Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Consumer Products; Early Assessment Review; Faucets and Showerheads, 49261-49266 [2021-18882]

Agencies

• DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 168 (Thursday, September 2, 2021)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 49261-49266]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-18882]


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Proposed Rules
                                                Federal Register
________________________________________________________________________

This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.

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Federal Register / Vol. 86, No. 168 / Thursday, September 2, 2021 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 49261]]



DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Part 430

[EERE-2019-BT-TP-0021]
RIN 1904-AE75


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Consumer 
Products; Early Assessment Review; Faucets and Showerheads

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

ACTION: Request for information.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') is undertaking an 
early assessment review to determine whether to proceed with a 
rulemaking to amend the test procedures for faucets and showerheads. 
Specifically, through this request for information (``RFI''), DOE seeks 
comment on the applicable consensus-based test procedures for measuring 
the water use of faucets and showerheads and whether such industry 
produces results that measure water use during a representative average 
use cycle or period of use for faucets and showerheads, and are not 
unduly burdensome to conduct. DOE welcomes written comments from the 
public on any subject within the scope of this document (including 
topics not raised in this RFI) as well as the submission of data and 
other relevant information concerning this early assessment review.

DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be 
accepted on or before October 4, 2021.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons 
may submit comments by email to the following address: 
[email protected]. Include ``Energy Conservation 
Program: Test Procedures for Consumer Products; Early Assessment 
Review; Faucets and Showerheads'' and docket number EERE-2019-BT-TP-
0021 and/or RIN number 1904-AE75 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 corona virus (COVID-19) pandemic. DOE is currently 
accepting only electronic submissions at this time. 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 this 
process, see section III of this document.
    Docket: The docket for this activity, which includes Federal 
Register notices, comments, and other supporting documents/materials, 
is available for review at www.regulations.gov. All documents in the 
docket are listed in the 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://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=40&action=viewcurrent and https://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=2&action=viewlive. The docket web page 
contains simple instructions on how to access all documents, including 
public comments, in the docket. See section III for information on how 
to submit comments through www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Mr. Bryan Berringer, 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) 586-0371. Email: 
[email protected].
    Ms. Amelia Whiting, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the 
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-2588. Email: 
[email protected].
    For further information on how to submit a comment or review other 
public comments and the docket, contact the Appliance and Equipment 
Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email: 
[email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Table of Contents

I. Introduction
    A. Authority and Background
    B. Rulemaking History
II. Request for Information
    A. Scope
    1. Faucets
    2. Showerheads
    B. Updates to Industry Standard
    C. Showerhead Test Procedure
III. Submission of Comments

I. Introduction

    DOE established an early assessment review process to conduct a 
more focused analysis that would allow DOE to determine, based on 
statutory criteria, whether an amended test procedure is warranted. 
This RFI requests information and data regarding whether amended test 
procedures would more accurately and fully comply with the requirement 
that the test procedures produce results that measure water use during 
a representative average use cycle or period of use for faucets and 
showerheads, and not be unduly burdensome to conduct. To inform 
interested parties and to facilitate this process, DOE has identified 
several issues associated with the currently applicable test procedures 
on which DOE is interested in receiving comment.
    Based on the information received in response to the RFI and DOE's 
own analysis, DOE will determine whether to proceed with a rulemaking 
for an

[[Page 49262]]

amended test procedure. If DOE were to make an initial determination 
that an amended test procedure would more accurately or fully comply 
with statutory requirements, or DOE's analysis were to be inconclusive, 
DOE would undertake a rulemaking to issue an amended the test 
procedure. If, however, DOE were to make an initial determination based 
upon available evidence that an amended test procedure would not meet 
the applicable statutory criteria, DOE would engage in notice and 
comment rulemaking before issuing a final determination that an amended 
test procedure is not warranted.

