[Federal Register Volume 80, Number 150 (Wednesday, August 5, 2015)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 46730-46788]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2015-18330]
[[Page 46729]]
Vol. 80
Wednesday,
No. 150
August 5, 2015
Part III
Department of Energy
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10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Clothes Washers; Final
Rule
Federal Register / Vol. 80, No. 150 / Wednesday, August 5, 2015 /
Rules and Regulations
[[Page 46730]]
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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
10 CFR Parts 429 and 430
[Docket No. EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009]
RIN 1904-AC97
Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Clothes Washers
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Final rule.
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SUMMARY: On April 25, 2014, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) issued
a notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) to amend the test procedures for
clothes washers. That proposed rulemaking serves as the basis for this
final rule. DOE is issuing a final rule revising its test procedures
for clothes washers established under the Energy Policy and
Conservation Act. The final rule amends the current procedures,
incorporating changes that will take effect 30 days after the final
rule publication date. These changes will be mandatory for
representations starting 180 days after publication. These amendments
codify test procedure guidance that DOE has issued in response to
frequently asked questions, clarify additional provisions within the
test procedures, provide improved organization of each section, and
correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test procedures. DOE
has determined that these amendments will not affect measured energy
use.
DATES: The effective date of this rule is September 4, 2015. The final
rule changes will be mandatory for representations made on or after
February 1, 2016.
ADDRESSES: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public
meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting
documents/materials, is available for review at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009. All
documents in the docket are listed in the regulations.gov index.
However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly
available. The regulations.gov Web page will contain simple
instructions on how to access all documents, including public comments,
in the docket.
For further information on how to review the docket, contact Ms.
Brenda Edwards at (202) 586-2945 or by email:
[email protected].
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Mr. Bryan Berringer, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Program, EE-2J,
1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone:
(202) 586-0371. Email: [email protected].
Ms. Johanna Hariharan, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 287-6307. Email:
[email protected].
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
Table of Contents
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
B. Background
C. General Test Procedure Rulemaking Process
II. Summary of the Final Rule
III. Discussion
A. General Comments
B. Introductory Text
C. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement
1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
4. Plastic Sheet Material
5. Shipping Bolts
D. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions
E. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure
F. Test Cloth Loading Instructions
G. Energy Test Cycle
1. Warm Rinse Cycles
2. Sanitization Cycles
3. Default Cycle Settings
4. Energy Test Cycle Definition
5. Normal Cycle Definition
6. Determining the Energy Test Cycle With New Flowcharts
H. Wash Time Setting
I. Standby and Off Mode Testing
1. Testing Sequence
2. Door Position
3. Default Settings
4. Network Mode
5. Clarified Procedure for Performing Inactive and Off Mode
Power Measurements
6. Multiple Inactive Modes
J. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems
K. Maximum Water Fill Levels on Electronic Manual Water Fill
Control Systems
L. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions
M. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures
N. Determining Extra-Hot Wash Temperature
O. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy
P. Out-of-Balance Loads
Q. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions
R. Table 3.2 Edits
S. Table 4.1.1 Edits
T. Table 2.8 Edits
U. Replacing ``Consumer'' With ``User''
V. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23
W. Reporting and Verification Requirements
1. Remaining Moisture Content
2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
4. Product Firmware Updates
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government
Appropriations Act, 1999
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration
Act of 1974
M. Congressional Notification
V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
I. Authority and Background
A. Authority
Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of
1975 (EPCA), Pub. L. 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified),
established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other
Than Automobiles,\2\ which includes residential clothes washers (RCW).
(42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(7)) Part C of title III \3\ established the Energy
Conservation Program for Certain Industrial Equipment, which includes
commercial clothes washers (CCW). (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(H)) Both RCWs and
CCWs are the subject of this rulemaking.
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\1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated Part A.
\2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Efficiency Improvement Act of 2015,
Pub. L. 114-11 (Apr. 30, 2015).
\3\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part C was redesignated Part A-1.
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Under EPCA, the energy conservation program consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. The
testing requirements consist of test procedures that manufacturers of
covered products must use as the basis for (1) certifying to DOE that
their products comply with the applicable energy conservation standards
adopted under EPCA, and (2) making representations about the efficiency
of those products. Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to
determine whether the products comply with any relevant standards
promulgated under EPCA.
[[Page 46731]]
B. Background
DOE test procedures for clothes washers are codified at appendices
J1 and J2 to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B (``appendix J1'' and ``appendix
J2''). DOE most recently amended the test procedures for clothes
washers on March 7, 2012 (``March 2012 final rule''). 77 FR 13888. The
March 2012 final rule amended certain provisions in appendix J1 and
also established the clothes washer test procedure codified in appendix
J2. DOE proposed additional clarifying revisions to both appendix J1
and appendix J2 in a notice of proposed rulemaking published on April
25, 2014 (``April 2014 NOPR''). 79 FR 23061.
As of March 7, 2015, manufacturers of RCWs are required to make
representations of energy efficiency using appendix J2, as established
by the March 2012 final rule. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 2012) and 77 FR
59719 (October 1, 2012).
EPCA requires CCWs to be tested using the same test procedures
applicable to residential clothes washers. (42 U.S.C. 6314(a)(8)) On
December 3, 2014, DOE published a final rule adopting appendix J2, to
be used to determine compliance with any future revised energy
conservation standards for CCWs. 79 FR 71624. On December 15, 2014, DOE
published a final rule amending the CCW energy conservation standards,
which become effective January 1, 2018. 79 FR 74492. Manufacturers of
CCWs must use appendix J1 to demonstrate compliance with the current
standards established by the January 2010 final rule. (10 CFR
431.156(b)) Beginning January 1, 2018, manufacturers must use appendix
J2 to demonstrate compliance with the amended energy conservation
standards effective on the same date. (10 CFR 431.156(c))
C. General Test Procedure Rulemaking Process
EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures DOE must follow when
prescribing or amending test procedures for covered products. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)) EPCA provides that any test procedures prescribed or
amended under this section shall be reasonably designed to produce test
results that measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated annual
operating cost of a covered product during a representative average use
cycle or period of use and shall not be unduly burdensome to conduct.
(42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
In addition, if DOE determines that a test procedure amendment is
warranted, it must publish proposed test procedures and offer the
public an opportunity to present oral and written comments on them. (42
U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)). Finally, in any rulemaking to amend a test
procedure, DOE must determine to what extent, if any, the proposed test
procedure would alter the measured energy efficiency of any covered
product as determined under the existing test procedure. (42 U.S.C.
6293(e)(1)) If DOE determines that the amended test procedure would
alter the measured efficiency of a covered product, DOE must amend the
applicable energy conservation standard accordingly. (42 U.S.C.
6293(e)(2))
With respect to this rulemaking, DOE has determined that the
amendments it is adopting will not change the measured energy use of
clothes washers compared to the current test procedure.
II. Summary of the Final Rule
This final rule codifies clarifications and technical amendments to
the current DOE test procedures for clothes washers at appendix J1 and
appendix J2. The final rule also amends the reporting and verification
requirements for RCWs. DOE has determined that the amendments described
in section III would not alter the measured efficiency of clothes
washers. The amendments either codify guidance interpreting DOE's
existing regulations, provide further clarification of the relevant
test procedure provisions, provide improved organization of each
section, or correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test
procedures.
III. Discussion
A. General Comments
As previously mentioned, DOE proposed additional clarifying
revisions to both appendix J1 and appendix J2 in the April 2014 NOPR.
79 FR 23061 (Apr. 25, 2014). DOE received several general comments in
response to this proposal.
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) requested
that DOE publish a final rule quickly because the introduction of test
procedure amendments when compliance is already underway (as required
beginning March 7, 2015) \4\ could cause confusion and added burden for
manufacturers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2) \5\ AHAM also stated that DOE must
present its analysis to show that the proposed changes would not alter
the measured efficiency of clothes washers, per 42 U.S.C. 6293(e). Id.
Furthermore, AHAM disagrees with DOE's conclusion that none of the
proposed changes in the April 2014 NOPR would alter measured efficiency
of clothes washers. Id.
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\4\ March 7, 2015 is the compliance date of the amended energy
conservation standards that address standby and off mode energy
consumption for RCWs. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 2012) and 77 FR 59719
(Oct. 1, 2012).
\5\ A notation in this form provides a reference for information
included in the docket for this rulemaking, which is maintained at
www.regulations.gov. This notation indicates that the commenter's
statement preceding the reference can be found in document number 4
in the docket, and appears at page 2 of that document.
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General Electric (GE) stated that it supports all of AHAM's
comments, except regarding the issue of sanitization cycles, as
discussed further in section III.G.2 of this final rule. (GE, No. 6 at
p. 1) Whirlpool also stated that it supports all of AHAM's comments,
except AHAM's comments on the issue of test cloth loading instructions
for front-loading clothes washers, as discussed further in section
III.F of this final rule. (Whirlpool, No. 7 at p. 2) Throughout this
final rule, reference to AHAM's written comments should be considered
reflective of GE and Whirlpool's positions as well, aside from the
exceptions mentioned above.
An anonymous commenter expressed support for DOE's proposal,
stating that the proposal will enable testers to deliver more accurate
results by streamlining the test procedure and clarifying certain
confusing or unclear aspects. (Anonymous, No. 2 at p. 1)
Throughout this rule, DOE addresses concerns raised by interested
parties in the specific instances where interested parties stated that
the proposed changes in the April 2014 NOPR would alter the measured
efficiency of clothes washers. In each case, DOE either performed
additional testing and analysis to justify its conclusion that a
particular amendment would not impact measured efficiency, or altered
the amendment in response to the concerns raised, so that the final
amendment, as codified by this final rule, will not impact the measured
efficiency of clothes washers.
B. Introductory Text
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising the introductory text
after the appendix headings in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to
clarify the proper use of appendices J1 and J2 for making
representations of energy efficiency, including certifying compliance
with DOE energy conservation standards. 79 FR 23061 (April 25, 2014).
DOE test procedures for clothes washers are set forth in appendices
J1 and J2 in 10 CFR part 430 subpart B. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE
proposed a number of amendments to both
[[Page 46732]]
appendices, some of which are made final by this rule. Pursuant to 42
U.S.C. 6293(c), manufacturers must make representations of energy
efficiency using any amendments DOE adopts in a final test procedure
rule beginning 180 days after the rule is prescribed or established.
Therefore, beginning 180 days after this final rule is published in the
Federal Register, manufacturers must make representations of energy
efficiency pursuant to appendix J1 or appendix J2 as modified through
such amendments.
As of March 7, 2015, manufacturers of RCWs are no longer authorized
to use appendix J1. In particular, compliance with DOE's amended
standards for RCWs and corresponding use of appendix J2 for all
representations by RCW manufacturers, including certifications of
compliance, was required as of March 7, 2015. 77 FR 32308 (May 31,
2012) and 77 FR 59719 (October 1, 2012).
AHAM stated that it does not oppose changes to appendix J1 for
CCWs; however, AHAM requests that DOE expressly state that RCWs will
not need to comply with the revised appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 2)
Alliance Laundry Systems (ALS) supports DOE's proposal to amend the
note at the beginning of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 test
procedures. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend the
introductory text of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. Therefore, for
the reasons stated above, this final rule amends the introductory text
in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to clarify their use. As described
in the Background section of this notice, the current energy
conservation standards for CCWs are based on the MEF and WF metrics as
measured using appendix J1. Therefore, appendix J1 will remain
effective for CCWs until January 1, 2018, the effective date of the
amended energy conservation standards for CCWs, which are based on
appendix J2. 79 FR 74491 (Dec. 15, 2014). Since RCWs were required to
use appendix J2 beginning March 7, 2015, appendix J1 will be used only
for CCWs between March 7, 2015 and January 1, 2018.
C. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement
1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
Section 3.1 of appendix J1 contains procedures for measuring the
clothes container capacity. The capacity measurement procedure involves
filling the clothes container with water and determining the volume
based on the weight of the added water divided by the water density.
Section 3.1.4 specifies that the clothes container be filled manually
with water to its ``uppermost edge.''
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed codifying the clarifications
and illustrations contained in the July 6, 2010 guidance document.\6\
79 FR 23061, 23063 (Apr. 25, 2014). The guidance document clarifies the
definition of the uppermost edge of the clothes container for the
purpose of performing capacity measurements and provides detailed
descriptions and illustrations of the boundary defining the uppermost
edge of the clothes container for both top-loading and front-loading
clothes washers.
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\6\ The July 6, 2010 guidance document on residential clothes
washers is located at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswashers_faq1_2010-07-06.pdf
(``Guidance Document,'').
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For top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers, DOE's guidance
document defines the uppermost edge of the clothes container as the
highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub cover. For front-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, the guidance document
specifies filling the clothes container with water to the highest point
of contact between the door and the door gasket. If any portion of the
door or the door gasket would occupy the measured volume when the door
is closed, that volume must be excluded from the measurement. DOE's
guidance document also provides illustrations of the boundary defining
the uppermost edge of the clothes container for both top-loading and
front-loading clothes washers.\7\ DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR
to incorporate some of these illustrations into appendix J1 as the
following: (1) Figure 3.1.4.1, displaying the maximum fill level for
top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers; (2) Figure 3.1.4.2,
displaying example cross-sections of tub covers showing the highest
horizontal plane defining the uppermost edge of the clothes container
for top-loading clothes washers; and (3) Figure 3.1.4.3, showing the
maximum fill volumes for the clothes container capacity measurement of
horizontal-axis clothes washers.
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\7\ See April 2014 NOPR, 79 FR 23061, 23091; Guidance Document,
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswashers_faq1_2010-07-06.pdf.
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The April 2014 NOPR also further clarified the appropriate water
fill levels for front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with
concave door shapes and top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers. 79
FR 23063. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed defining the capacity
measurement for front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with
concave door shapes as any space above the plane defined by the highest
point of contact between the door and the door gasket, if that area
could be occupied by clothing during washer operation. Id. Similarly,
for top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, the water fill volume
would include any space above the plane of the door hinge, if that area
could be occupied by clothing during washer operation. Id. This
additional clarification is consistent with the illustrations for these
clothes washer types provided in DOE's guidance document.
AHAM supports the incorporation of DOE's existing guidance and
illustrations for the capacity measurement in appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4
at p. 4) AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to further clarify the
water fill levels. Id.
ALS also supports DOE's proposal to incorporate the illustrations
from DOE's existing guidance in appendix J1. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to incorporate
the capacity measurement clarifications described in its July 6, 2010
guidance document into appendix J1. Therefore, for the reasons
discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications into section
3.1.4 of appendix J1 in this final rule.
2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
Section 3.1.4 of appendix J2 specifies the maximum allowable water
fill levels for determining the capacity of top-loading and front-
loading clothes washers. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed
clarifying the description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading
clothes washers in appendix J2. 79 FR 23063.
For front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, section 3.1.4
currently specifies filling the clothes container to the ``uppermost
edge that is in contact with the door seal.'' DOE intended this
language to clarify the text in DOE's July 6, 2010 guidance document
interpreting appendix J1, but did not intend for the measured capacity
values to differ. Since publishing the March 2012 final rule, DOE
became aware of front-loading clothes washer door geometries with
complex curvatures that may not have an easily discernible ``uppermost
edge'' in contact with the door seal.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising the definition to
provide additional clarity by referencing the ``highest point of
contact'' rather than the ``uppermost edge,'' in order to
[[Page 46733]]
clearly identify the geometric boundary between the door and the door
gasket for a wider range of front-loading clothes washer geometries. 79
FR 23063. DOE intended for the measured capacity of a front-loading
clothes washer using the proposed revised language to be equivalent to
the measured capacity using the current front-loading capacity language
in section 3.1.4 of appendix J2. Id. at 23063-64. The proposed
amendments to appendix J2 also included the following illustrations:
(1) Figure 3.1.4.1, showing the boundary defining the uppermost edge of
the clothes container for top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers;
and (2) Figure 3.1.4.2, showing the boundaries defining the maximum
fill volumes for the clothes container capacity measurement of
horizontal-axis clothes washers. Id.
AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to amend the appendix J2
description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading clothes
washers using the same language as the proposed amendments to appendix
J1, and as specified in existing capacity measurement guidance under
appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4) AHAM also does not oppose DOE's
proposal to incorporate illustrations of the boundary defining the
uppermost edge of the clothes container for top-loading vertical-axis
clothes washers and the boundaries defining the fill volumes for
horizontal-axis clothes washers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4)
ALS supports DOE's proposal to add illustrations showing the
maximum fill level for top-loading vertical-axis washers and the
maximum fill volume for horizontal-axis washers in appendix J2. (ALS,
No. 5 at p. 3)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to incorporate
the revised description of the maximum fill volume for front-loading
clothes washers in appendix J2, as well as the illustrations of the
boundaries defining the uppermost edge of the clothes container for
top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers and the maximum fill volume
for horizontal-axis clothes washers. Therefore, for the reasons
discussed above, DOE incorporates these changes into newly renumbered
section 3.1.4 of appendix J2 in this final rule.
3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
In both appendix J1 and appendix J2, the measured capacity is the
basis for determining the test load sizes specified in Table 5.1. The
table provides test load sizes for capacity ranges in increments of
0.10 cubic feet. The precision of the capacity ranges in Table 5.1
implies that the capacity of the clothes container must be measured to
the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining load size.
However, manufacturers typically report capacity to the nearest 0.1
cubic foot in DOE certification reports and in retail advertisements.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying that manufacturers
must measure capacity to the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of
determining load size and for calculating the efficiency values that
manufacturers must report pursuant to 10 CFR 429.20(b). 79 FR 23061,
23064. (April 25, 2014). DOE proposed adding this clarification in both
appendices, in a new section 3.1.7 following the calculation of
capacity in section 3.1.5. Id.
The proposed amendments also specified in a new section at 10 CFR
429.20(c) that capacity must be reported to the nearest 0.1 cubic foot
for the purpose of DOE certification reports for RCWs.
Finally, DOE proposed clarifying in a new paragraph at 10 CFR
429.20(a)(3) that the certified capacity of any clothes washer basic
model shall be the mean of the capacities of the units in the sample
for the basic model. 79 FR 23064. DOE proposed this amendment for
clarity, stating that it believes this is consistent with current
practice because the existing test procedure and sampling plan require
testing at least two units and measuring the drum capacity individually
for each. Id.
AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to clarify measuring capacity
to the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purposes of the test procedure
measurement and the downstream calculations in the test procedure, and
to report capacity to the nearest 0.1 cubic foot for certification
purposes. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4; ALS, No. 5 at p. 3) AHAM and ALS also
support DOE's proposal that the certified capacity of any clothes
washer basic model shall be the mean of the capacities of the units in
the sample for the basic model. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4; ALS, No. 5 at p.
1)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposed clarifications
regarding clothes container capacity rounding requirements, including
the revised certification requirement. Therefore, for the reasons
discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications in this final
rule.
4. Plastic Sheet Material
Section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies lining
the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil thickness (0.051mm)
plastic sheet before filling the clothes container with water. DOE is
aware that common industry practice is to use a large 2 mil plastic
bag, rather than a plastic sheet, for lining the clothes container
because the shape of the plastic bag more easily conforms to the
geometry of the clothes container. DOE therefore proposed in the April
2014 NOPR to amend section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to
allow the use of either a 2 mil thickness plastic sheet or plastic bag
to line the inside of the clothes container. 79 FR 23064. DOE reasoned
that the measured capacity of the clothes washer would be the same
regardless of whether a plastic sheet or plastic bag is used, provided
that the thickness of either the plastic sheet or plastic bag is 2 mil.
Id.
AHAM and ALS support the use of a plastic bag for measuring
capacity, stating that they believe a plastic bag provides the most
accurate measurement method. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 4, 5; ALS, No. 5 at p.
3) AHAM added that it prefers that DOE no longer permit the use of a
plastic sheet to perform the capacity measurement, to help reduce
variation in the test procedure. (AHAM, No. 4 at p 4, 5) ALS also
objected to DOE's continued allowance of ``plastic sheet material'' for
the capacity measurement, stating that it results in an inaccurate
measurement due to the significant folding that occurs with the flat
sheet. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
DOE has conducted numerous capacity measurements of both top-
loading and front-loading clothes washers using a flat plastic sheet,
and has obtained the same measured capacity as each model's certified
capacity value. Therefore, DOE's experience has shown that it is
possible to perform the capacity measurement correctly and accurately
using a flat plastic sheet. However, DOE acknowledges that the use of a
flat plastic sheet can be more difficult than using a plastic bag.
Using a flat plastic sheet requires careful attention to minimize the
number of folds and to ensure that none of the folds encapsulate any
trapped air, which could reduce the measured capacity.
Due to the challenges observed by DOE in using a flat plastic
sheet, and considering the comments received in response to the April
2014 NOPR, this final rule amends section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and
appendix J2 to require the use of only a 2 mil thickness plastic bag to
line the inside of the clothes container. This final rule does not
allow manufacturers to use a plastic sheet to perform measurements
under appendix J1 and J2.
[[Page 46734]]
5. Shipping Bolts
Front-loading clothes washers are typically designed with large
bolts, inserted through the back of the clothes washer, that secure the
wash drum to prevent movement of the drum during shipping. These
``shipping bolts'' must be removed prior to operating the clothes
washer. Alternatively, on some front-loading clothes washers, the drum
is secured using other forms of bracing hardware that are intended to
be removed prior to operating the clothes washer.
Section 3.1.1 of appendix J2 currently specifies that the shipping
bolts must remain in place during the capacity measurement procedure to
support the wash drum and prevent it from sagging downward as the drum
is filled with water. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed to add a
reference to ``other forms of bracing hardware'' in section 3.1.1 of
both appendix J1 and appendix J2. 79 FR 23061, 23064. (Apr. 25, 2014).
In addition, DOE became aware of front-loading clothes washer
designs that do not use shipping bolts or other forms of bracing
hardware to support the wash drum during shipping. Therefore, in the
April 2014 NOPR, DOE also proposed amendments to section 3.1.1 of both
appendix J1 and J2 to describe how a laboratory should measure the
capacity of this type of clothes washer. The proposed amendments would
allow a laboratory to support the wash drum by other means if
necessary, including temporary bracing or support beams. The amendments
would require that any temporary bracing or support beams, if used,
must keep the wash drum in a fixed position, relative to the geometry
of the door and door seal components, that is representative of the
position of the wash drum during normal operation. DOE also proposed to
require that the method used avoid any damage to the unit that would
affect the results of the energy and water testing. DOE further
proposed to require that test reports fully document the method used to
support the wash drum, and, pursuant to 10 CFR 429.71, that the
manufacturer retain such documentation as part of its test records. 79
FR 23064.
ALS supports DOE's proposed clarifications regarding shipping bolts
used on front-loading washers. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 3)
AHAM supports DOE's clarification that the purpose of shipping
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware remaining in place is to
support the wash drum and prevent it from sagging downward as the drum
is filled with water. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5) AHAM does not oppose DOE's
proposed description of how a laboratory should proceed in cases where
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware are not used to
support the drum during shipping. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5) AHAM stated
that if DOE intended manufacturers to indicate whether shipping bolts
or other forms of bracing hardware are used, AHAM would oppose such
reporting requirement as unnecessarily adding to the certification
reporting and recordkeeping burden. Instead, AHAM stated that DOE
should require reporting only when something other than what is shipped
with the unit is used for testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 5)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposed clarifications
regarding the use of shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware
during the clothes container capacity measurement. Therefore, for the
reasons discussed above, DOE incorporates these clarifications in
section 3.1.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 in this final rule.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE intended that manufacturers would need
to fully document the method used to support the wash drum, and retain
such documentation as part of its test records, only in cases where
temporary bracing or support beams are required to keep the wash drum
in a fixed position on front-loading clothes washer designs that do not
use shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the
wash drum during shipping. The final rule provides this clarification
in section 3.1.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2.
D. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions
Section 2.3.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies that
the temperature of the hot water supply must not exceed 135 [deg]F and
the cold water supply must not exceed 60 [deg]F for clothes washers in
which electrical energy or water energy consumption are affected by the
inlet water temperature (for example, water heating clothes washers or
clothes washers with thermostatically controlled water valves). This
specification does not provide a lower bound for the hot and cold water
supply temperatures. In contrast, section 2.3.2 of both test procedures
specifies a hot water supply temperature of 135 [deg]F 5
[deg]F and a cold water supply temperature of 60 [deg]F 5
[deg]F for clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy
consumption are not affected by the inlet water temperature.
On clothes washers with thermostatically controlled mixing valves,
the supply water temperatures directly affect the relative quantities
of hot and cold water consumption during a wash cycle. DOE has observed
that the large majority of clothes washers on the market now use
thermostatically controlled mixing valves or other similar technologies
for precisely controlling the wash water temperatures. DOE's
engineering analysis during the most recent energy conservation
standards rulemaking for RCWs indicated that precise temperature
control will be required to achieve the higher efficiency levels
established by the May 31, 2012 direct final rule. (77 FR 32308).
To improve consistency and repeatability of test results, DOE
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to establish a lower bound of 130
[deg]F for the hot water supply and 55 [deg]F for the cold water supply
for clothes washers in which electrical energy or water heating energy
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature. This would
provide an allowable range of five degrees on the hot and cold water
supplies (i.e., 130-135 [deg]F and 55-60 [deg]F, respectively). In its
proposal, DOE stated the amendment applied to both appendix J1 and
appendix J2 (with section 2.3.1 in appendix J2 renumbered to 2.2.1). 79
FR 23064.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE noted that the proposed five-degree
temperature tolerance is a tighter tolerance than is required for
clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy consumption
are not affected by the inlet water temperature; however, DOE noted
that the water supply temperature affects the outcome of the MEF or
Integrated Modified Energy Factor (IMEF) results when testing clothes
washers with thermostatically controlled water valves more
significantly than for clothes washers without such valves. DOE
requested comment on the potential test burden associated with
maintaining a tolerance of five degrees on the hot and cold water
supply temperature for clothes washers in which electrical energy and
water energy consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature.
AHAM supports DOE's proposal to establish a lower bound of 130
[deg]F for the hot water supply and 55 [deg]F for the cold water supply
for clothes washers in which electrical energy or water energy
consumption are affected by inlet water temperature. Additionally, AHAM
suggested that, with regard to water supply temperature, DOE no longer
differentiate between clothes washers
[[Page 46735]]
with thermostatically controlled water valves and those without, and
that the proposed tighter temperature tolerance should apply to all
types of clothes washers. AHAM added that third-party laboratories will
not likely know whether a machine is thermostatically controlled, and
therefore will maintain the stricter five-degree tolerance during
testing anyway. Thus, applying the same five-degree temperature
tolerance to all types of clothes washers should not impact
laboratories. AHAM also suggested that DOE add language to explicitly
state that 135 [deg]F and 60 [deg]F are the target inlet temperatures,
which would further clarify the test procedure and reduce testing
variation. (AHAM, No. 4 at pp. 5-6)
ALS supports DOE's proposal regarding the hot and cold water supply
conditions. ALS stated that it has equipment capable of controlling
water temperature to within the proposed five-degree total tolerance
for clothes washers, which are affected by supply water temperature.
(ALS, No. 5 at p. 4) For added consistency, ALS proposed that the five-
degree tolerance also should apply to clothes washers that are not
affected by water supply temperature. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
The California Investor Owned Utilities (CA IOUs) support DOE's
proposal to maintain a tolerance of five degrees on both the hot and
cold water supply temperatures for clothes washers in which electrical
energy or water energy consumption are affected by inlet water
temperature. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 5)
DOE agrees with AHAM that a third-party laboratory is unlikely to
know whether a clothes washer is thermostatically controlled and
therefore is likely to maintain the tighter five-degree tolerance for
all clothes washer tests. DOE also agrees with AHAM and ALS that
applying the tighter five-degree tolerance to all types of clothes
washers would provide increased consistency of test results, with
minimal or no additional test burden, since laboratories typically
maintain a five-degree tolerance already. Therefore, this final rule
amends both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to require maintaining a five-
degree temperature range on the hot and cold water supplies (i.e., 130-
135 [deg]F and 55-60 [deg]F, respectively) for all types of clothes
washers. This final rule also amends appendix J1 (section 2.3) and
appendix J2 (newly renumbered section 2.2) to specify that 135 [deg]F
is the target temperature for the hot water supply and 60 [deg]F is the
target temperature for the cold water supply.
E. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure
Sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2
contain the procedures for performing the standard extractor remaining
moisture content (RMC) test to evaluate the moisture absorption and
retention characteristics and to develop a unique correction curve for
each new lot of test cloth. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed moving
the contents of sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 in both appendices to a
new appendix J3 as a standalone test method for measuring the moisture
absorption and retention characteristics of new energy test cloth lots
to improve the clarity and overall logical flow of the test procedure.
79 FR 23061, 23065 (Apr. 25, 2014).
AHAM does not oppose, and ALS supports, DOE's proposal to relocate
the contents of sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 in both appendix J1 and
appendix J2 to a new appendix J3 as a standalone test method for
measuring the moisture absorption and retention characteristics of the
new energy test cloth lots. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 6; ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to create a new
appendix J3 as a standalone test method for measuring the moisture
absorption and retention characteristics of new energy test cloth lots.
Therefore, this final rule incorporates this change and establishes a
new appendix J3 test procedure. Accordingly, this final rule also
removes the standard extractor RMC procedure from appendices J1 and J2
and amends section 2.6.4.6 in appendix J1 and newly renumbered section
2.7.5 in appendix J2 to reference the standard extractor RMC procedure
now provided in appendix J3.
F. Test Cloth Loading Instructions
Section 2.8.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies loading
the energy test cloths into the clothes washer by grasping them in the
center, shaking them to hang loosely, and then ``put[ting] them into
the clothes container'' prior to activating the clothes washer. These
instructions apply to both top-loading and front-loading clothes
washers. DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to provide additional
specificity for the test cloth handling and loading instructions to
improve the overall clarity and consistency of test cloth loading
procedures. As proposed, the amendments would apply to both appendix J1
and appendix J2 (section 2.8.3 would be renumbered to 2.9.2 in appendix
J2 per the proposed amendments). 79 FR 23065.
