(incorporated by reference, see § 430.3). Use
gases with a measured higher heating value
within ±5 percent of the values specified in
Table 3 of section 5.2 of ANSI Z21.86–2016.
Determine the actual higher heating value of
the gas used in the test with an error no
greater than one percent.
2.3.4 Oil supply. For an oil-fueled vented
heater, use No. 1 fuel oil (kerosene) for
vaporizing-type burners and either No. 1 or
No. 2 fuel oil, as specified by the
manufacturer in the I&O manual provided
with the unit, for mechanical atomizing type
burners. Use test fuel conforming to the
specifications given in Tables 2 and 3 of
section 8.2.2.3.1 of ASHRAE 103–2017
(incorporated by reference, see § 430.3).
Measure the higher heating value of the test
fuel within ±1 percent.
2.3.5 Electrical supply. For auxiliary
electric components of a vented heater,
maintain the electrical supply to the test unit
within ±1 percent of the nameplate voltage
for the entire test cycle. If a voltage range is
used for nameplate voltage, maintain the
electrical supply within ±1 percent of the
mid-point of the nameplate voltage range.
2.4 Burner adjustments.
2.4.1 Gas burner adjustments. Adjust the
burners of gas-fueled vented heaters to their
maximum Btu ratings at the test pressure
specified in section 2.3 of this appendix.
Correct the burner volumetric flow rate to
60 °F (15.6C) and 30 inches of mercury
barometric pressure, set the fuel flow rate to
obtain a heat rate of within ±2 percent of the
hourly Btu rating specified by the
manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or
the I&O manual as measured after 15 minutes
of operation, starting with all parts of the
vented heater at room temperature. Set the
primary air shutters in accordance with the
manufacturer’s recommendations on the
nameplate of the unit or the I&O manual to
give a good flame at this adjustment. Do not
allow the deposit of carbon during any test
specified herein.
If a vent limiting means is provided on a
gas pressure regulator, have it in place during
all tests.
For gas-fueled heaters with modulating
controls, adjust the controls to operate the
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heater at the maximum fuel input rate. Set
the thermostat control to the maximum
setting. Start the heater by turning the safety
control valve to the ‘‘on’’ position. In order
to prevent modulation of the burner at
maximum input, place the thermostat
sensing element in a temperature control
bath which is held at a temperature below
the maximum set point temperature of the
control.
For gas-fueled heaters with modulating
controls, adjust the controls to operate the
heater at the reduced fuel input rate. Set the
thermostat control to the minimum setting.
Start the heater by turning the safety control
valve to the ‘‘on’’ position. If ambient test
room temperature is above the lowest control
set point temperature, initiate burner
operation by placing the thermostat sensing
element in a temperature control bath that is
held at a temperature below the minimum set
point temperature of the control.
2.4.2 Oil burner adjustments. Adjust the
burners of oil-fueled vented heaters to give
the CO2 reading recommended by the
manufacturer and an hourly Btu input,
during the steady-state performance test
described below, which is within ±2 percent
of the heater manufacturer’s specified hourly
Btu input rating on the nameplate of the unit
or in the I&O manual . On units employing
a power burner, do not allow smoke in the
flue to exceed a No. 1 smoke during the
steady-state performance test as measured by
the procedure in ASTM D2156–09 (RA 2018)
(incorporated by reference, see § 430.3). If, on
units employing a power burner, the smoke
in the flue exceeds a No. 1 smoke during the
steady-state test, readjust the burner to give
a lower smoke reading, and, if necessary, a
lower CO2 reading, and start all tests over.
Maintain the average draft over the fire and
in the flue during the steady-state
performance test at that recommended by the
manufacturer within ±0.005 inches of water
gauge. Do not make additional adjustments to
the burner during the required series of
performance tests. The instruments and
measuring apparatus for this test are
described in section 6 and shown in Figure
8 of ASHRAE 103–2017. Calibrate
instruments for measuring oil pressure so
that the error is no greater than ±0.5 psi.
2.5 Circulating air adjustments.
2.5.1 Forced-air vented wall furnaces
(including direct vent systems). During
testing, maintain the air flow through the
heater as specified by the manufacturer in the
I&O manual provided with the unit and
operate the vented heater with the outlet air
temperature between 80 °F and 130 °F above
room temperature. If adjustable air discharge
registers are provided, adjust them so as to
provide the maximum possible air
restriction. Measure air discharge
temperature as specified in section 11.7.2 of
ANSI Z21.86–2016.
2.5.2 Fan-type vented room heaters and
floor furnaces. During tests on fan-type
furnaces and heaters, adjust the air flow
through the heater as specified by the
manufacturer. If adjustable air discharge
registers are provided, adjust them to provide
the maximum possible air restriction.
2.6 Location of temperature measuring
instrumentation.
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2.6.1 Gas-fueled vented home heating
equipment (including direct vent systems).
Install thermocouples for measuring the
heated air temperature as described in
section 11.7.5 of ANSI Z21.86–2016.
Establish the temperature of the inlet air by
means of a single No. 24 AWG bead-type
thermocouple located in the center of the
plane of each inlet air opening. Use beadtype thermocouples having wire size not
greater than No. 24 American Wire Gauge
(AWG). If a thermocouple has a direct line of
sight with the fire, install a radiation shield,
meeting the material and minimum thickness
requirements from section 8.14.1 of ANSI
Z21.86–2016, on the fire side of the
thermocouple only and position the shield so
that it does not touch the thermocouple
junction.
2.6.1.1 Integral draft diverter. For units
employing an integral draft diverter, install
nine thermocouples, wired in parallel, in a
horizontal plane in the five foot test stack
located one foot from the test stack inlet.
Equalize the length of all thermocouple leads
before paralleling. Locate one thermocouple
in the center of the stack. Locate eight
thermocouples along imaginary lines
intersecting at right angles in this horizontal
plane at points one third and two thirds of
the distance between the center of the stack
and the stack wall.
For units with a stack diameter 2 inches or
less, five thermocouples may be installed
instead of nine. Locate one thermocouple in
the center of the stack. Locate four
thermocouples along imaginary lines
intersecting at right angles in this horizontal
plane at points halfway between the center
of the stack and the stack wall.
2.6.1.2 Direct vent system. For units
which employ a direct vent system, locate at
least one thermocouple at the center of each
flue way exiting the heat exchanger. Provide
radiation shields if the thermocouples are
exposed to burner radiation.
2.6.1.3 Draft hood or direct vent system
which does not intentionally preheat
incoming air. For units which employ a draft
hood or units which employ a direct vent
system which does not intentionally preheat
the incoming combustion air, such as a nonconcentric direct vent system, install nine
thermocouples, wired in parallel, in a
horizontal plane located within 12 inches
(304.8 mm) of the heater outlet and upstream
of the draft hood on units so equipped.
Locate one thermocouple in the center of the
pipe and eight thermocouples along
imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in
this horizontal plane at points one third and
two thirds of the distance between the center
of the pipe and the pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2
inches or less, five thermocouples may be
installed instead of nine. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the pipe and
four thermocouples along imaginary lines
intersecting at right angles in this horizontal
plane at points halfway between the center
of the pipe and the pipe wall.
2.6.1.4 Direct vent system which
intentionally preheat incoming air. For units
which employ direct vent systems that
intentionally preheat the incoming
combustion air, such as a concentric direct
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vent system, install nine thermocouples,
wired in parallel, in a plane parallel to and
located within 6 inches (152.4 mm) of the
vent/air intake terminal. Equalize the length
of all thermocouple leads before paralleling.
Locate one thermocouple in the center of the
flue pipe and eight thermocouples along
imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in
this plane at points one third and two thirds
of the distance between the center of the flue
pipe and the pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2
inches or less, five thermocouples may be
installed instead of nine. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the flue pipe
and four thermocouples along imaginary
lines intersecting at right angles in this plane
at points halfway between the center of the
flue pipe and the pipe wall.
2.6.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating
equipment (including direct vent systems).
Install thermocouples for measuring the
heated air temperature as described in
sections 37.5.8 through 37.5.18 of UL 730–
2003 (RA 2016) . Establish the temperature of
the inlet air by means of a single No. 24 AWG
bead-type thermocouple located in the center
of the plane of each inlet air opening. Use
bead-type thermocouples having a wire size
not greater than No. 24 AWG. If there is a
thermocouple that has a direct line of sight
with the fire, install a radiation shield,
meeting the material and minimum thickness
requirements from section 8.14.1 of ANSI
Z21.86–2016, on the fire side of the
thermocouple only and position the shield so
that it does not touch the thermocouple
junction.
Install nine thermocouples, wired in
parallel and having equal length leads, in a
plane perpendicular to the axis of the flue
pipe. Locate this plane at the position shown
in Figure 36.4 of UL 730–2003 (RA 2016), or
Figure 38.1 and 38.2 of UL 729–2003 (RA
2016) for a single thermocouple, except that
on direct vent systems which intentionally
preheat the incoming combustion air, locate
this plane within 6 inches (152.5 mm) of the
outlet of the vent/air intake terminal. Locate
one thermocouple in the center of the flue
pipe and eight thermocouples along
imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in
this plane at points one third and two thirds
of the distance between the center of the pipe
and pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2
inches or less, five thermocouples may be
installed instead of nine. Wire the
thermocouples in parallel with equal length
leads, in a plane perpendicular to the axis of
the flue pipe. Locate this plane at the
position shown in Figure 36.4 of UL 730–
2003 (RA 2016), or Figure 38.1 and 38.2 of
UL 729–2003 (RA 2016) for a single
thermocouple, except that on direct vent
systems which intentionally preheat the
incoming combustion air, locate this plane
within 6 inches (152.5 mm) of the outlet of
the vent/air intake terminal. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the flue pipe
and four thermocouples along imaginary
lines intersecting at right angles in this plane
at points halfway between the center of the
pipe and pipe wall.
2.7 Combustion measurement
instrumentation. Analyze the samples of
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stack and flue gases for vented heaters to
determine the concentration by volume of
carbon dioxide present in the dry gas with
instrumentation which will result in a
reading having an accuracy of ±0.1
percentage point.
2.8 Energy flow instrumentation. Install
one or more instruments, which measure the
rate of gas flow or fuel oil supplied to the
vented heater, and if appropriate, the
electrical energy with an error no greater than
one percent.
2.9 Room ambient temperature. The room
ambient temperature shall be the arithmetic
average temperature of the test area,
determined by measurement with four No. 24
AWG bead-type thermocouples with
junctions shielded against radiation using
shielding meeting the material and minimum
thickness requirements from section 8.14.1 of
ANSI Z21.86–2016, located approximately at
90-degree positions on a circle
circumscribing the heater or heater enclosure
under test, in a horizontal plane
approximately at the vertical midpoint of the
appliance or test enclosure, and with the
junctions approximately 24 inches from sides
of the heater or test enclosure and located so
as not to be affected by other than room air.
The value TRA is the room ambient
temperature measured at the last of the three
successive readings taken 15 minutes apart
described in section 3.1.1 or 3.1.2 as
applicable. During the time period required
to perform all the testing and measurement
procedures specified in section 3.0 of this
appendix, maintain the room ambient
temperature within ±5 °F (±2.8 C) of the value
TRA. At no time during these tests shall the
room ambient temperature exceed 100 °F
(37.8 C) or fall below 65 °F (18.3 C).
Locate a thermocouple at each elevation of
draft relief inlet opening and combustion air
inlet opening at a distance of approximately
24 inches from the inlet openings. The
temperature of the air for combustion and the
air for draft relief shall not differ more than
±5 °F from the room ambient temperature as
measured above at any point in time. This
requirement for combustion air inlet
temperature does not need to be met once the
burner is shut off during the testing described
in sections 3.3 and 3.6 of this appendix.
2.10 Equipment used to measure mass
flow rate in flue and stack. The tracer gas
chosen for this task should have a density
which is less than or approximately equal to
the density of air. Use a gas unreactive with
the environment to be encountered. Using
instrumentation of either the batch or
continuous type, measure the concentration
of tracer gas with an error no greater than 2
percent of the value of the concentration
measured.
2.11 Equipment with multiple control
modes.
2.11.1 For equipment that has both
manual and automatic thermostat control
modes, test the unit according to the
procedure for its automatic control mode, i.e.
single-stage, two-stage, or step-modulating.
2.11.2 For equipment that has multiple
automatic thermostat control modes, test in
the default mode (or similarly-named mode
identified for normal operation) as defined by
the manufacturer in its I&O manual. If a
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default mode is not defined in the I&O
manual, test in the mode that the equipment
operates in as shipped from the
manufacturer.
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3.1.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating
equipment (including direct vent systems).
Set up and adjust the vented heater as
specified in sections 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3.4 of this
appendix. Begin the steady-state performance
test by operating the burner and the
circulating air blower, on units so equipped,
with the adjustments specified by sections
2.4.2 and 2.5 of this appendix, until steadystate conditions are attained as indicated by
a temperature variation of not more than
±5 °F (2.8 C) in the flue gas temperature in
three successive readings taken 15 minutes
apart. The measurements described in this
section are to coincide with the last of these
15 minutes readings.
For units equipped with power burners, do
not allow smoke in the flue to exceed a No.
1 smoke during the steady-state performance
test as measured by the procedure described
in ASTM D2156–09 (RA 2018). Maintain the
average draft over the fire and in the
breeching during the steady-state
performance test at that recommended by the
manufacturer ±0.005 inches of water gauge.
Measure the room temperature (TRA) as
described in section 2.9 of this appendix.
Measure the steady-state flue gas temperature
(TF,SS) using nine thermocouples located in
the flue pipe as described in section 2.6.2 of
this appendix. From the plane where TF,SS
was measured, collect a sample of the flue
gas and determine the concentration by
volume of CO2 (XCO2F) present in dry flue
gas. Measure and record the steady-state heat
input rate (Qin).
For manually controlled oil fueled vented
heaters, determine the steady-state efficiency
at a fuel input rate that is within ±5 percent
of 50 percent of the maximum fuel input rate;
or, if the design of the heater is such that the
fuel input rate cannot be set to ±5 percent of
50 percent of the maximum rated fuel input
rate, determine the steady-state efficiency at
the minimum rated fuel input rate as
measured in section 3.1.2 of this appendix
for manually controlled oil fueled vented
heaters.
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3.2 Jacket loss measurement. Conduct a
jacket loss test for vented floor furnaces.
Measure the jacket loss (Lj) in accordance
with ASHRAE 103–2017 section 8.6,
applying the provisions for furnaces and not
the provisions for boilers.
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3.6.2.4.2 If absolutely no smoke is drawn
into the combustion air intake, the vented
heater meets the requirements to allow use of
the default draft factor of 0.05.
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*
*
3.8.2 Cyclic condensate collection tests. If
existing controls do not allow for cyclical
operation of the tested unit, install control
devices to allow cyclical operation of the
vented heater. Run three consecutive test
cycles. For each cycle, operate the unit until
flue gas temperatures at the end of each oncycle, rounded to the nearest whole number,
are within 5 °F of each other for two
PO 00000
Frm 00039
Fmt 4702
Sfmt 4702
consecutive cycles. On-cycle and off-cycle
times are 4 minutes and 13 minutes
respectively. Control of ON and OFF
operation actions shall be within ±6 seconds
of the scheduled time. For fan-type vented
heaters, maintain circulating air adjustments
as specified in section 2.5 of this appendix.
Begin condensate collection at one minute
before the on-cycle period of the first test
cycle. Remove the container one minute
before the end of each off-cycle period.
Measure condensate mass for each test-cycle.
The error associated with the mass
measurement instruments shall not exceed
±0.5 percent of the quantity measured.
Record fuel input during the entire test
period starting at the beginning of the ontime period of the first cycle to the beginning
of the on-time period of the second cycle,
from the beginning of the on-time period of
the second cycle to the beginning of the ontime period of the third cycle, etc., for each
of the test cycles. Record fuel HHV,
temperature, and pressure necessary for
determining fuel energy input, QC. Determine
the mass of condensate for each cycle, MC,
in pounds. If at the end of three cycles, the
sample standard deviation is less than or
equal to 20 percent of the mean value for
three cycles, use total condensate collected in
the three cycles as Mc; if not, continue
collection for an additional three cycles and
use the total condensate collected for the six
cycles as MC. Determine the fuel energy
input, QC, during the three or six test cycles,
expressed in Btu.
For units with step-modulating controls,
conduct the cyclic condensate collection test
at reduced input rate only. For units with
two-stage controls, the cyclic condensate
collection test is conducted at both maximum
and reduced input rates unless the balancepoint temperature (TC) as determined in
section 4.1.10 of this Appendix O is equal to
or less than the typical outdoor design
temperature of 5 °F (¥5 °C), in which case
test at reduced input rate only.