A. Authority and Background

    The Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975, as amended 
(``EPCA'') \1\, among other things, authorizes DOE to regulate the 
energy efficiency or water use of a number of consumer products and 
industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317) Title III, Part B \2\ of 
EPCA establishes the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products 
Other Than Automobiles, which sets forth a variety of provisions 
designed to improve energy efficiency or water use. These products 
include faucets and showerheads, the subjects of this RFI. (42 U.S.C. 
6292(a)(15) and (16))
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    \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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    The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards,\3\ and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. 
Relevant provisions of the Act specifically include definitions (42 
U.S.C. 6291), energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), test 
procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294), and 
the authority to require information and reports from manufacturers. 
(42 U.S.C. 6296)
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    \3\ The term ``energy conservation standard'' includes water use 
standards for showerheads, faucets, water closets, and urinals. (42 
U.S.C. 6291(6)(A))
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    Federal energy efficiency and water use requirements for covered 
products established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and 
regulations concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and 
standards. (42 U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal 
preemption for particular State laws or regulations, in accordance with 
the procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d))
    The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that 
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1) 
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy 
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), 
and (2) making representations about the water use of those products 
(42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to 
determine whether the products comply with relevant standards 
promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
    Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures 
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for 
covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed or 
amended under this section be reasonably designed to produce test 
results which measure energy efficiency, energy use, water 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, 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 directs that the test procedures for faucets and showerheads 
are to be the test procedures specified in American Society of 
Mechanical Engineers (ASME) Standard A112.18.1M-1989, ``Plumbing 
Fixture Fittings.'' (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(7)(A)) EPCA further directs 
that, if the test procedure requirements of ASME A112.18.1M-1989 are 
revised at any time and approved by the American National Standards 
Institute (ANSI), DOE must amend the Federal test procedures to conform 
to the revised ASME standard, unless DOE determines by rule that to do 
so would not meet the requirements of EPCA that the test procedures be 
reasonably designed to produce test results which measure water use 
during a representative average use cycle as determined by DOE, and not 
be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(7)(B); 42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(3))
    EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate 
test procedures for each type of covered product, including faucets and 
showerheads, to determine whether amended test procedures would more 
accurately or fully comply with the requirements for the test 
procedures to be reasonably designed to produce test results that 
reflect water use and estimated operating costs during a representative 
average use cycle or period of use and not to be unduly burdensome to 
conduct. (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. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(2)) The comment period on a proposed rule to amend a test 
procedure shall be at least 60 days and may not exceed 270 days. Id. 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 or 
water use or energy efficiency of the type (or class) of covered 
products involved. Id. If DOE determines that test procedure revisions 
are not appropriate, DOE must publish its determination not to amend 
the test procedures.
    DOE's test procedures for faucets and showerheads are prescribed at 
10 CFR 430.23(s) and (t), respectively, and 10 CFR part 430 subpart B 
appendix S (``Appendix S''). In addition, DOE regulations reiterate 
statutory standards for faucets and showerheads. 10 CFR 430.32(o) and 
(p). DOE is publishing this RFI to collect data and information to 
inform its decision in response to revisions to the ASME standard and 
pursuant to the 7-year review requirement specified in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(1)(A) and 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(7)(B))

B. Rulemaking History

    DOE's current test procedures for faucets and showerheads are 
codified at 10 CFR 430.23(s) and (t), respectively, and Appendix S. DOE 
initially established test procedures for faucets and showerheads in a 
final rule published on March 18, 1998, which referenced ASME 
A112.18.1M-1989, ``Plumbing Fixture Fittings,'' incorporated by 
reference into 10 CFR part 430, then the most recent revision of that 
industry standard. 63 FR 13308.
    DOE last amended the test procedures for faucets and showerheads on 
October 23, 2013 (``October 2013 Final Rule''). 78 FR 62970. In that 
final rule, DOE incorporated by reference ASME A112.18.1-2012, 
``Plumbing Supply Fixtures'' as part of the test procedures for faucets 
and showerheads. 78 FR 62970, 62982. Since then, the 2012 version of 
the ASME standard was re-

