DOE Finalizes HVAC Rule

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is adopting the stricter efficiency standards specified in ASHRAE 90.1–2010 in a new rule affecting heating, air conditioning, and water heating equipment. ”Energy Efficiency Program for Certain Commercial and Industrial Equipment” addresses air conditioners and heat pumps defined as packaged terminal, single package vertical, or variable-refrigerant-flow (VRF); computer room air conditioners; and a variety of boilers, water heaters, and storage tanks. To align DOE testing with industry procedures, the new tests reference ASHRAE 90.1-2010, ANSI, Underwriters Laboratories, and operation manuals from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute. The rule will take effect in October 2012 for small VRF heat pumps and computer-room air conditioners and in May 2013 for other equipment.