*
*
*
*
*
[FR Doc. 2021–07137 Filed 4–15–21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450–01–P
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Parts 429 and 431
[EERE–2020–BT–TP–0032]
Energy Conservation Program: Test
Procedure for Commercial & Industrial
Pumps
Office of Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Request for information.
AGENCY:
The U.S. Department of
Energy (‘‘DOE’’) is undertaking the
preliminary stages of a rulemaking to
consider amendments to the test
procedure for Commercial and
Industrial Pumps (‘‘pumps’’). Through
this request for information (‘‘RFI’’),
DOE seeks data and information
SUMMARY:
E:\FR\FM\16APP1.SGM
16APP1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 72 (Friday, April 16, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 20053-20075]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-07137]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Part 430
[EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003]
RIN 1904-AE30
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Direct Heating
Equipment
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comment.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) proposes to amend the test
procedure for direct heating equipment (DHE) to incorporate by
reference the most recent versions of the industry consensus test
standards currently referenced in the Federal test procedure. DOE also
proposes to update definitions regarding unvented heaters, account for
multiple operational modes, specify the allowable measurement error for
oil pressure, specify the use of manufacturer values for gas supply
pressure in certain circumstances, reduce the number of thermocouples
required in the thermocouple grid for models with small flues, and
clarify instructions for calculations regarding condensate mass
measurements. DOE welcomes written comment from the public on any
subject within the scope of this document (including topics not raised
in this proposal), as well as submission of data and other relevant
information.
DATES: Comments: DOE will accept comments, data, and information
regarding this notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) on or before June
30, 2021. See section V, ``Public Participation,'' for details.
Meeting: DOE will hold a webinar on Friday, June 4th, 2021 from
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. See section V, ``Public Participation,'' for
webinar registration information, participant instructions, and
information about the capabilities available to webinar participants.
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 by email to the following address:
[email protected]. Include and docket number EERE-2019-BT-TP-
0003 and/or RIN number 1904-AE30 in the subject line of the message.
Submit electronic comments in WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, PDF, or
ASCII file format, and avoid the use of special characters or any form
of encryption.
Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions
through a variety of mechanisms, including postal mail and hand
delivery/courier, the Department has found it necessary to make
temporary modifications to the comment submission process in light of
the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. DOE is currently suspending receipt of
public comments via postal mail and hand delivery/courier. If a
commenter finds that this change poses an undue hardship, please
contact Appliance Standards Program staff at (202) 586-1445 to discuss
the need for alternative arrangements. Once the Covid-19 pandemic
health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates resuming all of its
regular options for public comment submission, including postal mail
and hand delivery/courier.
No telefacsimilies (faxes) will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on the
rulemaking process, see section V of this document (Public
Participation).
Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices,
webinar attendee lists and transcripts, 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-TP-0003. The docket web page contains
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments,
in the docket. See section V (Public Participation) for information on
how to submit comments through https://www.regulations.gov.
[[Page 20054]]
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:
[email protected].
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: [email protected].
For further information on how to submit a comment, review other
public comments and the docket, or participate in the webinar, contact
the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445
or by email: [email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DOE proposes to maintain a previously
approved incorporation by reference and incorporate by reference the
following industry standards into the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)
at 10 CFR part 430:
American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE)
Standard 103-2017, (ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017), ``Method of Testing for
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and
Boilers,'' approved July 3, 2017.
Copies of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 can be obtained from the American
Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-Conditioning Engineers,
Inc., 1791 Tullie Circle, NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, (800) 527-4723 or
(404) 636-8400, or online at: https://www.ashrae.org.
ANSI Standard Z21.86-2016 (ANSI Z21.86-2016), ``Vented Gas-Fired
Space Heating Appliances,'' Sixth Edition, approved December 21, 2016.
Copies of ANSI Z21.86-2016 can be obtained from the American
National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY
10036, (212) 642-4900, or online at: https://www.ansi.org.
American Society for Testing and Materials International (ASTM)
Standard D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018) (ASTM D2156-09 (2018)), ``Standard
Test Method for Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning Distillate
Fuels,'' reapproved October 1, 2018.
Copies of ASTM D2156-09 (2018) can be obtained from the American
Society for Testing and Materials International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive,
P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959 or online at:
www.astm.org.
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62301 (Second
Edition), ``Household electrical appliances-Measurement of standby
power,'' (Edition 2.0 2011-01).
Copies of IEC 62301 (Second Edition) can be obtained from the
American National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th Floor, New
York, NY 10036, (212) 642-4900, or online at: https://webstore.ansi.org.
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL) Standard 729-2016, ``Standard
for Safety for Oil-Fired Floor Furnaces,'' approved November 22, 2016.
UL Standard 730-2016, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-Fired Wall
Furnaces,'' approved November 22, 2016.
UL Standard 896-2016, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-Burning
Stoves,'' approved November 22, 2016.
Copies of UL 729-2016, UL 730-2016, and UL 896-2016 can be obtained
from Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., 2600 NW Lake Rd., Camas, WA
98607-8542 or online at: www.ul.com.
See section IV.M of this document for a further discussion of these
standards.
Table of Contents
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
B. Background
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
III. Discussion
A. Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
2. Vented Heaters
B. Updates to Industry Consensus Test Methods
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
C. Unvented Heaters
1. Calculation of Annual Energy Consumption
2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy Consumption
D. Vented Heaters
1. Models With Multiple Automatic Operation Modes
2. Fuel Supply and Burner Adjustments
3. Flue Thermocouples
4. Cyclic Condensate Collection Test
a. Input Rate
b. Mass Measurement Requirements
5. Other Vented Heater Topics
a. Test Method for Condensing Vented Home Heating Equipment
b. Determination of Balance Point Temperature, Heating Load
Fractions, and Average Outdoor Temperature
c. Default Jacket Loss Value for Vented Floor Furnaces
d. Draft Factors for Models with No Measurable Airflow
e. Radiation Shielding
E. Performance and Utility
F. Additional Comment
G. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization, and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
2. Harmonization With Industry Consensus Standards
H. Compliance Date
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government
Appropriations Act, 1999
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration
Act of 1974
M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for
Distribution
C. Conduct of the Webinar
D. Submission of Comments
E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
I. Authority and Background
Direct heating equipment 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)) DOE
defines ``direct heating equipment'' as vented home heating equipment
and unvented home heating equipment. 10 CFR 430.2. (Hereafter in this
notice of proposed rulemaking, the terms ``vented heater'' and
``unvented heater'' are used to describe the two types of DHE). DOE's
energy conservation standards and test procedures for vented heaters
are currently prescribed at 10 CFR 430.32(i) and 10 CFR part 430,
subpart B, Appendix O, ``Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy
Consumption of Vented Home Heating Equipment'' (Appendix O),
respectively. DOE's test procedures for unvented heaters are prescribed
at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix G, ``Uniform Test Method for
Measuring the Energy Consumption of Unvented Home Heating Equipment''
(Appendix G). DOE currently does not prescribe energy conservation
standards for unvented heaters because, as the Department explained in
an April 2010 final rule for DHE, DOE has previously determined that a
standard would produce little energy savings (largely due to the fact
that any heat losses are dissipated directly into the conditioned
space) and because of limitations in the applicable DOE test procedure.
75 FR
[[Page 20055]]
20112, 20130 (April 16, 2010). The unvented heaters test procedure,
Appendix G, includes neither a method for measuring energy efficiency
nor a descriptor for representing the efficiency of unvented heaters.
Instead, Appendix G provides a method to measure and calculate the
rated output for all unvented heaters and annual energy consumption of
primary electric unvented heaters. The following sections discuss DOE's
authority to establish and amend test procedures for vented and
unvented heaters, as well as relevant background information regarding
DOE's consideration of and amendments to test procedures for these
products.
A. Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (EPCA),\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 certain industrial equipment. 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 document. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(9))
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec.
27, 2020).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant
provisions of EPCA specifically include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291),
test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294),
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the authority to
require information and reports from manufacturers. (42 U.S.C. 6296)
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
energy conservation standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C.
6295(s)) EPCA defines the efficiency descriptor for DHE to be annual
fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE). (42 U.S.C. 6291(22)(A))
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(a)-(c)) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal
preemption in limited circumstances for particular State laws or
regulations, in accordance with the procedures and other provisions of
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
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 shall 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 not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(3))
In addition, EPCA requires that DOE amend its test procedures for
all covered consumer 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 \3\ and 62087 \4\ 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.)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ IEC 62301, Household electrical appliances--Measurement of
standby power (Edition 2.0, 2011-01).
\4\ IEC 62087, Methods of measurement for the power consumption
of audio, video, and related equipment (Edition 3.0, 2011-04).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
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)) EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE
evaluate test procedures for each type of covered product, including
the DHE that are the subject of this NOPR, 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 in the Federal Register its determination not to amend the test
procedures. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)) DOE is publishing this NOPR in
satisfaction of the 7-year-lookback review requirement specified in
EPCA.
B. Background
As mentioned previously, 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, which prescribed
test procedures for primary electric heaters and a calculation of
national and regional average annual energy consumption. 43 FR 20128,
20132-20146. DOE amended the test procedure for unvented heaters on
March 28, 1984 (March 1984 final rule) to prescribe test procedures for
fossil-fuel-fired unvented heaters and to add calculations of the rated
output in British thermal units per hour (Btu/h) for electric heaters
and unvented gas and oil heaters and an estimated operational cost per
million Btu of output. 49 FR 12148, 12157-12158. DOE most recently
updated Appendix G in a final rule published December 17, 2012
(December 2012 final rule) to establish procedures for measuring energy
consumption in standby mode and off mode, pursuant to EPCA. 77 FR
74559, 74571-74572. However, in the
[[Page 20056]]
December 2012 final rule, DOE did not establish calculations for annual
energy consumption for supplementary heaters or unvented gas and oil
heaters, or incorporate standby mode and off mode energy into the
annual energy consumption calculations for primary electric heaters
because it determined that a detailed annual energy consumption
accounting was not appropriate for unvented heaters. Id. at 77 FR
74563.
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 procedure for vented heaters in the March 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 (March 28, 1984). 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, 26162-26164. In
the December 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 (Dec. 17, 2012). In the most recent test
procedure rulemaking for DHE, DOE added provisions for testing vented
heaters 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 2015 final rule). DOE determined at that
time not to amend the test procedure for unvented heaters. Id. at 80 FR
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 in sections 2.1 and
3.1, respectively. For all unvented heaters, Appendix G includes
provisions for determining the rated output, in section 3.3 for
electric heaters and section 3.4 for natural gas, propane, or oil
heaters. Appendix G does not contain provisions for determining energy
efficiency, as unvented heaters generally are considered to be 100-
percent efficient because any heat losses are lost to the conditioned
living space in which the unit is installed. Accordingly, DOE has not
established energy conservation standards for unvented heaters.
For vented heaters, Appendix O includes provisions for determining
AFUE, which is the efficiency metric used for determining compliance
with the energy conservation standards for vented home heating
equipment found in 10 CFR 430.32(i)(2). Section 4.6 of Appendix O also
specifies provisions for calculating the annual energy consumption of
vented heaters. Manufacturers must use the test procedure at Appendix O
to demonstrate compliance with the current energy conservation
standards for vented heaters. Further, there are currently no industry
consensus test methods to measure DHE energy efficiency under the AFUE
metric for vented home heating equipment, so, therefore, the test
procedure in Appendix O is used.
To better understand potential issues with the current test
procedures since the last amendments, DOE published a request for
information (RFI) on February 26, 2019 (February 2019 RFI). 84 FR 6088.
The February 2019 RFI requested comment from interested parties on
several aspects of the test procedure, which are discussed further in
section III of this document. DOE received 7 comments \5\ in response
to the February 2019 RFI from the interested parties listed in Table
I.1.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\5\ Comments in Docket No. EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003 available at:
https://www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003.
Table I.1--February 2019 RFI Written Comments
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Organization(s) Reference in this document Organization type
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Appliance Standards Awareness Joint Advocates....................... Efficiency Organizations.
Project, American Council for an
Energy-Efficient Economy,
Natural Resources Defense
Council.
Association of Home Appliance AHAM.................................. Trade Association.
Manufacturers.
Air-Conditioning, Heating, and AHRI.................................. Trade Association.
Refrigeration Institute.
Northwest Energy Efficiency NEEA.................................. Efficiency Organization.
Alliance.
Pacific Gas and Electric Company, CA IOUs............................... Utility.
Southern California Edison, San
Diego Gas and Electric.
National Propane Gas Association. NPGA.................................. Trade Association.
Kevin Woodall.................... Woodall............................... Individual.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
In this NOPR, DOE proposes the following changes to the test
procedures for unvented and vented heaters (10 CFR part 430, subpart B,
Appendices G and O, respectively) and several associated definitions in
10 CFR 430.2, as follows:
1. Update the definitions of ``floor electric heater,'' ``primary
heater,'' ``unvented gas heater,'' ``unvented home heating equipment,''
``unvented oil heater,'' ``vented home heating equipment,'' and
``vented room heater'', and update the terms ``primary heater'' and
``supplementary heater'' to ``primary electric heater'' and
``supplementary electric heater,'' respectively;
2. Update references to several industry consensus standards to the
most recent versions, except that the test procedure would maintain the
current oil pressure measurement error value (which was omitted in the
most recent update to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017), and maintain the current
maximum post-purge period;
3. Provide explicit direction on the operational mode for testing
vented heaters with multiple automatic operation modes;
4. Clarify the required input rate for the cyclic condensate
collection tests;
5. Allow for use of manufacturer-specified gas inlet pressure range
when the required input rating cannot be reached;
[[Page 20057]]
6. Explicitly state the regulator outlet pressure and specific
gravity tolerances for the gas supply;
7. Reduce the number of thermocouples required for the thermocouple
grid in models with small (2-inch diameter or less) flues from nine to
five;
8. Clarify the wording of the cyclic condensate collection test in
the calculation of the allowable variance in condensate mass
measurements; and
9. Provide explicit direction on the methods to appropriately
shield thermocouples from radiation.
Table II.1 summarizes DOE's proposed actions compared to the
current test procedures, as well as the reason for each proposed
change.
Table II.1--Summary of Changes in Proposed Test Procedures Relative to
Current Test Procedures
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Proposed test
Current DOE test procedure procedure Attribution
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Definitions for electric Updates the Clarification to
heater, primary heater, definitions to use ensure
supplementary heater, floor consistent consistent use
electric heater, unvented gas terminology. and
heater, unvented home heating application.
equipment, unvented oil Response to
heater, vented home heating comments.
equipment, and vented room
heater have various
inconsistencies in
terminology.
References ANSI/ASHRAE 103- References ANSI/ASHRAE Update to most
2007, ANSI Z21.86-2008, ASTM 103-2017 (but recent versions
D-2156-09, UL729-2003, UL 730- maintains current oil of industry
2003, and UL 896-1993. pressure measurement standards.
error value and Response to
maximum post-purge comments.
time), ANSI Z21.86-
2016, ASTM D-2156-09
(2018), UL 729-2016,
UL 730-2016, and UL
896-2016.
Does not provide specific Explicitly provides Ensure
direction for units with that for units with representativen
multiple automatic multiple automatic ess. Response
operational modes. operational modes, to comments.
the default or other
similarly named mode
is used for testing.
Does not provide specific Explicitly state at Clarification.
direction regarding the input which input rate to
rate at which the cyclic conduct the cyclic
condensate collection test is condensate collection
to be conducted. test.
Specifies an inlet gas Permits use of Ensure
pressure level is to be manufacturer's representativen
between 7-10 inches water specified gas inlet ess.
column. pressure range, if
the nameplate input
rating 2
percent cannot be
achieved at 7-10
inches water column.
Does not provide specific Explicitly state that Clarification to
values that the regulator the regulator outlet ensure
outlet pressure and specific pressure be within consistent use
gravity of the test gas must the greater of 10 percent of application.
the manufacturer-
specified manifold
pressure or 0.2 inches
water column, and
that the specific
gravity for natural
gas and propane gas
be 0.57-0.70 and
1.522-1.574,
respectively.
Requires use of a nine- For smaller size flues Ensure
thermocouple grid for (2-inch diameter or representativen
measuring flue gas less), require a five- ess.
temperature, regardless of thermocouple grid.
flue size.
For the variance of the Clarifies that the Clarification.
condensate mass measurements, standard deviation
requires that ``the sample must be less than or
standard deviation is within equal to 20 percent
20 percent of the mean value of the mean value.
for three cycles'' in order
to stop at three cycles.