[[Page 49263]]

affirmed in 2017, and then updated in 2018 to ASME A112.18.1-2018, 
``Plumbing Supply Fixtures,'' which is the current version of the 
industry standard.
    On December 16, 2020, DOE published a final rule amending the 
definition for ``showerhead'' and adopted definitions for ``body 
spray'' and ``safety showerhead.'' 85 FR 81341 (``December 2020 Final 
Rule''). DOE amended the regulatory definition for ``showerhead'' to 
incorporate the definition from the most recent standard developed by 
ASME, such that the term means ``an accessory to a supply fitting for 
spraying onto a bather, typically from an overhead position.'' 85 FR 
81341, 81342, 81359. Under the December 2020 Final Rule, DOE 
interpreted the term ``showerhead'' such that each showerhead in a 
product containing multiple showerheads is considered separately for 
purposes of determining compliance with the 2.5 gallon per minute 
(``gpm'') standard established in EPCA. 85 FR 81341, 81342. In the 
December 2020 Final Rule, DOE adopted a definition for ``body spray'', 
such that the term means ``a shower device for spraying water onto a 
bather from other than the overhead position. A body spray is not a 
showerhead.'' 85 FR 81341, 81359. DOE also established a definition for 
``safety shower showerhead'' meaning ``a showerhead designed to meet 
the requirements of the International Equipment Safety association 
(``ISEA'') standard ISEA Z358.1, American National Standard for 
Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment.'' Id.
    On July 22, 2021, DOE published a notice of proposed rulemaking 
(``NOPR'') in which it proposed to withdraw the definition of 
``showerhead'' adopted in the December 2020 Final Rule, reinstate the 
definition of ``showerhead'' from the October 2013 Final Rule, and 
withdraw the interpretation from the December 2020 Final Rule. 86 FR 
38594 (``July 2021 NOPR''). As proposed, the term ``showerhead'' would 
be redefined as ``a component or set of components distributed in 
commerce for attachment to a single supply fitting, for spraying water 
onto a bather, typically from an overhead position, excluding safety 
shower showerheads.'' 86 FR 38594, 38607. DOE explained that it 
considered that water conservation is a more important purpose of EPCA 
than consistency with ASME (with which DOE has no statutory obligation 
to align its definition). 86 FR 38594, 38597. DOE also proposed to 
withdraw the definition of ``body spray,'' explaining that the 
definition is inconsistent with the express purpose of EPCA to conserve 
water and does not best address the relationship between body sprays 
and showerheads. 86 FR 38594, 38603. DOE did not propose any changes to 
the definition of ``safety shower showerhead'' in the July 2021 NOPR. 
86 FR 38594, 38603-38604.

II. Request for Information

    In the following sections, DOE has identified a variety of issues 
on which it seeks input to determine whether the current version of the 
applicable industry test procedure for faucets and showerheads would 
comply with the requirements in EPCA that test procedures be reasonably 
designed to produce test results which reflect energy and water use 
during a representative average use cycle or period of use, without 
being unduly burdensome to conduct (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)).
    Additionally, DOE has identified a variety of issues on which it 
seeks input to determine whether, and if so how, amended test 
procedures for faucets and showerheads would more accurately or fully 
comply with the requirements in EPCA that test procedures be reasonably 
designed to produce test results which reflect water use during a 
representative average use cycle or period of use, without being unduly 
burdensome to conduct (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)).