DOE proposed amending test cloth loading instructions by conforming
them to a modified version of the loading instructions for towels and
pillowcases provided in the AHAM HLW-1-2010 test method, Performance
Evaluation Procedures for Household Appliances. \8\ Like DOE's current
test cloth loading instructions, the AHAM procedure involves grasping
the towel/pillowcase in the center and shaking it so that it hangs
loosely. The AHAM procedure further describes placing the towels/
pillowcases into the drum with alternating orientations. It also
provides sketches illustrating each step in the loading process. DOE's
proposed amendments included similar illustrations. The proposed
amendments also specified testing according to any additional loading
instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding the placement of
clothing within the clothes container. 79 FR 23065.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\8\ DOE referenced AHAM HLW-1-2010 in the April 2014 NOPR. AHAM
has since updated its test method as HLW-1-2013. The loading
instructions for towels and pillowcases are the same in both
versions. HLW-1-2013 is available at http://www.aham.org/ht/d/Store/name/MAJOR/pid/5132.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALS supports DOE's proposal to add more specificity to the test
cloth loading instructions in both appendix J1 and appendix J2. (ALS,
No. 5 at p. 4)
AHAM and Whirlpool agree with DOE's proposed loading instructions
for top-loading clothes washers. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 6; Whirlpool, No. 7
at p. 2) AHAM did not comment on DOE's proposed loading instructions
for front-loading clothes washers, but stated that DOE should specify a
loading procedure for both top and front-loading machines. (AHAM, No. 4
at p. 6) AHAM suggested that DOE should investigate the impacts of the
proposed test cloth loading instructions on measured water and energy
use. AHAM further suggested that DOE strike the word ``additional''
from the proposed language stating, ``Follow any additional
manufacturer loading instructions provided to the user regarding the
placement of clothing within the clothing container.'' AHAM stated that
this would clarify that if the manufacturer's recommendations to the
consumer differ from the test procedure's loading instructions, the
manufacturer's recommendation should be followed. (AHAM, No.4 at pp. 2-
3, 6-7)
DOE agrees with AHAM's suggestion that if the manufacturer's
recommendations for loading the clothes washer differ from the test
procedure's loading instructions, the manufacturer's recommendation
should be followed. Therefore, this final rule amends the test cloth
loading
[[Page 46736]]
instructions to require following any manufacturer loading instructions
provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing within the
clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer loading
instructions provided to the user, DOE's detailed loading instructions,
as amended by this final rule, must be followed.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to provide
additional specificity for the test cloth handling and loading
instructions for top-loading clothes washers. Therefore, for the
reasons described above, this final rule amends the test procedures by
providing greater detail regarding test cloth handling and loading
instructions for top-loading clothes washers, including the
accompanying illustrations as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
Whirlpool opposed amending the current test cloth loading procedure
for front-loading clothes washers. Whirlpool stated that DOE's proposed
method of stacking the cloths in a front-loader would not accomplish
DOE's goal of adding more consistency to the test procedure. Whirlpool
believes that whether the cloths are stacked as noted in AHAM HLW-1-
2010 or loaded at random the way a consumer would load the machine at
home, the cloths in both cases will ultimately be mixed together
randomly within several tumbles of any front-load washer drum, thereby
producing relatively insignificant variation between the two loading
methods. Whirlpool added that adopting the proposed test cloth loading
instructions for front-load washers would add unnecessary test burden
by extending the amount of time it takes to perform the test, in
exchange for no meaningful benefits. (Whirlpool, No. 7 at p. 2)
In response to Whirlpool's comment, DOE conducted additional
investigations into the proposed changes to the test cloth loading
instructions for front-loading clothes washers. DOE performed
comparative testing on two front-loading clothes washers: One with
baseline efficiency and one with max-tech efficiency. On each clothes
washer, DOE conducted 10 cycles using the procedure described in the
current test procedure, and 10 cycles using the revised procedure
described in the proposed amendments.
For the test runs corresponding to the current test procedure, DOE
loaded each cloth individually according to instructions provided in
section 2.8.3 of appendix J1 and appendix J2: ``Load the energy test
cloths by grasping them in the center, shaking them to hang loosely,
and then put them into the clothes container prior to activating the
clothes washer.'' Each cloth was loaded loosely into the drum without
being placed in any particular orientation, resulting in a random
arrangement of cloths inside the drum.
For the test runs corresponding to the revised procedure proposed
in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE loaded each cloth lengthwise, from front to
back, using alternating orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. The
clothes were loaded evenly across the width of the clothes container,
completing each cloth layer across its horizontal plane before adding a
new layer.
During each cycle, DOE measured total water consumption, machine
electrical energy consumption, remaining moisture content, cloth
loading time, and total cycle time (excluding cloth loading time).
Table III-1 summarizes the results by providing the range, average, and
standard deviation for total water consumption (in gallons), machine
electrical energy (in kilowatt-hours (kWh)), and remaining moisture
content (expressed as a percentage). Table III-2 summarizes the
measured loading times and cycles times associated with each method.
DOE provides the full results of these tests in a separate test
report accompanying this final rule, which is available in the
regulations.gov docket for this rulemaking.
Table III-1--Comparison of Total Water Consumption, Machine Electrical Energy, and Remaining Moisture Content for Front-Loading Clothes Washers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total water consumption (gal) Machine electrical energy Remaining moisture
-------------------------------- range (kWh) content range (%)
Washer type Loading method -----------------------------------------------------
Range Avg; SD Range Avg; SD Range Avg; SD
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baseline............................... Current Method........... 15.4-17.3 16.5; 0.49 0.13-0.15 0.14; 0.01 44-48 47; 1.0
Proposed Method.......... 15.8-17.2 16.5; 0.49 0.13-0.15 0.14; 0.01 46-48 47; 0.5
Max-Tech............................... Current Method........... 11.9-12.9 12.3; 0.32 0.12-0.14 0.13; 0.00 34-36 35; 0.5
Proposed Method.......... 9.4-13.3 11.9; 1.10 0.12-0.14 0.13; 0.01 31-40 35; 2.5
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Table III-2--Comparison of Loading Times and Cycle Times for Front-Loading Clothes Washers
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Loading time (mm:ss) Wash cycle time (min) Average
Washer type Loading method ---------------------------------------------------- total time
Range Avg Range Avg (min)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Baseline..................... Current Method.. 3:38-5:15 4:08 59-75 63 67
Proposed Method. 4:31-5:12 4:49 57-72 62 67
Max-Tech..................... Current Method.. 4:39-5:20 5:04 48-56 53 58
Proposed Method. 5:40-6:15 6:00 48-56 53 59
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The results of this testing indicate that the proposed revised
loading method for front-loading clothes washers improved the
consistency of machine electrical energy, water consumption, and RMC
for the baseline unit, as compared to the current loading method in the
appendix J2 test procedure. However, the proposed revised loading
method resulted in less overall consistency of these three parameters
for the max-tech unit.
The proposed revised loading method required approximately one
additional minute of time to load the cloths for both clothes washers.
The proposed revised loading method resulted in a decrease in wash
cycle time of one minute for the baseline clothes washer, but no change
in wash cycle time for the max-tech clothes washer. DOE considers an
overall time difference of one minute to be negligible, given the total
cycle time of approximately one hour.
[[Page 46737]]
Based on the results of this testing, DOE concludes that the
proposed revised loading method may provide more consistent test
results for some front-loading clothes washer models, but less
consistent results for other models. Additional tests would need to be
performed on a wider range of units to further verify these
conclusions. Accordingly, DOE agrees that the data collected do not
support adopting a change to the instructions for loading front-loading
clothes washer models. For these reasons, this final rule maintains the
loading instructions provided in the current appendix J2 test procedure
for front-loading clothes washers. As stated above, this final rule
amends the loading instructions in newly renumbered section 2.9.2 of
appendix J2 for top-loading clothes washers by providing greater detail
regarding test cloth handling and the loading procedure, including the
accompanying illustrations as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
G. Energy Test Cycle
1. Warm Rinse Cycles
Section 1.7 of appendix J1 defines the energy test cycle as (A) the
cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen
clothes, including all wash/rinse temperature selections and water
levels offered in that cycle, and (B) for each other wash/rinse
temperature selection or water level available on that basic model, the
portion(s) of other cycle(s) with that temperature selection or water
level that, when tested pursuant to these test procedures, will
contribute to an accurate representation of the energy consumption of
the basic model as used by consumers.
DOE published guidance on September 21, 2010, to clarify that the
energy test cycle should include the warm rinse of the cycle most
comparable to the cottons and linens cycle if warm rinse is not
available on the cottons and linens cycle.\9\ In the April 2014 NOPR,
DOE proposed codifying this guidance by incorporating this
clarification into section 1.7(B) of appendix J1 (redesignated as
section 1.8(B) due to the proposed addition of a new entry in the list
of definitions before the energy test cycle definition). 79 FR 23065.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\9\ See DOE's guidance document at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswasher_faq_2010-09-21.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE tentatively determined that a parallel
clarification regarding a warm rinse cycle is unnecessary in appendix
J2. 79 FR 23065. Section 1.13(B) in appendix J2 requires including the
warm rinse cycle if it is not available on the cycle recommended for
washing cotton or linen clothes but is available on an alternative
cycle selection.
AHAM does not oppose DOE's inclusion of the 2010 warm rinse
guidance in appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 7) ALS supports DOE's
proposal to codify the warm rinse guidance only in appendix J1. (ALS,
No. 5 at p. 6)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend
appendix J1 to codify the September 2010 guidance regarding the
inclusion of warm rinse. Therefore, this final rule amends the
definition of ``energy test cycle'' in newly renumbered section 1.8 of
appendix J1 to clarify that the energy test cycle should include the
warm rinse of the cycle most comparable to the cottons and linens cycle
if warm rinse is not available on the cottons and linens cycle. DOE
confirms its prior determination that a parallel clarification for
appendix J2 is unnecessary.
2. Sanitization Cycles
As described in the previous section, part (A) of the energy test
cycle in appendix J1 includes all temperature selections available on
the cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen
clothing. Part (B) of the energy test cycle in appendix J1 includes
other temperature selections available on other cycles that ``will
contribute to an accurate representation of the energy consumption of
the basic model as used by consumers.''
Section 3.3 of appendix J1 defines the ``Extra Hot Wash'' as a
cycle with a maximum wash temperature of greater than 135[emsp14][deg]F
for water-heating clothes washers. DOE is aware that on some clothes
washers, an extra-hot temperature selection is available only on a
separate sanitization cycle. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed
amending the energy test cycle definition in appendix J1 to clarify
that for such clothes washers, the sanitization cycle should be
included in the energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended by the
manufacturer for washing clothing and if doing so would contribute to
an accurate representation of the energy consumption as used by
consumers. 79 FR 23061, 23065 (Apr. 25, 2014). If the extra-hot
temperature selection is available only on a sanitization cycle not
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing (e.g., a cycle
intended only for sanitizing the wash drum), such a cycle would not be
required for consideration as part of the energy test cycle. Id.
As described in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE tentatively determined
that a parallel clarification regarding the inclusion of sanitization
cycles is unnecessary in appendix J2. The methodology for determining
the extra-hot wash temperature selection in appendix J2 requires
including such a setting if it is available on the clothes washer and
is recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing. Id.
GE supports DOE's proposal that the sanitization cycle be included
for testing in appendix J1 if the extra-hot temperature selection is
only available in a sanitization cycle. (GE, No. 6 at p. 1)
ALS has no position on DOE's proposal to include the sanitization
cycle as part of the energy test cycle in appendix J1. (ALS, No. 5 at
p. 4)
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to amend appendix J1's requirements to
include a sanitization cycle in the energy test cycle for clothes
washers with an extra-hot temperature selection that is available only
on a sanitization cycle, if the cycle is recommended by the
manufacturer for washing clothes and if doing so would contribute to an
accurate representation of the energy consumption as used by consumers.
AHAM stated that DOE's proposal will result in decreased MEF for some
basic models, and that the sanitization cycle should not be included in
the energy test cycle under appendix J1. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3, 7-8)
In its comments, AHAM stated that cycles such as a sanitization
cycle have a special use and are not likely to be used often by
consumers. AHAM stated that DOE presented no consumer use data to
justify its proposal that the sanitization cycle should be included.
AHAM presented a summary of data from a recent study \10\ conducted by
Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA) that measured laundry
energy use over a month's time across 50 residential sites. The results
of the field study indicated that the consumer usage rate of the
sanitization cycle fell within the range of 1.31% and 15.38%, depending
on which assumptions were used to analyze the data.\11\ AHAM
[[Page 46738]]
believes that these usage levels would not justify the burden of adding
the sanitization cycle to the energy test cycle. In addition, AHAM
stated that, to its knowledge, manufacturers are not recommending
consumers use sanitization cycles to wash normally soiled cotton or
linen clothes. Given the impact on measured efficiency that DOE's
proposal would have, AHAM commented that DOE should avoid this issue
with regards to appendix J1. Finally, AHAM commented that if DOE
proceeds, over its objection, then DOE must adjust the standard in
accordance with the change in measured efficiency that would result
from inclusion of the sanitization cycle. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3, 7-8)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ ``Dryer Field Study.'' Northwest Energy Efficiency
Alliance. November 19, 2014. Available online at https://www.neea.org/docs/default-source/reports/neea-clothes-dryer-field-study.pdf.
\11\ The calculation of 1.31% assumes that the sanitization
option was available on all 50 clothes washers and could be selected
for all 1,376 wash cycles conducted across the 50 sites. The
calculation of 15.38% assumes that the sanitization option was
available only on the units where a sanitization cycle was recorded
at least once. AHAM stated that the field data do not list the
available cycle options for the participating units in the study;
therefore, determining an exact percentage for how often a certain
cycle was selected was not possible.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In consideration of AHAM's comments, DOE reiterates and affirms the
following test procedure principles as described in prior rulemaking
documents. On November 9, 2011, DOE published a supplemental notice of
proposed rulemaking (``November 2011 SNOPR'') for its clothes washer
test procedures. 76 FR 69869. In the November 2011 SNOPR, DOE stated
that it had observed that the extra-hot wash and warm rinse temperature
combinations are locked out of the ``Normal'' setting \12\ on some
clothes washer models that offer such selections. DOE understood that,
in cases where certain wash/rinse combinations are locked out of the
Normal setting, some manufacturers were only testing the temperature
selections available on the Normal setting, despite being able to
access other wash/rinse temperature selections on other settings. 76 FR
69870. DOE further stated that testing only the wash temperature
selections available in the Normal setting may neglect part (B) of the
energy test cycle definition, which requires manufacturers to switch
out of the Normal setting to a different setting that allows the other
temperature combinations to be selected and tested, if such testing
``will contribute to an accurate representation of energy consumption
as used by consumers.'' Id. at 69871. Because the temperature
selections typically locked out of the Normal setting are those that
use greater quantities of hot water and thus have higher water heating
energy consumption, excluding them from the energy test cycle could
increase (i.e., improve) a clothes washer's MEF rating. Id. at 69870-
71. Wash/rinse temperature combinations that are locked out of the
Normal setting should also be included in the energy test cycle, under
the assumption that a consumer will switch to one of the alternate
cycles to obtain that wash/rinse temperature combination. 76 FR 69875.
DOE affirms these principles as applied to the issue of extra-hot wash
temperature selections in this final rule.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\12\ Here, DOE uses the term ``Normal setting'' to describe the
cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen
clothes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
As noted in the November 2011 SNOPR, the temperature use factors
(TUFs) in Table 4.1.1 of appendix J1 were developed to represent
consumer selection of different temperature options available on a
clothes washer. Each TUF represents the frequency with which consumers
select a particular temperature option on machines offering that
temperature option. Therefore, the energy test cycle should include any
temperature combination for which a TUF has been developed.
DOE interprets the results of the NEEA laundry study, as summarized
by AHAM, as being consistent with the TUF for extra-hot wash, as
codified in appendix J1. The extra-hot wash TUF of 5% falls within the
range of 1.31% to 15.38% as indicated by the NEEA study. The results of
the NEEA study suggest that although a sanitization cycle may be
considered a specialty feature, consumers select this extra-hot wash
feature at a frequency consistent with the extra-hot wash TUF codified
in the test procedure.
With regards to AHAM's statement that manufacturers do not
recommend that consumers use sanitization cycles to wash normally
soiled cotton or linen clothes, DOE notes that part (B) of the energy
test cycle pertains to wash/rinse temperatures not available on the
cycle that is recommended for washing cotton and linen clothes. Part
(B) of the definition is intended to apply to wash/rinse temperature
selections on cycles other than the cycle recommended for washing
cotton and linen clothes, if doing so will contribute to an accurate
representation of the energy consumption of the model as used by
consumers. The results of the NEEA study support DOE's conclusion that,
for clothes washers offering an extra-hot temperature selection only on
a separate sanitization cycle, including the sanitization as part of
the energy test cycle, with a 5% TUF weighting, accurately represents
the energy consumption of the model as used by consumers.
Furthermore, as discussed in DOE's warm rinse guidance document,
DOE understands that some manufacturers may be relying on proprietary
data about consumers' use of each wash/rinse temperature selection when
applying part (B) of the energy test cycle to determine the energy
consumption of such models. The Department's test procedure, however,
cannot rely on proprietary data to which only the manufacturer has
access. The procedure must be standardized, administrable, and
enforceable. In the August 27, 1997 final rule that codified the
appendix J1 test procedure, DOE explained that the clarification
provided by part (B) of the energy test cycle definition was made
primarily to address the issue of machines that ``locked out'' various
wash/rinse temperatures from the Normal cycle, thereby excluding
representative energy use from the test procedure measurement. 62 FR
45484, 45496. Incorporating the ``locked out'' temperature options in
accordance with the temperature use factors allows DOE to develop a
testing standard that is clear, administrable, and standardized across
all manufacturers and models.
Finally, because RCW manufacturers were required to use appendix J2
beginning March 7, 2015, the amendments to appendix J1 apply only to
CCWs. DOE is not aware of any current models of CCWs listed in its
compliance certification database \13\ that offer extra-hot wash
temperatures greater than 135[emsp14][deg]F. Therefore, DOE has
determined that this amendment will not change the measured MEF or WF
values of any CCW models currently on the market that are covered by
DOE standards.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\13\ DOE's compliance certification database for commercial
clothes washers is available at http://www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data/CCMS-79222370561.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In summary, after consideration of all comments and data submitted
on this topic, DOE concludes that on clothes washers with an extra-hot
temperature selection available only on a sanitization cycle that is
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing, inclusion of the
sanitization cycle in the energy test cycle is consistent with the
intent of the test procedure and the 5 percent TUF is consistent with
the consumer usage data described above.. Therefore, this final rule
amends the energy test cycle definition in newly renumbered section 1.8
of appendix J1 by clarifying that if an extra-hot temperature selection
is available only on a sanitization cycle, the sanitization cycle
should be included in the energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended
by the manufacturer for washing clothing. The amendment also removes
the clause ``and if doing so would contribute to an accurate
representation of the energy consumption as used by consumers''
[[Page 46739]]
because, as discussed above, the available data indicates that
including such a cycle contributes to an accurate representation of
energy consumption as used by consumers. The amendment further
clarifies that if the extra-hot temperature selection is available only
on a sanitization cycle not recommended by the manufacturer for washing
clothing (e.g., a cycle intended only for sanitizing the wash drum),
such a cycle is not required for consideration as part of the energy
test cycle. DOE confirms its prior determination that a parallel
clarification for appendix J2 is unnecessary.
3. Default Cycle Settings
Testing a clothes washer according to appendix J1 or appendix J2
requires selecting specific wash/rinse temperatures and wash water fill
levels for the wash cycles used to determine energy and water
consumption. In addition, specific spin speeds must be selected for the
wash cycle(s) used to determine the remaining moisture content. Other
than these settings, the test procedure does not instruct the user to
change any other optional settings during testing.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amending appendix J1 by
modifying section 1.7(B) (redesignated as 1.8(B)) to clarify the
requirement to use the manufacturer default settings for any cycle
selections, except for: (1) The temperature selection, (2) the wash
water fill levels, or (3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles
used to determine remaining moisture content. 79 FR 23061, 23066 (Apr.
25, 2014). Specifically, DOE proposed to require that the manufacturer
default settings be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble
operation, soil level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine
energy and water consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse
settings, water heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all
other wash parameters or optional features applicable to that wash
cycle. Id. DOE also proposed to require that any optional wash cycle
feature (other than wash/rinse temperature, water fill level selection,
or spin speed on cycle selections used to determine remaining moisture
content) that is activated by default on the wash cycle under testing
be included for testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend
not selecting this option for washing normally soiled cotton or linen
clothes. Id.
In addition, DOE proposed amending appendix J2 to add a new section
3.2.7 to address the use of default cycle settings in the same manner
as the modification proposed for appendix J1. Id.
AHAM supports DOE's proposal to clarify in both appendix J1 and
appendix J2 the requirement to use manufacturer default settings for
cycle selections except for the temperature selection, the wash water
fill levels, and, if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to
determine remaining moisture content. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 8)
AHAM also proposed that DOE further require that clothes washers
with mechanical switches be tested either (1) with each switch in the
position the manufacturer recommends in the use and care guide for the
cottons and linens cycle or (2) if the manufacturer does not recommend
a switch position, with the switch in its most energy/water intensive
position. AHAM stated that this approach is consistent with current
practice in manufacturer laboratories. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 8)
ALS supports DOE's proposal to specify using the manufacturer
default settings for any cycle selections in both appendix J1 and
appendix J2. ALS stated that this is consistent with how ALS and the
rest of the industry conduct testing. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to clarify the
use of manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except
for (1) the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or
(3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine
remaining moisture content.
As described above, DOE proposed clarifying that any optional wash
cycle feature that is activated by default on the wash cycle under test
must be included for testing unless the manufacturer instructions
recommend not selecting this option for washing normally soiled cotton
or linen clothes (emphasis added). DOE has observed that clothes washer
user manuals typically do not recommend against selecting certain
options for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. Rather,
descriptions in the user manual most often provide recommendations for
selecting certain options for washing normally soiled cotton clothing.
Therefore, this final rule modifies the wording of DOE's proposal as
follows: ``Any optional wash cycle feature or setting . . . that is
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing
normally soiled cotton clothing.''
In response to AHAM's comments, DOE has considered AHAM's proposal
to provide further clarification for clothes washers with mechanical
switches. To inform its decision, DOE investigated the control panels
of 31 clothes washer models with mechanical switches, representing
seven different brands on the market. DOE believes that this sample of
models represents nearly the entire market for clothes washers with
mechanical control switches.
Based on this market survey, DOE identified the following ten
parameters that are controlled by mechanical switches or dials on one
or more clothes washer models: Load size, wash/rinse temperature, soil
level, fabric type, rinse settings, spin settings, fabric softener,
pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense. Of these
ten parameters, the test procedure provides specific instructions for
setting load size, wash/rinse temperature, and spin settings.
Of the remaining seven parameters, DOE intends for this amendment
to clarify that the soil level and fabric type settings should be those
recommended for washing normally-soiled cotton \14\ clothing, as
described further below. This would provide clarity for any soil level
or fabric type settings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\14\ As described in the Normal Cycle Definition section of this
notice, the final rule removes the reference to ``linen clothing''
in the Normal cycle definition in appendix J2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Of the remaining five parameters (rinse settings, fabric softener,
pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense), DOE
observes that in almost all cases, the manufacturer does not provide
recommendations for, or against, the use of these five parameters with
respect to the level of soiling or fabric material on which they should
be used; i.e., these five parameters are selected independently from
other settings that are recommended for washing normally soiled cotton
clothing. As summarized above, AHAM suggested that if a switch position
is not recommended for the cottons and linens cycle, DOE should require
the most energy/water intensive position to be used for the test. DOE's
product survey indicates that in almost all cases, the switches or
dials for these remaining five parameters would thus be tested in their
most energy intensive positions, if DOE were to adopt AHAM's suggested
wording.
Although the inclusion of more energy- and water-consumptive
features for testing would ultimately encourage more efficient overall
performance, DOE has two major concerns with this aspect of AHAM's
proposal: First, AHAM has
[[Page 46740]]
not presented any information to indicate whether testing in the most
energy intensive position would provide a more accurate representation
of consumer usage than testing in the default or as-shipped position.
Second, DOE's experience working with third-party laboratories
conflicts with AHAM's assertion that this approach is consistent with
current practice in manufacturer laboratories. In DOE's experience,
third-party laboratories typically test clothes washers with the
switches for these five remaining parameters (rinse settings, fabric
softener, pre-soak, stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense)
in the default, or as-shipped, position. DOE has observed that these
switches are mostly commonly shipped in the ``off'' position, or in a
position other than the most energy intensive position.
DOE has also observed that mechanical switches and dials are used
almost exclusively on baseline or near-baseline products.\15\ DOE thus
concludes that amending the test procedure to require that these
parameters be tested in the most energy intensive position could
negatively impact the measured efficiency of a substantial portion of
baseline products. Since the intent of the amendments in this final
rule is to provide clarification only, without impacting measured
efficiency, DOE rejects AHAM's suggestion to require testing mechanical
switches in the most energy intensive position if a switch position is
not recommended for the cottons and linens cycle.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\15\ DOE defines a ``baseline product'' as one that just meets
the minimum efficiency standard.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition, the notion of a ``default'' setting may apply more
appropriately to clothes washers with electronic control panels than
clothes washers with mechanical switches or dials. On most clothes
washers with electronic controls, when the user selects a particular
cycle (e.g., Normal, Cottons, or Whites), the control panel
automatically activates the pre-programmed settings recommended for all
the other optional cycle parameters. On clothes washers with mechanical
switches or dials, however, selecting a particular cycle (e.g., Normal,
Cottons, or Whites) does not automatically activate the other optional
cycle parameters (e.g., rinse settings, fabric softener, pre-soak,
stain treatment, and specialty chemical dispense), each of which, if
available on the machine, would have its own mechanical switch or dial
that would need to be manually set by the end user. Given that the
notion of a ``default'' setting does not apply to mechanical switches
and knobs, DOE believes that the ``as-shipped'' position of a
mechanical switch or knob represents the equivalent of a default
setting.
In some cases, however, the mechanical switch or dial position
recommended to be used for normally soiled cotton clothing may not be
the as-shipped position. For example, a soil level dial may offer
light, normal, and heavy soil selections--in which case, the ``normal''
setting would be selected for testing, even if the product was shipped
in the ``light'' position.
For these reasons, DOE has determined that the test procedure must
clarify that mechanical switches or dials for any optional settings
must be in the position recommended by the manufacturer for washing
normally soiled cotton clothing. DOE believes this clarification is
consistent with AHAM's suggestion to further clarify for clothes
washers with mechanical switches that testing take place with the
switch in the position the manufacturer recommends in the use and care
guide for the cottons and linens cycle. If the manufacturer
instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial position to
be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the switch or dial
must remain in its ``as-shipped'' position.
In summary, based on the reasons described above, this final rule
adds the following clarification to newly created section 1.8(C) in
appendix J1 and newly renumbered section 3.2.7 in appendix J2:
``For clothes washers with electronic control systems, use the
manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except for (1)
the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining
moisture content. Specifically, the manufacturer default settings must
be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble operation, soil
level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water
consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water
heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash
parameters or optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Any
optional wash cycle feature or setting (other than wash/rinse
temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed on cycle
selections used to determine remaining moisture content) that is
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing
normally soiled cotton clothing.
For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.''
4. Energy Test Cycle Definition
As noted in the April 2014 NOPR, appendix J1 uses the term ``energy
test cycle'' in two different ways. In some instances, ``energy test
cycle'' refers to the complete set of wash/rinse temperature selections
required for testing. In other instances, ``energy test cycle'' refers
to the single wash cycle under test. DOE did not propose changing its
usage of the term ``energy test cycle'' in appendix J1. DOE determined
that in each instance where the term ``energy test cycle'' is used, the
specific meaning of the term can be determined through context. 79 FR
23061, 23066 (Apr. 25, 2014).
In appendix J2, however, DOE proposed to simplify the definition of
the term ``energy test cycle'' so that it refers only to the complete
set of wash/rinse temperature selections required for testing. 79 FR
23066. DOE further proposed defining the individual wash/rinse
temperature selections required for testing under a new definition for
``Normal cycle,'' in conjunction with a new flow chart methodology as
provided in the April 2014 NOPR and described further below. The
provisions within parts (D) and (E) of the current energy test cycle
definition would be moved to sections 3.2.7 and 3.2.8, respectively.
Id.
In instances where the test procedure currently uses the term
``energy test cycle'' to refer to an individual wash cycle, DOE
proposed to use the generic term ``wash cycle'' or other similar
terminology as appropriate for each instance. 79 FR 23066. DOE also
proposed to improve overall clarity by providing the full wash/rinse
temperature designation (e.g. ``Cold Wash/Cold Rinse'') throughout the
test procedure. Id.
ALS strongly objects to DOE's proposal to amend the energy test
cycle definition in appendix J2, stating that
[[Page 46741]]
this is not a subtle change. ALS believes it is too late for DOE to
make this change, and that such a change may lead to more confusion
regarding how to test clothes washers. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 6, 7)
DOE interprets the full context of ALS's comment as applying to the
revised definition of the Normal cycle, as described in the next
section, which serves the purpose of the current definition of the
energy test cycle in appendix J2. DOE addresses all comments regarding
the details of the Normal cycle definition in the next section of this
notice.
DOE received no other comments objecting to its proposal to provide
greater consistency in its usage of the term ``energy test cycle'' such
that when used, it refers only to the entire set of wash/rinse
temperature selections required for testing. Therefore, this final rule
implements this change as it was proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
5. Normal Cycle Definition
DOE proposed adding a new definition in appendix J2 for ``Normal
cycle,'' defined as ``the cycle selection recommended by the
manufacturer as the most common consumer cycle for washing a full load
of normally to heavily soiled cotton clothing. For machines where
multiple cycle settings meet this description, then the Normal cycle is
the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' 79
FR 23066.
DOE noted in the April 2014 NOPR that it first adopted a definition
of ``Normal cycle'' for clothes washer testing in appendix J, which
incorporated the general approach to calculating the energy consumption
of automatic clothes washers contained in AHAM's standard HLW-2EC for
clothes washers at the time. 42 FR 25329, 25330 (May 17, 1977); 42 FR
49802, 49808 (Sept. 28, 1977). Over time, machine labeling and
literature evolved to the point that the term ``normal'' as previously
defined no longer captured all of the control settings most consumers
would typically choose in operating the machine to wash their laundry.
(See, e.g., 75 FR 57556, 57575 (Sept. 21, 2010)). Further, the range of
cycle options and terminology on the control panels have changed such
that many machines no longer refer to a ``Normal'' cycle, instead
relying upon other terms. This evolution may have resulted in
inaccurate representations of the energy usage of these machines due to
differing interpretations regarding the appropriate test cycle. 79 FR
23061, 23066 (Apr. 25, 2014).
In order to add clarity and ensure consistent selection of the
appropriate cycle for energy testing, DOE proposed adding a ``Normal
cycle'' definition in newly designated section 1.25 and, for
simplicity, to reference the term in the new energy test cycle
flowcharts. DOE noted that it would consider manufacturer literature
and markings on the machine when determining the Normal cycle of any
particular unit. DOE specifically sought comment on this definition and
whether it adequately covers the cycle setting most commonly chosen by
users of washing machines.
DOE received numerous comments from interested parties regarding
its proposed definition for Normal cycle. DOE categorized each comment
according to the specific element of the Normal cycle to which it
pertains, and provides responses to all comments in the following
subsections.
a. General Comments
AHAM strongly opposes DOE's proposal to add a new definition for
Normal cycle in appendix J2. AHAM believes that this new definition
could change the cycle selections that would be tested. (AHAM, No. 4 at
p. 9)
ALS states that the new paragraph 1.25 ``Normal Cycle'' that has
been added seems out-of-place because it is not in close proximity to
the ``Energy Test Cycle'' definition. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 7)
DOE notes that the creation of the Normal cycle definition is a
separate issue from the actual wording of the Normal cycle definition,
and notes that the majority of concerns expressed by interested parties
related to the wording of the definition. DOE proposed adding a new
definition for Normal cycle so that the new energy test cycle
flowcharts, described later in this notice, can simply reference ``the
Normal cycle'' rather than using the full text of the definition each
time it is referenced in the flowcharts. DOE determined that because of
the complex wording required in some of the flowchart diagrams,
referencing the full text of the Normal cycle definition would render
some of the flowchart boxes incomprehensible. Thus, a simpler phrase is
required.