Otherwise, six cycles are
required.
Does not provide specific Explicitly states that Clarification.
direction for determining any thermocouple with
when a radiation shield is a direct line of
needed or what an appropriate sight to the burner
radiation shield would be. must be shielded from
radiation and that a
radiation shield with
an explicitly stated
material and minimum
thickness must be
used.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE has tentatively determined that the proposed amendments
described in section III of this NOPR would not alter the measured
efficiency of DHE, or require retesting or recertification solely as a
result of DOE's adoption of the proposed amendments to the test
procedures, if made final. Additionally, DOE has tentatively determined
that the proposed amendments, if made final, would not increase the
cost of testing. Discussion of DOE's proposed actions are addressed in
detail in section III of this NOPR.
III. Discussion
A. Definitions
1. Unvented Heaters
DOE defines ``unvented home heating equipment'' as 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. 10 CFR 430.2. In the February 2019 RFI,
DOE requested comment on whether any definitions related to unvented
heaters should be revised and if so, how. 84 FR 6088, 6090-6091 (Feb.
26, 2019). In particular, DOE noted that floor electric heaters are not
currently included in the examples listed in the definition of
``primary heater,'' which is defined as 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.
10 CFR 430.2. DOE noted that floor electric heaters have similar output
capacities as other types of heaters that are explicitly listed as
primary heaters, and requested comment on whether the list of examples
should include floor electric heaters. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26,
2019).
Regarding the definition of ``unvented home heating equipment,''
the CA IOUs suggested that unvented home heating equipment should be
defined using similar language as ``vented home heating equipment,''
and the definition should say that unvented systems are designed to
furnish ``warm air'' rather than ``heat'' so as to distinguish DHE from
hydronic or steam distribution systems. Additionally, the CA IOUs
stated that floor heaters should be included in the non-exhaustive list
of examples under the ``primary heater''
[[Page 20058]]
definition. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 1) \6\ The Joint Advocates also
stated that floor electric heaters should be included in the ``primary
heater'' definition. (Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 1) NEEA provided
conditional support for expanding the primary heater definition as long
as the inclusion of electric heat in the definition of primary heater
would not eliminate electric heat from other classes of equipment
including heat pump technology, and would not have the effect of
including gas heating technology in the same class of equipment as
electric. (NEEA, No. 7 at p. 1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\6\ A notation in the form ``CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 1'' identifies
a written comment: (1) Made by the CA IOUs; (2) recorded in document
number 8 that is filed in the docket of this rulemaking (Docket No.
EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003) and available for review at https://www.regulations.gov; and (3) which appears on page 1 of document
number 8.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
After considering the comments, DOE agrees that the definition of
``unvented home heating equipment'' would benefit from using language
consistent with the definition of ``vented home heating equipment.''
Consistent with the definition of ``vented home heating equipment''
that is proposed in this document (see section III.A.2), DOE is
proposing to change ``furnishing heat'' to ``furnishing heated air'' in
the definition of ``unvented home heating equipment'' at 10 CFR 430.2.
Similarly, DOE also proposes to amend the definitions of ``unvented gas
heater'' and ``unvented oil heater'' from using the phrase ``furnishes
warm air'' to ``furnishes heated air.'' The term ``warm'' is subjective
and does not indicate that any process was used to add heat to the air
being furnished by the heater, whereas ``heated'' does indicate that
thermal energy was added to the air.
Additionally, DOE is proposing to explicitly include floor electric
heaters as one of the examples provided in the definition of a
``primary heater.'' To the extent that a floor electric heater is the
principal source of heat for a structure, it is a primary heater. The
proposed change would make such inclusion explicit in the definition of
``primary heater'' and would have no effect on the scope of coverage
for floor electric heaters.
In response to NEEA's comment, DOE notes that including ``floor
electric heaters'' as an example of an unvented electric heater type
within the primary heater definition would not eliminate space heating
fueled by electricity from other classes of equipment including heat
pump technology, and would not have the effect of including gas heating
technology in the same product class as electric. Space heating
products that use heat pump technology are defined separately from DHE
by EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(3) and (9)) Therefore, DOE cannot consider
heat pump technology within the unvented electric heater product class.
For these reasons, DOE proposes to include floor electric heaters in
the definition for ``primary heaters.'' Further, to avoid confusion in
regard to applicability of the ``primary heater'' and ``supplementary
heater'' definitions, DOE proposes to amend the terms to ``primary
electric heater'' and ``supplementary electric heater'' consistent with
Appendix G.
DOE has also tentatively determined to add the phrase ``a class of
unvented home heating equipment'' to the definitions of ``electric
heater,'' ``unvented gas heater,'' and ``unvented oil heater'' to more
clearly associate these definitions as being unvented home heating
equipment.
DOE also proposes to clarify that unvented home heating equipment
should be without exhaust venting, as the current definition does not
state this explicitly.
No other comments were received regarding the definitions relevant
to unvented heaters in response to the February 2019 RFI.
DOE requests comment on its proposed changes to the definitions for
``electric heater,'' ``primary heater,'' ``unvented gas heater,''
``unvented home heating equipment,'' and ``unvented oil heater'' in 10
CFR 430.2, as well as on its proposed change in terminology from
``primary heater'' and ``supplementary heater'' to ``primary electric
heater'' and ``supplementary electric heater,'' respectively.
2. Vented Heaters
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE also requested comment regarding
whether changes to any definitions applicable to vented heaters in 10
CFR 430.2 are necessary. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26, 2019). In response,
AHRI responded that no definitional changes are needed in 10 CFR 430.2
regarding vented heaters. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 1) To align the
definitions of unvented and vented heaters throughout 10 CFR 430.2, DOE
proposes to change the phrasing of ``warm'' or ``warmed'' air to
``heated'' air in the definitions of ``vented home heating equipment''
and ``vented room heaters.'' As discussed in the preceding section, the
term ``warm'' does not indicate that heat is added to the air being
furnished by the heater, whereas the term ``heated'' does indicate that
heat is added to the air by the heater. DOE also proposes to further
align the definitions of ``unvented home heating equipment'' and
``vented home heating equipment,'' as follows. The definition for
``unvented home heating equipment'' uses the phrase, ``to a space
proximate to such heater directly from the heater,'' while the
definition for ``vented home heating equipment'' uses the phrase, ``to
the living space of a residence, directly from the device.'' DOE has
tentatively determined that the language from the unvented home heating
equipment definition is more representative of DHE, so DOE proposes to
modify the vented home heating equipment definition accordingly to be
consistent. Finally, DOE proposes to clarify that vented home heating
equipment should include exhaust venting, as the current definition
does not state this explicitly.
DOE also sought comment in the February 2019 RFI regarding the
definitions relevant to vented heaters in section 1.0 of Appendix O. 84
FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE particularly sought comment on
whether the definition for ``manually controlled vented heaters''
should be changed to exclude heaters ``without automatic means of
control or operation,'' rather than ``without thermostats'' (as in the
current definition) to accommodate any means of automatic control
rather than just thermostats. Id. In response, AHRI recommended against
this change without added explanation. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3)
Subsequent to the February 2019 RFI, DOE further examined models on
the market with automatic controls, and found that all products
identified with automatic controls other than thermostats (e.g., a
timer control) also include thermostatic control mechanisms. Therefore,
DOE has tentatively determined that changing the definition as
discussed in the February 2019 RFI would not provide any additional
clarification to the application of the definition and is not proposing
to amend this definition.
DOE also requested comment generally on whether all other
definitions provided in section 1.0 of Appendix O are all still
appropriate, or if other updates are needed. 84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26,
2019). AHRI responded that the definitions in section 1.0 of Appendix O
are appropriate and do not require changes. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3) The
CA IOUs recommended the following definitional changes: Update the
``barometric draft regulator or barometric damper'' definition to
distinguish between traditional and automatic; update the ``flue
gases'' definition to ``the combination of reaction products resulting
from the combustion of a fuel with the oxygen in
[[Page 20059]]
the air and inert gases, and any excess air passing through the flue;''
update the definition for ``induced draft'' to clarify ``mechanical
means'' and possibly distinguish between induced draft and forced
draft, if appropriate; clarify the ``infiltration parameter''
definition, and specifically whether it is conceptual or a quantifiable
parameter with units (e.g., volume, mass); update the ``reduced heat
input rate'' definition to include fully modulating units; and update
the ``vaporizing-type oil burner'' definition to use ``pot'' instead of
``bowl.'' (CA IOUs, No. 8 at pp. 5-6)
After considering the comments from AHRI and the CA IOUs, DOE is
not proposing changes to the definitions in section 1 of Appendix O.
Regarding the changes to the definitions of ``barometric draft
regulator or barometric damper,'' ``flue gases,'' ``induced draft,''
and ``vaporizing-type oil burners'' as suggested by the CA IOUs, DOE
has tentatively concluded that these terms do not require further
direction or clarification, and that there is no indication that they
are being inappropriately applied or misunderstood. Regarding the
suggested update to the definition of ``infiltration parameter,'' DOE
notes that this value is used to adjust the multiplication factor to
account for infiltration loss during burner on-cycle when conducting
the ANSI/ASHRAE 103 test procedure and is a dimensionless parameter
(i.e., it has no associated unit of measurement). Lastly, DOE notes
that a ``step-modulating control'' is defined in section 1.33 of
Appendix O as a control that either cycles off and on at the low input
if the heating load is light, or gradually increases the heat input to
meet any higher heating load that cannot be met with the low firing
rate. DOE has tentatively determined that units that would be described
as ``fully modulating'' meet the definition of a step-modulating
control. Thus, the suggested change to the definition of ``reduced heat
input rate'' to include fully modulating units is not necessary, as
fully modulating units are included under the ``step-modulating
control'' definition, and the definition of ``reduced heat input rate''
already includes such units.
DOE requests comment on its proposed changes to the definitions for
``vented home heating equipment'' and ``vented room heater'' in 10 CFR
430.2. DOE also requests additional comment on the definitions for
vented home heating equipment in section 1.0 of Appendix O, and on its
tentative determination that no changes are necessary.
B. Updates to Industry Consensus Test Methods
The unvented heater test procedure in Appendix G includes a
reference to the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) 62301,
``Household electrical appliances--Measurement of standby power,''
(Second Edition). The vented heater test procedure in Appendix O
references the following industry standards:
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103-2007, ``Method of Testing for
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and
Boilers'' (ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007);
ANSI Z21.86-2008, ``Vented Gas-Fired Space Heating
Appliances'' (ANSI Z21.86-2008);
ASTM D2156-09, ``Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in
Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels'' (ASTM D2156-09);
IEC 62301 (Second Edition), ``Household electrical
appliances--Measurement of standby power'' (IEC 62301);
UL 729-2003, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-Fired Floor
Furnaces'' (UL 729-2003);
UL 730-2003, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-Fired Wall
Furnaces'' (UL 730-2003); and
UL 896-1993, ``Standard for Safety for Oil-Burning
Stoves'' (UL 896-1993).
As described in the February 2019 RFI, all of the referenced
industry standards, except for ASTM D2156-09 \7\ and IEC 62301 (Second
Edition), have been superseded with a more recent version. 84 FR 6088,
6091 (Feb. 26, 2019). The changes in the most recent version of UL 729,
UL 730, and UL 896 were to sections not referenced by the DOE test
procedure, and the changes to the most recent version of ANSI Z21.86,
while affecting sections referenced by the DOE test procedure, were
non-substantive and unlikely to have any impact on the test burden or
measured energy consumption under the DOE test procedure. Id.
Therefore, DOE has tentatively determined to update references to the
industry standards to their most recent versions for ASTM D2156-09, UL
729, UL 730, UL 896, and ANSI Z21.86.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\7\ ASTM D2156-09 was reapproved in 2018 (ASTM D2156-09 (2018))
without modification.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE described the substantive updates to
ANSI/ASHRAE 103 (see section III.B.1 of this document for additional
discussion of these changes) and requested comment on whether the
changes are appropriate for adoption in the vented heater test
procedure. DOE also requested comment on whether any of the updates to
the referenced standards impact the test burden or measured consumption
under the DOE test procedure. 84 FR 6088, 6091-6092 (Feb. 26, 2019).
NPGA responded generally in support of the updates to the
referenced industry standards. (NPGA, No. 3 at p. 1) No other comments
were received regarding the updated versions of the referenced industry
test procedures. As discussed in section III.B.1 of this document, DOE
is adopting ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 with certain modifications.
1. ANSI/ASHRAE 103
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, currently referenced in Appendix O, has been
superseded by ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. As described in the February 2019
RFI, there are several changes to sections incorporated by reference
within the vented heater test procedure. 84 FR 6088, 6091 (Feb. 26,
2019). Many of the changes are minor clarifications, such as adding
metric units or changing the order of a sentence without affecting its
intent. However, other changes could have a substantive effect on the
vented heater test procedure, if adopted by DOE. Id.
DOE noted that ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 removed the allowable error in
the oil pressure measurement from section 6.3, and requested comment as
to whether this change is appropriate for vented home heating
equipment. 84 FR 6088, 6091-6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). In response, the CA
IOUs recommended that the error value be retained for the vented heater
test procedure, stating that their market research showed that
manufacturers still produce oil-fired furnaces, and the error values
are beneficial in maintaining consistency amongst these manufacturers.
(CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 2) DOE has tentatively determined that inclusion
of the pressure measurement error values from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007
remains appropriate and proposes to retain their application by
directly including them in Appendix O.
In section 8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, titled ``Jacket Loss
Measurement,'' figures 12 and 13 were replaced by a set of equations.
Figure 12 shows graphically how to use the difference between surface
temperature and the surrounding air temperature to determine a value
for hc, the coefficient of convection for vertical and
horizontal surfaces; and Figure 13 shows graphically how to use the
surface temperature to determine a value of Hri, the
coefficient of heat transfer by radiation. In the February 2019 RFI,
DOE requested comment on whether this change is appropriate for the
vented
[[Page 20060]]
heater test procedure. 84 FR 6088, 6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). In response,
the CA IOUs supported using the equations from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
rather than the figures from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, stating that the
equations in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 produce similar and more accurate
results than the figures in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p.
2) The CA IOUs also suggested that DOE should encourage ANSI/ASHRAE to
publish the data points used to create the 2007 graphs in order to
compare those values to the values obtained through the equations. (CA
IOUs, No. 8 at p. 3)
DOE has preliminarily determined that the calculations included in
ASHRAE 103-2017 to determine jacket loss provide more accurate values
as compared to the figures provided in the 2007 version, and the
equations mitigate the possibility of human error in interpreting the
figures. As a result, DOE is proposing to incorporate by reference the
calculations provided in section 8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE also noted updates made to section
9.10, titled ``Optional Test Procedures for Condensing Furnaces and
Boilers That Have No Off-Period Flue Losses'' in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
84 FR 6088, 6091-6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). Specifically, section 9.10 of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 specifies that for condensing units designed with
no measurable airflow through the combustion chamber and heat
exchanger, 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 to 0.05 for units
having a post-purge period of less than 5 seconds. In contrast, section
9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 provides this specification for units
having a post-purge period of less than or equal to 30 seconds. DOE
sought comment on whether this change is appropriate for the vented
heater test procedure. Id. In response, AHRI recommended that the post-
purge time should not increase from less than or equal to 5 seconds to
less than or equal to 30 seconds. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 2)
After a thorough review of Appendix O, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017, and stakeholder comments, DOE proposes to remove the
mentions of sections 8.8.3 and 9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 within section
3.6.2.4.1 of Appendix O. Section 3.6.1 of Appendix O provides explicit
instruction that the default draft factors can be used if the test
method described in section 3.6.2 of Appendix O is met. The test method
in section 3.6.2 of Appendix O does not address post-purge time and
states that if the conditions of the test method are met that the
default draft factors may be used. Section 8.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103
states that the default draft factors may be used for all units having
no measurable airflow through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger
when the burners are off. Therefore, all the information stated in
section 8.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 is already stated in sections 3.6.1
and 3.6.2 of Appendix O. Section 9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 applies to
condensing units and includes the same requirements as section 8.8.3 of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103 with the addition of the maximum post-purge time which
was previously discussed. If the post-purge time is below the maximum
allowed and there is no measurable airflow through the combustion
chamber and heat exchanger when the burners are off, then section 9.10
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 allows the testing agency to use the default draft
factors and, at their discretion, omit the heat-up and cool-down tests.