A. Scope

1. Faucets
    EPCA and DOE regulations define ``faucet'' as ``a lavatory faucet, 
kitchen faucet, metering faucet, or replacement aerator for a lavatory 
or kitchen faucet.'' (42 U.S.C. 6291(31)(E); 10 CFR 430.2. This 
definition defines the scope of the term by reference to the categories 
of faucets contained within in it (e.g., kitchen faucet), but does not 
define the word ``faucet'' as that word is used in the ``faucet'' 
definition. Both ASME A112.18.1-2012 and ASME A112.18.1-2018 define a 
``faucet'' as a ``terminal fitting'', which in turn is defined as ``a 
device that controls and guides the flow of water.'' DOE requests 
comment on the term ``faucet'' as defined in ASME A112.18.1-2018 and 
whether further detail is warranted for DOE's regulatory definitions.
    With regards to kitchen faucets specifically, DOE's review of the 
market suggests that there are a variety of terminal fittings available 
on the market that are marketed for installation in a kitchen. Certain 
of these products are explicitly marketed as ``kitchen faucets.'' Other 
products marketed for installation in the kitchen are characterized in 
the market as ``low-pressure water dispensers'' and ``pot fillers,'' 
and appear to be within the scope of the statutory term ``faucet.'' In 
the following discussion, DOE describes its understanding of these 
products and seeks comment and information from interested parties 
regarding such products. Throughout this discussion, DOE uses the term 
``conventional kitchen faucet'' to refer to products explicitly 
marketed as kitchen faucets and for which the current DOE test 
procedure and water conservation standards apply, and to distinguish 
from products that may also be ``kitchen faucets'' but that may not be 
within the scope of the current test procedure.
    ASME A112.18.1-2018 added a definition for ``low-pressure water 
dispenser'' and defines the term as ``a terminal fitting located 
downstream of a pressure reducing valve that dispenses drinking hot 
water above 71 [deg]C (160 [deg]F) or cold water or both at a pressure 
of 105 kPa (15 psi) or less.'' As discussed previously, ASME A112.18.1-
2018 defines faucet as ``a terminal fitting''. The reference to 
``terminal fitting'' in the industry definition of ``low-pressure water 
dispenser'' indicates that ASME A112.18.1-2018 classifies such products 
as a subset of faucets. DOE does not define ``low-pressure water 
dispenser'' and does not reference the term in the DOE test procedure 
for faucets. Based on DOE's market research, such products on the 
market may also be referred to as ``beverage faucets,'' ``drinking 
water faucets,'' or ``hot/cold water dispensers''. DOE understands that 
the key differences between low-pressure water dispensers and 
conventional kitchen faucets are that low-pressure water dispensers 
operate at lower water pressures (by definition) and are used for the 
purpose of gently filling a relatively small vessel (e.g., a glass). 
Particularly because of the lower water pressure, such products would 
not be effective at certain tasks that could otherwise be performed by 
a conventional kitchen faucet (e.g., washing dishes) and for which the 
ultimate purpose is something other than to fill a relatively small 
vessel with water.
    The DOE water conservation standard for faucets specifies that 
water use must be ``measured at a flowing water pressure of 60 pounds 
per square inch [(`psi')],'' 10 CFR 430.32(o). The same conditions are 
specified in section 5.4.2.3.1 of ASME A112.18.1-2012 (referenced at 
section 2.a of Appendix S). However, for testing low-pressure water 
dispensers, section 5.4.2.3.1 of ASME A112.18.1-2018 specifies a 
maximum flow for low-pressure water dispensers--i.e., 15  1 
psi. This

[[Page 49264]]