For these reasons, this final rule adds a definition of Normal
cycle, which is referenced for simplicity in the new flowchart
diagrams. The Normal cycle definition was proposed as newly created
section 1.25 of appendix J2 because DOE re-sorted the list of
definitions in appendix J2 in alphabetical order. 79 FR 23066. DOE
maintains the alphabetical sorting of definitions in this final rule.
As explained further in the following subsections, DOE has revised
the wording of the Normal cycle to address many of the concerns that
were raised by interested parties.
b. Element #1: Most Common Consumer Cycle
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change ``cottons and linens'' to
``most commonly used cycle.'' \16\ AHAM believes it is impossible for
manufacturers to know which cycle is the most commonly used. AHAM added
that, should DOE proceed with adding the definition of Normal cycle,
DOE should remove the reference to ``most commonly used cycle'' from
the definition. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 9)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\16\ DOE notes that the proposed wording of this provision was
``most common consumer cycle for washing a full load of normally to
heavily soiled cotton clothing.'' 79 FR 23062, 23082.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALS opposes the definition of Normal cycle because the definition
of ``most common consumer cycle'' could also refer to ``regular'' or
``permanent press'' cycles. ALS questions whether DOE conducted a
consumer survey to arrive at the conclusion that Normal cycle is the
most common consumer cycle. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 7)
The CA IOUs support DOE's proposed updated definition for Normal
cycle in order to adequately describe the most commonly chosen settings
by users of washing machines, for testing and rating purposes. (CA
IOUs, No. 3 at p. 3)
DOE's test procedures are required to produce results that are
representative of an average use cycle or period of use. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(3)) DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify the cycle that
the manufacturer recommends as the most common cycle for everyday use,
as would be described in the user manual, product literature, or
product labeling. DOE understands that this may be different than the
cycle that would be most commonly selected during actual consumer use,
and that manufacturers may not necessarily know which cycles are most
commonly used by consumers. Without such consumer usage data, DOE can
only assume that the cycle that the manufacturer recommends as the most
common cycle for everyday use corresponds to the cycle most commonly
used by consumers during actual use. The proposed phrasing was intended
to prevent a manufacturer from recommending one setting to the consumer
as the most common setting for everyday use, but using a different,
less energy-intensive setting for DOE testing purposes. Using such a
cycle for
[[Page 46742]]
DOE testing purposes would not provide test results that represent the
average use cycle or period of use on such a clothes washer.
To clarify the intent of this element of the Normal cycle
definition, this final rule refers to the cycle recommended by the
manufacturer for ``normal, regular, or typical use,'' rather than
``most common consumer cycle.'' DOE believes this revised wording will
eliminate the possible interpretation that determining the Normal cycle
requires knowing the cycle most commonly used by consumers during
actual use. This wording is consistent with the intent of the current
test procedure to produce test results that measure energy efficiency,
energy use or estimated annual operating cost of a covered product
during a representative average use cycle, as required by EPCA. In
addition, the final rule clarifies that the manufacturer recommendation
is determined by considering manufacturer instructions, control panel
labeling, and other markings on the clothes washer.
In summary, this final rule revises Element #1 of the Normal cycle
definition as, ``. . . the cycle recommended by the manufacturer
(considering manufacturer instructions, control panel labeling, and
other markings on the clothes washer) for normal, regular, or typical
use . . .''
c. Element #2: Full Load
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to specify that the Normal cycle is to
wash a ``full load,'' stating that the average load has the highest
load usage factor in the test procedure based on consumer use data.
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
ALS questions why the Normal cycle only refers to ``washing a full
load.'' ALS notes that the test procedure specifies minimum, average,
and maximum load sizes, and the load usage factors favor the average
load size. ALS also commented that ``full load'' is a new term not
defined, which ALS believes adds confusion. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify that the cycle used for
testing must not be a cycle for which the recommended maximum load size
is less than a full load. DOE has observed multiple clothes washer
models that provide maximum load size recommendations for each
available cycle on the machine. Because the DOE test procedure
approximates consumer usage habits by requiring minimum, average, and
maximum load sizes, the cycle used for DOE testing purposes must not be
a cycle for which the recommended load size is less than a full load,
which the DOE maximum load size is designed to represent. The proposed
phrasing was intended to prevent a manufacturer from certifying its
product using a cycle that is only recommended for partial loads, and
would thus use less water and energy than a cycle intended for washing
up to a full load of clothing. Using such a cycle for DOE testing
purposes would not provide test results that represent the average use
cycle or period of use on such a clothes washer.
To clarify the intent of this element of the Normal cycle
definition, this final rule changes the wording of this element from
``. . . for washing a full load . . .'' to ``. . . for washing up to a
full load . . .'' DOE believes that this revised wording will address
the concerns raised by interested parties by clarifying that the chosen
cycle is intended for all load sizes, up to and including the maximum
load size.
DOE considered ALS' suggestion to provide a definition for ``full
load.'' DOE believes, after due consideration, that quantifying the
definition of ``full load'' could cause ambiguity or create an avenue
for circumvention, because manufacturers' maximum design loads may not
correspond exactly with the maximum load sizes defined in the DOE test
procedure. DOE believes that the term ``full load'' is widely
understood by the industry and consumers to mean a load size that takes
advantage of the whole usable capacity of the clothes washer.
In summary, this final rule revises Element #2 of the Normal cycle
definition as, ``. . . for washing up to a full load. . . .''
d. Element #3: Normally to Heavily Soiled
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change ``normally soiled'' to
``normally to heavily soiled'' because this change will introduce
ambiguity, and thus variation, into the test procedure. AHAM added that
if DOE proceeds with adding the new definition of Normal cycle, it
should strike ``or heavily soiled'' from the definition. (AHAM, No. 4
at p. 9)
ALS commented that the phrase ``normally to heavily soiled cotton
clothing'' presents issues because of the many special cycles available
on today's clothes washers, such as ``Sturdy,'' ``Jeans,'' or ``Heavy
Duty,'' which may also be cited in user instructions as cycles to be
used for ``normally to heavily-soiled'' garments. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
DOE's intent in its proposal was to specify a range of soil levels
in order to distinguish which cycle should be selected in cases with
overlapping ranges of recommended soil levels for different cycles.
This phrasing was also intended to provide clarity in cases where the
manufacturer's recommended soil levels do not include an indication for
``normally soiled'' clothing. For example, a manufacturer may only
provide options for ``light'' and ``heavy'' soil levels.
DOE notes that the phrase ``normally soiled'' is not currently
referenced in either appendix J1 or appendix J2; however, based on
stakeholder comments submitted for this rulemaking and throughout the
historical record of clothes washer test procedure rulemakings, DOE
believes there is widespread acknowledgement among the industry that
the DOE test procedure is intended for measuring the cycle recommended
for washing ``normally soiled'' clothing. By inference, the phrase
``normally'' is indicative of average or typical conditions. DOE
believes that this is consistent with the historical intent of the DOE
clothes washer test procedure.
Upon further examination of clothes washer product manuals, DOE
acknowledges that the phrase ``normally to heavily soiled'' could, in
some cases, expand the scope of wash cycles that would be considered
part of the DOE test cycle. Thus, applying the criteria ``normally to
heavily soiled'' could result in a change in cycle selections on some
models, which would consequently change the measured efficiency.
In consideration of concerns expressed by interested parties, and
after further additional research as described above, this final rule
revises the wording of Element #3 of the Normal cycle definition to
reference ``normally soiled'' clothing rather than ``normally to
heavily soiled'' clothing.
e. Element #4: Cotton Clothing
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to change the wording from ``cottons
and linens'' to simply ``cotton.'' AHAM believes that this change could
impact the cycle selected because of the removal of the word ``linen.''
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 9)
DOE's intent in its proposal was to narrow the range of possible
cycles that could be considered for testing by eliminating reference to
``linen clothing'' and instead refer only to ``cotton clothing.'' DOE
notes that the current energy test cycle definition refers to the cycle
recommended for washing cotton and linen clothing (emphasis added). DOE
has observed numerous clothes washer user manuals that contain cycles
recommended for
[[Page 46743]]
washing ``linens'' or ``household linens,'' terms that refer to items
such as bed sheets, pillowcases, towels, tablecloths, etc. Such items
are distinctly different from linen clothing and are not intended for
consideration by the DOE test procedure.
DOE is not aware of any clothes washer models for which the phrase
``cotton clothing'' would result in a different cycle selection for DOE
testing than would be selected under the current phrase ``cotton or
linen clothing'' (emphasis added). A different cycle selection would
only occur if the cycle used for DOE testing purposes was a cycle
intended for linen clothing, but not cotton clothing.
For these reasons, this final rule implements the proposed wording
of Element #4 of the Normal cycle definition to refer to ``cotton
clothing.''
f. Element #5: If Multiple Cycles Meet This Description
ALS objects to the proposed new requirement to test other cycles
that ``meet this description (of Normal cycle),'' stating that there
are a variety of other cycle names that meet the proposed new
definition. ALS also noted that the new wording of the Normal cycle
differs from the existing Part B of the energy test cycle definition,
which essentially includes testing the TUFs that are available on the
washer, but not available on the cycle selection described in Part A of
the definition (so that one might need to test an additional TUF found
in another cycle, but not have to test that whole cycle and use it in
place of the other). (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
ALS further commented that the following sentence should not be
used in the definition: ``For machines where multiple cycle settings
meet this description, then the Normal cycle is the cycle selection
that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 8)
ALS stated that it could be irreparably harmed by the proposed
definition of Normal cycle because there are other cycles that could be
tested under this proposal that would have lower IMEF or MEF values,
and which would not comply with the 2015 minimum standard. ALS added
that its large investment in development of products for the 2015
minimum standards could be stranded, and ALS could incur significant
sales and income losses due to lost sales of RCWs in the U.S. (ALS, No.
5 at p. 8)
In its proposal, DOE intended to provide a final criterion that
would be used to determine the DOE test cycle in cases where multiple
cycles meet all the other criteria provided in the Normal cycle
definition. For example, DOE has observed that on some clothes washers,
the cycle names and descriptions correspond to the color of clothing
rather than to the soil level or fabric type (for example, ``Colors''
and ``Whites'', or ``Darks'' and ``Brights''). On such a clothes
washer, both cycles could be recommended for washing normally soiled
cotton clothing. Therefore, to provide clarity and certainty, a final
criterion is needed to determine which of the two or more cycles must
be selected as the DOE test cycle.
DOE did not intend in its proposal to include the consideration of
all the cycles on a clothes washer that may be recommended for washing
cotton clothing. DOE acknowledges that many clothes washers contain
alternate cycles intended for washing cotton clothing that would result
in a lower MEF or IMEF value compared to the cycle considered as the
energy test cycle under the current test procedure. Rather, the intent
of the proposal was to include for consideration only those cycles that
satisfy every individual element (i.e. Elements #1 through 4 as
described above) of the proposed Normal cycle definition.
In consideration of concerns expressed by interested parties, and
to provide further clarity regarding the intent of this final
criterion, this final rule revises the wording of Element #5 of the
Normal cycle definition as follows: ``For machines where multiple cycle
settings are recommended by the manufacturer for normal, regular, or
typical use for washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton
clothing, then the Normal cycle is the cycle selection that results in
the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' Based on its survey of clothes washers
on the market, DOE expects that for the large majority of clothes
washer models, the cycle selection required under this element of the
Normal cycle definition will be the same as the cycle selection used
for certification under the current energy test cycle definition.
Finally, DOE notes that determination of the ``Normal cycle'' under
this new definition corresponds to Part A of the current energy test
cycle definition. Part B of the current energy test cycle definition,
which involves individual wash/rinse temperatures not available in the
Normal cycle, is executed through the new flowchart diagrams, which
provide explicit instructions for testing additional wash/rinse
temperatures available on other cycles.
g. Summary
In summary, this final rule incorporates the following revised
wording for the Normal cycle in newly renumbered section 1.25 of
appendix J2: ``Normal cycle means the cycle recommended by the
manufacturer (considering manufacturer instructions, control panel
labeling, and other markings on the clothes washer) for normal,
regular, or typical use for washing up to a full load of normally-
soiled cotton clothing. For machines where multiple cycle settings are
recommended by the manufacturer for normal, regular, or typical use for
washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing, then the
Normal cycle is the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or
MEF value.'' DOE believes that this revised definition reduces any
potential ambiguity associated with selecting the cycle for testing
that best fulfills the intent of DOE's test procedure.
DOE also notes that this definition is similar in nature to the
Normal cycle definition for dishwashers, which is defined as ``the
cycle type, including washing and drying temperature options,
recommended in the manufacturer's instructions for daily, regular, or
typical use to completely wash a full load of normally soiled dishes.''
(10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix C1, section 1.12).
This final definition of Normal cycle narrows the scope of
potential cycles that could be considered for selection under the
current definition of energy test cycle in appendix J2. By clarifying
and narrowing the scope of allowable cycle selections, DOE understands
that for a very small number of individual models, the revised Normal
cycle definition may exclude a cycle selection that is permitted under
the apparently ambiguous current definition of the energy test cycle.
In these rare cases, the current regulations would permit more than one
cycle to be considered the energy test cycle, rendering the test
procedure unreproducible. Furthermore, the cycle selected as the energy
test cycle will only change on such models if the manufacturer
previously chose to test a different cycle than the one that is
required as a result of the revised Normal cycle definition. Based on
its survey of the market, DOE expects that for the large majority of
clothes washer models, the cycle selection required under the revised
Normal cycle definition will be the same as the cycle selection used
for certification under the current energy test cycle definition. For
the small segment of clothes washer models with more than one cycle
that
[[Page 46744]]
could be selected as the energy test cycle under the current
definition, only a subset of models will be impacted by the narrowing
of the definition of the Normal cycle. In addition, because any cycle
that could previously be selected as the energy test cycle under the
current definition would be a cycle designed for washing cotton or
linen clothes, DOE expects that any such alternate cycle previously
selected would have energy and water consumption patterns very similar
to the cycle required by the revised Normal cycle definition.
Therefore, DOE concludes that the revised Normal cycle definition will
not impact measured efficiency.
6. Determining the Energy Test Cycle With New Flowcharts
In conjunction with the simplified energy test cycle definition and
new Normal cycle definition, DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR a new
approach to determining the wash/rinse temperature selections required
for testing in appendix J2. 79 FR 32061, 23066. DOE proposed to
translate the current methodology for determining the energy test cycle
into a set of flowcharts that would be used to determine each wash/
rinse temperature selection for testing. In its proposal, DOE stated
that the binary nature of each decision box within the flowcharts would
provide increased clarity and ease in determining which wash/rinse
temperature settings to use for testing. DOE proposed to include these
flowcharts within newly renumbered section 2.12 in appendix J2. Id.
As described in its proposal, DOE intended for the cycle selections
as determined using the new energy test cycle flowcharts to be the same
as the cycle selections as determined using the current energy test
cycle definition in appendix J2. DOE requested comment on whether
discrepancies exist when determining the wash/rinse temperature
selections using the proposed flowcharts compared to using the current
energy test cycle definition. If discrepancies exist, DOE requested
that interested parties provide specific examples of cycle setting
configurations that would lead to the discrepancies. DOE also requested
comment on whether the methodology presented in the flowcharts could
result in an efficiency rating that is unrepresentative of how a
particular clothes washer would be used by consumers. 79 FR 23066.
Because the proposed flowcharts would incorporate more precise
definitions of warm and cold rinse temperatures, DOE also proposed to
clarify the definition of ``cold rinse'' in appendix J2 so that it
means the coldest rinse temperature available on the machine, as
indicated to the user on the clothes washer control panel. Id. The
phrase, ``as indicated to the user on the clothes washer control
panel'' would prevent the unintended consequence of a wash/rinse
temperature designation being excluded from the energy test cycle if
the rinse portion of the cycle included a small amount of hot water
(thus raising the rinse temperature slightly higher than the coldest
rinse available on the machine), but was indicated on the control panel
as being a cold rinse paired with the selected wash temperature. Id.
Finally, DOE proposed to move the current section 2.13 of appendix
J2, Energy consumption for the purpose of certifying the cycle
selection(s) to be included in Part (B) of the energy test cycle
definition, to newly created section 3.10, renamed as Energy
consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle selection(s) to be
included in the energy test cycle. 79 FR 23066.
AHAM stated that it appreciates DOE's attempt to clarify the test
procedure and does not oppose the proposed set of flowcharts that
testers would use to determine each wash/rinse temperature selection to
be used for testing. AHAM added that as manufacturers begin to use the
new flowcharts, they may discover ambiguities or discrepancies, in
which case they or AHAM will seek clarification. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
However, as described in the previous section, AHAM opposes DOE's
proposed definition for Normal cycle, and thus proposes that DOE revise
the flowcharts to be consistent with the existing energy test cycle
section and terminology, and not include a definition for, or reference
to, the Normal cycle. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10)
ALS suggested that the reference to ``Normal cycle'' in the flow
charts be removed and replaced with the ``cycle selection recommended
by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linens''. (ALS, No. 5 at p.
7) ALS supports DOE's proposal to clarify the cold rinse definition by
adding the text, ``as indicated to the user on the clothes washer
control panel.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 6)
As described in the previous section, this final rule incorporates
a revised definition of ``Normal cycle'' that DOE believes provides
improved clarity over the version presented in the April 2014 NOPR and
addresses many of the concerns raised by interested parties. In
addition, this final rule maintains the reference to the Normal cycle
in the flowchart diagrams to reduce the complexity of wording
throughout the flowchart boxes, as described earlier.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to include a set
of flowcharts that would be used to determine each wash/rinse
temperature selection to be used for testing. Therefore, this final
rule amends appendix J2 to include these flowcharts in newly renumbered
section 2.12, with additional revisions as follows.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed Figure 2.12.2 in appendix J2
to show the flowchart for determining Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. 79 FR 23061,
23087. Since publishing the April 2014 NOPR, DOE has determined that
the wording of the proposed flowchart for determining Hot Wash/Cold
Rinse would result in a change in cycle selection for clothes washers
offering only two wash temperature selections (e.g., Cold and Hot),
where both temperature selections are available in the Normal cycle.
Under the current appendix J2 test procedure, both settings would be
tested using the Normal cycle, pursuant to part (A) of the energy test
cycle definition in section 1.13. Since such a clothes washer only
offers two wash temperature selections, only the Cold and Hot TUFs
apply, and both would be fulfilled under part (A) of the energy test
cycle definition. Therefore, no testing would need to be performed on
any alternate cycles under part (B) of the definition. However, the
proposed flowchart for Hot Wash/Cold Rinse would have required
evaluating the Hot setting on all cycles available on the clothes
washer and choosing the one with the highest energy consumption. The
path through the April 2014 proposed flowchart would have been as
follows:
1. Does the Normal cycle contain more than two available wash
temperature selections with a cold rinse? Answer: No.
2. Does the clothes washer offer more than one available wash
temperature selection with a cold rinse, among all cycle selections
available on the clothes washer, with a wash temperature less than or
equal to 135 [deg]F? Answer: Yes.
3. Result: Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the temperature setting with a
cold rinse that provides the hottest wash temperature less than or
equal to 135[emsp14][deg]F among all cycle selections available on the
clothes washer. 79 FR 23087.
This final rule revises the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse flow chart so that
the evaluation of the flowchart would result in testing both the Cold
and Hot temperature selections using the Normal cycle on such a clothes
washer.
[[Page 46745]]
This final rule also revises the wording of the Cold Wash/Cold
Rinse flowchart to clarify the procedure for clothes washers with
multiple wash temperature selections in the Normal cycle that do not
use any hot water for any of the water fill levels or test load sizes
required for testing. In the April 2014 NOPR proposed flowchart, DOE
used the wording ``If multiple cold wash temperature selections in the
Normal cycle do not use any hot water . . .'' (emphasis added). 79 FR
23086. By using the phrase ``cold wash temperature selections,'' DOE
believes it may have unintentionally implied that the word ``cold''
must be included in the control panel label in order for a cold-water-
only wash temperature selection to be considered for inclusion as the
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse. Manufacturers may use a variety of descriptive
terms to label their cold-water-only temperature selections (e.g.,
``Ecowash'', ``Energy Saver'', etc.), which may not include the word
``cold.'' DOE's intent is that any cold-water-only wash temperature
selection in the Normal cycle must be considered for inclusion as the
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, regardless of its control
panel label. Therefore, this final rule removes the word ``cold'' from
this phrase in the flowchart so that its reads as follows: ``If
multiple wash temperature selections in the Normal cycle do not use any
hot water . . .'' (emphasis added).
Furthermore, for clothes washers with multiple cold-water-only wash
temperature selections, Cold Wash/Cold Rinse is the cold wash
temperature selection, paired with a cold rinse, with the highest
energy consumption, as measured according to section 3.10 of appendix
J2, and the other cold wash temperature selections are excluded from
testing. This final rule clarifies in the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse
flowchart that any such cold-water-only cycles that are excluded from
testing as the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse are also excluded from
consideration as the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse and Warm Wash/Cold Rinse.
DOE did not receive any comments objecting to its proposal to
clarify the definition of cold rinse or to move the current section
2.13 of appendix J2, Energy consumption for the purpose of certifying
the cycle selection(s) to be included in Part (B) of the energy test
cycle definition, to newly created section 3.10, to rename that section
``Energy consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle
selection(s) to be included in the energy test cycle,'' and to revise
the text of newly created section 3.10 to reflect the new method for
determining the appropriate energy test cycle selection(s) using the
flowcharts in newly renumbered section 2.12. Therefore, this final rule
adopts these changes as proposed.
Finally, this final rule also modifies the wording in the flowchart
boxes to make use of bullet points rather than complex sentences with
multiple commas and semicolons. DOE believes that the use of bullet
points provides improved clarity for interpreting each flowchart box.
H. Wash Time Setting
DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to move the wash time setting
provisions from section 2.10 of appendix J2 to a new section 3.2.5,
which DOE believes is a more appropriate location in the amended test
procedure since the wash time must be set prior to each individual wash
cycle during testing. 79 FR 23067.
ALS supports DOE's proposal to relocate the provisions for wash
time setting from section 2.10 to new section 3.2.5, so that the
provisions are located in a more logical location corresponding to the
sequence in which they would be performed during testing. (ALS, No. 5
at p. 9)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to move the wash
time setting provisions from section 2.10 of appendix J2 to newly
revised section 3.2.5. Therefore, for the reasons described above, this
final rule implements this change.
This final rule also implements a clarification to the procedure
for setting the wash time on clothes washers for which the wash time is
not prescribed by the wash cycle that is being tested. In such
circumstances, the test procedure specifies setting the wash time at
the higher of either the minimum or 70 percent of the maximum wash time
available for the wash cycle under test, regardless of the labeling of
suggested dial locations. DOE has become aware that in some cases, the
allowable selection of wash times on such clothes washers may not be
completely continuous, such that one dial position may provide a wash
time just under 70 percent of the maximum, while the next dial position
may provide a wash time just over 70 percent of the maximum. This final
rule clarifies that if 70 percent of the maximum wash time is not
available on a dial with a discreet number of wash time settings, the
next-highest setting greater than 70 percent must be chosen. This
clarification applies to section 2.10 of appendix J1 and newly
renumbered section 3.2.5 of appendix J2. DOE's experience with third-
party laboratory testing suggests that this approach is already
commonly used among the industry.
I. Standby and Off Mode Testing
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifications to the standby
and off-mode power testing provisions in appendix J2. 79 FR 23067. In
addition to minor wording clarifications in sections 3.9 and 3.9.1 of
appendix J2, the proposed clarifications were as follows:
1. Testing Sequence
DOE proposed clarifying that combined low-power mode testing in
section 3.9 of appendix J2 should be performed after completing an
energy test cycle, after removing the test load, and without
disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes washer
between completion of the energy test cycle and the start of combined
low-power mode testing. This clarification would preclude performing
combined low-power mode testing directly after connecting the clothes
washer to the electrical energy supply, because such testing may not
yield a value representative of the standby or off-mode power
consumption after a clothes washer's first active mode wash cycle and
all subsequent wash cycles. 79 FR 23067. DOE believes this
clarification would ensure that the results of the combined low-power
mode testing accurately represent the conditions most likely to be
experienced in a residential setting, since the period of time after
the clothes washer has been installed, but before its first active mode
wash cycle, is likely to be short.
AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to clarify how low-power mode
testing in appendix J2 should be performed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 10; ALS,
No. 5 at p. 9) AHAM agrees that this proposal would seem to be
consistent with how consumers will use a clothes washer. AHAM added,
however, that it could not fully evaluate DOE's proposal without
reviewing test data. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal that combined
low-power mode testing in appendix J2 be performed after completing an
energy test cycle, after removing the test load, and without
disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes washer
between completion of the energy test cycle and the start of combined
low-power mode testing. Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this
final rule incorporates this amendment in newly designated section
3.9.1 of appendix J2.
[[Page 46746]]
2. Door Position
In response to the April 2014 NOPR, AHAM sought clarification on
whether the combined low-power mode testing is to be conducted with the
clothes washer door open or closed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11, 12) AHAM
believes it is clear, based on the nature of the test procedure
sequence, that the door would be opened and closed before the low-power
mode portion of the test is performed. AHAM requested that DOE
expressly state in the test procedure, or issue guidance, that the low-
power mode portion of the test is to be conducted with the door closed.
AHAM believes this is consistent with current practice. (AHAM, No. 4 at
p. 11, 12) AHAM added that it is not aware of any consumer use data
indicating that consumers leave the door open for an extended period of
time after running the active mode cycle.
DOE confirms that the intent of its test procedure is to perform
the low-power mode portion with the door closed. DOE also confirms
through its experience with third-party test laboratories that
performing the low-power mode portion with the door closed is
consistent with current practice. This final rule adds this
clarification to newly designated section 3.9.1 of appendix J2.
3. Default Settings
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying that combined low-
power mode testing should be performed without changing the control
panel settings used for the energy test cycle completed prior to
combined low-power mode testing. 79 FR 23067. In its proposal, DOE
noted that the test procedure currently requires using the manufacturer
default settings for any wash cycle performed within the energy test
cycle. The proposed clarification would preclude parties conducting
low-power mode testing from activating or deactivating any optional
control panel displays or other features not activated by default on
the clothes washer when it is not being used to perform an active mode
wash cycle. DOE stated that this clarification would ensure that the
results of the combined low-power mode testing accurately represent the
conditions most likely to be experienced in a residential setting. 79
FR 23067.
AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposal to require performing combined
low-power mode testing without changing the control panel settings used
for the energy test cycle completed prior to combined low-power mode
testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p.11; ALS, No. 5 at p. 9) AHAM agreed that
consumers are not likely to change their control panel settings after
the active mode ends. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to require
performing combined low-power mode testing without changing the control
panel settings used for the energy test cycle completed prior to
combined low-power mode testing. Therefore, for the reasons stated
above, this final rule incorporates this amendment in newly designated
section 3.9.1 of appendix J2.
4. Network Mode
EPCA, as amended by the Energy Independence and Security Act of
2007, Public Law 110-140 (Dec. 19, 2007), requires test procedures to
include provisions for measuring standby and off mode energy
consumption, taking into consideration the most current versions of the
International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) Standards 62301 and
62087.17 18 The most current version of IEC Standard 62301
is Edition 2.0, issued in 2011 (``IEC 62301). In addition to defining
off mode and standby mode, IEC 62301 also defines ``network mode'' as
any product mode ``where the energy-using product is connected to a
mains power source and at least one network function is activated (such
as reactivation via network command or network integrity
communication), but where the primary function is not active.'' (See
section 3.7 of IEC 62301).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\17\ IEC standards are available online at www.iec.ch.
\18\ IEC Standard 62087 addresses the methods of measuring the
power consumption of audio, video, and related equipment and is not
relevant to clothes washers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE considered network mode as part of the March 2012 final rule.
In the final rule, DOE explained that it was unaware of any clothes
washers on the market with network mode capabilities at that time.
Consequently, DOE could not thoroughly evaluate any network mode
provisions, as would be required to justify incorporating network mode
into DOE's test procedures at that time. DOE noted that although an
individual appliance may consume some small amount of power in network
mode, the potential exists for energy-related benefits that more than
offset this additional power consumption if the appliance can be
controlled by the ``smart grid'' to consume power during non-peak
periods (often referred to as ``demand-response'' capabilities). The
March 2012 final rule did not incorporate network mode provisions due
to the lack of available data that would be required to justify their
inclusion. 77 FR 13888, 13899-900.
In response to the April 2014 NOPR, the CA IOUs recommended that
DOE incorporate a definition, test procedure, and reporting
requirements for network mode. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 1) The CA IOUs
urged DOE to adopt the technical definition of network mode, and the
test procedure for measuring the energy consumption of network mode, as
prescribed by the IEC Standard 62301 Final Draft International Standard
(FDIS).\19\ (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 2) The CA IOUs stated that if it is
not possible for DOE to incorporate the network mode definition and
associated test procedure in this rulemaking, that EPA should
incorporate it into the future ENERGY STAR test method for clothes
washers with connectivity. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 2)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\19\ IEC 62301 version FDIS was developed and issued in 2010
prior to the issuance of the Second Edition.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The CA IOUs also proposed that DOE develop definitions for
connectivity in demand response transactions. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4,
5) The CA IOUs recommended that DOE develop a test method for demand
response functionality to rate and measure the load reduction potential
in terms of peak demand reduction, and potential energy-cost reduction
for reporting purposes. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4, 5)
The CA IOUs also presented information on five clothes washer
models from three manufacturers that offer various network mode
features in both top-loading and front-loading products. (CA IOUs, No.
3 at p. 2) The CA IOUs referenced comments from the previous clothes
washer test procedure rulemaking by the Appliance Standards Awareness
Project (ASAP), Natural Resource Defense Council (NRDC), and American
Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE) \20\ suggesting that
Network Mode could consume power continuously in the range of 2-5
watts, translating to an additional 18 to 44 kWh annually. The CA IOUs
encouraged DOE to develop a test method to rate the energy consumed by
network mode, and incorporate it into the product's performance rating.
(CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 3)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\20\ ACEEE, NRDC, ASAP. Comment Letter for Test Procedure for
Residential Clothes Washers (December 2010): http://www.appliance-standards.org/sites/default/files/Comments%20on%20the%20Clothes%20Washers%20Test%20Procedures%20NOPR-%20December%206,%202010_0.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE surveyed the market and confirms that multiple clothes washer
models available on the market offer wireless network connectivity to
enable features such as remote monitoring and control via smartphone,
as well as
[[Page 46747]]
limited demand response features available through partnerships with a
small number of local electric utilities. As suggested by the CA IOUs,
the addition of network mode into the DOE test procedure may result in
additional measured energy consumption that, when incorporated into the
overall IMEF metric, would change the measured efficiency of the
product. Because this final rule provides only clarifying edits, which
would not alter the measured efficiency of a clothes washer, DOE defers
further consideration of network mode and demand-response test methods
for a future test procedure rulemaking.\21\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\21\ Information on ENERGY STAR test methods for clothes washers
is available at https://www.energystar.gov/certified-products/detail/453/partners?fuseaction=products_for_partners.showClothesWashRes.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
5. Clarified Procedure for Performing Inactive and Off Mode Power
Measurements
Section 1.28 of appendix J2 defines ``standby mode'' as any mode in
which the product is connected to a mains power source and offers one
or more of the following user-oriented or protective functions that may
persist for an indefinite period of time: (1) A function that
facilitates the activation of other modes (including activation or
deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including remote
control), internal sensor, or timer; or (2) continuous functions,
including information or status displays (including clocks) or sensor-
based functions. The definition also clarifies that a timer is a
continuous clock function (which may or may not be associated with a
display) that provides regular, scheduled tasks (e.g., switching) and
that operates on a continuous basis.
Section 1.15 of appendix J2 defines ``inactive mode'' as a standby
mode that facilitates the activation of active mode by remote switch
(including remote control), internal sensor, or timer, or that provides
continuous status display.
Section 1.24 of appendix J2 defines ``off mode'' as a mode in which
the clothes washer is connected to a mains power source and is not
providing any active mode or standby function, and where the mode may
persist for an indefinite period of time. The definition further states
that an indicator that only shows the user that the product is in the
off position is included within the classification of an off mode.
Section 3.9 of the current appendix J2 provides the instructions
for measuring ``combined low-power mode'' power, which is defined in
section 1.8 of appendix J2 as the aggregate of available modes other
than active washing mode, including inactive mode, off mode, delay
start mode, and cycle finished mode. Specifically, section 3.9 requires
the measurement of average inactive mode and/or average off mode power,
which in combination provide a representative measure of the average
power consumption in all possible low-power modes on the clothes
washer. Section 3.9.1 instructs the testing party to measure average
inactive mode power, if the clothes washer has an inactive mode.
Similarly, section 3.9.2 instructs the testing party to measure average
off mode power, if the clothes washer has an off mode. These sections
thus require the testing party to determine whether the clothes washer
has an inactive mode, an off mode, or both.
Section 4.4 of appendix J2 provides the calculation of per-cycle
low-power mode energy consumption based on the measurements performed
under section 3.9. If a clothes washer has either inactive mode or off
mode (but not both), the measured average power is multiplied by 8,465,
representing the combined annual hours for inactive mode and off mode.
If a clothes washer has both inactive mode and off mode, each of the
two average power measurements are multiplied by one-half of 8,465
(i.e. 4,232.5), and the results are summed. This represents an estimate
that such a clothes washer would spend half of its low-power mode hours
in inactive mode, and the other half of its low-power mode hours in off
mode. The calculations performed in section 4.4, therefore, also depend
on the testing party's determination in section 3.9 as to whether the
clothes washer has an inactive mode, an off mode, or both.
After publishing appendix J2, DOE received questions from
interested parties regarding how to distinguish between inactive mode
and off mode. On October 7, 2014, and December 8, 2014, DOE issued
draft guidance clarifying the difference between inactive mode and off
mode for clothes washers, clothes dryers, and dishwashers with various
types of on/off switches and control panels.22 23
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\22\ DOE's draft guidance for clothes washers, clothes dryers,
and dishwashers with a ``hard'' on/off switch or electromechanical
dial that physically breaks the connection to the mains power supply
is available at DOE's Guidance and Frequently Asked Questions Web
site: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/homeappliancemechonoffswitch-faq-2014-10-7.pdf. Comments
submitted by interested parties can be viewed in the docket located
at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2014-BT-GUID-
0046.
\23\ DOE's draft guidance for clothes washers, clothes dryers,
and dishwashers with an electronic or ``soft'' on/off switch that
does not physically break the connection to the mains power supply
is available at http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/aham_offmode_faq_2014-12-2.pdf. Comments
submitted by interested parties can be viewed in the docket located
at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2014-BT-GUID-
0056.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
For a clothes washer with a ``hard'' on/off switch or
electromechanical dial that physically breaks the connection to the
mains power supply, DOE stated in the draft guidance document that it
considers the clothes washer to be in off mode when the switch or dial
is in the ``off'' position, as long as no standby mode or active mode
functions are provided. Pursuant to the definition of off mode, an
indicator light that illuminates to indicate that the switch or dial is
in the off position is not considered a standby mode or active mode
function. DOE considers the clothes washer to be in off mode when such
an indicator is active in the absence of other standby mode functions.
For a clothes washer with an electronic, or ``soft,'' on/off button
or switch that does not physically break the connection to the mains
power supply, DOE stated in the draft guidance document that it
considers the clothes washer to be in standby mode when the button or
switch is indicated as being in the ``off'' position. DOE also stated
in the draft guidance that it considers the internal control panel
component that detects the press of the electronic power button to be
an internal sensor that facilitates the activation or deactivation of
other modes (including active mode); therefore, the product would be in
standby mode when the electronic button or switch is indicated as being
in the ``off'' position. Because of its capability to detect the press
of the electronic power button, this internal sensor differs from a
hard on/off switch, which does not provide any such sensing
capabilities but may include an indicator to show that the product is
in off mode. Off mode as defined in appendix J2 would not apply to a
product with an electronic power button, unless the clothes washer also
has a hard on/off switch or dial that physically breaks the connection
to the mains power supply and the clothes washer does not activate any
standby mode or active mode features when the hard on/off switch is in
the ``off'' position.
AHAM agreed with DOE's draft guidance that clothes washers with a
hard on/off switch or electromechanical dial that physically breaks the
connection to the mains power supply
[[Page 46748]]
are considered to be in off mode when the switch or dial is in the
``off'' position. (AHAM, No. 2 to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1).
AHAM also agreed with DOE's draft guidance that clothes washers with an
electronic or soft on/off switch that does not physically break the
connection to the mains power supply are considered to be in standby
mode when the switch or dial is in the ``off'' position. (AHAM, No. 4
to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1).
Intertek Electrical (``Intertek'') commented that the ``off'' state
on some appliances is achieved through a software/firmware action
rather than a hard on/off switch, and that it is not clear whether the
product is providing any active mode or standby function while in the
``off'' state. (Intertek, No. 3 to Docket EERE-2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1).
UL Verification Services, Inc. (``UL'') commented on the difficulty
for an independent third-party laboratory to determine if the on/off
button is a hard switch or a soft switch. (UL, No. 5 to Docket EERE-
2014-BT-GUID-0046, p.1). UL stated that if the third-party laboratory
is unable to obtain this information from the manufacturer, the next
best option is to review the product's electrical schematic. According
to UL, however, the schematic is located on most clothes washers
somewhere inside the machine, such as behind the console. Id. UL
questioned whether a third-party laboratory could remove the console
during testing to determine if the switch is a hard switch or soft
switch. Alternatively, if the machine must not be disassembled, UL
questioned whether DOE could specify another method to determine the
type of switch. Id. UL suggested, for example, that the power
consumption of a hard switch should be essentially zero watts unless an
``off'' indicator is activated. UL questioned whether a minimum power
consumption threshold could be used to determine if the machine is in
standby mode or off mode. Id.
DOE's draft guidance documents clarify that it considers soft
switches to be associated with standby mode and hard switches to be
associated with off mode when in the ``off'' position. DOE agrees with
UL, however, that distinguishing between a hard switch and soft switch
may not be possible without information from the manufacturer or access
to the product's electrical schematic. Similarly, an independent third-
party laboratory may find it difficult or impossible to determine
whether a clothes washer provides any standby mode functions when the
product appears, to the end user, to be in the ``off'' state.
To eliminate the need to distinguish between standby mode and off
mode based on the position of a switch and internal functions of the
clothes washer, or between hard switches and soft switches, this final
rule clarifies the test provisions for measuring inactive mode \24\ and
off mode. Currently, section 3.9.1 and section 3.9.2 of appendix J2
provide separate symbol designations for the inactive mode and off mode
power measurements: Pia and Po, respectively. If
a clothes washer has either inactive mode or off mode (but not both),
the average power consumption of the available mode is measured and
labeled as either Pia or Po, accordingly. As
described above, labeling the measurement as either Pia or
Po requires a determination of the type of switch on the
control panel and whether any standby functions are provided by the
clothes washer when the switch is in the ``off'' position. Regardless
of whether the average low-power measurement is designated as
Pia or Po, however, section 4.4 of appendix J2
applies the total 8,465 annual hours to the measurement, as described
above. If both inactive mode and off mode are available on the clothes
washer, section 4.4 applies 4,232.5 hours to each of the two average
power measurements.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\24\ Inactive mode is the only type of standby mode required to
be measured in appendix J2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
In this final rule, DOE clarifies the testing methodology in
section 3.9 of appendix J2 and the calculations in section 4.4 of
appendix J2 by relabeling the symbols used for the combined low-power
mode measurements. This final rule relabels these symbols
Pia and Po as Pdefault and
Plowest, respectively, and the assignment of each symbol to
its respective measurement is based on observable and measureable
characteristics of the clothes washer rather than the control panel
switch type or internal functionality of the clothes washer. In
addition, this final rule revises the wording of the testing
instructions in section 3.9 of appendix J2 to clarify how the procedure
corresponds to the sequence of events as they would be performed during
testing. This revised procedure produces test results that yield the
same measured energy as in section 3.9 of the current procedure for all
clothes washer types currently on the market.
The revised wording splits the current text of section 3.9 in
appendix J2 into two newly designated subsections, 3.9.1 and 3.9.2, to
provide further clarity. As described previously in this notice, the
newly designated section 3.9.1 includes the requirement to perform
combined low-power mode testing: (1) After completion of an active mode
wash cycle included as part of the energy test cycle; (2) after
removing the test load; (3) without changing the control panel settings
used for the active mode wash cycle; (4) with the door closed; and (5)
without disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes
washer between completion of the active mode wash cycle and the start
of combined low-power mode testing.
Newly designated section 3.9.2 states that for a clothes washer
that takes some time to automatically enter a stable inactive/off mode
state from a higher power state, as discussed in Section 5, Paragraph
5.1, note 1 of IEC 62301, allow sufficient time for the clothes washer
to automatically reach the default inactive/off mode state before
proceeding with the test measurement. The revised wording replaces the
term ``lower power state'' currently used in section 3.9 of the test
procedure with ``default inactive/off mode state,'' which clarifies
that the lower power state that the clothes washer reaches by default
may be either an inactive mode or an off mode.
The amendments in this final rule move the procedural instructions
for performing the power measurement, with revised labeling, into newly
added section 3.9.3 of appendix J2. These instructions now state that
once the stable inactive/off mode state has been reached, the default
inactive/off mode power, Pdefault, in watts, is measured and
recorded following the test procedure for the sampling method specified
in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 62301.
For clothes washers with electronic controls that offer an optional
switch, dial, or button that can be selected by the end user to achieve
a lower-power state than the default inactive/off mode state,\25\
including clothes washers with both an inactive mode and off mode as
contemplated in the current test procedure, newly added section 3.9.4
of appendix J2 requires that, after performing the measurement in
section 3.9.3, the switch, dial, or button be activated to the position
resulting in the lowest power consumption and the measurement procedure
described in section 3.9.3 be repeated. The average power consumption
is measured and recorded as the lowest-power standby/off mode power,
Plowest, in watts.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\25\ Such a feature could be labeled on the control panel as a
``master power'' or ``vacation mode'' feature, for example.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Section 4.4 of appendix J2 applies annual hours to the average
power measurement(s) performed in section
[[Page 46749]]
3.9 of appendix J2, consistent with the current test procedure. For
those clothes washers with a single low-power mode average power
consumption measurement (newly labeled as Pdefault), the
calculation applies the total 8,465 annual hours to this measurement.
For those clothes washers with two average power measurements (newly
labeled as Pdefault and Plowest), section 4.4
applies 4,232.5 hours to each of the two measurements.
The revised section 3.9, including newly added sections 3.9.3 and
3.9.4, provides a clearer set of procedural instructions for performing
the combined low-power mode measurements required in section 3.9 of the
current test procedure. Under the revised section 3.9, the same
sequence of measurements are performed as the current section 3.9, thus
yielding the same combined low-power mode average power measurement(s)
for clothes washers with standby mode, off mode, or both. Further, the
same annual hours as are currently specified are applied to the average
power measurement(s) in section 4.4 of appendix J2. Therefore, DOE has
determined that these amendments to section 3.9 and section 4.4 of
appendix J2 will not impact the measured efficiency of clothes washers.
6. Multiple Inactive Modes
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE stated that some residential
appliances, including clothes washers, could have multiple modes that
meet the definition of inactive mode currently provided in section 1.15
of appendix J2 (redesignated as section 1.16). 79 FR 23067. DOE notes
that it is currently unaware of any such clothes washers on the market,
but believes that future clothes washers could be designed to have
multiple inactive modes. DOE proposed clarifying that inactive mode is
the lowest-power standby mode that facilitates the activation of active
mode by remote switch (including remote control), internal sensor, or
timer, or that provides continuous status display. DOE stated that
specifying use of the lowest-power mode would clarify potential
ambiguity regarding which inactive mode to use for testing if multiple
inactive modes exist on a clothes washer. 79 FR 23067.
AHAM stated that it does not oppose DOE's proposal to clarify the
definition of inactive mode. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 11) AHAM added,
however, that it could not fully evaluate DOE's conclusion without
viewing test data. Id.
ALS supports DOE's proposed clarifications to the standby and off-
mode power testing regarding multiple possible inactive modes. (ALS,
No. 5 at p. 9)
DOE's revisions in this final rule to the combined low-power mode
measurement provisions, as described in the previous section, clarify
the measurement procedure for clothes washers that have multiple
inactive modes. Therefore, DOE has determined that amending the
definition of inactive mode as proposed in the April 2014 NOPR is not
warranted. This final rule makes no changes to the definition of
inactive mode in appendix J2.
J. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems
Section 1.2 of appendix J1 defines adaptive water fill control
system as ``a clothes washer water fill control system which is capable
of automatically adjusting the water fill level based on the size or
weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container, without
allowing or requiring consumer intervention or actions.''
Section 1.9 of appendix J1 defines manual water fill control system
as ``a clothes washer water fill control system which requires the
consumer to determine or select the water fill level.''
The water fill settings, load sizes, and load usage factors (LUFs)
used for testing depend upon the type of water fill control system
available on the clothes washer, as defined in Table 2.8 and Table
4.1.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. For clothes washers with
manual water fill control systems, the minimum and maximum load sizes
are tested using the minimum and maximum water fill settings,
respectively, and the assigned LUF weightings of 28 and 72 percent,
respectively. For clothes washers with adaptive water fill control
systems, the minimum, average, and maximum load sizes are tested using
the water fill levels as determined by the clothes washer for each load
size, and the assigned LUF weightings of 14, 74, and 12 percent,
respectively.
As stated in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE is aware of clothes washers
that have fixed water levels for all load sizes and no water fill
selector or water fill control settings available to the user. 79 FR
23067. As with adaptive water fill control systems, fixed water fill
control systems do not require user action to determine the water fill
level. Therefore, DOE proposed that a clothes washer with a fixed water
fill control system be tested in the same manner as a clothes washer
with an adaptive water fill control system--i.e., using the minimum,
average, and maximum load sizes. Id.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amendments that would (1) add
a definition for ``fixed water fill control system,'' (2) add a
definition for ``automatic water fill control system,'' which would
include both fixed water fill control systems and adaptive water fill
control systems, and (3) amend the definition of ``adaptive water fill
control system'' to clarify that it is considered a type of automatic
water fill control system. Additionally, where appropriate, DOE
proposed replacing instances of ``adaptive water fill control system''
throughout the test procedure with ``automatic water fill control
system,'' to indicate that such testing provisions apply to both
adaptive water fill control systems and fixed water fill control
systems. DOE proposed these amendments for both appendix J1 and
appendix J2.
AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to add definitions for ``fixed
water fill control system'' and ``automatic water fill control system''
and to amend the definition for ``adaptive water fill control system.''
(AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12) AHAM also does not oppose DOE's proposal to
clarify in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 that a clothes washer with
a fixed water fill control system be tested in the same manner as a
clothes washer with an adaptive water fill system, i.e., using the
minimum, average, and maximum load sizes. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
ALS supports DOE's proposed approach for addressing ``fixed water
fill control systems,'' although for appendix J2 only. ALS objects to
DOE's proposed approach for addressing ``fixed water fill control
systems'' in appendix J1, and noted that its existing CCW models
containing a fixed water fill level were certified and tested based on
testing only the minimum and maximum load sizes (corresponding to the
procedure for manual water fill control systems), and not with minimum,
average, and maximum load sizes. ALS stated that DOE's proposal would
produce a minor change in MEF and WF. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 4)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to add
definitions for fixed water fill control system, automatic water fill
control system, and to amend the definition of adaptive water fill
control system in appendix J2.
To investigate the concerns raised by ALS regarding the proposed
clarification to appendix J1, DOE conducted testing on two baseline
top-loading CCWs featuring fixed water fill control systems. For each
model, DOE used the same minimum and maximum load size data as the
basis for comparison between the manual fill and
[[Page 46750]]
adaptive fill results. The results are summarized in Table III-3. The
results indicated that testing these models as adaptive fill machines
(i.e., using minimum, average, and maximum load sizes) produces a
slightly more favorable MEF rating, in the range of 0.01-0.02 MEF,
compared to the results when tested as manual water fill machines
(i.e., using only the minimum and maximum load sizes). However, testing
these models as adaptive fill machines produces a less favorable WF
rating, in the range of 0.2-0.3 WF, compared to the results when tested
as manual water fill machines.
Table III-3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tested as manual fill Tested as adaptive fill Difference between
(min, max load sizes) (min, avg, max load adaptive and manual
Unit No. -------------------------- sizes) results
---------------------------------------------------
MEF WF MEF WF MEF \a\ WFWF \b\
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit #1........................... 1.65 7.7 1.66 8.0 +0.01 +0.3
Unit #2........................... 1.67 8.1 1.69 8.3 +0.02 +0.2
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\a\ A higher MEF rating is more favorable.
\b\ A higher WF rating is less favorable.
DOE first introduced water fill level distinctions in the original
test procedure for clothes washers at appendix J to 10 CFR part 430
subpart B (``appendix J''), as proposed in the May 17, 1977 NOPR (``May
1977 NOPR'') and codified in the September 28, 1977 final rule
(``September 1977 final rule''). 42 FR 25329 and 42 FR 49802. In the
May 1977 NOPR, DOE explained that field usage data provided by Procter
and Gamble (P&G) indicated that maximum fill is selected 72 percent of
the time and minimum fill is selected 28 percent of the time. 42 FR
25329, 25331. These data formed the basis for the ``usage fill
factors'' codified in section 4.3 of appendix J in the September 1977
final rule. 42 FR 49802, 49809.
Appendix J included testing provisions only for manual fill control
systems that required the user to determine or select the water fill
level, which included all top-loading and front-loading clothes washers
on the market at the time. Under section 2.8 of appendix J, top-loading
clothes washers were tested without a test load. Front-loading clothes
washers were tested with a 3-pound minimum load and 7-pound maximum
load for the minimum and maximum water fill levels, respectively. 42 FR
49808.
During a meeting on February 16, 1995, hosted by AHAM for non-
industry stakeholders, AHAM presented a test procedure proposal that
provided information for the subsequent development of DOE's test
procedure at appendix J1.\26\ (AHAM, No. 25 to Docket EE-RM-94-230A,
pp. 1-42). AHAM's proposal included provisions for testing clothes
washers with adaptive water control systems, which had recently become
available on the market. (Id., pp. 11-24). In its proposal, AHAM
presented two sets of data from P&G: (1) Data showing that consumers
manually select the maximum water fill 72 percent of the time and the
minimum water fill level 28 percent of the time on clothes washers with
manual water fill controls, and (2) data showing the distribution of
actual clothing load sizes washed by consumers, which roughly
corresponded to a normal (Gaussian) distribution centered around an
average load size of 5.7 to 6.7 pounds, depending on the size of the
washer. Id. The results from these two data sets led AHAM to conclude
that, for clothes washers with manual water fill controls, consumers
overuse the maximum water fill level and that automatically controlling
the water fill level based on clothing load size (i.e., by providing
adaptive water fill controls) would produce energy savings. Id. at p.
20. AHAM also noted that an essential element of any adaptive control
system is the removal of consumer judgment from some or all of the wash
cycle selection process. Id. at p. 21.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\26\ AHAM's presentation was originally submitted to Docket #EE-
RM-94-230A as Comment #25. This presentation is available online at
www.regulations.gov as part of Docket #EERE-2006-TP-0065, Comment
#27: http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EERE-2006-TP-
0065-0027.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
For manual water fill clothes washers, AHAM recommended requiring
the use of a fixed 3-pound minimum load size and a maximum load size
that would vary with capacity, while maintaining the 28-percent and 72-
percent LUFs, respectively. Id. at p. 24. For clothes washers with
adaptive water fill controls, AHAM recommended requiring a third
``average'' load size, in addition to the minimum and maximum load
sizes, and corresponding minimum, average, and maximum LUFs of 14, 74,
and 12 percent, respectively.\27\ These three load sizes and associated
LUFs more closely approximated a normal (Gaussian) distribution of load
sizes centered around the average load size, consistent with the P&G
consumer usage data, and therefore, according to AHAM, provided a more
accurate representation of the energy consumption of clothes washers
with adaptive water fill controls. Id.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\27\ AHAM also recommended including ``above average'' and
``below average'' load sizes for clothes washers that generate non-
linear results between the minimum, average, and maximum load sizes.
If these additional loads were required, the results of the ``below
average'', ``average'', and ``above average'' load sizes would be
averaged with equal weightings to represent a single ``average''
data point. (AHAM, No. 25 to Docket EE-RM-94-230A, pp. 21-23)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE incorporated these recommendations as part of a new DOE test
procedure at appendix J1, established in a final rule on August 27,
1997.\28\ 62 FR 45484, 45486-87. DOE maintained these load sizes, water
fill levels, and LUFs in the new appendix J2 test procedure codified by
the March 2012 final rule. 77 FR 13888, 13910-11.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\28\ The August 27, 1997 final rule rejected the use of
additional ``below average'' and ``above average'' test loads for
clothes washers that generate non-linear results between the
minimum, average, and maximum load sizes. DOE explained that the
additional test burden associated with the extra load sizes is not
warranted for the potential improvement in accuracy of the final
test results. 62 FR 45483, 45487.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
As described above, the key distinction between manual water fill
controls and adaptive water fill controls is whether consumer judgment
is required to establish the water fill level. Any water fill control
system that requires consumer judgment to manually select a water fill
must be tested using the procedures in section 3.2.3.3 of appendix J2
for manual water fill control systems, in order to provide test results
that are representative of consumer usage. Likewise, any water fill
control system that does not require consumer judgment (i.e., does not
allow
[[Page 46751]]
or require the consumer to select the water fill level) must be tested
using the procedures in section 3.2.3.2 of appendix J2 for adaptive
water fill control systems, in order to provide test results that are
representative of consumer usage. Clothes washers with ``fixed water
fill controls'' do not allow or require the consumer to select a water
fill level; therefore, clothes washers with ``fixed water fill
controls'' must be tested using the procedures for adaptive water fill
control systems (i.e., using the minimum, average, and maximum load
sizes and the water fill levels as determined by the clothes washer),
in order to provide test results that are representative of consumer
usage.
For these reasons, this final rule maintains DOE's initial proposal
to (1) add a definition for ``fixed water fill control system,'' (2)
add a definition for ``automatic water fill control system,'' which
includes both fixed water fill control systems and adaptive water fill
control systems, (3) amend the definition of ``adaptive water fill
control system'' to clarify that it is considered a type of automatic
water fill control system, and (4) where appropriate, replace instances
of ``adaptive water fill control system'' throughout the test procedure
with ``automatic water fill control system,'' to indicate that such
testing provisions apply to both adaptive water fill control systems
and fixed water fill control systems. These amendments apply to both
appendix J1 and appendix J2.
The final rule provides a more technically precise description of
``fixed water fill control system'' than the definition proposed in the
April 2014 NOPR. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed defining fixed
water fill control system as ``a clothes washer automatic water fill
control system that does not adjust the water fill level based on the
size or weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container.''
In this final rule, fixed water fill control system is defined as ``a
clothes washer automatic water fill control system that automatically
terminates the fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the
clothes container.'' A fixed water fill system typically uses a single
water pressure sensor, located at the bottom of the clothes container,
which is calibrated to trigger at the water pressure corresponding to
the manufacturer's pre-determined water fill height for the clothes
washer. During the water fill portion of the wash cycle, when the
height of the water in the clothes container reaches the pre-determined
water fill level, the pressure sensor triggers and shuts off the
incoming water supply. The revised definition more accurately reflects
this mechanical design of a fixed water fill control system.
In addition, the phrase ``water fill level'' in the proposed April
2014 NOPR definition could create confusion depending on whether the
testing party interprets this phrase to mean the physical height of the
water in the clothes container, or the total volume of water in the
clothes container. While the physical height of the water may be the
same for all load sizes with a fixed water fill control system, the
total volume of water changes slightly based on the load size because
the clothing itself takes up space in the clothes container.
Specifically, with a fixed water fill control system, a large clothing
load will result in a slightly lower volume of water than a small
clothing load, because the additional volume occupied by the larger
clothing load offsets some of the total water volume. The revised
definition in this final rule avoids this potential ambiguity.
Finally, DOE's proposed definition in the April 2014 NOPR described
a fixed water fill control system in terms of what it does not do,
(i.e., it does not adjust the water fill level based on the size or
weight of the clothes load placed in the clothes container); whereas
the revised definition describes what a fixed water fill system does,
(i.e., it automatically terminates the fill when the water reaches an
appropriate level in the clothes container).
The final rule also slightly amends the definition of ``automatic
water fill control system'' proposed in the April 2014 NOPR to clarify
more explicitly that the key criteria is the lack of user action
allowed or required to determine the water fill level. In this final
rule, ``automatic water fill control system'' is defined as ``a clothes
washer water fill control system that does not allow or require the
user to determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive
water fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.''
K. Maximum Water Fill Levels on Electronic Manual Water Fill Control
Systems
DOE has become aware of clothes washers with electronic manual
water fill control systems where the maximum water fill level setting
that can be selected on some cycle settings required for testing as
part of the energy test cycle is less than the maximum water fill level
setting available on the clothes washer.
For clothes washers with manual water fill control systems, Section
3.2.3.3 of appendix J1 and appendix J2 (newly renumbered as section
3.2.6.1 in appendix J2) requires setting the water fill selector to the
maximum water level available on the clothes washer (emphasis added)
for the maximum test load size, which is based on the clothes washer
capacity and defined in Table 5.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2.
Neither test procedure addresses how to proceed with testing if the
maximum water fill level setting available on the clothes washer cannot
be selected for one or more of the wash cycles settings required for
testing under this provision. Therefore, a manufacturer may need to
submit a petition for waiver, pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27, to establish
an acceptable test procedure that can accommodate testing of the
maximum water fill level setting on such a clothes washer. As described
in 10 CFR 430.27, the petition process includes opportunities for
public comment in direct response to the waiver petition. As soon as
practicable after the granting of any waiver, DOE must publish in the
Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to amend its
regulations so as to eliminate any need for the continuation of such
waiver. (10 CFR 430.27(l)) Any such NOPR would also offer an
opportunity for interested parties to submit comments. This final rule
does not contain any amendments regarding this potential issue.
L. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions
Section 3.2.2 of appendix J2 states that total water consumption
during the energy test cycle shall be measured, including hot and cold
water consumption, during wash, deep rinse, and spray rinse. In the
April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising section 3.2.8 to include the
entire active washing mode, and exclude any delay start or cycle
finished modes, for each wash cycle tested. 79 FR 23061, 23067 (Apr.
25, 2014). Active washing mode is defined in section 1.2 as including
the main functions of washing, soaking, tumbling, agitating, rinsing,
and/or removing water from the clothing. As described in the April 2014
NOPR, DOE believes that the proposed revision to 3.2.8 is clearer and
more complete than the wording in the current 3.2.2 regarding the
portions of the wash cycle to be included and measured for testing.
Therefore, DOE proposed to delete section 3.2.2 from appendix J2 and to
renumber the subsequent subsections accordingly. 79 FR 23067.
Furthermore, since section 3.2.2 is the only location within the
test procedure where the terms ``deep rinse'' and ``spray rinse''
occur, DOE also proposed
[[Page 46752]]
to remove those two definitions from the section 1 of appendix J2. 79
FR 23067.
AHAM supports DOE's proposal to revise appendix J2 to include the
entire active washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle
finished mode for each wash cycle tested. AHAM also supports DOE's
proposal to remove the definitions for ``deep rinse'' and ``spray
rinse'' from appendix J2. ALS also supports DOE's proposal to remove
the definition of ``deep rinse cycle.''
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to revise
section 3.2.8 of appendix J2 to include the entire active washing mode
and exclude any delay start or cycle finished modes for each wash cycle
tested, or to remove the definitions of deep rinse and spray rinse.
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates
these amendments in appendix J2.
M. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures
Section 1.17 of appendix J1 and section 1.32 of appendix J2 provide
the definition of uniformly distributed warm wash temperature
selections. Under this definition, a clothes washer has uniformly
distributed warm wash temperature selections if (A) the warm wash
temperatures have a linear relationship with all discrete warm wash
selections when the water temperatures are plotted against equally
spaced consecutive warm wash selections between the hottest warm wash
and the coldest warm wash, and the mean water temperature of the
warmest and the coldest warm selections coincide with the mean of the
hot wash and cold wash water temperatures within 3.8
[deg]F; or (B) on a clothes washer with only one warm wash temperature
selection, the warm wash temperature selection has a water temperature
that coincides with the mean of the hot wash and cold wash water
temperatures within 3.8 14;[deg]F. For clothes washers with
uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections, the reported
values to be used for the warm wash setting are the arithmetic average
of the measurements for the hot and cold wash selections. This is a
``shortcut'' calculation only; no testing is required.
DOE noted in the April 2014 NOPR that the criteria for determining
whether the warm wash temperatures are uniformly distributed are based
on water temperature only; total water consumption is not considered.
79 FR 23068. On a clothes washer with electronic control systems, a
clothes washer's warm wash cycles could be programmed to use larger
quantities of water than the cold wash and hot wash cycles, yet the
data to be used to represent the warm wash cycle would be the average
of the cold and hot wash cycles, rather than actual data from testing.