Appendix O does not include a heat-up test, and section 3.6 of Appendix
O does not discuss a maximum post-purge time when establishing the
cool-down test procedures for determining the draft factors or the test
method to determine if the default draft factor may be used. Therefore,
DOE has tentatively determined that the inclusion of a reference to
section 9.10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 could cause confusion due to the
maximum post-purge requirement which is not discussed within Appendix
O.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to incorporate by reference ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017 with modifications. In particular, DOE is interested in
receiving comment on its proposal to add the oil pressure measurement
error value, which was omitted from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, to Appendix
O, and on its proposal to remove the mention of sections 8.8.3 and 9.10
within section 3.6.2.4.2 of Appendix O.
C. Unvented Heaters
1. Calculation of Annual Energy Consumption
For electric heaters, section 2.1 of Appendix G specifies a
requirement for measuring and recording the maximum electrical power
consumed when heating, in terms of kilowatts, and section 3.3 specifies
a requirement for calculating a rated output. For primary electric
heaters only, section 3.1 of Appendix G specifies a 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,\8\ and a
typical oversizing factor for primary electric heaters of 1.2.\9\ 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 1,
depicting geographic regions the United States and the associated
heating load hours for each region.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\8\ The adjustment factor is a multiplier to adjust the heating
load hours to the approximate burner operating hours experienced by
the system.
\9\ The oversizing factor accounts for space heating products
generally being oversized when compared to the actual required
heating load.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE noted that Appendix G does not
specify a method for calculating annual fuel energy consumption for
unvented gas and oil heaters. 84 FR 6088, 6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE
sought comment on whether the calculations and assumptions for
calculating national and regional annual energy consumption of primary
electric heaters are still appropriate and whether calculations for the
annual fuel energy consumption of gas, propane, and oil heaters should
be added to the test procedure. Id.
AHRI stated that the assumptions for calculating the national and
regional annual energy consumption are still appropriate, and the
organization recommended against calculating annual fuel energy
consumption for unvented gas and oil heaters because all heat is
contained within the conditioned space, so they should be considered
100-percent efficient. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 2) AHAM stated that it is not
aware of any data necessitating changing the assumptions made for
national and regional values and urged DOE not to change those values.
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2) NPGA stated that if DOE pursues calculation of
annual fuel energy consumption for gas and oil unvented heaters, it
should do so using full-fuel-cycle (FFC) analysis. NPGA also asserted
that DOE should apply FFC to electric heating equipment as well. (NPGA,
No. 3 at p. 1-2) NEEA recommended against requiring annual fuel energy
consumption to be displayed on marketing material due to concerns about
reducing purchases of high-efficiency vented heaters and consumers
purchasing products that do
[[Page 20061]]
not fit their actual needs. NEEA stated that unvented heaters have
higher efficiencies than vented heaters, because all the heated air and
combustion gases are delivered to the consumer's heated space, and, as
a result, such units will typically have lower energy consumption than
vented heaters. NEEA also stated that a lower energy consumption value
could lead to some consumers choosing an unvented heater over a vented
heater, if the consumer does not recognize the difference in utility
between the two types of heaters. According to NEEA, unvented heaters,
in addition to providing heated air, also increase the moisture content
and deliver combustion products to the occupied space, and while
appropriate for some applications, the difference in utility may not be
clear to the consumer. (NEEA, No. 7 at pp. 1-2) The Joint Advocates
recommended that DOE require the annual fuel energy consumption
calculations for gas and oil unvented heaters to ensure that any
representations of annual energy use for these products would be based
on a consistent calculation methodology. (Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p.
1)
After considering these comments, DOE is not proposing changes to
the national and regional values used in the calculations of annual
energy consumption in Appendix G for primary electric heaters, as DOE
has tentatively determined that the existing calculations and
assumptions are still appropriate. DOE also is not proposing to add
calculations for annual fuel energy consumption of gas and oil unvented
heaters. DOE has tentatively concluded that such calculations would be
unlikely to provide consumers with valuable information, and as
suggested by NEEA, an annual fuel energy use value for unvented gas and
oil heaters could potentially confuse consumers if comparisons are made
to the values for vented heaters without full understanding of the
different applications and utilities of each product.
With regard to NPGA's recommendation to determine the annual energy
consumption based on FFC, as DOE has noted for other products such as
residential furnaces and boilers and cooking products (81 FR 2628,
2638-2639 (Jan. 15, 2016); 81 FR 91418, 91439 (Dec. 16, 2016)), DOE
does not believe the test procedure is the appropriate vehicle for
deriving an FFC energy use metric for DHE. As discussed in the Notice
of Policy Amendment Regarding Full-Fuel Cycle Analyses, DOE uses the
National Energy Modeling System (NEMS) as the basis for deriving the
energy and emission multipliers used to conduct FFC analyses in support
of energy conservation standards rulemakings. 77 FR 49701 (August 17,
2012). DOE also uses NEMS to derive factors to convert site electricity
use or savings to primary energy consumption by the electric power
sector. NEMS is updated annually in association with the preparation of
the Energy Information Administration's (EIA's) Annual Energy Outlook.
Based on its experience to date, DOE expects that the energy and
emission multipliers used to conduct FFC analyses would change each
year. Consequently, if DOE were to include an FFC energy descriptor as
part of the DHE test procedures, DOE would need to update the test
procedures annually, as opposed to every 7 years as is currently
required by EPCA (see 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A)), which would result in
unnecessary regulatory burden. Additionally, a change in the NEMS-
derived values would also result in all products on the market being
required to recertify regardless of any other test procedure change
that could affect efficiency.
2. Standby Mode and Off Mode Energy Consumption
In the December 2012 final rule that included DHE test procedures,
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., because there is no annual
accounting at all for supplemental heaters, and only a simplified
assigned value for primary heaters). 77 FR 74559, 74561 (Dec. 17,
2012). In the August 30, 2010 NOPR that preceded the December 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 energy use during
the non-heating season when the heater is not on) 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.
75 FR 52892, 52898-52899 (August 30, 2010).
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether standby
mode and off mode energy use should be included in the annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters. 84 FR 6088, 6092 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE
also requested information on annual and/or regional heating season
data, and operational mode hours that could potentially be used to
incorporate standby mode and off mode energy consumption. Id.
AHRI recommended against incorporating standby mode and off mode
energy use into annual energy consumption for unvented heaters, stating
that standby mode energy use is just as effective in heating the space
as active mode energy use and that off mode consumption is generally
reduced by the user turning off the pilot during the non-heating
seasons. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 2) In contrast, the Joint Advocates stated
that the annual energy consumption should include standby mode and off
mode energy use. The Joint Advocates commented that this is a
particular issue when determining the fuel energy consumption, because
for units with a pilot light, the energy consumption of the pilot
during the non-heating season could represent a significant energy use.
The Joint Advocates also stated that including standby mode and off
mode energy consumption for unvented heaters should be consistent with
the calculation methodology for vented heaters. (Joint Advocates, No. 6
at p. 1)
In response to DOE's request for information on annual and/or
regional heating season data and operational hours for each mode, AHRI
stated that the requested data do not exist, as usage patterns,
structural characteristics, etc., vary for every heating region. (AHRI,
No. 5 at p. 2) NPGA supported use of EIA data for information on
national and regional heating seasonal data. (NPGA, No. 3 at p. 2) The
CA IOUs stated that current industry practice for primary heating
equipment is to use heating degree days (HDD) as a proxy for annual
heating hours. However, the CA IOUs commented that for supplemental
heating equipment, HDD is not always directly linked to operating hours
and recommended that DOE survey supplemental heating operating
conditions and hours to better understand their operation. (CA IOUs,
No. 8 at pp. 4-5)
DOE is not proposing to include standby mode and off mode energy
consumption in the annual energy consumption calculation for unvented
heaters. DOE tentatively continues to
[[Page 20062]]
determine, as confirmed by AHRI, that the standby mode energy
consumption of unvented heaters is as effective at heating the space as
active mode energy, and, therefore, it is unnecessary to integrate.
Regarding off mode energy consumption, DOE has tentatively concluded
that some consumers could potentially leave the pilot light on during
the non-heating season, thereby resulting in consumption of additional
energy. However, in its review of the market, DOE found that all
identified models with a pilot light included instructions from the
manufacturer for turning the pilot light off during the non-heating
seasons. DOE lacks data for the operational hours in off mode and the
percentage of consumers that do not turn their pilot lights off during
the non-heating seasons, thereby making it impossible to determine
whether a problem actually exists or its magnitude. Based on the
presence of manufacturer instructions and lack of data on
representative use, DOE is not proposing to incorporate off mode energy
use in the test procedure.
DOE requests comment on its tentative determination to not include
standby mode and off mode energy consumption into the annual energy
consumption for unvented heaters.
D. Vented Heaters
For vented heaters, Appendix O specifies provisions for determining
the product's AFUE, which is the efficiency descriptor established by
EPCA for these products. (42 U.S.C. 6291(22)(A))
1. Models With Multiple Automatic Operation Modes
Section 2.11 of the current test procedure specifies that for
equipment that has both manual and automatic thermostat control modes,
the unit must be tested according to the procedure for its automatic
control mode (i.e., single-stage, two-stage, or step-modulating).
However, when a unit has multiple automatic operational modes, the test
procedure does not explicitly specify what automatic operating mode
must be used for testing.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether vented
heaters having multiple automatic operation modes exist, and if so,
whether further direction regarding the tested operating mode is
necessary. 84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). AHRI responded that DHE
with multiple operating modes exist and recommended that DOE clarify
that the least-efficient mode be used during AFUE tests for such
models. (AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3)
As previously stated, EPCA requires test procedures prescribed or
amended by DOE to be reasonably designed to produce test results which
measure the energy efficiency of a covered product during a
representative average use cycle or period of use and must not be
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) DOE does not have
data on the frequency of use by a consumer of the least-efficient mode,
and commenters did not provide any such data. It is not clear that the
least-efficient mode, as recommended by AHRI, would necessarily be the
most representative mode for testing models with multiple automatic
operating modes. Through a review of manufacturer's product literature,
DOE was unable to find vented heaters with multiple automatic operation
modes and seeks further comment on which models are available with
multiple automatic operating modes.
DOE is proposing to explicitly specify that models with multiple
automatic operation modes be tested in the mode suggested by the
manufacturer for normal operation or the default mode as defined in the
manufacturer's installation and operations manual. If a default mode is
not defined in the product literature, DOE proposes that tests be
conducted in the mode that the product operates in as shipped from the
manufacturer.
DOE requests comment on its proposal with regard to the automatic
operational mode for testing models with multiple automatic operation
modes. DOE requests data and information on the consumer use of
different automatic operational modes when offered on a vented heater.
DOE is interested in receiving comment on the characteristics of the
mode recommended by manufacturers for normal operation, on how such
mode is described in the manufacturer's installation and operations
manual when provided, and on which models currently available on the
market include multiple automatic operation modes.
2. Fuel Supply and Burner Adjustments
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.3 of Appendix O require that for natural
gas-fueled and propane gas-fueled vented heaters, the gas supply be
maintained at a normal inlet test pressure immediately ahead of all
controls at 7 to 10 inches water column and 11 to 13 inches water
column, respectively. In addition, section 2.4.1 of Appendix O requires
that the fuel flow rate be set to obtain a heat rate of within 2 percent of the hourly Btu rating specified by the manufacturer,
as measured after 15 minutes of operation. During exploratory testing
performed for the development of this NOPR, one unit that was tested
was unable to achieve the nameplate input rate within 2 percent while
maintaining a natural gas supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches water
column. The manufacturer's recommended gas inlet pressure for this
model was 5 to 10.5 inches water column, and the nameplate input rating
was achieved at a natural gas supply pressure of 5 inches water column.
To ensure models are tested at conditions representative of field
conditions while still maintaining consistency and repeatability, DOE
proposes additional direction to address situations in which the
required fuel rate cannot be achieved under the conditions specified in
the test procedure (e.g., at 7-10 inches water column for natural gas).
DOE is proposing that in such instances, it is allowable to use any gas
supply pressure within the range specified by the manufacturer.
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of Appendix O also require the regulator
outlet pressure be maintained at ``a normal test pressure approximately
at that recommended by the manufacturer.'' DOE proposes to clarify
these statements to require that the regulator outlet pressure be
maintained at the greater of 10 percent of the
manufacturer-specified manifold pressure or 0.2 inches
water column. This change would ensure consistency in setting the
regulator outlet pressure and aligns the language within Appendix O
with the DOE test procedures for other gas-fired heating products
(e.g., consumer water heaters and commercial water heaters).
Sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of Appendix O also require that the
specific gravity be approximately 0.65 or 1.53 for natural gas or
propane gas, respectively. DOE proposes to require that the specific
gravity be between 0.57 and 0.70 for natural gas and 1.522 and 1.574
for propane gas. These specific gravity ranges correspond to the values
presented in Annex G of ANSI Z21.86-2016.
Finally, DOE proposes to remove the phrase ``normal'' from ``normal
inlet test pressure'' in sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of Appendix O and
replace ``normal hourly Btu input rating'' in section 2.4.2 of Appendix
O with ``maximum hourly Btu input rating.'' Section 2.4.1 of Appendix O
requires that the burners for gas fueled vented heaters be adjusted to
provide an input rate within 2 percent of the maximum Btu
rating specified by the manufacturer at the test pressures specified in
section 2.3 of
[[Page 20063]]
Appendix O. As the test pressures within section 2.3 of Appendix O are
proposed to be explicitly stated, the use of the phrase ``normal'' is
no longer necessary. The proposed change to replace ``normal hourly Btu
input rating'' with ``maximum hourly Btu input rating'' in section
2.4.2 of Appendix O, which describes the burner adjustments for oil-
fueled vented heaters, aligns the input rate language throughout
section 2.4 of Appendix O.
DOE requests comment on its proposals to allow a manufacturer-
specified value for gas supply pressure if test conditions are not
achievable at a gas supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches water column for
natural gas or 11-13 inches water column for propane gas, to require
the regulator outlet pressure be within the greater of 10
percent of the manufacturer-specified manifold pressure or 0.2 inches water column, to require the specific gravity of
natural gas be between 0.57 and 0.70 and for propane gas be between
1.522 and 1.574, to remove the phrase ``normal'' from sections 2.3.1
and 2.3.2 of Appendix O, and to replace ``normal hourly Btu input
rating'' with ``maximum hourly Btu input rating'' within section 2.4.2
of Appendix O.
3. Flue Thermocouples
Section 2.6 of Appendix O requires installation of nine
thermocouples in the vent for measuring flue gas temperature for both
gas-fueled and oil-fueled vented heaters. As noted previously, DOE
conducted testing to inform the development of this NOPR. For one of
the units tested, the exhaust piping was 2 inches in diameter, and the
nine thermocouples significantly restricted airflow in the vent,
resulting in flue gas temperature readings and carbon monoxide levels
above normal operating conditions. To ensure that measurements taken
during testing of models with smaller flues (i.e., 2 inches diameter or
less) are representative of typical use, DOE proposes to allow fewer
thermocouples to be used for such models when the use of nine
thermocouples prevents the unit from operating within the allowable
test conditions. Specifically, DOE is proposing to adopt a requirement
to allow the test lab to use five thermocouples (which DOE notes is the
same as the requirement in ASHRAE 103-2017, section 7.6 and figure 10)
when the flue size is less than or equal to 2 inches diameter. Given
that the cross-sectional flue area is smaller for models with small
vent diameter, fewer thermocouples are needed to obtain accurate flue
gas temperature measurements. Further, using fewer thermocouples would
result in less flue restriction, and could more closely resemble
operation in the field, thereby providing more representative flue gas
readings.
DOE seeks comment on its proposal to allow the use of five
thermocouples, rather than nine thermocouples, in vented heaters with a
vent diameter of 2 inches or less.