specification was added to ASME A112.18.1-2018 and was not specified in 
ASME A112.18.1-2012, which is currently referenced in Appendix S. 
Accordingly, the water pressure specified in 10 CFR 430.32(o) for 
testing faucets does not accommodate testing low-pressure water 
dispensers. Therefore, although low-pressure water dispensers appear to 
meet the DOE definition of a faucet, there is currently no applicable 
DOE test procedure for testing low-pressure water dispensers.\4\
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    \4\ As such, the standards currently prescribed for faucets at 
10 CFR 430.32(o) do not apply to low-pressure water dispensers.
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    Other terminal fittings used in the kitchen, such as pot fillers, 
may also warrant differentiation from currently regulated kitchen 
faucets. ASME A112.18.1-2018 does not define pot fillers, nor does the 
current DOE test procedure. Based on DOE's market research, the key 
differences between products described as ``pot fillers'' and 
conventional kitchen faucets are that pot fillers are typically 
installed over a range or cooktop (rather than over a sink), plumbed 
only to the cold water supply, and are used for the purpose of filling 
a large vessel (e.g., a stock pot) with a volume of water in the 
location where it will be heated (which avoids the need to move the pot 
from the sink to the stove once filled with water). In applications 
where a pot filler is not installed over a sink, it could only be used 
to fill a vessel with water, given the lack of access to a drain. Pot 
fillers typically have higher flow rates than conventional kitchen 
faucets, which allow for filling large cooking vessels in a shorter 
period of time than could be achieved with a regulated kitchen 
faucet.\5\
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    \5\ For example, filling a 10 gallon stock pot with a kitchen 
faucet would require approximately 5 minutes at a flow rate of 2.2 
gpm (the current flow rate standard established for kitchen 
faucets). Filling the same stock pot with a pot filler instead would 
require approximately 2.5 minutes at a flow rate of 4 gpm (using an 
example flow rate for a pot filler).
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    For both low-pressure water dispensers and pot fillers (as DOE has 
described such products in this discussion), DOE understands that the 
primary function of such products is to fill a vessel with water (e.g., 
a glass or a cooking vessel). Given this function, the amount of water 
provided by such products during consumer use would be dependent on the 
volume of the vessel, independent of the flow rate of the product. As 
such, a test procedure that would measure the flow rate of such 
products would not provide meaningful information in terms of reducing 
the amount of water used. Moreover, establishing water conservation 
standards for such products in terms of a maximum flow rate (gpm) would 
not be expected to result in any water savings because the volume of 
water provided by such products would be dictated by the vessel to be 
filled as opposed to the flow rate. Furthermore, establishing water 
conservation standards could diminish the usefulness of such products 
by increasing the amount of time required to fill a vessel with a 
particular volume of water.
    DOE did not consider pot fillers and low-pressure water dispensers 
when establishing the current test procedure and standards for faucets. 
As stated, EPCA directs DOE to base the Federal test procedure on ASME 
A112.18.1, which did not include provisions for testing low-pressure 
water dispensers until the latest revision (2018) and continues to not 
define or include provisions specific to pot fillers. In establishing 
the current DOE test procedure, DOE did not consider products that may 
be faucets but that were not subject to the statutorily referenced 
industry standard. Therefore, the current test procedure in Appendix S 
and standards at 10 CFR 430.32(o) for faucets do not apply to low-
pressure water dispensers or pot fillers. To the extent that such 
products are not subject to the DOE test procedure, such products are 
also excluded from coverage under the energy conservation standards.
    Issue 1: DOE requests comment on the term ``faucet'' as defined in 
ASME A112.18.1-2018 and whether further detail is warranted for DOE's 
regulatory definitions.
    Issue 2: DOE requests comment on its understanding of ``low-
pressure water dispensers'' and ``pot fillers'' as a subset of faucets, 
specifically kitchen faucets.
    Issue 3: DOE requests comment on whether any changes should be made 
to DOE's definition of ``faucet'' to differentiate products such as 
low-pressure water dispensers and pot fillers from conventional 
``kitchen faucets.''
    Issue 4: DOE requests comment on whether the Department should 
incorporate into the Federal regulations definitions of low-pressure 
water dispenser, pot filler, or any other types of products that meet 
the definition of a faucet. If other faucet types should be defined, 
DOE requests comment on specific physical (or operational, or other) 
characteristics that could be used to differentiate such products from 
currently regulated faucets.
    Issue 5: DOE requests comment on whether DOE should expand the 
scope of its test procedures for faucets to include provisions for 
testing low-pressure water dispensers, pot fillers, or any other types 
of faucets.
    Issue 6: DOE requests comment on its understanding of the primary 
purpose of low-pressure water dispensers and pot fillers (i.e., to fill 
a vessel with water), and on its assertion that establishing test 
procedures and water conservation standards for such products would not 
result in any water savings.
2. Showerheads
    As previously noted, DOE regulations currently define 
``showerhead'' as ``any showerhead (including a handheld showerhead) 
other than a safety showerhead. DOE interprets the term `showerhead' to 
mean an accessory to a supply fitting for spraying water onto a bather, 
typically from an overhead position.'' 10 CFR 430.2. Pursuant to the 
requirements of EPCA, DOE seeks input on any updates to the showerheads 
scope and definitions from the latest ASME industry standard, ASME 
A112.18.1-2018.
    ASME A112.18.1-2018 added new definitions for ``hand-held shower'' 
and ``rain shower.'' ASME defines a ``hand-held shower'' as ``a 
showerhead that can be held or fixed in place for spraying water onto a 
bather and that is connected to a flexible hose.'' ASME A112.18.1-2018 
defines a ``rain shower'' as ``a showerhead designed to be mounted 
directly over the bather with the spray face parallel to the floor. 
Note: The showerhead can be mounted directly from the ceiling or on an 
extended shower arm.''
    Currently, DOE defines the term ``hand-held showerhead'' as ``a 
showerhead that can be held or fixed in place for the purpose of 
spraying water onto a bather and that is connected to a flexible 
hose.'' 10 CFR 430.2. Considering that the DOE definition is almost 
identical to the definition in the ASME industry standard, DOE 
tentatively concludes that there is no reason to make any updates to 
this definition at this time.
    While DOE's regulations do not currently define the term ``rain 
shower'', the existing and proposed definition of ``showerhead'' covers 
rain showers. ASME A112.18.1-2018, section 5.12.3, includes a new 
definition for rain shower in light of the standard's new spray force 
requirements specific to rain showers. Considering the DOE test 
procedure includes a showerhead test procedure for only maximum water 
consumption and not spray force, DOE tentatively concludes that there 
is no reason to include the term and definition for rain shower at this 
time, and seeks comment on that tentative conclusion.