79 FR 23068. Since the warm wash temperature selection has the highest
temperature use factor at 0.49, DOE proposed that the warm wash
temperature selection(s) on such a clothes washer be tested. Therefore,
DOE proposed to remove the definition of uniformly distributed warm
wash temperature selections from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, and
to remove any provisions within the test procedures pertaining to
uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections. Id.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE requested comment on any potential
increase in test burden as a result of its proposal to eliminate the
separate testing provisions for clothes washers with uniformly
distributed warm wash temperatures. 79 FR 23068. DOE estimated that the
resulting total testing time would be no greater than for clothes
washers with the same number of warm wash temperature options, but with
non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE observed constitutes
the majority of the market. Id.
The CA IOUs support DOE's proposal to remove the testing provisions
for clothes washers with uniformly distributed wash temperatures. (CA
IOUs, No. 3 at p. 5)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to remove the
definition of uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections
from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, and to remove the ``shortcut''
provisions within the test procedures pertaining to uniformly
distributed warm wash temperature selections. Therefore, for the
reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates these amendments
into both appendix J1 and appendix J2.
N. Determining Extra-Hot Wash Temperature
Section 3.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines Extra-Hot
Wash as having a maximum wash temperature greater than
135[emsp14][deg]F. Determining the maximum wash temperature requires
measuring the water temperature during the wash cycle. DOE understands
that, in practice, measuring the wash water temperature can be
difficult due to factors such as the geometry of front-loading clothes
container design, the increasing use of door locks, and, in high-
efficiency clothes washers, the lack of a standing pool of wash water
in which to measure the temperature.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed adding guidance to section 3.3
of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 on one possible method for
determining whether the maximum wash water temperature exceeds 135
[deg]F. In the proposed method, non-reversible temperature indicator
labels would be adhered to the inside of the clothes container to
determine the maximum water temperature during an energy test cycle. 79
FR 23068. If the temperature indicator label method was used when
testing a front-loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered
along the inner circumference of the clothes container drum, midway
between the front and the back of the clothes container. For a top-
loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered along the inner
circumference of the clothes container drum, as close to the bottom of
the container as possible. Id.
DOE acknowledges that manufacturers may be able to use alternate
methods for determining the maximum wash temperature during an energy
test cycle; however, DOE is unaware of any other direct measurement
methods that could be used by a third-party laboratory without
requiring partial disassembly of the clothes washer or permanently
altering the machine.
AHAM stated that it would need more information to evaluate DOE's
proposal, including specifications for the labels that would be used to
determine the maximum wash water temperature. Furthermore, AHAM
suggested that DOE should not finalize its label approach until further
study is done to demonstrate that the approach is repeatable and
reproducible, and that the labels can be calibrated for accurate
readings. Finally, AHAM stated that the temperature tolerance in the
test procedure should correspond to the temperature tolerance in the
measurement method. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
ALS stated that it is not aware of a source for waterproof, non-
reversing temperature indicating labels that would remain adhered to
the metal cylinder surface. Until more information is available
regarding the source for such labels, their effectiveness, and their
reliability, ALS does not support DOE's proposed wash water temperature
measurement approach. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
To address concerns raised in these comments, DOE investigated a
non-reversible temperature label that provides temperature indicators
in 5-degree increments between 105 [deg]F and 120 [deg]F and 10-degree
increments between 120 [deg]F and 160 [deg]F. DOE is not
[[Page 46753]]
aware of any temperature labels from any manufacturer offering a
temperature indicator of 135 [deg]F.
For this final rule, DOE tested both top-loading and front-loading
clothes washers using the methodology proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
DOE provides the results of these tests in a separate test report
accompanying this final rule, which is available in the regulations.gov
docket for this rulemaking.\29\ The test report provides specific
details regarding the temperature indicator labels that DOE tested.
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\29\ The docket for this rulemaking is available at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009.
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DOE observed the following during these additional tests:
The labels used for testing remained waterproof in all
cases.
The labels used for testing remained intact and adhered to
the wash drum throughout the entire wash cycle, in both top-loading and
front-loading clothes washers.
Multiple labels tested in a single wash cycle demonstrated
consistent maximum temperature readings.
On front-loading clothes washers, labels placed adjacent
to the wash drum baffles experienced less wear compared to labels
located midway between two baffles.
DOE also performed testing to confirm the accuracy of these
temperature indicators. Section 2.5.3 of appendix J1 and section 2.5.4
of appendix J2 specify an allowable error no greater than 1
[deg]F for a temperature measuring device over the range being
measured. DOE's testing determined that the labels provide an average
accuracy within 1 [deg]F for temperatures less than 120
[deg]F, and an average accuracy within 3 [deg]F for
temperatures 120 [deg]F and greater. The calibrated temperatures
recorded at the 140 [deg]F indicator threshold ranged from 136.2 [deg]F
to 140.2 [deg]F. Although the accuracy of the labels at 140 [deg]F
indicator threshold falls outside the range of 1 [deg]F,
the pattern and range of activation temperatures observed by DOE
suggests that activation of the 140 [deg]F indicator on the label is
sufficient to demonstrate that the maximum wash temperature exceeded
135 [deg]F during the cycle under test.
DOE recognizes, however, that the 140 [deg]F indicator may not
activate at all wash temperatures greater than 135 [deg]F and less than
140 [deg]F. In such cases, other measurement techniques would still
need to be used to identify an extra-hot wash temperature.
Based on these conclusions, this final rule amends section 3.3 of
both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to allow (but not require) the use of
a non-reversible temperature indicator label to confirm that an extra-
hot wash temperature has been achieved during a wash cycle, provided
that the label has been demonstrated to remain waterproof, intact, and
adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire wash cycle; to provide
consistent maximum temperature readings; and to provide repeatable
temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate that a wash
temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved. The
amendments also clarify that the label must have been verified to
consistently indicate temperature measurements with an accuracy of
1 [deg]F if the label provides a temperature indicator at
135 [deg]F. If the label does not provide a temperature indicator at
135 [deg]F, the label must have been verified to consistently indicate
temperature measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if
the next highest temperature indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and
less than 140 [deg]F, or 3 [deg]F if the next highest
temperature indicator is 140 [deg]F or greater. If the label does not
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, DOE notes that failure
to activate the next-highest temperature indicator does not necessarily
indicate the lack of an extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a
result would not be considered a valid test due to the lack of
verification of the water temperature requirement, in which case an
alternative method must be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash
cycle.
In addition, the amendments incorporate the proposed guidance
regarding placement of a temperature label within the clothing drum,
with minor wording changes for clarification, and to further clarify
that the temperature labels for front-loaders should be located
adjacent to one of the baffles in the clothing drum.
O. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy
Section 4.1.4 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 provides
equations for calculating per-cycle hot water energy consumption using
gas-heated or oil-heated water. The result of this calculation is not
used in any downstream calculations within the DOE test procedure. The
calculated result is referenced within 10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and
(ii)(B); however, these values are not included as part of DOE's
certification requirements for clothes washers in 10 CFR 429.20 and
429.46, nor are they required for other DOE regulatory purposes. DOE
stated in the April 2014 NOPR that it was unaware of any other
regulatory programs that require the calculation of per-cycle hot water
energy using gas- or oil-heated water for clothes washers. Therefore,
DOE proposed to remove section 4.1.4 from both appendix J1 and appendix
J2, and to remove the related sections of 10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and
(ii)(B), adjusting the subsequent section numberings accordingly. 79 FR
23068.
AHAM supports DOE's proposal to remove the equations for
calculating per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated or
oil-heated water. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 12)
ALS objects to DOE's proposal to remove the per-cycle gas hot water
heating calculation from both appendix J1 and appendix J2, because this
calculation is required by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) under 16
CFR part 305, The Appliance Labeling Rule, for determining the
``Estimated Yearly Cost for Gas Water Heating'' on the clothes washer
EnergyGuide label. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5) ALS supports DOE's proposal to
remove the calculation for per-cycle oil-heated hot water, because it
is not used by either DOE or FTC. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
DOE confirms that the FTC EnergyGuide label includes an estimated
yearly cost for gas water heating, which is based on the calculation
for determining per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated
or oil-heater water in section 4.1.4 of both appendix J1 and appendix
J2. Therefore, this final rule leaves intact this calculation in both
appendix J1 and appendix J2, as well as the associated calculations in
10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and (ii)(B). For clarification, DOE amends
the title of section 4.1.4 to read, ``Total per-cycle hot water energy
consumption using gas-heated or oil-heated water, for product labeling
requirements.''
P. Out-of-Balance Loads
DOE has observed that some clothes washers may terminate the wash
cycle prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected. Because
the test procedure defines an energy test cycle as including the
agitation/tumble operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times
applicable to each cycle, the data from a wash cycle that terminates
prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected, and thus does
not include these required elements, should be discarded. In the April
2014 NOPR, DOE proposed amendments to provide this clarification in
section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new section 3.2.9 of appendix J2. 79
FR 23068.
[[Page 46754]]
AHAM supports DOE's attempt to clarify how out-of-balance loads
should be addressed. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3) AHAM suggested that DOE add
language to its proposal to indicate that if there is a visual or audio
indicator that would alert the user about an out-of-balance load, the
test should be stopped and the results discarded. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3)
AHAM also suggested that to address possible circumvention concerns
(e.g., that a product would be designed to terminate at any indication
of out-of-balance condition), that DOE consider a similar approach used
in IEC 60456, section 9.1 and the related note,\30\ which limits the
number of additional test runs and requires reporting the reason for
the rejection of a test run. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 3)
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\30\ Section 9.1 of IEC 60456 does not contain a note. DOE
infers from the context of AHAM's comment that AHAM is referring to
the note in section 8.2.5, which references section 9.1, and states
that the reason for rejection of a test run from a test series
should be explained in the test report.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
ALS supports AHAM's suggestion regarding visual or audio indicators
that communicate to the user when an out-of-balance load has occurred.
(ALS, No. 5 at p. 5) ALS also supports AHAM's suggestion that DOE
require reporting the reason for any rejection of a test run. (ALS, No.
5 at p. 5) ALS supports, with qualification, DOE's proposal concerning
how to proceed or to know when an out-of-balance condition has occurred
during an RMC test. ALS suggested that DOE provide more clarification
as to when a test run should be considered invalid. (ALS, No. 5 at p.
5)
DOE agrees with commenters that if a clothes washer provides a
visual or audio indicator that would alert a user that an out-of-
balance condition has been detected, the test should be stopped and the
results discarded. Therefore, this final rule adds this additional
clarification to section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new section 3.2.9 of
appendix J2. Other than a visual or audio indicator, or early
termination of a cycle, DOE is unaware of any other methods that a test
laboratory could use to identify when an individual test run should be
invalidated.
Section 9.1 of IEC 60456 Ed. 5.0, ``Clothes Washing Machines for
Household Use--Methods for Measuring the Performance,'' \31\ states the
following:
\31\ IEC 60456 Ed. 5.0 is available at http://webstore.iec.ch/webstore/webstore.nsf/artnum/043760.
In case of an invalid test run (in either the test washing
machine or the reference machine) neither the test run result in the
test washing machine nor the corresponding test run result from the
reference machine shall be used for any evaluation of that test
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
washing machine within the test series.
The related note in section 8.2.5 states the following:
NOTE Refer to 9.1 regarding evaluation of results where more
than 5 test runs\32\ are undertaken in a test series. The reason for
rejection of a test run from a test series should be explained in
the test report. . . . If more than one test run is invalid in a
test series, then the whole test series is invalid, irrespective of
the reason.
\32\ IEC 60456 requires completing five test runs to measure
each aspect of clothes washer performance, which includes the
following: Washing performance, rinsing performance, water
extraction performance, and water and energy measurement.
Unlike IEC 60456, which requires five identical test run
replications to measure each aspect of clothes washer performance, the
DOE test procedure does not require the replication of any identical
test runs; i.e., each DOE test run is only performed once, with each
test run having a unique set of conditions including load size, wash/
rinse temperature, and/or spin speed. The data from each unique test
condition is required for the calculation of MEF/IMEF and WF/integrated
water factor (IWF); therefore, a valid test run must be performed at
each set of required conditions. The DOE test procedure cannot limit
the number of attempts needed to obtain the data for a particular test
condition if multiple test runs are invalided due to out-of-balance
conditions. For this reason, DOE partially rejects AHAM's suggestion to
use the approach in IEC 60456, section 9.1, and the related note to
limit the number of additional test runs that would be required.
However, DOE agrees with AHAM's suggestion that the reason for
rejecting any test run during testing should be noted in the test
report for that unit.
For these reasons, this final rule implements DOE's proposal to
discard any data from a wash cycle that terminates prematurely due to
an out-of-balance load condition or provides a visual or audio
indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition has been
detected. The amendments also require documenting the rejection of any
test run and the reason for the rejection in the test report for that
unit. These amendments apply to section 3.2 of appendix J1 and a new
section 3.2.9 of appendix J2.
Q. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed reordering the subsections
within section 2 of appendix J2 (Testing Conditions) to improve the
clarity and overall flow of the section. 79 FR 23068. After reordering,
the general progression of section 2 would be as follows:
Laboratory infrastructure requirements
Instrumentation requirements
Test cloth requirements
Test load composition and handling
Clothes washer installation and preconditioning procedures
Energy test cycle determination
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to reorder the
subsections within section 2 of appendix J2 to improve the clarity and
overall flow of the section. Therefore, for the reasons stated above,
this final rule incorporates these amendments into appendix J2.
R. Table 3.2 Edits
Table 3.2 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines the sections
within the test procedure that govern the tests of particular clothes
washers, based on the number of wash/rinse temperature selections
available on the model. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed clarifying
one of the headings in Table 3.2 of appendix J1. 79 FR 23068. DOE also
proposed amending the current heading, ``Number of wash temp.
selections'' to ``Number of wash temp. selections in the energy test
cycle.'' In addition, DOE proposed fixing a typographical error in
Table 3.2 in appendix J1 regarding the misspelling of the word
``heating.'' Id.
DOE also proposed simplifying the overall structure of Table 3.2 in
appendix J2 (renumbered 3.2.2) by using the clarified wash/rinse
temperature nomenclature within the revised energy test cycle
definition and flowcharts. As stated in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE does
not intend for any of the required test sections to change as a result
of the proposed revisions to the table. 79 FR 23068-23069.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table
3.2 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2. Therefore, for the reasons
stated above, this final rule incorporates these amendments.
S. Table 4.1.1 Edits
Table 4.1.1 in appendix J2 provides the temperature use factors. In
the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed improving the clarity of the overall
structure of Table 4.1.1 in appendix J2 by reorganizing the columns in
the table to more closely match the wash/rinse temperature nomenclature
within the revised energy test cycle definition and flowcharts. 79 FR
23069. As explained in the April 2014 NOPR, DOE does not
[[Page 46755]]
intend for any of the temperature use factors to change as a result of
the proposed revisions to the table. Id.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table
4.1.1 in appendix J2 to improve its clarity and overall structure.
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule incorporates
this amendment into appendix J2.
T. Table 2.8 Edits
Table 2.8 in appendix J2 (``Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings
Required'') contains a formatting error that combined the average and
minimum test load sizes into a single row for clothes washers with an
adaptive water fill control system. In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE
proposed amending the layout of Table 2.8 in both appendix J1 and
appendix J2 to improve its overall clarity. 79 FR 23069. DOE also
proposed changing the heading of the relevant column to ``automatic
water fill control system'' rather than ``adaptive water fill control
system.'' Id.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend Table
2.8 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to correct a formatting error
and improve its overall clarity. Therefore, for the reasons stated
above, this final rule incorporates these amendment into appendix J1
and appendix J2.
U. Replacing ``Consumer'' With ``User''
Both appendix J1 and appendix J2 refer to the ``consumer'' in
various parts of the test procedures. In each instance, the word
``consumer'' refers to the individual using the clothes washer. DOE
notes that the word ``consumer'' may be misconstrued as the original
purchaser or owner of the clothes washer. In some cases, particularly
coin-operated laundries and multi-family housing common laundry rooms,
the purchaser or owner of the clothes washer is not the end user of the
clothes washer.
The distinction between the owner and the end user may be relevant
to the test procedure if certain settings, such as water fill levels,
may be customized by the owner of the clothes washer but are not
adjustable by the end user. To prevent any possible ambiguity implied
by the word ``consumer,'' DOE proposed in the April 2014 NOPR replacing
the word ``consumer'' with ``user'' or ``end user'' throughout the test
procedures in all instances where the word ``consumer'' is currently
used. 79 FR 23061, 23069 (Apr. 25, 2014).
ALS supports DOE's proposal to replace the word ``consumer'' with
the word ``user'' in all instances, because CCWs need to have the
distinction that the test provisions are relevant to the end-user and
not the purchaser of the laundry equipment. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 5)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to replace the
word ``consumer'' with ``user'' or ``end user.'' Therefore, for the
reasons stated above, this final rule implements these changes
throughout appendix J1 and appendix J2.
V. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed revising section 430.23(j)(3)
to contain only the provisions for calculating annual water consumption
when using either appendix J1 or appendix J2. 79 FR 23069. DOE proposed
adding a new section 430.23(j)(4) containing the provisions for
determining water factor and integrated water factor. Id.
DOE also proposed creating a new section 430.23(j)(5) containing
the following statement: ``Other useful measures of energy consumption
for automatic or semi-automatic clothes washers shall be those measures
of energy consumption that the Secretary determines are likely to
assist consumers in making purchasing decisions and that are derived
from the application of appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.''
79 FR 23069. This statement is currently contained in section
430.23(j)(3). Moving the statement to a dedicated subsection would
maintain consistency with DOE's test procedure provisions for other
products within 10 CFR part 430. In its proposal, DOE noted that the
measurement or reporting of any additional measures of energy or water
consumption would be adopted through the rulemaking process. Id.
Finally, to eliminate any potential ambiguity, DOE proposed
replacing the phrase ``can be determined'' with ``must be determined''
throughout the text of 10 CFR 430.23(j)(3) through (j)(5). 79 FR 23069.
ALS supports DOE's proposed amendments to paragraphs (j)(3) through
(j)(5) under 10 CFR part 430.23. (ALS, No. 5 at pp. 2-3) ALS also
supports DOE's proposal to replace the word ``shall'' with ``must'' to
avoid ambiguity. ALS added that most safety standards use the word
``shall,'' and then add a note clarifying that it means ``mandatory.''
However, ALS believes that the word ``must'' assures that the item
needs to be done and conveys a much stronger meaning than the word
``shall,'' which is often considered as an optional directive.
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to amend 10 CFR
430.23(j)(3) through (j)(5) to improve overall clarity and consistency.
Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this final rule implements
these changes.
W. Reporting and Verification Requirements
1. Remaining Moisture Content
DOE has observed the potential for significant variation in the RMC
measurement at the maximum spin speed setting on some clothes washer
models. During testing of front-loading clothes washer models, DOE
observed that the maximum target spin speed may not be achieved during
the final spin portion of the cycle if the load size is not evenly
distributed around the circumference of the wash drum. DOE believes
that in such cases, the spin speed may be automatically reduced as a
safety precaution and to prevent damage to the clothes washer caused by
the asymmetric rotation of the unbalanced load within the wash basket.
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE presented example RMC test data
obtained from one front-loading clothes washer model. 79 FR 23069-
23070. DOE performed the RMC measurement using the cold wash cycle at
the maximum available spin speed setting. The RMC measurement was
performed a total of twelve times using three different test cloth
lots. The corrected RMC measurement \33\ varied between 32.3 percent
and 46.2 percent, with an average of 37.0 percent. Id. DOE explained
that it has observed similar variations of this magnitude on multiple
front-loading clothes washer models. Id.
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\33\ Corrected RMC measurements are obtained using the test
cloth correction factors developed for each test cloth lot, as
applied in section 2.6.7 of appendix J1 and appendix J2. DOE
publishes a list of the test cloth correction factors developed for
test cloth Lots 5 through 20 at http://www2.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/residential/clothes_washer_test_cloth_correction.html.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The RMC measurement is used to determine the per-cycle energy
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load--i.e., the
``drying energy'' portion of the MEF and IMEF calculations. The drying
energy represents between 59 and 87 percent of a clothes washer's total
energy consumption; \34\ hence, the RMC
[[Page 46756]]
measurement significantly impacts the overall MEF and IMEF
calculations.
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\34\ Percentages derived from Table 7.2.1 and 7.2.2 in the May
31, 2012 direct final rule technical support document for the
residential clothes washer energy conservations standards
rulemaking, available at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EERE-2008-BT-STD-0019-0047.
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In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE also proposed adding a new section
3.8.5 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to specify that manufacturers
may perform up to two additional replications of the RMC measurement,
for a total of three independent RMC measurements for the tested unit,
and use the average of the three measurements as the basis for the
calculation of per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture
from the test load. 79 FR 23070.
DOE also proposed adding the RMC measurement to the list of public
product-specific information contained in the certification reports for
RCWs, as described in 10 CFR 429.20(b)(2)(i) and (ii). DOE also
proposed creating a new section, 10 CFR 429.20(a)(4), which would
specify that the certified RMC value of any clothes washer basic model
shall be the mean of the final RMC value measured for all tested units
of the basic model. 79 FR 23070.
Finally, DOE proposed creating another new section, 10 CFR
429.134(c)(1), which would specify that during assessment or
enforcement testing, the measured RMC value of a tested unit would be
considered the tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value
was within two RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the
basic model (expressed as a percentage), or if the measured RMC value
was lower than the certified RMC value. 79 FR 23070. DOE proposed a
threshold of two RMC percentage points because such a variation would
limit the variation in the overall MEF or IMEF calculation to roughly
five percent. Id.
For cases where the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more
than two RMC percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of
the basic model, DOE proposed performing two additional replications of
the RMC measurement, each pursuant to the provisions of newly added
section 3.8.5 of appendix J1 and appendix J2, for a total of three
independent RMC measurements of the tested unit. 79 FR 23070. Under
DOE's proposal, the average of the three RMC measurements would be
considered the tested unit's final RMC value and would be used as the
basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy consumption for removal
of moisture from the test load for that unit. Id.
AHAM agrees with DOE's proposal to add a new section to both
appendix J1 and appendix J2 to specify that manufacturers may perform
up to two additional replications of the RMC measurement, for a total
of three independent RMC measurements for the tested unit, and use the
average of the three measurements as the basis for the calculation of
per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from the test
load. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13) AHAM acknowledges that these multiple
measurements could increase test burden; however, AHAM believes the
benefit outweighs the potential increase in test burden. (AHAM, No. 4
at p. 13)
AHAM does not oppose DOE's proposal to add the RMC measurement to
the list of public product-specific information contained in
certification reports for RCWs. AHAM stated that it assumes that DOE is
proposing to make this information publicly available to give a
reference point to third-party test laboratories who might be
conducting verification testing, and that based on that reasoning, AHAM
does not oppose the proposal. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13)
AHAM noted that DOE provided example RMC test data obtained from
testing one front-loading clothes washer, but could more fully evaluate
DOE's conclusions if DOE had provided additional data on similar
testing conducted on other models. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13)
AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposed approach for measuring RMC
during assessment or enforcement testing. (AHAM, No. 4 at p. 13; ALS,
No. 5 at p. 2))
ALS supports DOE's proposed revisions to 10 CFR 429.20(b)(2)(i) and
(b)(2)(ii). (ALS, No. 5 at p. 1)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to allow
performing up to three RMC replications, adding the RMC measurement to
the list of public product-specific information contained in the
certification reports for RCWs, and adding a new approach for measuring
RMC during assessment or enforcement testing. Therefore, for the
reasons stated above, this final rule implements these amendments as
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR.
2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE proposed adding a new paragraph at 10
CFR 429.20(c) to specify the rounding requirements of all reported
values for RCWs as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the
nearest 0.1 cu ft. 79 FR 23070.
AHAM and ALS support DOE's proposed specification of rounding
requirements for MEF and IMEF, WF and IWF, RMC, and clothes container
capacity. (AHAM, No. 4 at pp.13-14; ALS, No. 5 at p.1)
DOE received no comments objecting to its proposal to add a new
paragraph at 10 CFR 429.20(c) to specify rounding requirements for all
reported values for RCWs. Therefore, for the reasons stated above, this
final rule implements this amendment.
3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) requires certification reports based on testing
conducted in accordance with appendix J2 to include a list of all cycle
selections comprising the complete energy test cycle for each basic
model. Because the difference in wording of the energy test cycle
definition in appendix J1 makes cycle selections less clear, DOE
proposed in the April 2014 NOPR amending 10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) to require
a list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test
cycle for each basic model, regardless of whether the certification is
based on testing conducted in accordance with appendix J1 or appendix
J2. 79 FR 23070.
AHAM opposes DOE's proposal to revise its regulations to require a
list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test cycle
for each basic model, regardless of whether the certification is based
on testing conducted in accordance with appendix J1 or appendix J2.
AHAM noted that this amendment would only affect appendix J1 testing
and that it is unlikely that the proposed requirement will ever be
mandatory. AHAM believes it is too late to make the energy test cycle
selection reporting requirement changes, and believes the changes will
also increase certification reporting burden. (AHAM, No. 4 at p.14)
ALS supports DOE's proposed amendment to 10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) to
require a list of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy
test cycle for each basic model. (ALS, No. 5 at p. 1, 2) ALS questioned
why the proposed wording in 429.20(b)(3) uses the word ``shall'' rather
than the word ``must.'' (ALS, No. 5 at p. 2)
The potential ambiguity regarding energy test cycle selection under
appendix J1 primarily affects RCWs, more so than CCWs, due to the
increasing use of electronic control panels on RCWs, which provide
numerous cycle selection options. Because the use of appendix J2 became
mandatory on March 7, 2015 for RCWs, and only CCWs will continue to use
appendix J1, this final rule retains the current requirement in 10 CFR
429.20(b)(3) to include a list of all cycle selections comprising the
complete energy test cycle for each basic model
[[Page 46757]]
only when using appendix J2. DOE is, however, amending this requirement
in this final rule to use the word ``must'' rather than ``shall.''
4. Product Firmware Updates
In response to the April 2014 NOPR, the CA IOUs suggested that DOE
should evaluate the potential for firmware updates to materially affect
the energy and water use of products. The CA IOUs proposed that if
firmware updates significantly affect the energy and water use of
products, DOE should assess how such changes should be managed through
certified energy and water ratings. The CA IOUs recommended that DOE
consider requiring manufacturers to report the magnitude of the
anticipated impact on annual energy consumption associated with
firmware upgrades when they are released. (CA IOUs, No. 3 at p. 4)
DOE is aware of clothes washer models on the market that offer the
capability to download custom wash cycles directly from the
manufacturer. DOE has observed that as currently implemented on the
market, such downloadable cycles are typically niche cycles that would
not be considered part of the DOE energy test cycle. However, DOE
believes that this technology could be readily used to update the
Normal cycle, or any alternate cycles that may be included in the
energy test cycle, which could change the energy and water use of the
cycle used for DOE testing.
If a manufacturer provides new or modified cycle settings for an
already-certified basic model, DOE believes that the new or modified
cycle settings must be included among the suite of options considered
when determining the energy test cycle. Thus, if one of the new or
modified cycle settings that becomes available would meet the criteria
to be selected as part of the energy test cycle, and including the new
or modified cycle settings would invalidate the basic model's ratings
(i.e., the rating would no longer be supported by the test data
underlying the certification), then the manufacturer would be required
to retest, rerate, and recertify as a new basic model.
To provide further clarification of this in the test procedure,
this final rule adds the following statement to newly created section
1.8(D) in appendix J1 and newly renumbered section 2.12 in appendix J2:
``The determination of the energy test cycle must take into
consideration all cycle settings available to the end user for the
basic model under test, including any cycle selections or cycle
attributes associated with that basic model that are provided by the
manufacturer via software or firmware updates.''
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has determined that test
procedure rulemakings do not constitute ``significant regulatory
actions'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory
Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this
action was not subject to review under the Executive Order by the
Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the OMB.
B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq., as amended by
the Small Business Regulatory Fairness Act of 1996) requires
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (IFRA) for
any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment and a final
regulatory flexibility analysis (FRFA) for any such rule that an agency
adopts as a final rule, unless the agency certifies that the rule, if
promulgated, will not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. A regulatory flexibility analysis
examines the impact of the rule on small entities and considers
alternative ways of reducing negative effects. Also, as required by
Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small Entities in
Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE published
procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that the
potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General
Counsel's Web site: http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
DOE reviewed this final rule under the provisions of the Regulatory
Flexibility Act and the procedures and policies published on February
19, 2003. The final rule amends DOE's test procedure by codifying
guidance interpreting DOE's existing regulations, providing further
clarifying interpretation of the relevant test procedure provisions,
correcting formatting errors, providing improved overall organization,
and removing certain testing provisions within the current test
procedures. DOE has concluded that this final rule will not have a
significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The
factual basis for this certification is as follows:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) considers a business entity
to be a small business, if, together with its affiliates, it employs
less than a threshold number of workers specified in 13 CFR part 121.
These size standards and codes are established by the 2007 North
American Industry Classification System (NAICS). The threshold number
for NAICS classification code 335224, which applies to household
laundry equipment manufacturers and includes RCW manufacturers, is
1,000 employees. Searches of the SBA Web site \35\ to identify clothes
washer manufacturers within this NAICS code identified one small
business. This small business manufactures laundry appliances,
including RCWs.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\35\ A searchable database of certified small businesses is
available online at: http://dsbs.sba.gov/dsbs/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The threshold number for NAICS classification code 333312--which
applies to commercial laundry, dry cleaning, and pressing machine
manufacturers--is 500 employees. Searches of the SBA Web site to
identify CCW manufacturers within this NAICS classification number did
not identify any small businesses that manufacture CCWs. Additionally,
DOE checked its own publicly available Compliance Certification
Database \36\ to identify manufacturers of CCWs and also did not
identify any manufacturers of CCWs that employ less than 500 people.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\36\ DOE's Compliance Certification Database is available online
at: http://www.regulations.doe.gov/certification-data.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
DOE estimates that the clarified description of the capacity
measurement would take the same amount of time to conduct as the
capacity measurement as described in the current DOE test procedure.
DOE believes that use of an alternate bracing method for front-loading
clothes washers that do not contain shipping bolts or other bracing
hardware is already current practice among manufacturers of such
clothes washers. Additionally, DOE notes that the identified small
business produces only a single platform of top-loading clothes
washers, for which the proposed alternate bracing method would not be
applicable.
DOE assessed the potential increased testing burden associated with
maintaining a five degree tolerance on supply water temperatures for
clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption or water energy
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature. One method for
achieving this temperature tolerance would be to use electronically
[[Page 46758]]
controlled water mixing valves on both the cold and hot water supply
lines. DOE estimates a capital cost of approximately $2,500 for
installing electronically controlled water mixing valves on a single
test stand. DOE notes that the identified small business currently does
not manufacturer this type of clothes washer; therefore, DOE does not
expect this final rule amendment to require any changes to the testing
hardware currently used by the small business.
DOE does not expect any of the clarifications to the energy test
cycle definition or the standby and off mode measurements to affect the
total length of testing time. Regarding any potential increase in test
burden as a result of eliminating the separate testing provisions for
clothes washers with uniformly distributed warm wash temperatures, DOE
notes that the total testing time would be no greater than for clothes
washers with the same number of warm wash temperature options, but with
non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE observes constitutes
the majority of the market. DOE also notes that the clothes washers
manufactured by the identified small business do not contain uniformly
distributed warm wash temperatures, and thus the small business will
not be affected by this amendment.