4. Cyclic Condensate Collection Test
Section 3.8.2 of Appendix O specifies the test procedure for
collecting condensate under cyclic conditions for condensing vented
heaters. During this test, three to six cycles of a 4 minute on-cycle
followed by a 13 minute off-cycle are completed. The total mass of
condensate and fuel energy input are then used in section 4.0,
``Calculations.'' The cyclic condensate collection test does not
specify the input rate at which the burner should fire during the on-
cycle times for units with modulating controls.
a. Input Rate
The cyclic condensate collection test was based on section 9.8 of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, which specifies that regarding the input rate for
units with modulating controls, the following applies: (a) For step-
modulating units, the test is conducted at the reduced \10\ input rate
only, which is defined in section 3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007; or (b) for
two-stage units, the test is conducted at both the maximum and reduced
input rates unless the balance-point temperature (TC)
determined is equal to or less than the typical outdoor design
temperature of 5 [deg]F (-5[deg]C), in which case test at the reduced
input rate only. The required input rate is specified in all other
tests within the vented heater test procedure. Therefore, DOE proposes
to add input rate instructions similar to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 to
section 3.8.2 of Appendix O. This change would align the vented heater
test procedure with ANSI/ASHRAE 103, on which Appendix O was heavily
dependent for development.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ ``Reduced heat input rate'' is defined in section 1 of
Appendix O as the factory-adjusted lowest reduced heat input rate
for vented home heating equipment equipped with either two-stage
thermostats or step-modulating thermostats.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE requests comment on its proposal to specify input rate
instructions for the cyclic condensate collection test.
b. Mass Measurement Requirements
Section 3.8.2 of Appendix O states that if after three cycles ``the
sample standard deviation is within 20 percent of the mean value for
three cycles,'' the test can be ended, and the total mass collected in
the three cycles can be used. Otherwise, three additional cycles of
condensate collection are required, for a total of six cycles. DOE
notes that the existing language for checking whether the variance of
the condensate collected during the first three cycles is sufficiently
small could be read to require that the standard deviation be ``within
20 percent'' of the mean value of the mass of condensate collected.
Such a reading would not be logical because a small standard deviation
is desirable for consistent results, and, therefore, the standard
deviation value should not be compared directly to the mean and be
required to be within 20 percent of the mean value. Rather, the phrase
requires that the standard deviation be at or below ``20 percent of the
mean value'' (i.e., the sample standard deviation should be less than
or equal to 20 percent of the mean). DOE proposes to revise this
statement to state that the standard deviation must be less than or
equal to 20 percent of the mean rather than ``within 20 percent'' of
the mean. This proposed change would clarify the wording to avoid
confusion that could result from the existing text.
DOE requests comment on its proposed rewording of the variance
condition between cycles to clarify that the standard deviation must be
less than or equal to 20 percent of the mean, for determining whether
the cyclic condensate mass collection must be performed for three
cycles or six cycles.
5. Other Vented Heater Topics
a. Test Method for Condensing Vented Home Heating Equipment
Section 3.8 of Appendix O contains provisions for testing vented
heaters that utilize condensing technology. Condensing technology is a
design strategy to increase the efficiency of a heating appliance by
extracting additional thermal energy from the flue gases. The
provisions for condensing vented heaters in Appendix O are based on
those contained in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, which are applicable to
condensing furnaces and boilers. However, because the application of
the condensing technology test provisions to vented heaters requires
modifications not needed for furnaces and boilers, DOE includes the
condensing provisions in Appendix O, rather than incorporating by
reference the relevant provisions of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007.
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment on the test method
for condensing vented heaters, specifically including information on
[[Page 20064]]
the test burden and on ways to potentially reduce burden. 84 FR 6088,
6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). AHRI stated that the provisions for testing
condensing equipment are appropriate and do not need to be updated.
(AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3) DOE received no other comment on this issue.
Consequently, DOE is not proposing to change the existing
provisions for testing condensing vented heaters in the Federal test
procedure for DHE.
b. Determination of Balance Point Temperature, Heating Load Fractions,
and Average Outdoor Temperature
In section 4.1.10 of Appendix O, titled ``Steady-state
efficiency,'' the balance point temperature \11\ (TC) can be
determined either with an equation or using the values provided in
Table 3 of Appendix O. The two options may not yield the exact same
result because Table 3 provides a single balance point temperature
value for a range of heat output ratios (R), while the equation
provides a specific value for each heat output ratio. In other words,
to use Table 3, first the heat output ratio is determined, then the
corresponding range in Table 3 is selected to identify the balance
point temperature for units with heat output ratios in the given range.
To use the equation method, however, the heat output ratio is plugged
into the equation, and balance point temperature is calculated.
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, for
TOA and TOA*, 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) and,
for X1 and X2, 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). 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.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\11\ The ``balance point temperature'' is defined in section 4
of Appendix O and represents a temperature used to apportion the
annual heating load between the reduced input cycling mode and
either the modulating mode or maximum input cycling mode.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
For the February 2019 RFI, DOE reviewed test data to estimate the
impact of the different methods for determining the aforementioned
variables on the measured AFUE value. The different methods resulted in
a difference on the order of hundredths of a percentage point of AFUE,
which DOE tentatively concluded would not be likely to affect the
measured AFUE in most cases when rounded to a whole number. 84 FR 6088,
6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE requested 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 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. DOE also requested 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. Id.
DOE did not receive any comments in response to these issues. As
discussed, based on DOE's analysis, any changes in AFUE resulting from
the differences in the equation, table, and figures are minimal.
Therefore, DOE is not proposing any changes to the test method related
to these issues.
c. Default Jacket Loss Value for Vented Floor Furnaces
The test procedure for vented floor furnaces requires the
measurement of jacket losses when determining the AFUE. Section 3.2,
Appendix O. In the NOPR published in the Federal Register as part of
the rulemaking for the January 2015 final rule, 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 (Oct. 24, 2013). In the January 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 (Jan. 6, 2015).
In the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment and test data on
whether a higher default jacket loss value should be considered for
vented floor furnaces. 84 FR 6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). The Joint
Advocates urged DOE not to include a default jacket loss value for
vented floor furnaces, stating that a default value would allow
products to have a jacket loss higher than the default without
incurring a penalty, and could lead to efficiency ratings that are not
representative of actual energy use. (Joint Advocates, No. 6 at p. 2)
NEEA expressed support for a default jacket loss value that is
representative of the jacket loss performance of the worst 25 models on
the market. NEEA also stated that it prefers that testing for jacket
loss still be allowed or for a calculation method to be developed, in
lieu of a default value, to encourage innovation in decreasing jacket
losses. (NEEA, No. 7 at p. 2)
After carefully considering these comments and the available
information, DOE is not proposing a default jacket loss value. DOE has
tentatively concluded that a default jacket loss value for vented floor
furnaces would provide less representative ratings than the current
test method, which requires measurement of the jacket loss in floor
furnaces.
D. Draft Factors for Models With No Measurable Airflow
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 DF and DP may be set equal to 0.05. In
the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether models using
condensing or induced draft technology are always capable of meeting
the criteria required to use the default draft factors of 0.05. 84 FR
6088, 6093 (Feb. 26, 2019). DOE also sought comment on whether such
models should automatically be considered to have no measurable
airflow, and, thus, allowed to use the defined value of 0.05 for
DF and DP without performing the smoke stick
test. Id.
AHRI recommended against allowing condensing or induced draft DHE
to be considered to have no measurable airflow and use constant values
for DF and DP without confirmation testing.
(AHRI, No. 5 at p. 3)
After carefully considering comment on this issue in response to
the February 2019 RFI, DOE is not proposing use of the default
DF and DP values for condensing and induced draft
vented heaters without first performing the test in section 3.6.2 of
Appendix O to confirm that there is no measurable airflow. DOE has
tentatively concluded that the provisions in the current test procedure
for ensuring there is no airflow through the unit when not in heating
mode before allowing the default draft factors, are appropriate,
particularly since the smoke stick test was not identified as overly
burdensome by stakeholders or during DOE's testing. Further
verification of no airflow ensures that representative draft factors
are applied during testing.
[[Page 20065]]
e. Radiation Shielding
Sections 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.9 of Appendix O require that radiation
shields be used to protect thermocouples that could receive direct
radiation from the fire. However, no instruction is given on how to
determine if a thermocouple could receive direct radiation from the
fire, and if so, what type of radiation shielding would be required.
DOE has tentatively proposed to require that all thermocouples be
shielded from the fire if there is a direct line of sight between the
fire and the thermocouple. Further, if radiation shielding is required,
then a radiation shield meeting the material and minimum thickness
requirements stated in section 8.14.1 of ANSI Z21.86-2016 shall be
used.
DOE requests comment its proposed changes to the radiation
shielding requirements within sections 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.9 of
Appendix O. In particular, DOE seeks information as to what methods are
currently being used to determine whether a thermocouple would require
a radiation shield and also what types of materials are currently used
as radiation shields.
E. Performance and Utility
DHE provides space heating (heated air) directly to the consumer's
living space without the use of duct connections. Also relevant to DHE
may be the ability to provide ``quiet'' operation, non-heating air
circulation, and space humidification, as well as the aesthetic
appearance of the unit. In the February 2019 RFI, DOE requested comment
on whether the test procedures impact the availability of such features
on DHE. 84 FR 6088, 6094 (Feb. 26, 2019).
The CA IOUs stated that the current procedures do not have an
effect on manufacturers' ability to produce quiet or aesthetically
pleasing products. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 6) However, the CA IOUs stated
that the current test procedures potentially could impact non-heating
air circulation and space humidification, and recommended testing under
different ambient conditions and monitoring the resulting energy use or
operational efficiency to determine the impact on non-heating air
circulation. Regarding space humidification, the CA IOUs also stated
that the test procedure would likely impact space humidification since
it involves heating the space, which in turn will change the dry/latent
heat composition. The CA IOUs noted that section 3.8 of Appendix O,
which addresses the measurement of condensate for condensing vented
heaters, requires that the space humidity not exceed 80 percent
relative humidity, stated that the heating requirements of a humidified
space are different from a dehumidified space, and recommended further
testing to ascertain the effects of the test procedure on the
availability of space humidification features. (CA IOUs, No. 8 at p. 6-
7)
DOE is not proposing any changes to the test procedure related to
the issues raised by the CA IOUs and has tentatively determined that
the other proposed changes to Appendix O would not have an effect on
the issues raised by the CA IOUs. DOE does not have any data or test
results to indicate that the current test procedure negatively impacts
non-heating air circulation and space humidification. Non-heating air
circulation energy use is not captured by the test procedure;
therefore, there is no impact on this potential feature. Relative
humidity requirements are specified only for condensing vented heaters
because the effect of the ambient relative humidity on the energy
efficiency is most significant for condensing vented heaters. DOE is
not aware of condensing vented heaters on the market that provide space
humidification that would cause the ambient relative humidity to exceed
80 percent. DOE has tentatively determined that the relative humidity
requirement for condensing vented heaters of 80 percent is not
burdensome to maintain and is likely higher than the highest humidity
that would be observed in a home, so, therefore, the test procedure
should not affect the potential space humidification feature.
DOE seeks additional comment and data on whether the DHE test
method affects DHE utility or performance, specifically including
whether there are impacts on features such as air circulation and space
humidification.
F. Additional Comment
In response to the February 2019 RFI, Woodall suggested mandating
electronically-commutated motors as replacements for permanent split-
capacitor motors that are common in the DHE market as a means to reduce
power consumption in both vented and unvented systems. (Woodall, No. 2
at p. 1)
A requirement as suggested by the commenter is outside the scope of
DOE's authority for DHE as provided under EPCA. At 42 U.S.C. 6291(6),
EPCA defines the term ``energy conservation standard'' to mean a
performance standard that prescribes a minimum level of energy
efficiency or a maximum quantity of energy use (or water use for
certain specified covered products), as determined under the applicable
DOE test procedure. That same definition does allow for adoption of a
design requirement for certain enumerated covered products; however,
DHE is not on that list. Thus, the statute does not permit DOE to adopt
a standard requiring an electronically-commutated motor, as suggested
by Woodall.
G. Test Procedure Costs, Harmonization, and Other Topics
1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
EPCA requires that test procedures proposed by DOE not be unduly
burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) In this NOPR, DOE
proposes to amend the existing test procedures for DHE (including both
unvented and vented heaters) by updating definitions regarding unvented
heaters, incorporating by reference the most recent versions of several
industry standards, explicitly specifying the operational mode for
testing units with multiple automatic operational modes, allowing the
use of manufacturer-specified values for gas supply pressure in certain
circumstances, reducing the number of thermocouples required for
measuring the flue gas temperature in models with small flues,
clarifying instructions for cyclic condensate mass measurements, and
clarifying when radiation shielding is necessary. DOE has tentatively
determined that these proposed amendments would not be unduly
burdensome for manufacturers to conduct and would not change test
burden for manufacturers.
DOE anticipates that the amendments proposed in this NOPR would not
increase test costs.
Specifically, DOE is proposing to change certain definitions to
unvented heaters. These definitional changes are for consistency, and
such changes do not affect the applicability of the test procedures or
classification of any unvented heaters. As a result, the definitional
changes would not require additional testing or impact testing costs.
DOE is also proposing to update the industry consensus standards
incorporated by reference to the most recent versions of those test
methods. All of the updated industry consensus standards, except ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017, do not contain any significant changes in the sections
referenced in the DOE test procedures for DHE. For ASNI/ASHRAE 103, the
2017 version differs from the 2007 version currently referenced in the
DOE test procedure in relation to the oil pressure measurement
[[Page 20066]]
error allowance and the post-purge time for applying default draft
factor values. DOE is proposing to adopt the updated standard with
modification to retain the oil pressure measurement error allowance and
maximum post-purge time for applying default draft factor values from
the currently-referenced 2007 version of the standard. These two
revisions were the only significant differences between the 2007 and
2017 versions that would potentially impact testing of vented heaters.
Retention of these requirements should not result in any additional
burden or costs, as manufacturers are already complying with those
provisions under the current test procedure.
DOE is proposing to specify that models with multiple automatic
operational modes should be tested in the default mode (or similarly-
named mode identified for normal operation). If a default mode is not
defined in the product literature, the model would be tested in the
mode that the equipment operates in as shipped from the manufacturer.
As discussed, DOE did not identify any models currently on the market
that are capable of multiple automatic operation modes. Thus, DOE
tentatively concludes that, if adopted, this change would not require
additional testing nor would it impact testing costs.
DOE is proposing to explicitly state the required input rate for
the cyclic condensate collection test in section 3.8.2. The proposed
input rate instruction is identical to the instruction in section 9.8
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, which is the industry test procedure on which
the cyclic condensate collection test in section 3.8.2 is based. DOE
notes this instruction is also included in the most recent version of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE tentatively concludes that because the input
rate is not specified in DOE's current test procedure, but is
explicitly stated in the industry test method, manufacturers are
already testing as instructed by the industry test method. Therefore,
this change would not require additional testing, nor would it impact
testing costs.
DOE is proposing to allow for use of manufacturer-specified gas
inlet pressure ranges when the required input rating (i.e., the
nameplate input rating 2 percent) cannot be achieved at 7-
10 inches water column, as currently required in Appendix O. Aside from
the tested unit that presented this issue, DOE is unaware of this issue
more broadly occurring in manufacturer testing. Were this issue to
occur, a valid test as prescribed by the test procedure could not be
performed, and a manufacturer would need to seek a waiver from the test
procedure under 10 CFR 430.27. DOE has not received any such waivers.
As such, this proposal would not require retesting of units on the
market and would not be expected to impact test burden.
DOE is proposing a tolerance on the regulator outlet temperature to
be within the greater of 10 percent of the manufacturer-
specified manifold pressure or 0.2 inches water column.
This tolerance is consistent with other DOE test procedures and would
not be expected to require retesting of units on the market or to
impact test burden.
DOE is proposing that the specific gravity of natural gas be
between 0.57 and 0.70 and of propane gas be between 1.522 and 1.574.
These ranges include the previously required values and align with the
industry's required specific value ranges stated in Annex G of ANSI
Z21.86-2016. As such, these proposed changes would not require
retesting of units on the market and would not be expected to impact
test burden.
DOE also proposes to allow the testing agency to determine whether
to use nine or five thermocouples when testing models with small (2-
inch or less diameter) flues. DOE has tentatively determined that the
results of testing with five thermocouples instead of nine would be
comparable. In models where the currently required nine thermocouples
restrict the flow to the point of causing the unit to operate outside
of the allowable test and/or operational conditions (such as the
maximum outlet air temperature), a test meeting all the required test
conditions cannot be completed. Therefore, for impacted models, this
change would allow testing to the required test conditions to be
conducted, which are designed to produce results representative of a
typical average use cycle. DOE has tentatively determined that
performing a test with five thermocouples instead of nine will impose
no additional testing costs.
DOE also proposes to clarify the calculation for the allowable
variance of the condensate mass measurements during the cyclic
condensate test when determining whether to conduct three cycles or
six. The proposed wording would not change the intent of the test or
the test requirements, nor would it have an impact on test cost.
Finally, DOE proposes to clarify when radiation shielding is
necessary to install and, when shielding is necessary, that appropriate
shielding materials are used. Radiation shielding requirements are
already included in the current test procedure, and the proposed
changes would not change the intent of the test or the test
requirements, nor would it have an impact on test cost.