[[Page 49265]]

    Issue 7: DOE requests comment on whether DOE should include the 
term ``rain shower'' and a definition of the term in its regulations.
    Issue 8: DOE requests comment on whether any changes to current 
definitions related to the faucet and showerhead test procedure beyond 
those discussed in this RFI (other than with regard to the issues 
raised in the July 2021 NOPR) should be considered. DOE requests 
comment on the potential impact to the scope of the Federal test 
procedure from any changes to the definitions, should DOE incorporate 
them. DOE also requests comment on whether any potential changes to the 
definitions would impact the repeatability and reproducibility of the 
test procedure or the representativeness of its results.

B. Updates to Industry Standard

    In addition to the revised definitions described previously, ASME 
A112.18.1-2018 includes the following changes in comparison to the 2012 
version incorporated into 10 CFR part 430: (1) A new requirement in 
section 5.4.2.3.1 specifying a lower water pressure for testing low-
pressure water dispensers compared to the 60  1 psi water 
pressure used to test faucets; (2) a clarification in section 5.4.2.3.2 
that ``hand showers'' are ``hand-held'' showers; and (3) updates to 
Table 1, including adding a low-pressure water dispenser maximum flow 
rate level and removing a note to refer to clause 4.11.1 for the 
showerhead minimum flow rate requirement.\6\ however, ASME A112.18.1-
2018 specifies a lower water pressure--i.e., 105  7 kPa (15 
 1 psi).
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    \6\ DOE notes that ASME A112.18.1-2018 also contains several 
updates to specifications and test methods for commercial prerinse 
spray valves, which are not discussed in this RFI.
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    Issue 9: DOE requests comment on the maximum water use test method 
for low-pressure water dispensers, as detailed in section 5.4.2.3.1 of 
ASME A112.18.1-2018. DOE requests comment and data, if available, on 
the water pressure under which low-pressure water dispensers typically 
operate in the field, and the extent to which the specified water 
pressure of 105  7 kPa (15  1 psi) is 
representative of actual use.
    Issue 10: DOE also welcomes detailed information on the nature and 
extent of any testing cost or burden that would be associated with 
conducting the test for low-pressure water dispensers as specified in 
ASME A112.18.1-2018, as compared to the current DOE test procedure.
    As discussed previously, ASME A112.18.1-2018 also provides a 
clarification in section 5.4.2.3.2 that ``hand showers'' are ``hand-
held'' showers. DOE tentatively concludes that the update in ASME 
A112.18.1-2018 changing the term ``hand shower'' to ``hand-held 
shower'' is an insignificant clarification. Finally, the updates to 
Table 1 regarding the maximum flow rate for low-pressure water 
dispensers and minimum flow rate for showerheads relate to the water 
conservation standards and are therefore beyond the scope of the test 
procedures. (DOE adopted the statutory maximum water use standards for 
faucets and showerheads in 10 CFR 430.32(o) and (p).)
    DOE also notes that ASME A112.18.1-2018 does not contain any 
updates to the water consumption test method for showerheads.