Finally, the changes in this final rule are intended to clarify the
existing test methods without adding any additional requirements and
therefore would not result in additional burden.
For the reasons stated above, DOE certifies that these test
procedure amendments would not have a significant impact on a
substantial number of small entities. DOE has submitted a certification
and supporting statement of factual basis to the Chief Counsel for
Advocacy of the SBA for review under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).
C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
Manufacturers of both residential and commercial clothes washers
must certify to DOE that their products comply with any applicable
energy conservation standards. In certifying compliance, manufacturers
must test their products according to the DOE test procedures for
clothes washers, including any amendments adopted for those test
procedures. DOE has established regulations for the certification and
recordkeeping requirements for all covered consumer products and
commercial equipment, including both residential and commercial clothes
washers. 10 CFR part 429, subpart B. The collection-of-information
requirement for the certification and recordkeeping is subject to
review and approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA).
In the April 2014 NOPR, DOE estimated the public reporting burden
for certification to be 20 hours per response, including the time for
reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the
collection of information. AHAM commented that it disagreed with DOE's
estimate of an average of 20 hours per response for public reporting
burden for certification. According to AHAM, no clothes washer
manufacturer reported a burden of less than 50 hours, and some
manufacturers reported a burden as high as 100 hours. AHAM requested
that DOE revise its public reporting burden estimate. (AHAM, No. 4 at
p. 14)
DOE has amended its estimate to an average of 30 hours per company,
which reflects that some manufacturers (particularly small businesses)
may only submit 1 or 2 certification reports per year, while other
manufacturers (such as many of the large companies represented by AHAM)
may submit a certification report as often as once a week. This
requirement has been approved by OMB under OMB control number 1910-
1400. See 80 FR 5099 (Jan. 30, 2015). Public reporting burden for the
certification is estimated to average 30 hours per response, including
the time for reviewing instructions, searching existing data sources,
gathering and maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing
the collection of information.
Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays
a currently valid OMB Control Number.
D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
In this final rule, DOE amends its test procedure for clothes
washers. DOE has determined that this rule falls into a class of
actions that are categorically excluded from review under the National
Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and DOE's
implementing regulations at 10 CFR part 1021. Specifically, this rule
amends an existing rule without affecting the amount, quality or
distribution of energy usage, and, therefore, will not result in any
environmental impacts. Thus, this rulemaking is covered by Categorical
Exclusion A5 under 10 CFR part 1021, subpart D, which applies to any
rulemaking that interprets or amends an existing rule without changing
the environmental effect of that rule. Accordingly, neither an
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is
required.
E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999)
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have Federalism
implications. The Executive Order requires agencies to examine the
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess
the necessity for such actions. The Executive Order also requires
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory
policies that have Federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental
consultation process it will follow in the development of such
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE examined this final rule and determined
that it will not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of
government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal preemption of State
regulations as to energy conservation for the products that are the
subject of this final rule. States can petition DOE for exemption from
such preemption to the extent, and based on criteria, set forth in
EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further action is required by Executive
Order 13132.
F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1)
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity; (2) write regulations to
minimize litigation; (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected
conduct rather than a general standard; and (4) promote simplification
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988
specifically requires that Executive agencies make every reasonable
effort to ensure that the
[[Page 46759]]
regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the preemptive effect, if any; (2)
clearly specifies any effect on existing Federal law or regulation; (3)
provides a clear legal standard for affected conduct while promoting
simplification and burden reduction; (4) specifies the retroactive
effect, if any; (5) adequately defines key terms; and (6) addresses
other important issues affecting clarity and general draftsmanship
under any guidelines issued by the Attorney General. Section 3(c) of
Executive Order 12988 requires Executive agencies to review regulations
in light of applicable standards in sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine
whether they are met or it is unreasonable to meet one or more of them.
DOE has completed the required review and determined that, to the
extent permitted by law, this final rule meets the relevant standards
of Executive Order 12988.
G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (UMRA)
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the
private sector. Pub. L. 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531).
For a regulatory action resulting in a rule that may cause the
expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the aggregate,
or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one year
(adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy.
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small
governments before establishing any requirements that might
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997,
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available
at http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this final
rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and determined that
the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate, nor a mandate
that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or more in any year,
so these requirements do not apply.
H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being.
The final rule will not have any impact on the autonomy or integrity of
the family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it is
not necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking Assessment.
I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property
Rights'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this regulation will not
result in any takings that might require compensation under the Fifth
Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.
J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
2001
Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has
reviewed this final rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those
guidelines.
K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB,
a Statement of Energy Effects for any significant energy action. A
``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an agency
that promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a final
rule, and that: (1) Is a significant regulatory action under Executive
Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to have a
significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of
energy; or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a
significant energy action. For any significant energy action, the
agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on energy
supply, distribution, or use if the regulation is implemented, and of
reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected benefits on
energy supply, distribution, and use.
This regulatory action is not a significant regulatory action under
Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it would not have a significant
adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy, nor has
it been designated as a significant energy action by the Administrator
of OIRA. Therefore, it is not a significant energy action, and,
accordingly, DOE has not prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.
L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of
1974
Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; FEAA)
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission
(FTC) concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on
competition.
DOE is not requiring the use of any new commercial standards in
this final rule, so these requirements do not apply.
M. Congressional Notification
As required by 5 U.S.C. 801, DOE will report to Congress on the
promulgation of this rule before its effective date. The report will
state that it has been determined that the rule is not a ``major rule''
as defined by 5 U.S.C. 804(2).
V. Approval of the Office of the Secretary
The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this final
rule.
List of Subjects
10 CFR Part 429
Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation,
Household appliances, Reporting and recordkeeping requirements.
10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation,
Household appliances, Incorporation by reference.
[[Page 46760]]
Issued in Washington, DC, on July 17, 2015.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and
Renewable Energy.
For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE amends parts 429 and
430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal Regulations as set forth
below:
PART 429--CERTIFICATION, COMPLIANCE, AND ENFORCEMENT FOR CONSUMER
PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT
0
1. The authority citation for part 429 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6317.
0
2. Section 429.20 is amended by adding paragraphs (a)(3) and (4),
revising paragraphs (b)(2)(i), (b)(2)(ii), and (b)(3), and adding
paragraph (c) to read as follows:
Sec. 429.20 Residential clothes washers.
(a) * * *
(3) The capacity of a basic model reported in accordance with
paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean of the measured
clothes container capacity, C, of all tested units of the basic model.
(4) The remaining moisture content (RMC) of a basic model reported
in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean
of the final RMC value measured for all tested units of the basic
model.
(b) * * *
(2) * * *
(i) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with
Appendix J1: The modified energy factor (MEF) in cubic feet per
kilowatt hour per cycle (cu ft/kWh/cycle), the capacity in cubic feet
(cu ft), the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC) expressed as a
percentage, and, for standard-size residential clothes washers, a water
factor (WF) in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (gal/cycle/cu ft).
(ii) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with
Appendix J2: The integrated modified energy factor (IMEF) in cu ft/kWh/
cycle, the integrated water factor (IWF) in gal/cycle/cu ft, the
capacity in cu ft, the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC)
expressed as a percentage, and the type of loading (top-loading or
front-loading).
(3) Pursuant to Sec. 429.12(b)(13), a certification report must
include the following additional product-specific information: A list
of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test cycle for
each basic model.
(c) Reported values. Values reported pursuant to this subsection
must be rounded as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the
nearest 0.1 cu ft.
0
3. Section 429.134(c) is added to read as follows:
Sec. 429.134 Product-specific enforcement provisions.
* * * * *
(c) Clothes washers. (1) Determination of Remaining Moisture
Content. The procedure for determining remaining moisture content (RMC)
will be performed once in its entirety, pursuant to the test
requirements of section 3.8 of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B
of part 430, for each unit tested.
(i) The measured RMC value of a tested unit will be considered the
tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value is within two
RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the basic model
(expressed as a percentage), or is lower than the certified RMC value.
(ii) If the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more than two
RMC percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of the basic
model, DOE will perform two additional replications of the RMC
measurement procedure, each pursuant to the provisions of section 3.8.5
of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430, for a total of
three independent RMC measurements of the tested unit. The average of
the three RMC measurements will be the tested unit's final RMC value
and will be used as the basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load for that unit.
(2) [Reserved].
* * * * *
PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS
0
4. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.
0
5. Section 430.23 is amended by revising paragraph (j)(3) and adding
paragraphs (j)(4) and (5) to read as follows:
Sec. 430.23 Test procedures for the measurement of energy and water
consumption.
* * * * *
(j) * * *
(3) The annual water consumption of a clothes washer must be
determined as:
(i) When using appendix J1, the product of the representative
average-use of 392 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle
water consumption in gallons per cycle determined according to section
4.2.2 of appendix J1.
(ii) When using appendix J2, the product of the representative
average-use of 295 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle
water consumption for all wash cycles, in gallons per cycle, determined
according to section 4.2.11 of appendix J2.
(4)(i) The water factor must be determined according to section
4.2.3 of appendix J1 (when using appendix J1) or section 4.2.12 of
appendix J2 (when using appendix J2), with the result rounded to the
nearest 0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
(ii) The integrated water factor must be determined according to
section 4.2.13 of appendix J2, with the result rounded to the nearest
0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
(5) Other useful measures of energy consumption for automatic or
semi-automatic clothes washers shall be those measures of energy
consumption that the Secretary determines are likely to assist
consumers in making purchasing decisions and that are derived from the
application of appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.
* * * * *
0
6. Appendix J1 to subpart B of part 430 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text after the heading, and sections 1.1
and 1.2;
0
b. Removing section 1.17;
0
c. Redesignating the sections in the ``Old sections'' column into the
sections in the ``New sections'' column as shown in the following
table:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Old sections New sections
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1.18 through 1.23......................... 1.19 through 1.24.
1.8 through 1.16.......................... 1.10 through 1.18.
1.3 through 1.7........................... 1.4 through 1.8.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
0
d. Adding new section 1.3;
0
e. Revising newly redesignated section 1.8;
0
f. Adding new section 1.9;
0
g. Revising newly redesignated sections 1.11 and 1.12;
0
h. Revising section 2.3;
0
i. Removing sections 2.3.1 and 2.3.2,
0
j. Revising section 2.6.4.6;
0
k. Removing sections 2.6.4.6.1 and 2.6.4.6.2;
0
l. Revising sections 2.6.5,
0
m. Removing sections, 2.6.6, and 2.6.7;
0
n. Revising section 2.8, Table 2.8, and section 2.8.3;
[[Page 46761]]
0
o. Adding sections 2.8.3.1. and 2.8.3.2;
0
p. Revising section 2.10;
0
q. Revising sections 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.4, and 3.1.5;
0
r. Adding section 3.1.6;
0
s. Revising section 3.2;
0
t. Removing section 3.2.1.3;
0
u. Revising sections 3.2.3, 3.2.3.1, 3.2.3.2, 3.2.3.2.2, and 3.2.3.3,
Table 3.2, and sections 3.3, 3.3.3, 3.4.3, 3.5, 3.5.1, 3.5.2;
0
v. Removing sections 3.5.2.1, 3.5.2.2, and 3.5.2.3;
0
w. Adding section 3.5.3;
0
x. Revising section 3.6.3;
0
y. Adding section 3.8.5; and
0
z. Revising Table 4.1.3 and section 4.1.4.
The revisions and additions read as follows:
Appendix J1 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers
Note: Any representation related to the energy or water consumption
of a residential clothes washer must be based upon results generated
using Appendix J2.
Before January 1, 2018, any representation related to the energy or
water consumption of commercial clothes washers must be based on
results generated using Appendix J1. Specifically, before February 1,
2016, representations must be based upon results generated either under
this appendix or under Appendix J1 as it appeared in the 10 CFR parts
200-499 edition revised as of January 1, 2015. Any representations made
on or after February 1, 2016, but before January 1, 2018, must be made
based upon results generated using this appendix. Any representations
made on or after January 1, 2018, must be based upon results generated
using Appendix J2.
* * * * *
1.1 Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control system,
other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is capable of
automatically adjusting washer operation or washing conditions based on
characteristics of the clothes load placed in the clothes container,
without allowing or requiring user intervention or actions. The
automatic adjustments may, for example, include automatic selection,
modification, or control of any of the following: Wash water
temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, number of rinse cycles, or
spin speed. The characteristics of the clothes load, which could
trigger such adjustments, could, for example, consist of or be
indicated by the presence of either soil, soap, suds, or any other
additive laundering substitute or complementary product.
1.2 Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
1.3 Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer
water fill control system that does not allow or require the user to
determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive water
fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.
* * * * *
1.8 Energy test cycle for a basic model includes:
(A) All wash/rinse temperature selections and water levels offered
in the cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or
linen clothes, and
(B) For each other wash/rinse temperature selection or water level
available on that basic model, the portion(s) of other cycle(s) with
that temperature selection or water level that, when tested pursuant to
these test procedures, will contribute to an accurate representation of
the energy consumption of the basic model as used by end users.
If a warm rinse temperature selection is available on the clothes
washer but is not available in the cycle recommended for washing cotton
or linen clothes, the energy test cycle shall include the warm rinse
temperature selection in the cycle most comparable to the cycle
recommended for washing cotton or linen clothes.
If an extra-hot temperature selection is available only on a
sanitization cycle, the sanitization cycle should be included in the
energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended by the manufacturer for
washing clothing. If the extra-hot temperature selection is available
only on a sanitization cycle not recommended by the manufacturer for
washing clothing (e.g., a cycle intended only for sanitizing the wash
drum), such a cycle is not required for consideration as part of the
energy test cycle.
(C) For clothes washers with electronic control systems, use the
manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except for (1)
the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining
moisture content. Specifically, the manufacturer default settings must
be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble operation, soil
level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water
consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water
heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash
parameters or optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Any
optional wash cycle feature or setting (other than wash/rinse
temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed on wash cycles
used to determine remaining moisture content) that is activated by
default on the wash cycle under test must be included for testing
unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting this
option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing normally
soiled cotton clothing.
For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.
(D) The determination of the energy test cycle must take into
consideration all cycle settings available to the end user, including
any cycle selections or cycle modifications provided by the
manufacturer via software or firmware updates to the product, for the
basic model under test.
1.9 Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer
automatic water fill control system that automatically terminates the
fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the clothes
container.
* * * * *
1.11 Manual control system means a clothes washer control system
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse
temperature selections, and wash time before starting the cycle.
1.12 Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer water
fill control system that requires the user to determine or select the
water fill level.
* * * * *
2.3 Supply Water. Maintain the temperature of the hot water supply
at
[[Page 46762]]
the water inlets between 130 [deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and 135 [deg]F (57.2
[deg]C), using 135 [deg]F as the target temperature. Maintain the
temperature of the cold water supply at the water inlets between 55
[deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and 60 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C), using 60 [deg]F as
the target temperature. A water meter shall be installed in both the
hot and cold water lines to measure water consumption.
* * * * *
2.6.4.6 The moisture absorption and retention shall be evaluated
for each new lot of test cloth by the standard extractor Remaining
Moisture Content (RMC) test specified in appendix J3 to 10 CFR part 430
subpart B.
2.6.5 Application of RMC correction curve.
2.6.5.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in appendix J3 to
10 CFR part 430 subpart B:
RMCcorr = A x RMC + B
2.6.5.2 Substitute RMCcorr values in calculations in
section 3.8 of this appendix.
* * * * *
2.8 Use of Test Loads. Use the test load sizes and corresponding
water fill settings defined in Table 2.8 when measuring water and
energy consumptions. Automatic water fill control system and manual
water fill control system are defined in section 1 of this appendix.
Table 2.8--Required Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water fill control system type Test load size Water fill setting
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control Max.............. Max.
system. Min.............. Min.
Automatic water fill control Max.............. As determined by the
system. Avg.............. clothes washer.
Min..............
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
2.8.3 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping them
in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as
illustrated in Figure 2.8.3 of this appendix.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.000
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
For all clothes washers, follow any manufacturer loading
instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing
within the clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer
instructions regarding the placement of clothing within the clothes
container, the following loading instructions apply.
2.8.3.1 To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes
washer, arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of
rotation of the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise
orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer
across its horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding
a new layer. Figure 2.8.3.1 of this appendix illustrates the correct
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.
[[Page 46763]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.001
2.8.3.2 To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes
washer, grasp each test cloth in the center as indicated in section
2.8.3 of this appendix, and then place each cloth into the clothes
container prior to activating the clothes washer.
* * * * *
2.10 Wash time setting. If one wash time is prescribed in the
energy test cycle, that shall be the wash time setting; otherwise, the
wash time setting shall be the higher of either the minimum or 70
percent of the maximum wash time available in the energy test cycle,
regardless of the labeling of suggested dial locations. If 70% of the
maximum wash time is not available on a dial with a discreet number of
wash time settings, choose the next-highest setting greater than 70%.
If the clothes washer is equipped with an electromechanical dial
controlling wash time, reset the dial to the minimum wash time and then
turn it in the direction of increasing wash time to reach the
appropriate setting. If the appropriate setting is passed, return the
dial to the minimum wash time and then turn in the direction of
increasing wash time until the appropriate setting is reached.
3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity measurement.
If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash
drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by other
means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any temporary
bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a fixed position,
relative to the geometry of the door and door seal components, that is
representative of the position of the wash drum during normal
operation. The method used must avoid damage to the unit that would
affect the results of the energy and water testing.
For a front-loading clothes washer that does not include shipping
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum
during shipping, the test report must document the alternative method
used to support the wash drum during capacity measurement, and,
pursuant to Sec. 429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer must retain
such documentation as part of its test records.
3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag. All clothes washer components that
occupy space within the clothes container and that are recommended for
use during a wash cycle must be in place and must be lined with a 2 mil
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag to prevent water from entering any
void space.
* * * * *
3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F
5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C) or 100
[deg]F 10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C 5.5 [deg]C)
water to its uppermost edge. For a top-loading, vertical-axis clothes
washer, the uppermost edge of the clothes container is defined as the
highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub cover. Figure
3.1.4.1 illustrates the maximum fill level for top-loading vertical-
axis clothes washers. Figure 3.1.4.2 shows the location of the maximum
fill level for a variety of example tub cover designs.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[[Page 46764]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.002
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door and
the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would occupy the
measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude the volume that
the door or gasket portion
[[Page 46765]]
would occupy from the measurement. For a front-loading horizontal-axis
clothes washer with a concave door shape, include any additional volume
above the plane defined by the highest point of contact between the
door and the door gasket, if that area can be occupied by clothing
during washer operation. For a top-loading horizontal-axis clothes
washer, include any additional volume above the plane of the door hinge
that clothing could occupy during washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.3
illustrates the maximum fill volumes for all horizontal-axis clothes
washer types.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.003
For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be occupied
by the clothing load during operation.
3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds.
Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:
C = W/d
where:
C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).
W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100 [deg]F (993 kg/m\3\ for
37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60 [deg]F (998 kg/m\3\ for 15.6
[deg]C)).
3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the nearest
0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load sizes per
Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent calculations in this
appendix that include the clothes container capacity.
* * * * *
3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values on
all automatic and semi-automatic washers. All energy consumption tests
shall be performed under the energy test cycle(s), unless otherwise
specified. Table 3.2 indicates the sections below that govern tests of
particular clothes washers, based on the number of wash/rinse
temperature selections available on the model and also, in some
instances, method of water heating. The procedures prescribed are
applicable regardless of a clothes washer's washing capacity, loading
port location, primary axis of rotation of the clothes container, and
type of control system. Data from a wash cycle that provides a visual
or audio indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition
has been detected, or that terminates prematurely if an out-of-balance
condition is detected, and thus does not include the agitation/tumble
operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times applicable to the
wash cycle under test, shall be discarded. The test report must
document the rejection of data from any wash cycle during testing and
the reason for the rejection.
* * * * *
3.2.3 Clothes washers with automatic water fill/manual water fill
control systems
3.2.3.1 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of
manual controls as an alternative, then both manual and automatic modes
shall be tested and, for each mode, the energy consumption
(HET, MET, and DE) and water
consumption (QT) values shall be calculated as set forth in
section 4. Then the average of the two values (one from each mode,
automatic and manual) for each variable shall be used in section 4 for
the clothes washer.
3.2.3.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system.
* * * * *
3.2.3.2.2 User-adjustable. Four tests shall be conducted on clothes
washers with user-adjustable automatic water fill controls that affect
the relative wash water levels. The first test shall be conducted using
the maximum test load and with the automatic water fill control system
set in the setting that will give the most energy intensive result. The
second test shall be conducted with the minimum test load and with the
automatic water fill control system set in the setting that will give
the least energy intensive result. The third test shall be conducted
with the average test load and with the automatic water fill control
system set in the setting that will give the most energy intensive
result for the given test load. The fourth test shall be conducted with
the average test load and with the automatic water fill control system
set in the setting that will give the least energy intensive result for
the given test load. The energy and water consumption for the average
test load and water level shall be the average of the third and fourth
tests.
3.2.3.3 Clothes washers with manual water fill control system. In
accordance with Table 2.8, the water fill selector shall be set to the
maximum water level available for the wash cycle under test for the
maximum test load size and the minimum water level available for the
wash cycle under test for the minimum test load size.
[[Page 46766]]
Table 3.2--Test Section Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Max. wash temp. available <=135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C) >135 [deg]F (57.2
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- [deg]C) \2\
---------------------
Number of wash temp. Selections in the energy test cycle 1 2 >2 3 >3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Sections Required to be Followed.................... ......... ......... ......... 3.3 3.3
......... 3.4 3.4 ......... 3.4
......... ......... 3.5 3.5 3.5
3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6 3.6
\1\ 3.7 \1\ 3.7 \1\ 3.7 \1\ 3.7 \1\ 3.7
3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8 3.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Only applicable to machines with warm rinse in any cycle.
\2\ This only applies to water heating clothes washers on which the maximum wash temperature available exceeds
135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C).
3.3 ``Extra-Hot Wash'' (Max Wash Temp 135 [deg]F (57.2
[deg]C)) for water heating clothes washers only. Water and electrical
energy consumption shall be measured for each water fill level and/or
test load size as specified in 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 for the hottest wash
setting available.
Non-reversible temperature indicator labels, adhered to the inside
of the clothes container, may be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash
cycle, under the following conditions. The label must remain
waterproof, intact, and adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire
wash cycle; provide consistent maximum temperature readings; and
provide repeatable temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate
that a wash temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved.
The label must have been verified to consistently indicate temperature
measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the label
provides a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F. If the label does not
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, the label must have been
verified to consistently indicate temperature measurements with an
accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature
indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and less than 140 [deg]F, or
3 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature indicator is 140
[deg]F or greater. If the label does not provide a temperature
indicator at 135 [deg]F, failure to activate the next-highest
temperature indicator does not necessarily indicate the lack of an
extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a result would not be
considered a valid test due to the lack of verification of the water
temperature requirement, in which case an alternative method must be
used to confirm that an extra-hot wash temperature greater than 135
[deg]F has been achieved during the wash cycle.
If using a temperature indicator label to test a front-loading
clothes washer, adhere the label along the interior surface of the
clothes container drum, midway between the front and the back of the
drum, adjacent to one of the baffles. If using a temperature indicator
label to test a top-loading clothes washer, adhere the label along the
interior surface of the clothes container drum, on the vertical portion
of the sidewall, as close to the bottom of the container as possible.
* * * * *
3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with an
automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot water
consumption (Hma), cold water consumption (Cma),
and electrical energy consumption (Ema) for an extra-hot
wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load size as
determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
3.4.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hha), cold water consumption
(Cha), and electrical energy consumption (Eha)
for a hot wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load
size as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
3.5 ``Warm Wash.'' Water and electrical energy consumption shall be
determined for each water fill level and/or test load size as specified
in 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 for the applicable warm water wash
temperature(s). For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete warm
wash selections, test all warm wash temperature selections. For a
clothes washer that offers four or more warm wash selections, test at
all discrete selections, or test at the 25 percent, 50 percent, and 75
percent positions of the temperature selection device between the
hottest hot (<=135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash and the coldest cold
wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 50 or 75 percent
position, in place of each such unavailable selection use the next
warmer setting. Each reportable value to be used for the warm water
wash setting shall be the arithmetic average of the results from all
tests conducted pursuant to this section.
3.5.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption
(Hwx), cold water consumption (Cwx), and electrical energy consumption
(Ewx) shall be measured with the controls set for the maximum water
fill level. The maximum test load size is to be used and shall be
determined per Table 5.1.
3.5.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption
(Hwn), cold water consumption (Cwn), and electrical energy consumption
(Ewn) shall be measured with the controls set for the minimum water
fill level. The minimum test load size is to be used and shall be
determined per Table 5.1.
3.5.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption (Cwa), and electrical
energy consumption (Ewa) with an average test load size as determined
per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with an
automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot water
consumption (Hca), cold water consumption (Cca),
and electrical energy consumption (Eca) for a cold wash/cold
rinse energy test cycle, with an average test load size as determined
per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
3.8.5 The procedure for calculating RMC as defined in section
3.8.2.5, 3.8.3.3., or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be replicated twice in
its entirety, for a total of three independent RMC measurements. If
three replications of the RMC measurement are performed, use the
average of the three RMC measurements as the final RMC in section 4.3
of this appendix.
* * * * *
[[Page 46767]]
Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water fill control
system
Load usage factor --------------------
Manual Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =............................................. 0.72 0.12 \2\
\1\
Favg =............................................. ....... 0.74 \2\
Fmin =............................................. 0.28 0.14 \2\
\1\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Reference 3.2.3.3.
\2\Reference 3.2.3.2.
4.1.4 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated
or oil-heated water, for product labeling requirements. Calculate for
the energy test cycle the per-cycle hot water consumption,
HETG, using gas-heated or oil-heated water, expressed in Btu
per cycle (or megajoules per cycle) and defined as:
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3412 Btu/kWh or
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3.6 MJ/kWh
where:
e = Nominal gas or oil water heater efficiency = 0.75.
HET = As defined in 4.1.3.
* * * * *
0
7. Appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430 is revised to read as follows:
Appendix J2 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers
Note: Any representation related to the energy or water consumption
of residential clothes washers must be based upon results generated
using Appendix J2. Specifically, before February 1, 2016,
representations must be based upon results generated either under this
appendix or under Appendix J2 as it appeared in the 10 CFR parts 200-
499 edition revised as of January 1, 2015. Any representations made on
or after February 1, 2016 must be made based upon results generated
using this appendix.
Before January 1, 2018, any representation related to the energy or
water consumption of commercial clothes washers must be based on
results generated using Appendix J1. Any representations made on or
after January 1, 2018, must be based upon results generated using
Appendix J2.
1. Definitions and Symbols
1.1 Active mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is
connected to a mains power source, has been activated, and is
performing one or more of the main functions of washing, soaking,
tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water from the clothing,
or is involved in functions necessary for these main functions, such as
admitting water into the washer or pumping water out of the washer.
Active mode also includes delay start and cycle finished modes.
1.2 Active washing mode means a mode in which the clothes washer
is performing any of the operations included in a complete cycle
intended for washing a clothing load, including the main functions of
washing, soaking, tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water
from the clothing.
1.3 Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control system,
other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is capable of
automatically adjusting washer operation or washing conditions based on
characteristics of the clothes load placed in the clothes container,
without allowing or requiring user intervention or actions. The
automatic adjustments may, for example, include automatic selection,
modification, or control of any of the following: wash water
temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, number of rinse cycles, or
spin speed. The characteristics of the clothes load, which could
trigger such adjustments, could, for example, consist of or be
indicated by the presence of either soil, soap, suds, or any other
additive laundering substitute or complementary product.
1.4 Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
1.5 Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer
water fill control system that does not allow or require the user to
determine or select the water fill level, and includes adaptive water
fill control systems and fixed water fill control systems.
1.6 Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again for
10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1
percent or less.
1.7 Clothes container means the compartment within the clothes
washer that holds the clothes during the operation of the machine.
1.8 Cold rinse means the coldest rinse temperature available on
the machine, as indicated to the user on the clothes washer control
panel.
1.9 Combined low-power mode means the aggregate of available modes
other than active washing mode, including inactive mode, off mode,
delay start mode, and cycle finished mode.
1.10 Compact means a clothes washer that has a clothes container
capacity of less than 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L).
1.11 Cycle finished mode means an active mode that provides
continuous status display, intermittent tumbling, or air circulation
following operation in active washing mode.
1.12 Delay start mode means an active mode in which activation of
active washing mode is facilitated by a timer.
1.13 Energy test cycle means the complete set of wash/rinse
temperature selections required for testing, as determined according to
section 2.12. Within the energy test cycle, the following definitions
apply:
(a) Cold Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.1 of this
appendix.
(b) Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.2 of this
appendix.
(c) Warm Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.3 of this
appendix.
(d) Warm Wash/Warm Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.4 of this
appendix.
(e) Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse is the wash/rinse temperature
selection determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.5 of
this appendix.
1.14 Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer
automatic water fill control system that automatically terminates the
fill when the water reaches an appropriate level in the clothes
container.
1.15 IEC 62301 means the test standard published by the
International Electrotechnical Commission, entitled ``Household
electrical appliances--Measurement of standby power,'' Publication
62301, Edition 2.0 2011-01 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.
430.3).
1.16 Inactive mode means a standby mode that facilitates the
activation of active mode by remote switch (including remote control),
internal sensor, or timer, or that provides continuous status display.
1.17 Integrated modified energy factor means the quotient of the
cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by the
total clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such energy
consumption expressed as the sum of:
(a) The machine electrical energy consumption;
[[Page 46768]]
(b) The hot water energy consumption;
(c) The energy required for removal of the remaining moisture in
the wash load; and
(d) The combined low-power mode energy consumption.
1.18 Integrated water factor means the quotient of the total
weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash cycles in gallons
divided by the cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
1.19 Load usage factor means the percentage of the total number of
wash loads that a user would wash a particular size (weight) load.
1.20 Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured with
the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous process.
1.21 Manual control system means a clothes washer control system
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse
temperature selections and wash time, before starting the cycle.
1.22 Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer water
fill control system that requires the user to determine or select the
water fill level.
1.23 Modified energy factor means the quotient of the cubic foot
(or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by the total
clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such energy
consumption expressed as the sum of the machine electrical energy
consumption, the hot water energy consumption, and the energy required
for removal of the remaining moisture in the wash load.
1.24 Non-water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer that
does not have an internal water heating device to generate hot water.
1.25 Normal cycle means the cycle recommended by the manufacturer
(considering manufacturer instructions, control panel labeling, and
other markings on the clothes washer) for normal, regular, or typical
use for washing up to a full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing.
For machines where multiple cycle settings are recommended by the
manufacturer for normal, regular, or typical use for washing up to a
full load of normally-soiled cotton clothing, then the Normal cycle is
the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.