DOE has tentatively determined that, should any of these proposed
amendments be finalized, manufacturers would be able to rely on data
generated under the current test procedure and that retesting should
not be necessary.
2. Harmonization With Industry Consensus Standards
As discussed, Appendices G and O incorporate by reference certain
provisions of numerous industry standards. Both appendices incorporate
by reference IEC 62301 (Edition 2.0, 2011-01), which provides methods
for measuring electrical standby mode and off mode power consumption.
Appendix O also incorporates by reference ANSI/ASHRAE 103, which is a
test method for determining the annual fuel utilization efficiency of
residential central furnaces and boilers; ANSI Z21.86, which is a
standard for construction and safety performance of vented gas space
heating appliance; ASTM D-2156, which is a standard for determining
smoke density; and UL 729, UL 730, and UL 896, which are standards
pertaining to the installation of oil-fired vented heaters. DOE notes
that the only industry standard referenced in Appendix G is IEC 62301.
DOE requests comment on the benefits and burdens of the proposed
updates and additions to industry standards referenced in the test
procedures for DHE.
H. Compliance Date
EPCA prescribes that, if DOE amends a test procedure, all
representations of energy efficiency and energy use, including those
made on marketing materials and product labels, must be made in
accordance with that amended test procedure, beginning 180 days after
publication of such a test procedure final rule in the Federal
Register. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(2)) If DOE were to publish an amended test
procedure, EPCA provides an allowance for individual manufacturers to
petition DOE for an extension of the 180-day period if the manufacturer
may experience undue hardship in meeting the deadline. (42 U.S.C.
6293(c)(3)) To receive such an extension, petitions must be filed with
DOE no later than 60 days before the end of the 180-day period and must
detail how the manufacturer will experience undue hardship. (Id.)
[[Page 20067]]
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that this
test procedure proposed rulemaking does not constitute a ``significant
regulatory action'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866,
``Regulatory Planning and Review,'' 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993).
Accordingly, this action was not subject to review under the Executive
Order by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in
OMB.
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (IRFA) for
any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless the
agency certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities.
As required by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE
published procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that
the potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General
Counsel's website: https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) considers a business entity
to be a small business, if, together with its affiliates, it employs
less than a threshold number of workers specified in 13 CFR part 121.
The size standards and codes are established by the 2017 North American
Industry Classification System (NAICS). DHE manufacturers are
classified under NAICS code 333414, ``Heating Equipment (except Warm
Air Furnaces) Manufacturing.'' The SBA sets a threshold of 500
employees or fewer for an entity to be considered as a small business.
DOE used available public information to identify potential small
manufacturers of the covered product. DOE accessed the Compliance
System Management System's (CCMS) Compliance Certification Database and
the AHRI's certified product directory to create a list of companies
that import or otherwise manufacture DHE covered by this proposal.
Using these sources, DOE identified a total of five manufacturers of
DHE. Of these manufacturers, four are potential small businesses.
However, due to the nature of DOE's proposed rule, which generally
updates the incorporations by reference to the latest version of
applicable industry consensus standards (which saw no substantive
changes to the relevant provisions) and makes a number of
clarifications and minor modifications designed to reduce burden, the
Department has tentatively determined that this proposed rule, if
finalized, would not impose a significant burden on small manufacturers
who produce this specific type of product.
More specifically, in this document, DOE proposes the following
changes to the test procedure for unvented and vented heaters, as well
as several associated changes to definitions at 10 CFR 430.2. First, to
ensure consistent use and application of the test procedure, DOE
proposes updates: To the definitions of ``floor electric heater,''
``primary heater,'' ``unvented gas heater,'' ``unvented home heating
equipment,'' ``unvented oil heater,'' ``vented home heating
equipment,'' and ``vented room heater''; to update the terms ``primary
heater'' and ``supplementary heater'' to ``primary electric heater''
and ``supplementary electric heater,'' respectively; to add the current
oil pressure measurement error value to the test procedure; to
explicitly state the regulator outlet pressure and specific gravity
tolerances for the gas supply; and, to clarify the wording of the
cyclic condensate collection test in the calculation of the allowable
variance in condensate mass measurements. Second, to align with the
most recent industry consensus standards, DOE proposes: To update the
references to the industry consensus standards to the most recent
versions; to clarify the required input rate for the cyclic condensate
collection tests; and, to explicitly state the methods to appropriately
shield thermocouples from radiation. Third, to ensure the
representativeness of the test procedure, DOE proposes: To explicitly
state the operational mode for testing vented heaters with multiple
automatic operation modes; to allow for use of manufacturer-specified
gas inlet pressure range when the required input rating cannot be
reached; and, to reduce the number of thermocouples required for the
thermocouple grid in models with small (2-inch diameter or less) flues
from nine to five.
All proposed changes are either clarifications to ensure consistent
use and application (which does not affect the results of the test
procedure or how the test procedure is run) or amendments which ensure
the representativeness of the test procedure as compared to products
installed in the field. These amendments are all in line with the most
recent industry consensus standards.
As stated, DOE has reviewed this proposed rule to amend the test
procedures for DHE under the provisions of the Regulatory Flexibility
Act and the procedures and policies published on February 19, 2003, and
the Department has initially determined that if finalized as proposed,
this rulemaking would not have any cost impact. Therefore, DOE
initially concludes that the impacts of the test procedure amendments
proposed in this NOPR would not have a ``significant economic impact on
a substantial number of small entities,'' and that the preparation of
an IRFA is not warranted. Accordingly, DOE will transmit the
certification and supporting statement of factual basis to the Chief
Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration for review
under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
Manufacturers of DHE must certify to DOE that their products comply
with any applicable energy conservation standards. To certify
compliance, manufacturers must first obtain test data for their
products according to the DOE test procedures, including any amendments
adopted for those test procedures. DOE has established regulations for
the certification and recordkeeping requirements for all covered
consumer products and commercial equipment, including DHE. (See
generally 10 CFR part 429.) The collection-of-information requirement
for certification and recordkeeping is subject to review and approval
by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). This requirement has
been approved by OMB under OMB control number 1910-1400. Public
reporting burden for the certification is estimated to average 35 hours
per response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching
existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and
completing and reviewing the collection of information.
Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays
a currently valid OMB Control Number.
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
DOE is analyzing this proposed regulation in accordance with the
National Environmental Policy Act of
[[Page 20068]]
1969 (NEPA) and DOE's NEPA implementing regulations (10 CFR part 1021).
DOE's regulations include a categorical exclusion for rulemakings
interpreting or amending an existing rule or regulation that does not
change the environmental effect of the rule or regulation being
amended. 10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, appendix A5. DOE anticipates that
this rulemaking qualifies for categorical exclusion A5 because it is an
interpretive rulemaking that does not change the environmental effect
of the rule and otherwise meets the requirements for application of a
categorical exclusion. See 10 CFR 1021.410. DOE will complete its NEPA
review before issuing the final rule.
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4,
1999), imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and
implementing policies or regulations that preempt State law or that
have Federalism implications. The Executive Order requires agencies to
examine the constitutional and statutory authority supporting any
action that would limit the policymaking discretion of the States and
to carefully assess the necessity for such actions. The Executive Order
also requires agencies to have an accountable process to ensure
meaningful and timely input by State and local officials in the
development of regulatory policies that have Federalism implications.
On March 14, 2000, DOE published a statement of policy describing the
intergovernmental consultation process it will follow in the
development of such regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE has examined this
proposed rule and has determined that it would not have a substantial
direct effect on the States, on the relationship between the national
government and the States, or on the distribution of power and
responsibilities among the various levels of government. EPCA governs
and prescribes Federal preemption of State regulations as to energy
conservation for the products that are the subject of this proposed
rule. States can petition DOE for exemption from such preemption to the
extent, and based on criteria, set forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
No further action is required by Executive Order 13132.
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1)
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity; (2) write regulations to
minimize litigation; (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected
conduct rather than a general standard, and (4) promote simplification
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988
specifically requires that Executive agencies make every reasonable
effort to ensure that the regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the
preemptive effect, if any; (2) clearly specifies any effect on existing
Federal law or regulation; (3) provides a clear legal standard for
affected conduct while promoting simplification and burden reduction;
(4) specifies the retroactive effect, if any; (5) adequately defines
key terms, and (6) addresses other important issues affecting clarity
and general draftsmanship under any guidelines issued by the Attorney
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires Executive
agencies to review regulations in light of applicable standards in
sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine whether they are met or it is
unreasonable to meet one or more of them. DOE has completed the
required review and determined that, to the extent permitted by law,
the proposed rule meets the relevant standards of Executive Order
12988.
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA)
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the
private sector. Public Law 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531).
For a proposed regulatory action likely to result in a rule that may
cause the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the
aggregate, or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one
year (adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy.
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small
governments before establishing any requirements that might
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997,
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available
at https://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this
proposed rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and
determined that the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate,
nor a mandate that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or
more in any year, so these requirements do not apply.
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being.
This proposed rule would not have any impact on the autonomy or
integrity of the family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has
concluded that it is not necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking
Assessment.
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property
Rights,'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this regulation would not
result in any takings that might require compensation under the Fifth
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
2001
Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has
reviewed this proposed rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those
guidelines.
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB,
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an
agency that
[[Page 20069]]
promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a final rule, and
that: (1) Is a significant regulatory action under Executive Order
12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to have a significant
adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy; or (3) is
designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a significant energy action.
For any proposed significant energy action, the agency must give a
detailed statement of any adverse effects on energy supply,
distribution, or use should the proposal be implemented, and of
reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected benefits on
energy supply, distribution, and use.
The proposed regulatory action to amend the test procedure for
measuring the energy efficiency of DHE is not a significant regulatory
action under Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it would not have a
significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of
energy, nor has it been designated as a significant energy action by
the Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it is not a significant energy
action, and, accordingly, DOE has not prepared a Statement of Energy
Effects.
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of
1974
Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977 (FEAA). (15 U.S.C. 788)
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission
(FTC) concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on
competition.
The proposed amendments to the Federal test procedure for DHE are
primarily in response to modifications to certain sections of the
applicable industry consensus standards (i.e., ASNI/ASHRAE 103-2017,
ANSI Z21.86-2016, ASTM D2156-09 (2018), IEC 62301 (edition 2.0, 2011-
01), UL 729-2016, UL 730-2016, and UL 897-2016). DOE has evaluated
these standards and is unable to conclude whether they fully comply
with the requirements of section 32(b) of the FEAA (i.e., whether they
were developed in a manner that fully provides for public
participation, comment, and review.) DOE will consult with both the
Attorney General and the Chairman of the FTC concerning the impact of
these test procedures on competition, prior to prescribing a final
rule.
M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference
In this NOPR, DOE proposes to incorporate by reference the
following test standards:
(1) The test standard published by ANSI/ASHRAE, titled ``Method of
Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central
Furnaces and Boilers,'' ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 is
an industry-accepted test procedure for determining the annual fuel
utilization efficiency of consumer furnaces and boilers. Specifically,
the test procedure amendments proposed by this NOPR reference sections
of that industry consensus standard regarding test set-up for oil-
fueled DHE (including instrumentation and measurement descriptions for
oil burner adjustments), and instructions on calculating jacket losses
in vented floor heaters and calculations for draft factors. Copies of
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 can be obtained from ASHRAE, 1791 Tullie Circle
NE, Atlanta, GA 30329, (800) 527-4723 or (404) 636-8400, or online at:
https://www.ashrae.org.
(2) The test standard published by ANSI, titled ``Vented Gas-fired
Space Heating Appliances,'' ANSI Z21.86-2016. ANSI Z21.86 is an
industry-accepted test procedure for vented gas-fired space heating
appliances. Specifically, the test procedure amendments proposed by
this NOPR reference sections of that industry consensus standard
regarding the set-up specifications for vented wall DHE, instructions
for gas usage other than natural gas or propane, instructions for
measuring discharge temperatures of forced air, vented, wall DHE, and
descriptions of thermocouple installation in gas-fueled, vented DHEs.
Copies of ANSI Z21.86-2016 can be obtained from ANSI, 25 W 43rd Street,
4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, (212) 642-4900, or online at: https://www.ansi.org.
(3) The test standard published by ASTM, titled ``Standard Test
Method for Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels,''
ASTM D2156-09 (2018). ASTM D2156 is an industry-accepted test procedure
for measuring smoke density in flue gases from burning distillate
fuels. Specifically, the test procedure amendments proposed by this
NOPR reference sections of that industry consensus standard regarding
providing smoke density levels which are measured during for the
steady-state test. Copies of ASTM D2156-09 (2018) can be obtained from
ASTM, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA
19428-2959 or online at: www.astm.org.
(4) The test standard published by IEC, titled ``Household
electrical appliances-Measurement of standby power,'' IEC 62301
(Edition 2.0, 2011-01). IEC 62301 is an industry-accepted test
procedure for the measurement of standby power modes in household
electrical appliances. Specifically, the test procedure amendments
proposed by this NOPR reference sections of that industry consensus
standard regarding measurment of electrical standby mode and off mode
power consumption. Copies of IEC 62301 (Second Edition) can be obtained
from the American National Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th
Floor, New York, NY 10036, (212) 642-4900, or online at: https://webstore.ansi.org.
(5)-(7) The test standards published by UL: ``Standard for Safety
for Oil-fired Floor Furnaces,'' ``Standard for Safety for Oil-fired
Wall Furnaces,'' and ``Standard for Safety for Oil-burning Stoves,'' UL
729-2016, UL 730-2016, and UL 896-2016, respectively. UL 729, UL 730,
UL 896 are industry-accepted test procedures for oil-fired floor
furnaces, oil-fired wall furnaces, and oil-burning stoves respectively.
Specifically, the test procedure amendments proposed by this NOPR
reference sections of those industry consensus standards regarding
vented floor and wall DHE test installation and instructions for flue
and thermocouple installation for oil fueled, vented floor DHEs. Copies
of UL 729-2016, UL 730-2016, and UL 896-2016 can be obtained from UL at
2600 NW Lake Rd., Camas, WA 98607-8542 or online at: www.ul.com.
V. Public Participation
A. Participation in the Webinar
The time and date of the webinar are listed in the DATES section at
the beginning of this document. Webinar registration information,
participant instructions, and information about the capabilities
available to webinar participants will be published on DOE's website:
https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/product.aspx/productid/41. Participants are responsible for ensuring their systems
are compatible with the webinar software.
[[Page 20070]]
B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for
Distribution
Any person who has an interest in the topics addressed in this
proposed rulemaking, or who is representative of a group or class of
persons that has an interest in these issues, may request an
opportunity to make an oral presentation at the webinar. Such persons
may submit requests to speak by email to the Appliance and Equipment
Standards Program, [email protected]. Persons who
wish to speak should include with their request a computer file in
WordPerfect, Microsoft Word, PDF, or text (ASCII) file format that
briefly describes the nature of their interest in this rulemaking and
the topics they wish to discuss. Such persons should also provide a
daytime telephone number where they can be reached.
Persons requesting to speak should briefly describe the nature of
their interest in this rulemaking and provide a telephone number for
contact. DOE requests persons selected to make an oral presentation to
submit an advance copy of their statements at least two weeks before
the webinar. At its discretion, DOE may permit persons who cannot
supply an advance copy of their statement to participate, if those
persons have made advance alternative arrangements with the Building
Technologies Office. As necessary, requests to give an oral
presentation should ask for such alternative arrangements.
C. Conduct of the Webinar
DOE will designate a DOE official to preside at the webinar and may
also use a professional facilitator to aid discussion. The meeting will
not be a judicial or evidentiary-type public hearing, but DOE will
conduct it in accordance with section 336 of EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6306). A
court reporter will be present to record the proceedings and prepare a
transcript. DOE reserves the right to schedule the order of
presentations and to establish the procedures governing the conduct of
the webinar. There shall not be discussion of proprietary information,
costs or prices, market share, or other commercial matters regulated by
U.S. anti-trust laws. After the webinar and until the end of the
comment period, interested parties may submit further comments on the
proceedings and any aspect of the rulemaking.
The webinar will be conducted in an informal, conference style. DOE
will present summaries of comments received before the webinar, allow
time for prepared general statements by participants, and encourage all
interested parties to share their views on issues affecting this
rulemaking. Each participant will be allowed to make a general
statement (within time limits determined by DOE), before the discussion
of specific topics. DOE will permit, as time permits, other
participants to comment briefly on any general statements.