C. Showerhead Test Procedure

    In the December 2020 Final Rule, DOE maintained the test procedure 
for showerheads. DOE stated that the existing test procedure remains 
applicable to shower heads as defined by that final rule and that if 
issues arise where the existing test procedure does not produce a 
representative measurement of water use of a particular showerhead 
product, the manufacturer can seek a waiver from DOE pursuant to DOE 
regulations at 10 CFR 430.27. 85 FR 81341, 81351. DOE also noted that 
EPCA requires DOE to consider on a periodic basis whether test 
procedures for a covered product should be amended (under 42 U.S.C 
6293). Id.
    As noted, DOE has proposed to withdraw the definition of 
``showerhead'' adopted in the December 2020 Final Rule, reinstate the 
definition of ``showerhead'' from the October 2013 Final Rule, and 
withdraw the interpretation from the December 2020 Final Rule. DOE also 
proposes to withdraw the definition of ``body spray.'' 86 FR 38594, 
38603.
    Issue 11: DOE requests comment on whether the existing test 
procedure for showerheads needs to be amended based on DOE's amended 
definition for showerhead (i.e., the definition adopted in the December 
2020 Final Rule). If so, DOE requests comment on the proposed 
amendments in the August 2020 NOPR, or on other test methods that would 
produce a representative measurement of water use. DOE also requests 
comment on whether the existing test procedure for showerheads would 
need to be amended were DOE to finalize the definition of showerhead 
proposed in the July 2021 NOPR (i.e., the definition from the October 
2013 Final Rule). If so, DOE requests comments and information on what 
amendments would be needed and why.

III. Submission of Comments

    DOE invites all interested parties to submit in writing by October 
4, 2021, comments and information on matters addressed in this notice 
and on other matters relevant to DOE's consideration of amended test 
procedures for faucets and showerheads. These comments and information 
will aid in the development of a test procedure NOPR for faucets and 
showerheads if DOE determines that amended test procedures may be 
appropriate for these products.
    Submitting comments via www.regulations.gov. The 
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. Following this instruction, 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 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 
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 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

[[Page 49266]]

simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several 
weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that 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 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 on 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, or other information to DOE. Faxes will not be accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that 
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.
    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. According 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).
    DOE considers public participation to be a very important part of 
the process for developing test procedures and energy conservation 
standards. DOE actively encourages the participation and interaction of 
the public during the comment period in each stage of this process. 
Interactions with and between members of the public provide a balanced 
discussion of the issues and assist DOE in the process. Anyone who 
wishes to be added to the DOE mailing list to receive future notices 
and information about this process should contact Appliance and 
Equipment Standards Program staff at (202) 287-1445 or via email at 
[email protected].

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on August 27, 
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 August 27, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021-18882 Filed 9-1-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P