1.26 Off mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is
connected to a mains power source and is not providing any active or
standby mode function, and where the mode may persist for an indefinite
time.
1.27 Roll means a subset of a lot.
1.28 Standard means a clothes washer that has a clothes container
capacity of 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L) or greater.
1.29 Standby mode means any mode in which the clothes washer is
connected to a mains power source and offers one or more of the
following user oriented or protective functions that may persist for an
indefinite time:
(a) Facilitating the activation of other modes (including
activation or deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including
remote control), internal sensor, or timer;
(b) Continuous functions, including information or status displays
(including clocks) or sensor-based functions.
A timer is a continuous clock function (which may or may not be
associated with a display) that provides regular scheduled tasks (e.g.,
switching) and that operates on a continuous basis.
1.30 Symbol usage. The following identity relationships are
provided to help clarify the symbology used throughout this procedure.
C--Capacity
C (with subscripts)--Cold Water Consumption
D--Energy Consumption for Removal of Moisture from Test Load
E--Electrical Energy Consumption
F--Load Usage Factor
H--Hot Water Consumption
HE--Hot Water Energy Consumption
ME--Machine Electrical Energy Consumption
P--Power
Q--Water Consumption
RMC--Remaining Moisture Content
S--Annual Hours
TUF--Temperature Use Factor
V--Temperature-Weighted Hot Water Consumption
W--Mass of Water
WC--Weight of Test Load After Extraction
WI--Initial Weight of Dry Test Load
Subscripts:
a or avg--Average Test Load
c--Cold Wash (minimum wash temp.)
corr--Corrected (RMC values)
h--Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. <=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C))
ia--Inactive Mode
LP--Combined Low-Power Mode
m--Extra-Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. >135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C))
n--Minimum Test Load
o--Off Mode
oi--Combined Off and Inactive Modes
T--Total
w--Warm Wash
ww--Warm Wash/Warm Rinse
x--Maximum Test Load
The following examples are provided to show how the above symbols
can be used to define variables:
Emx = ``Electrical Energy Consumption'' for an ``Extra-Hot
Wash'' and ``Maximum Test Load''
HEmin = ``Hot Water Energy Consumption'' for the ``Minimum
Test Load''
Qhmin = ``Water Consumption'' for a ``Hot Wash'' and
``Minimum Test Load''
TUFm = ``Temperature Use Factor'' for an ``Extra-Hot Wash''
1.31 Temperature use factor means, for a particular wash/rinse
temperature setting, the percentage of the total number of wash loads
that an average user would wash with that setting.
1.32 Thermostatically controlled water valves means clothes washer
controls that have the ability to sense and adjust the hot and cold
supply water.
1.33 Water factor means the quotient of the total weighted per-
cycle water consumption for cold wash divided by the cubic foot (or
liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
1.34 Water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer where some
or all of the hot water for clothes washing is generated by a water
heating device internal to the clothes washer.
2. Testing Conditions
2.1 Electrical energy supply.
2.1.1 Supply voltage and frequency. Maintain the electrical supply
at the clothes washer terminal block within 2 percent of 120, 120/240,
or 120/208Y volts as applicable to the particular terminal block wiring
system and within 2 percent of the nameplate frequency as specified by
the manufacturer. If the clothes washer has a dual voltage conversion
capability, conduct test at the highest voltage specified by the
manufacturer.
2.1.2 Supply voltage waveform. For the combined low-power mode
testing, maintain the electrical supply voltage waveform indicated in
Section 4, Paragraph 4.3.2 of IEC 62301. If the power measuring
instrument used for testing is unable to measure and record the total
harmonic content during the test measurement period, total harmonic
content may be measured and recorded immediately before and after the
test measurement period.
2.2 Supply water. Maintain the temperature of the hot water supply
at the water inlets between 130[emsp14][deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and
135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C), using 135[emsp14][deg]F as the target
temperature. Maintain the temperature of the cold water supply at the
water inlets between 55[emsp14][deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and
60[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 [deg]C), using 60[emsp14][deg]F as the target
temperature.
2.3 Water pressure. Maintain the static water pressure at the hot
and cold
[[Page 46769]]
water inlet connection of the clothes washer at 35 pounds per square
inch gauge (psig) 2.5 psig (241.3 kPa 17.2
kPa) when the water is flowing.
2.4 Test room temperature. For all clothes washers, maintain the
test room ambient air temperature at 75 5 [deg]F (23.9
2.8 [deg]C) for active mode testing and combined low-power
mode testing. Do not use the test room ambient air temperature
conditions specified in Section 4, Paragraph 4.2 of IEC 62301 for
combined low-power mode testing.
2.5 Instrumentation. Perform all test measurements using the
following instruments, as appropriate:
2.5.1 Weighing scales.
2.5.1.1 Weighing scale for test cloth. The scale used for weighing
test cloth must have a resolution of no larger than 0.2 oz (5.7 g) and
a maximum error no greater than 0.3 percent of the measured value.
2.5.1.2 Weighing scale for clothes container capacity measurement.
The scale used for performing the clothes container capacity
measurement must have a resolution no larger than 0.50 lbs (0.23 kg)
and a maximum error no greater than 0.5 percent of the measured value.
2.5.2 Watt-hour meter. The watt-hour meter used to measure
electrical energy consumption must have a resolution no larger than 1
Wh (3.6 kJ) and a maximum error no greater than 2 percent of the
measured value for any demand greater than 50 Wh (180.0 kJ).
2.5.3 Watt meter. The watt meter used to measure combined low-power
mode power consumption must comply with the requirements specified in
Section 4, Paragraph 4.4 of IEC 62301 (incorporated by reference, see
Sec. 430.3). If the power measuring instrument used for testing is
unable to measure and record the crest factor, power factor, or maximum
current ratio during the test measurement period, the crest factor,
power factor, and maximum current ratio may be measured and recorded
immediately before and after the test measurement period.
2.5.4 Water and air temperature measuring devices. The temperature
devices used to measure water and air temperature must have an error no
greater than 1[emsp14][deg]F (0.6 [deg]C) over
the range being measured.
2.5.5 Water meter. A water meter must be installed in both the hot
and cold water lines to measure water flow and/or water consumption.
The water meters must have a resolution no larger than 0.1 gallons (0.4
liters) and a maximum error no greater than 2 percent for the water
flow rates being measured.
2.5.6 Water pressure gauge. A water pressure gauge must be
installed in both the hot and cold water lines to measure water
pressure. The water pressure gauges must have a resolution of 1 pound
per square inch gauge (psig) (6.9 kPa) and a maximum error no greater
than 5 percent of any measured value.
2.6 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must
heat the test cloth load above 210[deg]F (99 [deg]C).
2.7 Test cloths.
2.7.1 Energy test cloth. The energy test cloth must be made from
energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.7.4 of this
Appendix, that is 24 \1/2\ inches by 36 \1/2\
inches (61.0 1.3 cm by 91.4 1.3 cm) and has
been hemmed to 22 \ 1/2\ inches by 34 \1/2\
inches (55.9 1.3 cm by 86.4 1.3 cm) before
washing. The energy test cloth must be clean and must not be used for
more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as specified in 2.7.3 of
this appendix). All energy test cloth must be permanently marked
identifying the lot number of the material. Mixed lots of material must
not be used for testing a clothes washer.
2.7.2 Energy stuffer cloth. The energy stuffer cloth must be made
from energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.7.4 of this
Appendix, that is 12 \1/4\ inches by 12 \1/
4\inches (30.5 0.6 cm by 30.5 0.6 cm) and has
been hemmed to 10 \1/4\ inches by 10 \1/4\
inches (25.4 0.6 cm by 25.4 0.6 cm) before
washing. The energy stuffer cloth must be clean and must not be used
for more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as specified in
section 2.7.3 of this Appendix). All energy stuffer cloth must be
permanently marked identifying the lot number of the material. Mixed
lots of material must not be used for testing a clothes washer.
2.7.3 Preconditioning of test cloths. The new test cloths,
including energy test cloths and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-
conditioned in a clothes washer in the following manner:
Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with
AHAM Standard Detergent Formula 3 and the last three without detergent.
Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the maximum water
level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 ppm hardness or
less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of cloth load of AHAM
Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash temperature is to be controlled
to 135 [deg]F 5 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C 2.8
[deg]C) and the rinse temperature is to be controlled to 60 [deg]F
5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C). Repeat the
cycle with detergent and then repeat the cycle three additional times
without detergent, bone drying the load between cycles (for a total of
five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles).
2.7.4 Energy test cloth material. The energy test cloths and energy
stuffer cloths must be made from fabric meeting the following
specifications:
2.7.4.1 The test cloth material should come from a roll of material
with a width of approximately 63 inches and approximately 500 yards per
roll. However, other sizes may be used if the test cloth material meets
the specifications listed in sections 2.7.4.2 through 2.7.4.7.
2.7.4.2 Nominal fabric type. Pure finished bleached cloth made with
a momie or granite weave, which is nominally 50 percent cotton and 50
percent polyester.
2.7.4.3 Fabric weight. 5.60 0.25 ounces per square
yard (190.0 8.4 g/m\2\).
2.7.4.4 Thread count. 65 x 57 per inch (warp x fill), 2
percent.
2.7.4.5 Fiber content of warp and filling yarn. 50 percent 4 percent cotton, with the balance being polyester, open end
spun, 15/1 5 percent cotton count blended yarn.
2.7.4.6 Water repellent finishes, such as fluoropolymer stain
resistant finishes, must not be applied to the test cloth. Verify the
absence of such finishes using both of the following:
2.7.4.6.1 AATCC Test Method 118-2007 (incorporated by reference;
see Sec. 430.3) for each new lot of test cloth (when purchased from
the mill) to confirm the absence of ScotchguardTM or other
water repellent finish (required scores of ``D'' across the board).
2.7.4.6.2 AATCC Test Method 79-2010 (incorporated by reference; see
Sec. 430.3) for each new lot of test cloth (when purchased from the
mill) to confirm the absence of ScotchguardTM or other water
repellent finish (time to absorb one drop should be on the order of 1
second).
2.7.4.7 The maximum shrinkage after preconditioning must not be
more than 5 percent of the length and width. Measure per AATCC Test
Method 135-2010 (incorporated by reference; see Sec. 430.3).
2.7.5 The moisture absorption and retention must be evaluated for
each new lot of test cloth using the standard extractor Remaining
Moisture Content (RMC) procedure specified in Appendix J3 to 10 CFR
part 430 subpart B.
2.8 Test load sizes. Use Table 5.1 of this appendix to determine
the maximum, minimum, and, when required, average test load sizes based
on the clothes container capacity as measured in section 3.1 of this
appendix. Test loads must consist of energy test cloths and no more
than five
[[Page 46770]]
energy stuffer clothes per load to achieve the proper weight.
Use the test load sizes and corresponding water fill settings
defined in Table 2.8 of this appendix when measuring water and energy
consumption. Use only the maximum test load size when measuring RMC.
Table 2.8--Required Test Load Siszes and Water Fill Settings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water fill control system type Test load size Water fill setting
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control Max.............. Max.
system. Min.............. Min.
Automatic water fill control Max.............. As determined by the clothes washer.
system. Avg..............
Min..............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2.9 Use of test loads.
2.9.1 Test loads for energy and water consumption measurements must
be bone dry prior to the first cycle of the test, and dried to a
maximum of 104 percent of bone dry weight for subsequent testing.
2.9.2 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping them
in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as
illustrated in Figure 2.9.2 of this appendix.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
For all clothes washers, follow any manufacturer loading
instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing
within the clothes container. In the absence of any manufacturer
instructions regarding the placement of clothing within the clothes
container, the following loading instructions apply.
2.9.2.1 To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes
washer, arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of
rotation of the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise
orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer
across its horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding
a new layer. Figure 2.9.2.1 of this appendix illustrates the correct
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.
[[Page 46771]]
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2.9.2.2 To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes
washer, grasp each test cloth in the center as indicted in section
2.9.2 of this appendix, and then place each cloth into the clothes
container prior to activating the clothes washer.
2.10 Clothes washer installation. Install the clothes washer in
accordance with manufacturer's instructions. For combined low-power
mode testing, install the clothes washer in accordance with Section 5,
Paragraph 5.2 of IEC 62301 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.
430.3), disregarding the provisions regarding batteries and the
determination, classification, and testing of relevant modes.
2.11 Clothes washer pre-conditioning.
2.11.1 Non-water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer has
not been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, pre-condition it
by running it through a cold rinse cycle and then draining it to ensure
that the hose, pump, and sump are filled with water.
2.11.2 Water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer has not
been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, or if it has not been
in the test room at the specified ambient conditions for 8 hours, pre-
condition it by running it through a cold rinse cycle and then draining
it to ensure that the hose, pump, and sump are filled with water.
2.12 Determining the energy test cycle. To determine the energy
test cycle, evaluate the wash/rinse temperature selection flowcharts in
the order in which they are presented in this section. The
determination of the energy test cycle must take into consideration all
cycle settings available to the end user, including any cycle
selections or cycle modifications provided by the manufacturer via
software or firmware updates to the product, for the basic model under
test. The energy test cycle does not include any cycle that is
recommended by the manufacturer exclusively for cleaning, deodorizing,
or sanitizing the clothes washer.
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BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
3. Test Measurements
3.1 Clothes container capacity. Measure the entire volume that a
clothes load could occupy within the clothes container during active
mode washer operation according to the following procedures:
3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity measurement.
If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash
drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by other
means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any temporary
bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a fixed position,
relative to the geometry of the door and door seal components, that is
representative of the position of the wash drum during normal
operation. The method used must avoid damage to the unit that would
affect the results of the energy and water testing.
For a front-loading clothes washer that does not include shipping
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum
during shipping, the laboratory must fully document the alternative
method used to support the wash drum during capacity measurement,
include such documentation in the final test report, and pursuant to
Sec. 429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer must retain such
documentation as part its test records.
3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag. All clothes washer components that
occupy space within the clothes container and that are recommended for
use during a wash cycle must be in place and must be lined with a 2 mil
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic bag to prevent water from entering any
void space.
3.1.3 Record the total weight of the machine before adding water.
3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F
5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C) or 100
[deg]F 10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C 5.5 [deg]C)
water, with the door open. For a top-loading vertical-axis clothes
washer, fill the clothes container to the uppermost edge of the
rotating portion, including any balance ring. Figure 3.1.4.1 of this
appendix illustrates the maximum fill level for top-loading clothes
washers.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.011
For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door and
the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would occupy the
measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude from the
measurement the volume that the door or gasket portion would occupy.
For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer with a concave door
shape, include any additional volume above the plane defined by the
highest point of contact between the door and the door gasket, if that
area can be occupied by clothing during washer operation. For a top-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, include any additional volume
above the plane of the door hinge that clothing could occupy during
washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.2 of this appendix illustrates the
maximum fill volumes for all horizontal-axis clothes washer types.
[[Page 46778]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TR05AU15.012
For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be occupied
by the clothing load during operation.
3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds.
3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:
C = W/d
where:
C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).
W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100[emsp14][deg]F (993 kg/
m\3\ for 37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60[emsp14][deg]F (998
kg/m\3\ for 15.6 [deg]C)).
3.1.7 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the nearest
0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load sizes per
Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent calculations that
include the clothes container capacity.
3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values on
all automatic and semi-automatic washers.
3.2.1 Perform all energy consumption tests under the energy test
cycle.
3.2.2 Perform the test sections listed in Table 3.2.2 in accordance
with the wash/rinse temperature selections available in the energy test
cycle.
Table 3.2.2--Test Section Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corresponding
Wash/rinse temperature selections available in the test section
energy test cycle reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra-Hot/Cold......................................... 3.3
Hot/Cold............................................... 3.4
Warm/Cold.............................................. 3.5
Warm/Warm.............................................. 3.6
Cold/Cold.............................................. 3.7
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Sections Applicable to all Clothes Washers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remaining Moisture Content............................. 3.8
Combined Low-Power Mode Power.......................... 3.9
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.2.3 Hot and cold water faucets.
3.2.3.1 For automatic clothes washers, open both the hot and cold
water faucets.
3.2.3.2 For semi-automatic washers:
(1) For hot inlet water temperature, open the hot water faucet
completely and close the cold water faucet;
(2) For warm inlet water temperature, open both hot and cold water
faucets completely;
(3) For cold inlet water temperature, close the hot water faucet
and open the cold water faucet completely.
3.2.4 Wash/rinse temperature selection. Set the wash/rinse
temperature selection control to obtain the desired wash/rinse
temperature selection within the energy test cycle.
3.2.5 Wash time setting. If one wash time is prescribed for the
wash cycle under test, that shall be the wash time setting; otherwise,
the wash time setting shall be the higher of either the minimum or 70
percent of the maximum wash time available for the wash cycle under
test, regardless of the labeling of suggested dial locations. If 70% of
the maximum wash time is not available on a dial with a discreet number
of wash time settings, choose the next-highest setting greater than
70%. If the clothes washer is equipped with an electromechanical dial
controlling wash time, reset the dial to the minimum wash time and then
turn it in the direction of increasing wash time to reach the
appropriate setting. If the appropriate setting is passed, return the
dial to the minimum wash time and then turn in the direction of
increasing wash time until the appropriate setting is reached.
3.2.6 Water fill levels.
3.2.6.1 Clothes washers with manual water fill control system. Set
the water fill selector to the maximum water level available for the
wash cycle under test for the maximum test load size and the minimum
water level available for the wash cycle under test for the minimum
test load size.
3.2.6.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system.
3.2.6.2.1 Not user adjustable. The maximum, minimum, and average
water levels as described in the following sections refer to the amount
of water fill that is automatically selected by the control system when
the respective test loads are used.
3.2.6.2.2 User adjustable. Conduct four tests on clothes washers
with user adjustable automatic water fill controls that affect the
relative wash water levels. Conduct the first test using the maximum
test load and with the automatic water fill control system set in the
setting that will give the most energy intensive result. Conduct the
second test using the minimum test load and with the automatic water
fill control system set in the setting that will give the least energy
intensive result. Conduct the third test using the average test load
and with the automatic water fill control system set in the setting
that will give the most energy intensive result for the given test
load. Conduct the fourth test using the average test load and with the
automatic water fill control system set in the setting that will give
the least energy intensive result for the given test load. Average the
results of the third and fourth tests to obtain the energy and water
consumption values for the average test load size.
[[Page 46779]]
3.2.6.3 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of
manual controls as an alternative, test both manual and automatic modes
and, for each mode, calculate the energy consumption (HET,
MET, and DE) and water consumption
(QT) values as set forth in section 4 of this appendix.
Then, calculate the average of the two values (one from each mode,
automatic and manual) for each variable (HET,
MET, DE, and QT) and use the average
value for each variable in the final calculations in section 4 of this
appendix.
3.2.7 Manufacturer default settings. For clothes washers with
electronic control systems, use the manufacturer default settings for
any cycle selections, except for (1) the temperature selection, (2) the
wash water fill levels, or (3) if necessary, the spin speeds on wash
cycles used to determine remaining moisture content. Specifically, the
manufacturer default settings must be used for wash conditions such as
agitation/tumble operation, soil level, spin speed on wash cycles used
to determine energy and water consumption, wash times, rinse times,
optional rinse settings, water heating time for water heating clothes
washers, and all other wash parameters or optional features applicable
to that wash cycle. Any optional wash cycle feature or setting (other
than wash/rinse temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed
on wash cycles used to determine remaining moisture content) that is
activated by default on the wash cycle under test must be included for
testing unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting
this option, or recommend selecting a different option, for washing
normally soiled cotton clothing.
For clothes washers with control panels containing mechanical
switches or dials, any optional settings, except for (1) the
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining
moisture content, must be in the position recommended by the
manufacturer for washing normally soiled cotton clothing. If the
manufacturer instructions do not recommend a particular switch or dial
position to be used for washing normally soiled cotton clothing, the
setting switch or dial must remain in its as-shipped position.
3.2.8 For each wash cycle tested, include the entire active washing
mode and exclude any delay start or cycle finished modes.
3.2.9 Discard the data from a wash cycle that provides a visual or
audio indicator to alert the user that an out-of-balance condition has
been detected, or that terminates prematurely if an out-of-balance
condition is detected, and thus does not include the agitation/tumble
operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times applicable to the
wash cycle under test. Document in the test report the rejection of
data from any wash cycle during testing and the reason for the
rejection.
3.3 Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical
energy consumption for each water fill level and test load size as
specified in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix for the
Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse as defined within the energy test cycle.
Non-reversible temperature indicator labels, adhered to the inside
of the clothes container, may be used to confirm that an extra-hot wash
temperature greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved during the wash
cycle, under the following conditions. The label must remain
waterproof, intact, and adhered to the wash drum throughout an entire
wash cycle; provide consistent maximum temperature readings; and
provide repeatable temperature indications sufficient to demonstrate
that a wash temperature of greater than 135 [deg]F has been achieved.
The label must have been verified to consistently indicate temperature
measurements with an accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the label
provides a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F. If the label does not
provide a temperature indicator at 135 [deg]F, the label must have been
verified to consistently indicate temperature measurements with an
accuracy of 1 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature
indicator is greater than 135 [deg]F and less than 140 [deg]F, or
3 [deg]F if the next-highest temperature indicator is 140
[deg]F or greater. If the label does not provide a temperature
indicator at 135 [deg]F, failure to activate the next-highest
temperature indicator does not necessarily indicate the lack of an
extra-hot wash temperature. However, such a result would not be
considered a valid test due to the lack of verification of the water
temperature requirement, in which case an alternative method must be
used to confirm that an extra-hot wash temperature greater than 135
[deg]F has been achieved during the wash cycle.
If using a temperature indicator label to test a front-loading
clothes washer, adhere the label along the interior surface of the
clothes container drum, midway between the front and the back of the
drum, adjacent to one of the baffles. If using a temperature indicator
label to test a top-loading clothes washer, adhere the label along the
interior surface of the clothes container drum, on the vertical portion
of the sidewall, as close to the bottom of the container as possible.
3.3.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hmx), cold water consumption
(Cmx), and electrical energy consumption (Emx)
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.3.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hmn), cold water consumption
(Cmn), and electrical energy consumption (Emn)
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hma), cold water consumption
(Cma), and electrical energy consumption (Ema)
for an Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size
as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.4 Hot Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified
in sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix for the Hot Wash/Cold
Rinse temperature selection, as defined within the energy test cycle.
3.4.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hhx), cold water consumption
(Chx), and electrical energy consumption (Ehx)
for a Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the maximum
water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified in Table
5.1 of this appendix.
3.4.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hhn), cold water consumption
(Chn), and electrical energy consumption (Ehn)
for a Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the minimum
water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified in Table
5.1 of this appendix.
3.4.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water
[[Page 46780]]
consumption (Hha), cold water consumption (Cha),
and electrical energy consumption (Eha) for a Hot Wash/Cold
Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as specified in Table 5.1
of this appendix.
3.5 Warm Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified
in sections 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix for the applicable
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection(s), as defined within the
energy test cycle.
For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm Wash/Cold
Rinse temperature selections, test all Warm Wash/Cold Rinse selections.
For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm Wash/Cold Rinse
selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at the 25 percent,
50 percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature selection
device between the hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash
and the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not available at the 25,
50 or 75 percent position, in place of each such unavailable selection,
use the next warmer setting. For each reportable value to be used for
the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, calculate the average
of all Warm Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selections tested pursuant to
this section.
3.5.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwx), cold water consumption
(Cwx), and electrical energy consumption (Ewx)
for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.5.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwn), cold water consumption
(Cwn), and electrical energy consumption (Ewn)
for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.5.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption
(Cwa), and electrical energy consumption (Ewa)
for a Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.6 Warm Wash/Warm Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy
consumption for each water fill level and/or test load size as
specified in sections 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix for the
applicable Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selection(s), as defined
within the energy testy cycle.
For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm Wash/Warm
Rinse temperature selections, test all Warm Wash/Warm Rinse selections.
For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm Wash/Warm Rinse
selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at 25 percent, 50
percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature selection device
between the hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash and
the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 50 or
75 percent position, in place of each such unavailable selection use
the next warmer setting. For each reportable value to be used for the
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selection, calculate the arithmetic
average of all Warm Wash/Warm Rinse temperature selections tested
pursuant to this section.
3.6.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwwx), cold water consumption
(Cwwx), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwx)
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.6.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwwn), cold water consumption
(Cwwn), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwn)
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified
in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hwwa), cold water consumption
(Cwwa), and electrical energy consumption (Ewwa)
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.7 Cold Wash/Cold Rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as specified
in sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix for the applicable
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature selection, as defined within the
energy test cycle.
3.7.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hcx), cold water consumption
(Ccx), and electrical energy consumption (Ecx)
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the maximum
water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as specified in Table
5.1 of this appendix.
3.7.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hcn), cold water consumption
(Ccn), and electrical energy consumption (Ecn)
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, with the controls set for the minimum
water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as specified in Table
5.1 of this appendix.
3.7.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer with
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot
water consumption (Hca), cold water consumption
(Cca), and electrical energy consumption (Eca)
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
3.8 Remaining moisture content (RMC).
3.8.1 The wash temperature must be the same as the rinse
temperature for all testing. Use the maximum test load as defined in
Table 5.1 of this appendix for testing.
3.8.2 Clothes washers with cold rinse only.
3.8.2.1 Record the actual ``bone dry'' weight of the test load
(WIx), then place the test load in the clothes washer.
3.8.2.2 Set the water level controls to maximum fill.
3.8.2.3 Run the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle.
3.8.2.4 Record the weight of the test load immediately after
completion of the wash cycle (WCx).
3.8.2.5 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the maximum
test load, RMCx, defined as:
RMCx = (WCx - WIx)/WIx
3.8.2.6 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content,
RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage as follows:
RMCcorr = (A x RMCx + B) x 100%
where:
A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCx = As defined in section 3.8.2.5 of this appendix.
3.8.2.7 Use RMCcorr as the final corrected RMC in
section 4.3 of this appendix.
3.8.3 Clothes washers with both cold and warm rinse options.
3.8.3.1 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this appendix
for a Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle. Calculate the remaining moisture
content of the maximum test load for Cold Wash/Cold Rinse,
RMCCOLD, defined as:
[[Page 46781]]
RMCCOLD = (WCx - WIx)/WIx
3.8.3.2 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content for
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse, RMCCOLD,corr, expressed as a
percentage, as follows:
RMCCOLD,corr = (A x RMCCOLD + B) x 100%
where:
A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCCOLD = As defined in section 3.8.3.1 of this appendix.
3.8.3.3 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this appendix
using a Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle instead. Calculate the remaining
moisture content of the maximum test load for Warm Wash/Warm Rinse,
RMCWARM, defined as:
RMCWARM = (WCx-WIx)/WIx
3.8.3.4 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 of
this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture content for
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse, RMCWARM,corr, expressed as a
percentage, as follows:
RMCWARM,corr = (A x RMCWARM + B) x 100%
where:
A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCWARM = As defined in section 3.8.3.3 of this appendix.
3.8.3.5 Calculate the corrected remaining moisture content of the
maximum test load, RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage as
follows:
RMCcorr = RMCCOLD,corr x (1 - TUFww) +
RMCWARM,corr x (TUFww)
where:
RMCCOLD,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.2 of this
Appendix.
RMCWARM,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.4 of this
Appendix.
TUFww is the temperature use factor for Warm Wash/Warm
Rinse as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.
3.8.3.6 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.3.5 as
the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.
3.8.4 Clothes washers that have options such as multiple selections
of spin speeds or spin times that result in different RMC values, and
that are available within the energy test cycle.
3.8.4.1 Complete sections 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as
applicable, using the maximum and minimum extremes of the available
spin options, excluding any ``no spin'' (zero spin speed) settings.
Combine the calculated values RMCcorr,max extraction and
RMCcorr,min extraction at the maximum and minimum settings,
respectively, as follows:
RMCcorr = 0.75 x RMCcorr,max extraction + 0.25 x
RMCcorr,min extraction
where:
RMCcorr, max extraction is the corrected remaining
moisture content using the maximum spin setting, calculated
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.
RMCcorr, min extraction is the corrected remaining
moisture content using the minimum spin setting, calculated
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.
3.8.4.2 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.4.1 as
the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.
3.8.5 The procedure for calculating the corrected RMC as described
in section 3.8.2, 3.8.3, or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be replicated
twice in its entirety, for a total of three independent corrected RMC
measurements. If three replications of the RMC measurement are
performed, use the average of the three corrected RMC measurements as
the final corrected RMC in section 4.3 of this appendix.
3.9 Combined low-power mode power. Connect the clothes washer to a
watt meter as specified in section 2.5.3 of this appendix. Establish
the testing conditions set forth in sections 2.1, 2.4, and 2.10 of this
appendix.
3.9.1 Perform combined low-power mode testing after completion of
an active mode wash cycle included as part of the energy test cycle;
after removing the test load; without changing the control panel
settings used for the active mode wash cycle; with the door closed; and
without disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes
washer between completion of the active mode wash cycle and the start
of combined low-power mode testing.
3.9.2 For a clothes washer that takes some time to automatically
enter a stable inactive mode or off mode state from a higher power
state as discussed in Section 5, Paragraph 5.1, note 1 of IEC 62301
(incorporated by reference; see Sec. 430.3), allow sufficient time for
the clothes washer to automatically reach the default inactive/off mode
state before proceeding with the test measurement.
3.9.3 Once the stable inactive/off mode state has been reached,
measure and record the default inactive/off mode power,
Pdefault, in watts, following the test procedure for the
sampling method specified in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 62301.
3.9.4 For a clothes washer with a switch, dial, or button that can
be optionally selected by the end user to achieve a lower-power
inactive/off mode state than the default inactive/off mode state
measured in section 3.9.3 of this appendix, after performing the
measurement in section 3.9.3, activate the switch, dial, or button to
the position resulting in the lowest power consumption and repeat the
measurement procedure described in section 3.9.3. Measure and record
the lowest-power inactive/off mode power, Plowest, in Watts.
3.10 Energy consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle
selection(s) to be included in the energy test cycle. This section is
implemented only in cases where the energy test cycle flowcharts in
section 2.12 require the determination of the wash/rinse temperature
selection with the highest energy consumption.
3.10.1 For the wash/rinse temperature selection being considered
under this section, establish the testing conditions set forth in
section 2 of this appendix. Select the applicable cycle selection and
wash/rinse temperature selection. For all wash/rinse temperature
selections, the manufacturer default settings shall be used as
described in section 3.2.7 of this appendix.
3.10.2 Use the clothes washer's maximum test load size, determined
from Table 5.1 of this appendix, for testing under this section.
3.10.3 For clothes washers with a manual fill control system, user-
adjustable automatic water fill control system, or automatic water fill
control system with alternate manual water fill control system, use the
water fill selector setting resulting in the maximum water level
available for each cycle selection for testing under this section.
3.10.3 Each wash cycle tested under this section shall include the
entire active washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle
finished modes.
3.10.4 Measure each wash cycle's electrical energy consumption
(EX) and hot water consumption (HX). Calculate
the total energy consumption for each cycle selection (ETX),
as follows:
ETX = EX + (HX x T x K)
where:
EX is the electrical energy consumption, expressed in
kilowatt-hours per cycle.