At the end of all prepared statements on a topic, DOE will permit
participants to clarify their statements briefly and comment on
statements made by others. Participants should be prepared to answer
questions by DOE and by other participants concerning these issues. DOE
representatives may also ask questions of participants concerning other
matters relevant to this rulemaking. The official conducting the
webinar will accept additional comments or questions from those
attending, as time permits. The presiding official will announce any
further procedural rules or modification of the above procedures that
may be needed for the proper conduct of the webinar.
A transcript of the webinar will be included in the docket, which
can be viewed as described in the Docket section at the beginning of
this NOPR. In addition, any person may buy a copy of the transcript
from the transcribing reporter.
D. Submission of Comments
DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this
proposed rule no later than the date provided in the DATES section at
the beginning of this proposed rule. Interested parties may submit
comments using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section at
the beginning of this document.
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. Comments and documents submitted via
email 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. 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,
[[Page 20071]]
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 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. DOE will make
its own determination about the confidential status of the information
and treat it according to its determination.
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).
E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
Although DOE welcomes comments on any aspect of this proposal, DOE
is particularly interested in receiving comments and views of
interested parties concerning the following issues:
(1) DOE requests comment on its proposed changes to the definitions
for ``electric heater,'' ``primary heater,'' ``unvented gas heater,''
``unvented home heating equipment,'' and ``unvented oil heater'' in 10
CFR 430.2, as well as on its proposed change in terminology from
``primary heater'' and ``supplementary heater'' to ``primary electric
heater'' and ``supplementary electric heater,'' respectively.
(2) DOE requests comment on its proposed changes to the definitions
for ``vented home heating equipment'' and ``vented room heater'' in 10
CFR 430.2. DOE also requests additional comment on the definitions for
vented home heating equipment in section 1.0 of Appendix O, and on its
tentative determination that no changes are necessary.
(3) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to incorporate by reference
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 with modifications. In particular, DOE is
interested in receiving comment on its proposal to add the oil pressure
measurement error value, which was omitted from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017,
to Appendix O, and on its proposal to remove the mention of sections
8.8.3 and 9.10 within section 3.6.2.4.2 of Appendix O.
(4) DOE requests comment on its tentative determination to not
include standby mode and off mode energy consumption into the annual
energy consumption for unvented heaters.
(5) DOE requests comment on its proposal with regard to the
automatic operational mode for testing models with multiple automatic
operation modes. DOE requests data and information on the consumer use
of different automatic operational modes when offered on a vented
heater. DOE is interested in receiving comment on the characteristics
of the mode recommended by manufacturers for normal operation, on how
such mode is described in the manufacturer's installation and
operations manual when provided, and on which models currently
available on the market include multiple automatic operation modes.
(6) DOE requests comment on its proposals to allow a manufacturer-
specified value for gas supply pressure if test conditions are not
achievable at a gas supply pressure of 7 to 10 inches water column for
natural gas or 11-13 inches water column for propane gas, to require
the regulator outlet pressure be within the greater of 10
percent of the manufacturer-specified manifold pressure or
0.2 inches water column, to require the specific gravity of natural gas
be between 0.57 and 0.70 and for propane gas be between 1.522 and
1.574, to remove the phrase ``normal'' from sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2 of
Appendix O, and to replace ``normal hourly Btu input rating'' with
``maximum hourly Btu input rating'' within section 2.4.2 of Appendix O.
(7) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to allow the use of five
thermocouples, rather than nine thermocouples, in vented heaters with a
vent diameter of 2 inches or less.
(8) DOE requests comment on its proposal to specify input rate
instructions for the cyclic condensate collection test.
(9) DOE requests comment on its proposed rewording of the variance
condition between cycles to clarify that the standard deviation must be
less than or equal to 20 percent of the mean, for determining whether
the cyclic condensate mass collection must be performed for three
cycles or six cycles.
(10) DOE requests comment its proposed changes to the radiation
shielding requirements within sections 2.6.1, 2.6.2, and 2.9 of
Appendix O. In particular, DOE seeks information as to what methods are
currently being used to determine whether a thermocouple would require
a radiation shield and also what types of materials are currently used
as radiation shields.
(11) DOE seeks additional comment and data on whether the DHE test
method affects DHE utility or performance, specifically including
whether there are impacts on features such as air circulation and space
humidification.
(12) DOE requests comment on the benefits and burdens of the
proposed updates and additions to industry standards referenced in the
test procedures for DHE.
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this proposed
rule.
List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Imports,
Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Reporting and
recordkeeping requirements, Small businesses.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on April 2,
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
and Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable
Energy, pursuant to delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy.
That document with the original signature and date is maintained by
DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in compliance with
requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE
Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit
the document in electronic format for publication, as an official
document of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no
way alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the
Federal Register.
Signed in Washington, DC, on April 2, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE is proposing to amend
part 430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set
forth below:
[[Page 20072]]
PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS
0
1. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.
0
2. Section 430.2 is amended by revising the definitions of ``Electric
heater,'' ``Floor electric heater,'' ``Primary heater,''
``Supplementary heater,'' ``Unvented gas heater,'' ``Unvented home
heating equipment or unvented heater,'' ``Unvented oil heater,''
``Vented home heating equipment or vented heater,'' and ``Vented room
heater'' to read as follows:
Sec. 430.2 Definitions.
* * * * *
Electric heater means an electric appliance which is a class of
unvented home heating equipment 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.
* * * * *
Floor electric heater means an electric heater which is intended to
be recessed in a floor, and which transfers heat by radiation and/or
convection (either natural or forced).
* * * * *
Primary electric heater means an electric heater that is the
principal source of heat for a structure and includes baseboard
electric heaters, ceiling electric heaters, floor electric heaters, and
wall electric heaters.
* * * * *
Supplementary electric heater means an electric heater that
provides heat to a space in addition to that which is supplied by a
primary electric heater and includes portable electric heaters.
* * * * *
Unvented gas heater means a class of unvented home heating
equipment which is a self-contained, free-standing, nonrecessed gas-
burning appliance that furnishes heated air by gravity or fan
circulation.
Unvented home heating equipment or unvented heater means a class of
home heating equipment, not including furnaces, designed to furnish
heated air to a space proximate to such heater, directly from the
heater, without inlet duct connections and without exhaust venting, and
includes: Electric heater, unvented gas heater, and unvented oil
heater.
Unvented oil heater means a class of unvented home heating
equipment which is a self-contained, free-standing, nonrecessed oil-
burning appliance that furnishes heated air by gravity or fan
circulation.
* * * * *
Vented home heating equipment or vented heater means a class of
home heating equipment, not including furnaces, designed to furnish
heated air to a space proximate to such heater, directly from the
heater, without inlet duct connections (except that boots not to exceed
10 inches beyond the casing may be permitted), and with exhaust
venting, and includes: Vented wall furnace, vented floor furnace, and
vented room heater.
Vented room heater means a self-contained, free standing,
nonrecessed, vented heater for furnishing heated 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.
* * * * *
0
3. Section 430.3 is amended by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs (e)(25) and (g)(12);
0
b. Redesignating paragraphs (g)(13) and (14) as (g)(14) and (15),
respectively;
0
c. Adding new paragraph (g)(13);
0
d. Revising paragraph (j)(1) and adding paragraph (j)(3); and
0
e. Revising paragraphs (v)(1) through (3).
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Sec. 430.3 Materials incorporated by reference.
* * * * *
(e) * * *
(25) ANSI Z21.86-2016, (``ANSI Z21.86-2016''), Vented Gas-Fired
Space Heating Appliances, Sixth Edition, approved December 21, 2016,
IBR approved for appendix O to subpart B.
* * * * *
(g) * * *
(12) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103-2007, (``ASHRAE 103-2007''), Method
of Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential
Central Furnaces and Boilers, ANSI approved March 25, 2008, IBR
approved for appendix AA to subpart B.
(13) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103-2017, (``ASHRAE 103-2017''), Method
of Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential
Central Furnaces and Boilers, ANSI approved July 3, 2017, IBR approved
for appendix O to subpart B.
* * * * *
(j) * * *
(1) ASTM D2156-09, (``ASTM D2156''), Standard Test Method for Smoke
Density in Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels, ASTM approved
December 1, 2009, IBR approved for appendix E to subpart B.
* * * * *
(3) ASTM D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018) (``ASTM D2156-09 (RA 2018)''),
Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning
Distillate Fuels, approved October 1, 2018, IBR approved for appendix O
to subpart B.
* * * * *
(v) * * *
(1) UL 729-2003 (``UL 729-2003 (RA 2016)''), Standard for Safety
for Oil-Fired Floor Furnaces, Sixth Edition, dated August 29, 2003,
including revisions through November 22, 2016, IBR approved for
appendix O to subpart B.
(2) UL 730-2003 (``UL 730-2003 (RA 2016)''), Standard for Safety
for Oil-Fired Wall Furnaces, Fifth Edition, dated August 29, 2003,
including revisions through November 22, 2016, IBR approved for
appendix O to subpart B.
(3) UL 896-1993 (``UL 896-1993 (RA 2016)''), Standard for Safety
for Oil-Burning Stoves, Fifth Edition, dated July 29, 1993, including
revisions through November 22, 2016, IBR approved for appendix O to
subpart B.
0
4. Appendix O to subpart B of part 430 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory note;
0
b. Adding section 0; and
0
c. Revising sections 2.0, 3.1.2, 3.2, 3.6.2.4.2, and 3.8.2;
The additions and revisions read as follows:
Appendix O to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Energy Consumption of Vented Home Heating Equipment
Note: Prior to [DATE 180 DAYS AFTER PUBLICATION OF THE FINAL
RULE IN THE Federal Register], representations with respect to the
energy use or efficiency of vented home heating equipment, including
compliance certifications, must be based on testing conducted in
accordance with either this appendix as it now appears or appendix O
as it appeared at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B revised as of January
1, 2019.
On and after [DATE 180 DAYS AFTER DATE OF PUBLICATION OF THE
FINAL RULE IN THE Federal Register], representations with respect to
energy use or efficiency of vented home heating equipment, including
compliance certifications, must be based on testing conducted in
accordance with this appendix.
0. Incorporated by Reference
DOE incorporated by reference in Sec. 430.3: ANSI Z21.86-2016;
ASHRAE Standard 103-
[[Page 20073]]
2017; ASTM D2156-09 (2018); IEC 62301; UL 729-2003 (RA 2016); UL
730-2003 (RA 2016); and UL 896-1993- (RA 2016) in their entirety.
However, only enumerated provisions of ANSI Z21.86-2016; ASHRAE 103-
2017, UL 729-2003 (RA 2016), UL 730-2003 (RA 2016); and UL 896-1993
(RA 2016) are applicable to this appendix, as follows:
(1) ANSI Z21.86-2016
(i) Section 5.2--Test gases
(ii) Section 9.1.3
(iii) Section 11.1.3
(iv) Section 11.7--Temperature at discharge air opening and
surface temperatures
(2) ASHRAE 103-2017
(i) Section 6--INSTRUMENTS
(ii) Section 8.2.2.3.1--Oil Supply
(iii) Section 8.6--Jacket Loss Measurement
(iv) Section 8.8.3--Additional Optional Method of Testing for
Determining DP and DF for Furnaces and Boilers
(v) Section 9.10--Optional Test Procedures for Condensing
Furnaces and Boilers that Have no OFF-Period Flue Losses
(3) UL 729-2003 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 38.1--Enclosure
(ii) Section 38.2--Chimney connector
(4) UL 730-2003 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 36.1--Enclosure
(ii) Section 36.2--Chimney connector
(iii) Sections 37.5.8 through 37.5.18
(5) UL 896-1993 (RA 2016)
(i) Section 37.1.2
(ii) Section 37.1.3
* * * * *
2.0 Testing conditions.
2.1 Installation of test unit.
2.1.1 Vented wall furnaces (including direct vent systems).
Install non-direct vent gas fueled vented wall furnaces as specified
in section 11.1.3 of ANSI Z21.86-2016 (incorporated by reference,
see Sec. 430.3). Install direct vent gas fueled vented wall
furnaces as specified in section 9.1.3 of ANSI Z21.86-2016
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3). Install oil-fueled
vented wall furnaces as specified in section 36.1 of UL 730-2016
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3).
2.1.2 Vented floor furnaces. Install vented floor furnaces for
test as specified in section 38.1 of UL 729-2003 (RA 2016)
(incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3).
2.1.3 Vented room heaters. Install vented room heaters for test
in accordance with the manufacturer's installation and operations
(I&O) manual provided with the unit.
2.2 Flue and stack requirements.
2.2.1 Gas fueled vented home heating equipment employing
integral draft diverters and draft hoods (excluding direct vent
systems). Attach to, and vertically above the outlet of gas-fueled
vented home heating equipment employing draft diverters or draft
hoods with vertically discharging outlets, a five (5) foot long test
stack having a cross-sectional area the same size as the draft
diverter outlet.
Attach to the outlet of vented heaters having a horizontally
discharging draft diverter or draft hood outlet a 90 degree elbow,
and a five (5) foot long vertical test stack. A horizontal section
of pipe may be used on the floor furnace between the diverter and
the elbow, if necessary, to clear any framing used in the
installation. Use the minimum length of pipe possible for this
section. Use stack, elbow, and horizontal section with same cross-
sectional area as the diverter outlet.
2.2.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating equipment (excluding direct
vent systems). Use flue connections for oil-fueled vented floor
furnaces as specified in section 38.2 of UL 729-2003 (RA 2016),
sections 36.2 of UL 730-2003 (RA 2016) for oil-fueled vented wall
furnaces, and sections 37.1.2 and 37.1.3 of UL 896-1993 (RA 2016)
(all incorporated by reference, see Sec. 430.3) for oil-fueled
vented room heaters.
2.2.3 Direct vent systems. Have the exhaust/air intake system
supplied by the manufacturer in place during all tests. Test units
intended for installation with a variety of vent pipe lengths with
the minimum length recommended by the manufacturer in the I&O
manual. Do not connect a heater employing a direct vent system to a
chimney or induced draft source. Vent the gas solely on the
provision for venting incorporated in the heater and the vent/air
intake system supplied with it.
2.2.4 Condensing vented heater, additional flue requirements.
The flue pipe installation must not allow condensate formed in the
flue pipe to flow back into the unit. An initial downward slope from
the unit's exit, an offset with a drip leg, annular collection
rings, or drain holes must be included in the flue pipe installation
without disturbing normal flue gas flow. Flue gases should not flow
out of the drain with the condensate. For condensing vented heaters
that do not include means for collection of condensate, a means to
collect condensate must be supplied by the test lab for the purposes
of testing.
2.3 Fuel supply.
2.3.1 Natural gas. For a gas-fueled vented heater, maintain the
gas supply to the unit under test at an inlet test pressure
immediately ahead of all controls at 7 to 10 inches water column. If
the heater is equipped with a gas appliance pressure regulator,
maintain the regulator outlet pressure within the greater of 10 percent of the manufacturer's specified manifold pressure
on the nameplate of the unit or in the I&O manual or 0.2
inches water column. Use natural gas having a specific gravity
between 0.57 and 0.70 and a higher heating value within 5 percent of 1,025 Btus per standard cubic foot. Determine the
actual higher heating value in Btu's per standard cubic foot for the
natural gas to be used in the test with an error no greater than one
percent. If the burner cannot be adjusted to obtain a heat input
rate of within 2 percent of the hourly Btu rating
specified by the manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or in the
I&O manual, as required by section 2.4.1, the gas supply to the unit
under test at an inlet test pressure immediately ahead of all
controls may be set to any value within the range specified on the
nameplate of the unit or in the I&O manual.
2.3.2 Propane gas. For a propane-gas-fueled vented heater,
maintain the gas supply to the unit under test at an inlet pressure
of 11 to 13 inches water column. If the heater is equipped with a
gas appliance pressure regulator, maintain the regulator outlet
pressure within the greater of 10 percent of the
manufacturer's specified manifold pressure on the nameplate of the
unit or in the I&O manual or 0.2 inches water column .
Use propane having a specific gravity between 1.522 and 1.574 and a
higher heating value within 5 percent of 2,500 Btus per
standard cubic foot. Determine the actual higher heating value in
Btu's per standard cubic foot for the propane to be used in the
test. If the burner cannot be adjusted to obtain a heat input rate
of within 2 percent of the hourly Btu rating specified
by the manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or in the I&O
manual, as required by section 2.4.1, the gas supply to the unit
under test at an inlet test pressure immediately ahead of all
controls may be set to any value within the range specified on the
nameplate of the unit or in the I&O manual.