HX is the hot water consumption, expressed in gallons per
cycle.
T = nominal temperature rise = 75 [deg]F (41.7 [deg]C).
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F =
0.00240 kWh/gal -[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C).
[[Page 46782]]
4. Calculation of Derived Results From Test Measurements
4.1 Hot water and machine electrical energy consumption of clothes
washers.
4.1.1 Per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption for all
maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels tested. Calculate the
per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption for the maximum
water fill level, Vhx, the average water fill level,
Vha, and the minimum water fill level, Vhn,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
(a) Vhx = [Hmx x TUFm] +
[Hhx x TUFh] + [Hwx x TUFw]
+ [Hwwx x TUFww] + [Hcx x
TUFc]
(b) Vha = [Hma x TUFm] +
[Hha x TUFh] + [Hwa x TUFw]
+ [Hwwa x TUFww] + [Hca x
TUFc]
(c) Vhn = [Hmn x TUFm] +
[Hhn x TUFh] + [Hwn x TUFw]
+ [Hwwn x TUFww] + [Hcn x
TUFc]
where:
Hmx, Hma, and Hmn, are reported
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels,
respectively, for the Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured
in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
Hhx, Hha, and Hhn, are reported
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels,
respectively, for the Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in
sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix.
Hwx, Hwa, and Hwn, are reported
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels,
respectively, for the Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in
sections 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix.
Hwwx, Hwwa, and Hwwn, are
reported hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or
liters per cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill
levels, respectively, for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, as
measured in sections 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix.
Hcx, Hca, and Hcn, are reported
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels,
respectively, for the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in
sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw,
TUFww, and TUFc are temperature use factors
for Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse, Hot Wash/Cold Rinse, Warm Wash/Cold
Rinse, Warm Wash/Warm Rinse, and Cold Wash/Cold Rinse temperature
selections, respectively, as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this
appendix.
Table 4.1.1--Temperature Use Factors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Clothes washers with cold rinse only Clothes washers with both cold and
----------------------------------------------------------------- warm rinse
Wash/Rinse Temperature Selections Available in --------------------------------------
the Energy Test Cycle C/C H/C C/C H/C W/C C/C XH/C H/C C/ XH/C H/C W/ H/C W/C W/W XH/C H/C W/ XH/C H/C W/
C C C/C C/C W C/C C W/W C/C
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUFm (Extra-Hot/Cold)........................... ........... ........... ........... 0.14 0.05 ........... 0.14 0.05
TUFh (Hot/Cold)................................. ........... 0.63 0.14 * 0.49 0.09 0.14 * 0.22 0.09
TUFw (Warm/Cold)................................ ........... ........... 0.49 ........... 0.49 0.22 ........... 0.22
TUFww (Warm/Warm)............................... ........... ........... ........... ........... ........... 0.27 0.27 0.27
TUFc (Cold/Cold)................................ 1.00 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.37 0.37
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* On clothes washers with only two wash temperature selections <=135 [deg]F, the higher of the two wash temperatures is classified as a Hot Wash/Cold
Rinse, in accordance with the wash/rinse temperature definitions within the energy test cycle.
4.1.2 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption for all maximum,
average, and minimum water fill levels tested. Calculate the total per-
cycle hot water energy consumption for the maximum water fill level,
HEmax, the average water fill level, HEavg, and
the minimum water fill level, HEmin, expressed in kilowatt-
hours per cycle and defined as:
(a) HEmax = [Vhx x T x K] = Total energy when a
maximum load is tested.
(b) HEavg = [Vha x T x K] = Total energy when an
average load is tested.
(c) HEmin = [Vhn x T x K] = Total energy when a
minimum load is tested.
where:
Vhx, Vha, and Vhn are defined in
section 4.1.1 of this appendix.
T = Temperature rise = 75 [deg]F (41.7 [deg]C).
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F =
0.00240 kWh/gal-[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C).
4.1.3 Total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption.
Calculate the total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption,
HET, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
HET = [HEmax x Fmax] +
[HEavg x Favg] + HEmin x
Fmin]
where:
HEmax, HEavg, and HEmin are
defined in section 4.1.2 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are the
load usage factors for the maximum, average, and minimum test loads
based on the size and type of the control system on the washer being
tested, as defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water fill control
system
Load usage factor --------------------
Manual Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =............................................. 0.72 0.12
Favg =............................................. ....... 0.74
Fmin =............................................. 0.28 0.14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
4.1.4 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption using gas-heated
or oil-heated water, for product labeling requirements. Calculate for
the energy test cycle the per-cycle hot water consumption,
HETG, using gas-heated or oil-heated water, expressed in Btu
per cycle (or megajoules per cycle) and defined as:
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3412 Btu/kWh or
HETG = HET x 1/e x 3.6 MJ/kWh
where:
e = Nominal gas or oil water heater efficiency = 0.75.
HET = As defined in section 4.1.3 of this Appendix.
4.1.5 Per-cycle machine electrical energy consumption for all
maximum, average, and minimum test load sizes. Calculate the total per-
cycle machine electrical energy consumption for the maximum water fill
level, MEmax, the average water fill level,
MEavg, and the minimum water fill level, MEmin,
expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
(a) MEmax = [Emx x TUFm] +
[Ehx x TUFh] + [Ewx x TUFw]
+ [Ewwx x TUFww] + [Ecx x
TUFc]
(b) MEavg = [Ema x TUFm] +
[Eha x TUFh] + [Ewa x TUFw]
+ [Ewwa x TUFww] + [Eca x
TUFc]
(c) MEmin = [Emn x TUFm] +
[Ehn x TUFh] + [Ewn x TUFw]
+ [Ewwn x TUFww] + [Ecn x
TUFc]
[[Page 46783]]
where:
Emx, Ema, and Emn, are reported
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle,
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the
Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.3.1
through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
Ehx, Eha, and Ehn, are reported
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle,
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the
Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.4.1 through
3.4.3 of this appendix.
Ewx, Ewa, and Ewn, are reported
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle,
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.5.1 through
3.5.3 of this appendix.
Ewwx, Ewwa, and Ewwn, are
reported electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per
cycle, at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively,
for the Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.6.1
through 3.6.3 of this appendix.
Ecx, Eca, and Ecn, are reported
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle,
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the
Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.7.1 through
3.7.3 of this appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw,
TUFww, and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of
this appendix.
4.1.6 Total weighted per-cycle machine electrical energy
consumption. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle machine electrical
energy consumption, MET, expressed in kilowatt-hours per
cycle and defined as:
MET = [MEmax x Fmax] +
[MEavg x Favg] + [MEmin x
Fmin]
where:
MEmax, MEavg, and MEmin are
defined in section 4.1.5 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are
defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.1.7 Total per-cycle energy consumption when electrically heated
water is used. Calculate the total per-cycle energy consumption,
ETE, using electrically heated water, expressed in kilowatt-
hours per cycle and defined as:
ETE = HET + MET
where:
MET = As defined in section 4.1.6 of this appendix.
HET = As defined in section 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2 Water consumption of clothes washers.
4.2.1 Per-cycle water consumption for Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse.
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Extra-Hot
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qmmax = [Hmx + Cmx]
Qmavg = [Hma + Cma]
Qmmin = [Hmn + Cmn]
where:
Hmx, Cmx, Hma, Cma,
Hmn, and Cmn are defined in section 3.3 of
this appendix.
4.2.2 Per-cycle water consumption for Hot Wash/Cold Rinse.
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Hot Wash/
Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qhmax = [Hhx + Chx]
Qhavg = [Hha + Cha]
Qhmin = [Hhn + Chn]
where:
Hhx, Chx, Hha, Cha,
Hhn, and Chn are defined in section 3.4 of
this appendix.
4.2.3 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Cold Rinse.
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qwmax = [Hwx + Cwx]
Qwavg = [Hwa + Cwa]
Qwmin = [Hwn + Cwn]
where:
Hwx, Cwx, Hwa, Cwa,
Hwn, and Cwn are defined in section 3.5 of
this appendix.
4.2.4 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Warm Rinse.
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm
Wash/Warm Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qwwmax = [Hwwx + Cwwx]
Qwwavg = [Hwwa + Cwwa]
Qwwmin = [Hwwn + Cwwn]
where:
Hwwx, Cwwx, Hwwa,
Cwwa, Hwwn, and Cwwn are defined in
section 3.7 of this appendix.
4.2.5 Per-cycle water consumption for Cold Wash/Cold Rinse.
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Cold
Wash/Cold Rinse cycle and defined as:
Qcmax = [Hcx + Ccx]
Qcavg = [Hca + Cca]
Qcmin = [Hcn + Ccn]
where:
Hcx, Ccx, Hca, Cca,
Hcn, and Ccn are defined in section 3.6 of
this appendix.
4.2.6 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Extra-Hot
Wash/Cold Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water
consumption for the Extra-Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QmT,
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QmT = [Qmmax x Fmax] +
[Qmavg x Favg] + [Qmmin x
Fmin]
where:
Qmmax, Qmavg, Qmmin are defined
in section 4.2.1 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2.7 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Hot Wash/Cold
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the
Hot Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QhT, expressed in gallons per
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QhT = [Qhmax x Fmax] +
[Qhavg x Favg] + [Qhmin x
Fmin]
where:
Qhmax, Qhavg, Qhmin are defined
in section 4.2.2 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2.8 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Cold
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the
Warm Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QwT, expressed in gallons per
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QwT = [Qwmax x Fmax] +
[Qwavg x Favg] + [Qwmin x
Fmin]
where:
Qwmax, Qwavg, Qwmin are defined
in section 4.2.3 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2.9 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm Wash/Warm
Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for the
Warm Wash/Warm Rinse cycle, QwwT, expressed in gallons per
cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QwwT = [Qwwmax x Fmax] +
[Qwwavg x Favg] + [Qwwmin x
Fmin]
where:
Qwwmax, Qwwavg, Qwwmin are
defined in section 4.2.4 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2.10 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Cold Wash/
Cold Rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption
for the Cold Wash/Cold Rinse cycle, QcT, expressed in
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QcT = [Qcmax x Fmax] +
[Qcavg x Favg] + [Qcmin x
Fmin]
where:
Qcmax, Qcavg, Qcmin are defined
in section 4.2.5 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
4.2.11 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash
cycles. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle
[[Page 46784]]
water consumption for all wash cycles, QT, expressed in
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:
QT = [QmT x TUFm] + [QhT x
TUFh] + [QwT x TUFw] +
[QwwT x TUFww] + [QcT x
TUFc]
where:
QmT, QhT, QwT, QwwT,
and QcT are defined in sections 4.2.6 through 4.2.10 of
this appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw,
TUFww, and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of
this appendix.
4.2.12 Water factor. Calculate the water factor, WF, expressed in
gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liters per cycle per liter), as:
WF = QcT/C
where:
QcT = As defined in section 4.2.10 of this appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
4.2.13 Integrated water factor. Calculate the integrated water
factor, IWF, expressed in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liters
per cycle per liter), as:
IWF = QT/C
where:
QT = As defined in section 4.2.11 of this appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
4.3 Per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from test
load. Calculate the per-cycle energy required to remove the remaining
moisture of the test load, DE, expressed in kilowatt-hours
per cycle and defined as:
DE = [(Fmax x Maximum test load weight) +
(Favg x Average test load weight) + (Fmin x
Minimum test load weight)] x (RMCcorr - 4%) x (DEF) x (DUF)
where:
Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are
defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.
Maximum, average, and minimum test load weights are defined in
Table 5.1 of this appendix.
RMCcorr = As defined in section 3.8.2.6, 3.8.3.5, or
3.8.4.1 of this Appendix.
DEF = Nominal energy required for a clothes dryer to remove moisture
from clothes = 0.5 kWh/lb (1.1 kWh/kg).
DUF = Dryer usage factor, percentage of washer loads dried in a
clothes dryer = 0.91.
4.4 Per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption. Calculate
the per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption,
ETLP, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
ETLP = [(Pdefault x Sdefault) +
(Plowest x Slowest)] x Kp/295
where:
Pdefault = Default inactive/off mode power, in watts,
as measured in section 3.9.3 of this appendix.
Plowest = Lowest-power inactive/off mode power, in watts,
as measured in section 3.9.4 of this appendix for clothes washers
with a switch, dial, or button that can be optionally selected by
the end user to achieve a lower-power inactive/off mode than the
default inactive/off mode; otherwise, Plowest=0.
Sdefault= Annual hours in default inactive/off mode,
defined as 8,465 if no optional lowest-power inactive/off mode is
available; otherwise 4,232.5.
Slowest= Annual hours in lowest-power inactive/off mode,
defined as 0 if no optional lowest-power inactive/off mode is
available; otherwise 4,232.5.
Kp = Conversion factor of watt-hours to kilowatt-hours =
0.001.
295 = Representative average number of clothes washer cycles in a
year.
8,465 = Combined annual hours for inactive and off mode.
4,232.5 = One-half of the combined annual hours for inactive and off
mode.
4.5 Modified energy factor. Calculate the modified energy factor,
MEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-hour per cycle (or liters per
kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined as:
MEF = C/(ETE + DE)
where:
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
ETE = As defined in section 4.1.7 of this appendix.
DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.
4.6 Integrated modified energy factor. Calculate the integrated
modified energy factor, IMEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-hour
per cycle (or liters per kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined as:
IMEF = C/(ETE + DE + ETLP)
where:
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
ETE = As defined in section 4.1.7 of this appendix.
DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.
ETLP = As defined in section 4.4 of this appendix.
5. Test Loads
Table 5.1--Test Load Sizes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Container volume Minimum load Maximum load Average load
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
cu. ft. liter
----------------------------------------------- lb kg lb kg lb kg
>= < >= <
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.00-0.80..................... 0.00-22.7 3.00 1.36 3.00 1.36 3.00 1.36
0.80-0.90..................... 22.7-25.5 3.00 1.36 3.50 1.59 3.25 1.47
0.90-1.00..................... 25.5-28.3 3.00 1.36 3.90 1.77 3.45 1.56
1.00-1.10..................... 28.3-31.1 3.00 1.36 4.30 1.95 3.65 1.66
1.10-1.20..................... 31.1-34.0 3.00 1.36 4.70 2.13 3.85 1.75
1.20-1.30..................... 34.0-36.8 3.00 1.36 5.10 2.31 4.05 1.84
1.30-1.40..................... 36.8-39.6 3.00 1.36 5.50 2.49 4.25 1.93
1.40-1.50..................... 39.6-42.5 3.00 1.36 5.90 2.68 4.45 2.02
1.50-1.60..................... 42.5-45.3 3.00 1.36 6.40 2.90 4.70 2.13
1.60-1.70..................... 45.3-48.1 3.00 1.36 6.80 3.08 4.90 2.22
1.70-1.80..................... 48.1-51.0 3.00 1.36 7.20 3.27 5.10 2.31
1.80-1.90..................... 51.0-53.8 3.00 1.36 7.60 3.45 5.30 2.40
1.90-2.00..................... 53.8-56.6 3.00 1.36 8.00 3.63 5.50 2.49
2.00-2.10..................... 56.6-59.5 3.00 1.36 8.40 3.81 5.70 2.59
2.10-2.20..................... 59.5-62.3 3.00 1.36 8.80 3.99 5.90 2.68
2.20-2.30..................... 62.3-65.1 3.00 1.36 9.20 4.17 6.10 2.77
2.30-2.40..................... 65.1-68.0 3.00 1.36 9.60 4.35 6.30 2.86
2.40-2.50..................... 68.0-70.8 3.00 1.36 10.00 4.54 6.50 2.95
2.50-2.60..................... 70.8-73.6 3.00 1.36 10.50 4.76 6.75 3.06
2.60-2.70..................... 73.6-76.5 3.00 1.36 10.90 4.94 6.95 3.15
2.70-2.80..................... 76.5-79.3 3.00 1.36 11.30 5.13 7.15 3.24
[[Page 46785]]
2.80-2.90..................... 79.3-82.1 3.00 1.36 11.70 5.31 7.35 3.33
2.90-3.00..................... 82.1-85.0 3.00 1.36 12.10 5.49 7.55 3.42
3.00-3.10..................... 85.0-87.8 3.00 1.36 12.50 5.67 7.75 3.52
3.10-3.20..................... 87.8-90.6 3.00 1.36 12.90 5.85 7.95 3.61
3.20-3.30..................... 90.6-93.4 3.00 1.36 13.30 6.03 8.15 3.70
3.30-3.40..................... 93.4-96.3 3.00 1.36 13.70 6.21 8.35 3.79
3.40-3.50..................... 96.3-99.1 3.00 1.36 14.10 6.40 8.55 3.88
3.50-3.60..................... 99.1-101.9 3.00 1.36 14.60 6.62 8.80 3.99
3.60-3.70..................... 101.9-104.8 3.00 1.36 15.00 6.80 9.00 4.08
3.70-3.80..................... 104.8-107.6 3.00 1.36 15.40 6.99 9.20 4.17
3.80-3.90..................... 107.6-110.4 3.00 1.36 15.80 7.16 9.40 4.26
3.90-4.00..................... 110.4-113.3 3.00 1.36 16.20 7.34 9.60 4.35
4.00-4.10..................... 113.3-116.1 3.00 1.36 16.60 7.53 9.80 4.45
4.10-4.20..................... 116.1-118.9 3.00 1.36 17.00 7.72 10.00 4.54
4.20-4.30..................... 118.9-121.8 3.00 1.36 17.40 7.90 10.20 4.63
4.30-4.40..................... 121.8-124.6 3.00 1.36 17.80 8.09 10.40 4.72
4.40-4.50..................... 124.6-127.4 3.00 1.36 18.20 8.27 10.60 4.82
4.50-4.60..................... 127.4-130.3 3.00 1.36 18.70 8.46 10.85 4.91
4.60-4.70..................... 130.3-133.1 3.00 1.36 19.10 8.65 11.05 5.00
4.70-4.80..................... 133.1-135.9 3.00 1.36 19.50 8.83 11.25 5.10
4.80-4.90..................... 135.9-138.8 3.00 1.36 19.90 9.02 11.45 5.19
4.90-5.00..................... 138.8-141.6 3.00 1.36 20.30 9.20 11.65 5.28
5.00-5.10..................... 141.6-144.4 3.00 1.36 20.70 9.39 11.85 5.38
5.10-5.20..................... 144.4-147.2 3.00 1.36 21.10 9.58 12.05 5.47
5.20-5.30..................... 147.2-150.1 3.00 1.36 21.50 9.76 12.25 5.56
5.30-5.40..................... 150.1-152.9 3.00 1.36 21.90 9.95 12.45 5.65
5.40-5.50..................... 152.9-155.7 3.00 1.36 22.30 10.13 12.65 5.75
5.50-5.60..................... 155.7-158.6 3.00 1.36 22.80 10.32 12.90 5.84
5.60-5.70..................... 158.6-161.4 3.00 1.36 23.20 10.51 13.10 5.93
5.70-5.80..................... 161.4-164.2 3.00 1.36 23.60 10.69 13.30 6.03
5.80-5.90..................... 164.2-167.1 3.00 1.36 24.00 10.88 13.50 6.12
5.90-6.00..................... 167.1-169.9 3.00 1.36 24.40 11.06 13.70 6.21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes: (1) All test load weights are bone dry weights.
(2) Allowable tolerance on the test load weights is 0.10 lbs (0.05 kg).
6. Waivers and Field Testing
6.1 Waivers and Field Testing for Nonconventional Clothes Washers.
Manufacturers of nonconventional clothes washers, such as clothes
washers with adaptive control systems, must submit a petition for
waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27 to establish an acceptable test
procedure for that clothes washer if the washer cannot be tested
pursuant to the DOE test procedure or the DOE test procedure yields
results that are so unrepresentative of the clothes washer's true
energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate
comparative data. In such cases, field testing may be appropriate for
establishing an acceptable test procedure. The following are guidelines
for field testing that may be used by manufacturers in support of
petitions for waiver. These guidelines are not mandatory and the
Department may determine that they do not apply to a particular model.
Depending upon a manufacturer's approach for conducting field testing,
additional data may be required. Manufacturers are encouraged to
communicate with the Department prior to the commencement of field
tests that may be used to support a petition for waiver. Section 6.3 of
this appendix provides an example of field testing for a clothes washer
with an adaptive water fill control system. Other features, such as the
use of various spin speed selections, could be the subject of field
tests.
6.2 Nonconventional Wash System Energy Consumption Test. The field
test may consist of a minimum of 10 of the nonconventional clothes
washers (``test clothes washers'') and 10 clothes washers already being
distributed in commerce (``base clothes washers''). The tests should
include a minimum of 50 wash cycles per clothes washer. The test
clothes washers and base clothes washers should be identical in
construction except for the controls or systems being tested. Equal
numbers of both the test clothes washer and the base clothes washer
should be tested simultaneously in comparable settings to minimize
seasonal or end-user laundering conditions or variations. The clothes
washers should be monitored in such a way as to accurately record the
average total energy and water consumption per cycle, including water
heating energy when electrically heated water is used, and the energy
required to remove the remaining moisture of the test load. Standby and
off mode energy consumption should be measured according to section 4.4
of this test procedure. The field test results should be used to
determine the best method to correlate the rating of the test clothes
washer to the rating of the base clothes washer.
6.3 Adaptive water fill control system field test. (1) Section
3.2.6.3 of this appendix defines the test method for measuring energy
consumption for clothes washers that incorporate both adaptive
(automatic) and alternate manual water fill control systems. Energy
consumption calculated by the method defined in section 3.2.6.3 of this
appendix assumes the adaptive cycle will be used 50 percent of the
time. This section can be used to develop field test
[[Page 46786]]
data in support of a petition for waiver when it is believed that the
adaptive cycle will be used more than 50 percent of the time. The field
test sample size should be a minimum of 10 test clothes washers. The
test clothes washers should be representative of the design,
construction, and control system that will be placed in commerce. The
duration of field testing in the user's house should be a minimum of 50
wash cycles, for each unit. No special instructions as to cycle
selection or product usage should be given to the field test
participants, other than inclusion of the product literature pack that
would be shipped with all units, and instructions regarding filling out
data collection forms, use of data collection equipment, or basic
procedural methods. Prior to the test clothes washers being installed
in the field test locations, baseline data should be developed for all
field test units by conducting laboratory tests as defined by section 1
through section 5 of this appendix to determine the energy consumption,
water consumption, and remaining moisture content values. The following
data should be measured and recorded for each wash load during the test
period: wash cycle selected, the mode of the clothes washer (adaptive
or manual), clothes load dry weight (measured after the clothes washer
and clothes dryer cycles are completed) in pounds, and type of articles
in the clothes load (e.g., cottons, linens, permanent press). The wash
cycles used in calculating the in-home percentage split between
adaptive and manual cycle usage should be only those wash cycles that
conform to the definition of the energy test cycle.
Calculate:
T = The total number of wash cycles run during the field test.
Ta = The total number of adaptive control wash cycles.
Tm = The total number of manual control wash cycles.
The percentage weighting factors:
Pa = (Ta/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting
for adaptive control selection)
Pm = (Tm/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting
for manual control selection)
(2) Energy consumption (HET, MET, and
DE) and water consumption (QT) values calculated
in section 4 of this appendix for the manual and adaptive modes should
be combined using Pa and Pm as the weighting
factors.
0
8. Add Appendix J3 to subpart B of part 430 to read as follows:
Appendix J3 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring
the Moisture Absorption and Retention Characteristics of New Energy
Test Cloth Lots
Note: DOE maintains an historical record of the standard extractor
test data and final correction curve coefficients for each approved lot
of energy test cloth. These can be accessed through DOE's Web page for
standards and test procedures for residential clothes washers at DOE's
Building Technologies Office Appliance and Equipment Standards Web
site.
1. Objective
The following procedure is used to evaluate the moisture absorption
and retention characteristics of a new lot of test cloth by measuring
the remaining moisture content (RMC) in a standard extractor at a
specified set of conditions. The results are used to develop a set of
coefficients that correlate the measured RMC values of the new test
cloth lot with a set of standard RMC values established as an
historical reference point. These correction coefficients are applied
to the RMC measurements performed during testing according to appendix
J1 or appendix J2 to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B, ensuring that the final
corrected RMC measurement for a clothes washer remains independent of
the test cloth lot used for testing.
2. Definitions
2.1 AHAM means the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
2.2 Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again for
10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1
percent or less.
2.3 Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured with
the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous process.
3. Testing Conditions
3.1 Table 3.1 of this appendix provides the matrix of test
conditions. In the table, ``g Force'' represents units of gravitational
acceleration. When this matrix is repeated 3 times, a total of 60
extractor RMC test runs are required. For the purpose of the extractor
RMC test, the test cloths may be used for up to 60 test runs (after
preconditioning as specified in appendix J1 or appendix J2).
Table 3.1--Matrix of Extractor RMC Test Conditions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Warm soak Cold soak
``g Force'' -------------------------------------------------------------------
15 min. spin 4 min. spin 15 min. spin 4 min. spin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100......................................... ............... ............... ............... ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
200......................................... ............... ............... ............... ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
350......................................... ............... ............... ............... ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
500......................................... ............... ............... ............... ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
650......................................... ............... ............... ............... ...............
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.2 Perform the standard extractor RMC tests using a North Star
Engineered Products Inc. (formerly Bock) Model 215 extractor (having a
basket diameter of 20 inches, height of 11.5 inches, and volume of 2.09
ft\3\), with a variable speed drive (North Star Engineered Products,
P.O. Box 5127, Toledo, OH 43611) or an equivalent extractor with same
basket design (i.e., diameter, height, volume, and hole configuration)
and variable speed drive. Table 3.2 shows the extractor spin speed, in
revolutions per minute (RPM), that must be used to attain each required
g-force level.
[[Page 46787]]
Table 3.2--Extractor Spin Speeds for Each Test Condition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
``g Force'' RPM
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100........................................................ 594 1
200........................................................ 840 1
350........................................................ 1,111 1
500........................................................ 1,328 1
650........................................................ 1,514 1
------------------------------------------------------------------------
3.3 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must
heat the test cloth and energy stuffer cloths above 210 [deg]F (99
[deg]C).
4. Test Loads
4.1 Preconditioning. New test cloths, including energy test cloths
and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-conditioned in a clothes washer
in the following manner:
Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with
current AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3 and the last three without
detergent. Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the maximum
water level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 ppm
hardness or less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of cloth load
of AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash temperature is to be
controlled to 135[deg]F 5[deg]F (57.2 [deg]C
2.8 [deg]C) and the rinse temperature is to be controlled to 60[deg]F
5;[deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C). Repeat the
cycle with detergent and then repeat the cycle three additional times
without detergent, bone drying the load between cycles (for a total of
five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles).
4.2 Test load composition. Test loads must be comprised of
randomly selected cloth at the beginning, middle and end of a lot.
4.3 Test load size. Use a test load size of 8.4 lbs. Two test
loads may be used for standard extractor RMC tests, with each load used
for half of the total number of required tests.
5. Test Measurements
5.1 Dry the test cloth until it is ``bone-dry'' according to the
definition in section 2.2 of this appendix. Record the bone-dry weight
of the test load (WI).
5.2 Prepare the test load for soak by grouping four test cloths
into loose bundles. Create the bundles by hanging four cloths
vertically from one corner and loosely wrapping the test cloth onto
itself to form the bundle. Bundles should be wrapped loosely to ensure
consistency of water extraction. Then place the bundles into the water
to soak. Eight to nine bundles will be formed depending on the test
load. The ninth bundle may not equal four cloths but can incorporate
energy stuffer cloths to help offset the size difference.
5.3 Soak the test load for 20 minutes in 10 gallons of soft (<17
ppm) water. The entire test load must be submerged. Maintain a water
temperature of 100 [deg]F 5 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C) at all times between the start and end of the soak.
5.4 Remove the test load and allow each of the test cloth bundles
to drain over the water bath for a maximum of 5 seconds.
5.5 Manually place the test cloth bundles in the basket of the
extractor, distributing them evenly by eye. The draining and loading
process must take no longer than 1 minute. Spin the load at a fixed
speed corresponding to the intended centripetal acceleration level
(measured in units of the acceleration of gravity, g) 1g
for the intended time period 5 seconds. Begin the timer
when the extractor meets the required spin speed for each test.
5.6 Record the weight of the test load immediately after the
completion of the extractor spin cycle (WC).
5.7 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the test load as
(WC-WI)/WI.
5.8 Draining the soak tub is not necessary if the water bath is
corrected for water level and temperature before the next extraction.
5.9 Drying the test load in between extraction runs is not
necessary. However, the bone dry weight must be checked after every 12
extraction runs to make sure the bone dry weight is within tolerance
(8.4 0.1 lb).
5.10 The test load must be soaked and extracted once following bone
drying, before continuing with the remaining extraction runs. Perform
this extraction at the same spin speed used for the extraction run
prior to bone drying, for a time period of 4 minutes. Either warm or
cold soak temperature may be used.
5.11 Measure the remaining moisture content of the test load at
five g levels: 100 g, 200 g, 350 g, 500 g, and 650 g, using two
different spin times at each g level: 4 minutes and 15 minutes.
5.12 Repeat sections 5.1 through 5.11 of this appendix using soft
(<17 ppm) water at 60[emsp14][deg]F5[emsp14][deg]F (15.6
[deg]C 2.8 [deg]C).
6. Calculation of RMC Correction Curve
6.1 Average the values of 3 test runs, and fill in Table 3.1 of
this appendix. Perform a linear least-squares fit to determine
coefficients A and B such that the standard RMC values shown in Table
6.1 of this appendix (RMCstandard) are linearly related to
the RMC values measured in section 5 of this appendix
(RMCcloth):
RMCstandard ~ A * RMCcloth + B
where A and B are coefficients of the linear least-squares fit.
Table 6.1--Standard RMC Values (RMCstandard)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RMC Percentage
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Warm soak Cold soak
``g Force'' -------------------------------------------------------------------
15 min. spin 4 min. spin 15 min. spin 4 min. spin
(percent) (percent) (percent) (percent)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100......................................... 45.9 49.9 49.7 52.8
200......................................... 35.7 40.4 37.9 43.1
350......................................... 29.6 33.1 30.7 35.8
500......................................... 24.2 28.7 25.5 30.0
650......................................... 23.0 26.4 24.1 28.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6.2 Perform an analysis of variance with replication test using two
factors, spin speed and lot, to check the interaction of speed and lot.
Use the values from Table 3.1 and Table 6.1 of this appendix in the
calculation. The ``P'' value of the F-statistic for interaction between
spin speed and lot in the variance analysis must be greater than or
equal to 0.1. If the ``P'' value is less than 0.1, the test cloth is
unacceptable. ``P'' is a theoretically based measure of interaction
based on an analysis of variance.
[[Page 46788]]
7. Application of the RMC Correction Curve
7.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in section 6.1 of
this appendix:
RMCcorr = A x RMC + B
7.2 Apply this RMC correction curve to measured RMC values in
appendix J1 and appendix J2.
[FR Doc. 2015-18330 Filed 8-4-15; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C