2.3.3 Other test gas. For vented heaters fueled by other test
gases, use test gases with characteristics as described in Table 3
of section 5.2 of ANSI Z21.86-2016 (incorporated by reference, see
Sec. 430.3). Use gases with a measured higher heating value within
5 percent of the values specified in Table 3 of section
5.2 of ANSI Z21.86-2016. Determine the actual higher heating value
of the gas used in the test with an error no greater than one
percent.
2.3.4 Oil supply. For an oil-fueled vented heater, use No. 1
fuel oil (kerosene) for vaporizing-type burners and either No. 1 or
No. 2 fuel oil, as specified by the manufacturer in the I&O manual
provided with the unit, for mechanical atomizing type burners. Use
test fuel conforming to the specifications given in Tables 2 and 3
of section 8.2.2.3.1 of ASHRAE 103-2017 (incorporated by reference,
see Sec. 430.3). Measure the higher heating value of the test fuel
within 1 percent.
2.3.5 Electrical supply. For auxiliary electric components of a
vented heater, maintain the electrical supply to the test unit
within 1 percent of the nameplate voltage for the entire
test cycle. If a voltage range is used for nameplate voltage,
maintain the electrical supply within 1 percent of the
mid-point of the nameplate voltage range.
2.4 Burner adjustments.
2.4.1 Gas burner adjustments. Adjust the burners of gas-fueled
vented heaters to their maximum Btu ratings at the test pressure
specified in section 2.3 of this appendix. Correct the burner
volumetric flow rate to 60 [deg]F (15.6C) and 30 inches of mercury
barometric pressure, set the fuel flow rate to obtain a heat rate of
within 2 percent of the hourly Btu rating specified by
the manufacturer on the nameplate of the unit or the I&O manual as
measured after 15 minutes of operation, starting with all parts of
the vented heater at room temperature. Set the primary air shutters
in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations on the
nameplate of the unit or the I&O manual to give a good flame at this
adjustment. Do not allow the deposit of carbon during any test
specified herein.
If a vent limiting means is provided on a gas pressure
regulator, have it in place during all tests.
For gas-fueled heaters with modulating controls, adjust the
controls to operate the
[[Page 20074]]
heater at the maximum fuel input rate. Set the thermostat control to
the maximum setting. Start the heater by turning the safety control
valve to the ``on'' position. In order to prevent modulation of the
burner at maximum input, place the thermostat sensing element in a
temperature control bath which is held at a temperature below the
maximum set point temperature of the control.
For gas-fueled heaters with modulating controls, adjust the
controls to operate the heater at the reduced fuel input rate. Set
the thermostat control to the minimum setting. Start the heater by
turning the safety control valve to the ``on'' position. If ambient
test room temperature is above the lowest control set point
temperature, initiate burner operation by placing the thermostat
sensing element in a temperature control bath that is held at a
temperature below the minimum set point temperature of the control.
2.4.2 Oil burner adjustments. Adjust the burners of oil-fueled
vented heaters to give the CO2 reading recommended by the
manufacturer and an hourly Btu input, during the steady-state
performance test described below, which is within 2
percent of the heater manufacturer's specified hourly Btu input
rating on the nameplate of the unit or in the I&O manual . On units
employing a power burner, do not allow smoke in the flue to exceed a
No. 1 smoke during the steady-state performance test as measured by
the procedure in ASTM D2156-09 (RA 2018) (incorporated by reference,
see Sec. 430.3). If, on units employing a power burner, the smoke
in the flue exceeds a No. 1 smoke during the steady-state test,
readjust the burner to give a lower smoke reading, and, if
necessary, a lower CO2 reading, and start all tests over.
Maintain the average draft over the fire and in the flue during the
steady-state performance test at that recommended by the
manufacturer within 0.005 inches of water gauge. Do not
make additional adjustments to the burner during the required series
of performance tests. The instruments and measuring apparatus for
this test are described in section 6 and shown in Figure 8 of ASHRAE
103-2017. Calibrate instruments for measuring oil pressure so that
the error is no greater than 0.5 psi.
2.5 Circulating air adjustments.
2.5.1 Forced-air vented wall furnaces (including direct vent
systems). During testing, maintain the air flow through the heater
as specified by the manufacturer in the I&O manual provided with the
unit and operate the vented heater with the outlet air temperature
between 80 [deg]F and 130 [deg]F above room temperature. If
adjustable air discharge registers are provided, adjust them so as
to provide the maximum possible air restriction. Measure air
discharge temperature as specified in section 11.7.2 of ANSI Z21.86-
2016.
2.5.2 Fan-type vented room heaters and floor furnaces. During
tests on fan-type furnaces and heaters, adjust the air flow through
the heater as specified by the manufacturer. If adjustable air
discharge registers are provided, adjust them to provide the maximum
possible air restriction.
2.6 Location of temperature measuring instrumentation.
2.6.1 Gas-fueled vented home heating equipment (including direct
vent systems). Install thermocouples for measuring the heated air
temperature as described in section 11.7.5 of ANSI Z21.86-2016.
Establish the temperature of the inlet air by means of a single No.
24 AWG bead-type thermocouple located in the center of the plane of
each inlet air opening. Use bead-type thermocouples having wire size
not greater than No. 24 American Wire Gauge (AWG). If a thermocouple
has a direct line of sight with the fire, install a radiation
shield, meeting the material and minimum thickness requirements from
section 8.14.1 of ANSI Z21.86-2016, on the fire side of the
thermocouple only and position the shield so that it does not touch
the thermocouple junction.
2.6.1.1 Integral draft diverter. For units employing an integral
draft diverter, install nine thermocouples, wired in parallel, in a
horizontal plane in the five foot test stack located one foot from
the test stack inlet. Equalize the length of all thermocouple leads
before paralleling. Locate one thermocouple in the center of the
stack. Locate eight thermocouples along imaginary lines intersecting
at right angles in this horizontal plane at points one third and two
thirds of the distance between the center of the stack and the stack
wall.
For units with a stack diameter 2 inches or less, five
thermocouples may be installed instead of nine. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the stack. Locate four thermocouples
along imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in this
horizontal plane at points halfway between the center of the stack
and the stack wall.
2.6.1.2 Direct vent system. For units which employ a direct vent
system, locate at least one thermocouple at the center of each flue
way exiting the heat exchanger. Provide radiation shields if the
thermocouples are exposed to burner radiation.
2.6.1.3 Draft hood or direct vent system which does not
intentionally preheat incoming air. For units which employ a draft
hood or units which employ a direct vent system which does not
intentionally preheat the incoming combustion air, such as a non-
concentric direct vent system, install nine thermocouples, wired in
parallel, in a horizontal plane located within 12 inches (304.8 mm)
of the heater outlet and upstream of the draft hood on units so
equipped. Locate one thermocouple in the center of the pipe and
eight thermocouples along imaginary lines intersecting at right
angles in this horizontal plane at points one third and two thirds
of the distance between the center of the pipe and the pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2 inches or less, five
thermocouples may be installed instead of nine. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the pipe and four thermocouples along
imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in this horizontal
plane at points halfway between the center of the pipe and the pipe
wall.
2.6.1.4 Direct vent system which intentionally preheat incoming
air. For units which employ direct vent systems that intentionally
preheat the incoming combustion air, such as a concentric direct
vent system, install nine thermocouples, wired in parallel, in a
plane parallel to and located within 6 inches (152.4 mm) of the
vent/air intake terminal. Equalize the length of all thermocouple
leads before paralleling. Locate one thermocouple in the center of
the flue pipe and eight thermocouples along imaginary lines
intersecting at right angles in this plane at points one third and
two thirds of the distance between the center of the flue pipe and
the pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2 inches or less, five
thermocouples may be installed instead of nine. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the flue pipe and four thermocouples
along imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in this plane at
points halfway between the center of the flue pipe and the pipe
wall.
2.6.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating equipment (including direct
vent systems). Install thermocouples for measuring the heated air
temperature as described in sections 37.5.8 through 37.5.18 of UL
730-2003 (RA 2016) . Establish the temperature of the inlet air by
means of a single No. 24 AWG bead-type thermocouple located in the
center of the plane of each inlet air opening. Use bead-type
thermocouples having a wire size not greater than No. 24 AWG. If
there is a thermocouple that has a direct line of sight with the
fire, install a radiation shield, meeting the material and minimum
thickness requirements from section 8.14.1 of ANSI Z21.86-2016, on
the fire side of the thermocouple only and position the shield so
that it does not touch the thermocouple junction.
Install nine thermocouples, wired in parallel and having equal
length leads, in a plane perpendicular to the axis of the flue pipe.
Locate this plane at the position shown in Figure 36.4 of UL 730-
2003 (RA 2016), or Figure 38.1 and 38.2 of UL 729-2003 (RA 2016) for
a single thermocouple, except that on direct vent systems which
intentionally preheat the incoming combustion air, locate this plane
within 6 inches (152.5 mm) of the outlet of the vent/air intake
terminal. Locate one thermocouple in the center of the flue pipe and
eight thermocouples along imaginary lines intersecting at right
angles in this plane at points one third and two thirds of the
distance between the center of the pipe and pipe wall.
For units with a flue pipe diameter of 2 inches or less, five
thermocouples may be installed instead of nine. Wire the
thermocouples in parallel with equal length leads, in a plane
perpendicular to the axis of the flue pipe. Locate this plane at the
position shown in Figure 36.4 of UL 730-2003 (RA 2016), or Figure
38.1 and 38.2 of UL 729-2003 (RA 2016) for a single thermocouple,
except that on direct vent systems which intentionally preheat the
incoming combustion air, locate this plane within 6 inches (152.5
mm) of the outlet of the vent/air intake terminal. Locate one
thermocouple in the center of the flue pipe and four thermocouples
along imaginary lines intersecting at right angles in this plane at
points halfway between the center of the pipe and pipe wall.
2.7 Combustion measurement instrumentation. Analyze the samples
of
[[Page 20075]]
stack and flue gases for vented heaters to determine the
concentration by volume of carbon dioxide present in the dry gas
with instrumentation which will result in a reading having an
accuracy of 0.1 percentage point.
2.8 Energy flow instrumentation. Install one or more
instruments, which measure the rate of gas flow or fuel oil supplied
to the vented heater, and if appropriate, the electrical energy with
an error no greater than one percent.
2.9 Room ambient temperature. The room ambient temperature shall
be the arithmetic average temperature of the test area, determined
by measurement with four No. 24 AWG bead-type thermocouples with
junctions shielded against radiation using shielding meeting the
material and minimum thickness requirements from section 8.14.1 of
ANSI Z21.86-2016, located approximately at 90-degree positions on a
circle circumscribing the heater or heater enclosure under test, in
a horizontal plane approximately at the vertical midpoint of the
appliance or test enclosure, and with the junctions approximately 24
inches from sides of the heater or test enclosure and located so as
not to be affected by other than room air.
The value TRA is the room ambient temperature
measured at the last of the three successive readings taken 15
minutes apart described in section 3.1.1 or 3.1.2 as applicable.
During the time period required to perform all the testing and
measurement procedures specified in section 3.0 of this appendix,
maintain the room ambient temperature within 5 [deg]F
(2.8 C) of the value TRA. At no time during
these tests shall the room ambient temperature exceed 100 [deg]F
(37.8 C) or fall below 65 [deg]F (18.3 C).
Locate a thermocouple at each elevation of draft relief inlet
opening and combustion air inlet opening at a distance of
approximately 24 inches from the inlet openings. The temperature of
the air for combustion and the air for draft relief shall not differ
more than 5 [deg]F from the room ambient temperature as
measured above at any point in time. This requirement for combustion
air inlet temperature does not need to be met once the burner is
shut off during the testing described in sections 3.3 and 3.6 of
this appendix.
2.10 Equipment used to measure mass flow rate in flue and stack.
The tracer gas chosen for this task should have a density which is
less than or approximately equal to the density of air. Use a gas
unreactive with the environment to be encountered. Using
instrumentation of either the batch or continuous type, measure the
concentration of tracer gas with an error no greater than 2 percent
of the value of the concentration measured.
2.11 Equipment with multiple control modes.
2.11.1 For equipment that has both manual and automatic
thermostat control modes, test the unit according to the procedure
for its automatic control mode, i.e. single-stage, two-stage, or
step-modulating.
2.11.2 For equipment that has multiple automatic thermostat
control modes, test in the default mode (or similarly-named mode
identified for normal operation) as defined by the manufacturer in
its I&O manual. If a default mode is not defined in the I&O manual,
test in the mode that the equipment operates in as shipped from the
manufacturer.
* * * * *
3.1.2 Oil-fueled vented home heating equipment (including direct
vent systems). Set up and adjust the vented heater as specified in
sections 2.1, 2.2, and 2.3.4 of this appendix. Begin the steady-
state performance test by operating the burner and the circulating
air blower, on units so equipped, with the adjustments specified by
sections 2.4.2 and 2.5 of this appendix, until steady-state
conditions are attained as indicated by a temperature variation of
not more than 5 [deg]F (2.8 C) in the flue gas
temperature in three successive readings taken 15 minutes apart. The
measurements described in this section are to coincide with the last
of these 15 minutes readings.
For units equipped with power burners, do not allow smoke in the
flue to exceed a No. 1 smoke during the steady-state performance
test as measured by the procedure described in ASTM D2156-09 (RA
2018). Maintain the average draft over the fire and in the breeching
during the steady-state performance test at that recommended by the
manufacturer 0.005 inches of water gauge.
Measure the room temperature (TRA) as described in
section 2.9 of this appendix. Measure the steady-state flue gas
temperature (TF,SS) using nine thermocouples located in
the flue pipe as described in section 2.6.2 of this appendix. From
the plane where TF,SS was measured, collect a sample of
the flue gas and determine the concentration by volume of
CO2 (XCO2F) present in dry flue gas. Measure
and record the steady-state heat input rate (Qin).
For manually controlled oil fueled vented heaters, determine the
steady-state efficiency at a fuel input rate that is within 5 percent of 50 percent of the maximum fuel input rate; or, if
the design of the heater is such that the fuel input rate cannot be
set to 5 percent of 50 percent of the maximum rated fuel
input rate, determine the steady-state efficiency at the minimum
rated fuel input rate as measured in section 3.1.2 of this appendix
for manually controlled oil fueled vented heaters.
* * * * *
3.2 Jacket loss measurement. Conduct a jacket loss test for
vented floor furnaces. Measure the jacket loss (Lj) in accordance
with ASHRAE 103-2017 section 8.6, applying the provisions for
furnaces and not the provisions for boilers.
* * * * *
3.6.2.4.2 If absolutely no smoke is drawn into the combustion
air intake, the vented heater meets the requirements to allow use of
the default draft factor of 0.05.
* * * * *
3.8.2 Cyclic condensate collection tests. If existing controls
do not allow for cyclical operation of the tested unit, install
control devices to allow cyclical operation of the vented heater.
Run three consecutive test cycles. For each cycle, operate the unit
until flue gas temperatures at the end of each on-cycle, rounded to
the nearest whole number, are within 5 [deg]F of each other for two
consecutive cycles. On-cycle and off-cycle times are 4 minutes and
13 minutes respectively. Control of ON and OFF operation actions
shall be within 6 seconds of the scheduled time. For
fan-type vented heaters, maintain circulating air adjustments as
specified in section 2.5 of this appendix. Begin condensate
collection at one minute before the on-cycle period of the first
test cycle. Remove the container one minute before the end of each
off-cycle period. Measure condensate mass for each test-cycle. The
error associated with the mass measurement instruments shall not
exceed 0.5 percent of the quantity measured.
Record fuel input during the entire test period starting at the
beginning of the on-time period of the first cycle to the beginning
of the on-time period of the second cycle, from the beginning of the
on-time period of the second cycle to the beginning of the on-time
period of the third cycle, etc., for each of the test cycles. Record
fuel HHV, temperature, and pressure necessary for determining fuel
energy input, QC. Determine the mass of condensate for
each cycle, MC, in pounds. If at the end of three cycles,
the sample standard deviation is less than or equal to 20 percent of
the mean value for three cycles, use total condensate collected in
the three cycles as Mc; if not, continue collection for an
additional three cycles and use the total condensate collected for
the six cycles as MC. Determine the fuel energy input,
QC, during the three or six test cycles, expressed in
Btu.
For units with step-modulating controls, conduct the cyclic
condensate collection test at reduced input rate only. For units
with two-stage controls, the cyclic condensate collection test is
conducted at both maximum and reduced input rates unless the
balance-point temperature (TC) as determined in section
4.1.10 of this Appendix O is equal to or less than the typical
outdoor design temperature of 5 [deg]F (-5 [deg]C), in which case
test at reduced input rate only.
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 2021-07137 Filed 4-15-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
