[Federal Register Volume 64, Number 187 (Tuesday, September 28, 1999)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 52248-52259]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 99-25186]
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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
10 CFR Part 430
[Docket No. EE-RM/TP-99-500]
RIN 1904-AA52
Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedure
for Dishwashers
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking and public workshop.
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SUMMARY: The Department of Energy (We, DOE, or the Department) is
proposing to amend its test procedure for dishwashers. The proposal
adds test procedures for dishwashers with soil-sensing technology. It
also revises some of the inputs for calculating the estimated annual
operating cost, adds new specifications to improve testing
[[Page 52249]]
repeatability, and changes the definitions of compact and standard
models. The proposed amendments of the test procedure do not alter the
minimum energy conservation standards currently in effect for
dishwashers.
DATES: The Department will accept comments, data, and information
regarding the proposed rule no later than December 13, 1999. Please
submit ten (10) copies. In addition, the Department requests that you
provide an electronic copy (3\1/2\'' diskette) of the comments in
WordPerfect TM format.
The Department will hold a public workshop (hearing) on Tuesday,
November 2, 1999, in Washington, DC. Please send requests to speak at
the workshop so that we receive them by 4:00 p.m., Tuesday, October 19,
1999. The Department must also receive ten (10) copies of statements to
be given at the public workshop no later than 4:00 p.m., October 20,
1999, and we request that you provide a computer diskette (WordPerfect
TM) of each statement at that time.
ADDRESSES: Please address requests to make statements at the public
workshop and copies of those statements to Ms. Brenda Edwards-Jones,
and send written comments regarding the proposed rule to Ms. Barbara
Twigg, both at the following address: U.S. Department of Energy, Office
of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, EE-41, 1000 Independence
Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. You should identify all
documents both on the envelope and on the documents as ``Energy
Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedure for
Dishwashers, Docket No. EE-RM/TP-99-500.'' The workshop will begin at
9:00 a.m., on Tuesday, November 2, 1999, in Room 1E-245 at the U.S.
Department of Energy, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue, SW,
Washington, DC. You can find more information concerning public
participation in this rulemaking proceeding in section IV, ``Public
Comment,'' of this notice.
You can read copies of the transcript of the public workshop and
public comments in the Freedom of Information Reading Room (Room No.
1E-190) at the U.S. Department of Energy, Forrestal Building, 1000
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC, between the hours of 9:00 a.m.
and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays. You may
obtain copies of the referenced standard AHAM DW-1 by request from the
Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, 1111 19th Street, NW,
Suite 402, Washington, DC 20036, (202) 872-5955.
The latest information regarding the public workshop is available
on the Office of Codes and Standards web site at the following address:
http://www.eren.doe.gov/buildings/codes__standards/index.htm
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Barbara Twigg, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, EE-41, 1000
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121, (202) 586-8714,
email: barbara.twigg@ee.doe.gov; or Eugene Margolis, Esq., U.S.
Department of Energy, Office of General Counsel, GC-72, 1000
Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20585, (202) 586-9507, email:
eugene.margolis@hq.doe.gov
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
I. Introduction
A. Authority
B. Background
C. Summary of the Proposed Test Procedure Revisions
II. Discussion
A. General Discussion
B. Changes in Dishwasher Design and Consumer Practices
C. Improving Testing Repeatability
D. Corrections to the Last Published Rule
E. Re-testing Soil-sensing Dishwasher Models with New Test
Procedure
III. Procedural Requirements
A. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
B. Review Under Executive Order 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and
Review'
C. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980
D. ``Takings'' Assessment Review
E. Federalism Review
F. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
G. Review Under Executive Order 12988, ``Civil Justice Reform''
H. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
I. Review Under the Plain Language Directives
J. Review Under the Treasury and General Government
Appropriations Act, 1999
IV. Public Comment
A. Written Comment Procedures
B. Public Workshop
1. Procedures for submitting requests to speak
2. Conduct of workshop
C. Issues Requested for Comment
I. Introduction
A. Authority
Part B of Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as
amended (EPCA or Act), establishes the Energy Conservation Program for
Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles (Program). The products
currently subject to this Program (``covered products'') include
residential dishwashers, the subject of today's notice.
Under the Act, the Program consists of three parts: testing,
labeling, and the Federal energy conservation standards. The
Department, in consultation with the National Institute of Standards
and Technology (NIST), must amend or establish test procedures as
appropriate for each of the covered products. Section 323 of EPCA, 42
U.S.C. 6293. The purpose of the test procedures is to measure energy
efficiency, energy use, or estimated annual operating cost of a covered
product during a representative average use cycle or period of use. The
test procedure must not be unduly burdensome to conduct. Section
323(b)(3) of EPCA, 42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3).
If a test procedure is amended, DOE is required to determine to
what extent, if any, the new test procedure would alter the measured
energy efficiency or measured energy use of any covered product as
determined under the existing test procedure. If DOE determines that an
amended test procedure would alter the measured efficiency or measured
energy use of a covered product, DOE is required to amend the
applicable energy conservation standard accordingly. In determining the
amended energy conservation standard, DOE is required to measure the
energy efficiency or energy use of a representative sample of covered
products that minimally comply with the existing standard. The average
efficiency of these representative samples, tested using the amended
test procedure, constitutes the amended standard. Section 323(e)(1) of
EPCA, 42 U.S.C. 6293(e)(1).
Beginning 180 days after a test procedure for a product is
prescribed, no manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or private labeler
may make representations with respect to the energy use, efficiency, or
cost of energy consumed by such products, except as reflected in tests
conducted according to the DOE procedure. Section 323(c)(2) of EPCA, 42
U.S.C. 6293(c)(2).
B. Background
The Department published the original dishwasher test procedure on
August 3, 1977 (42 FR 39964). On March 3, 1983 (48 FR 9202), we
published an amended version which revised the representative average-
use cycles to reflect consumer use and to address dishwashers that use
120 deg.F inlet water. We amended the test procedure again on November
27, 1984 (49 FR 46533), in order to redefine a water heating dishwasher
by deleting the requirement for internal heating in the rinse phase of
a normal cycle. On
[[Page 52250]]
December 15, 1987 (52 FR 47551), DOE amended the dishwasher test
procedure to address models that use 50 deg.F inlet water.
In February 1995, NIST conducted a review of domestic and
international dishwasher test procedures. NIST submitted two reports,
``Review of the DOE Test Procedure for Residential Dishwashers'' and
``Review of AHAM (Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers) and
International Test Procedures for Residential Dishwashers,'' to DOE on
July 17, 1995. These reports identified many of the problems that are
addressed in this notice. On December 13, 1995, we met with NIST, AHAM,
and representatives from six dishwasher manufacturers to discuss the
two NIST reports and proposed changes to the test procedure.
Following this meeting, NIST conducted a series of tests on two
residential dishwashers, one conventional and one soil-sensing, using
the current DOE, International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC), and
AHAM dishwasher test procedures. Review of the DOE test procedure made
clear the need for revision, while the studies using the two latter
test procedures highlighted the difficulty in conducting repeatable
performance-based testing with soil loads, regardless of dishwasher
type.
In May 1997, NIST published a report entitled ``Energy and Water
Consumption Testing of a Conventional Dishwasher and an Adaptive
Control Dishwasher, IATC-1997.'' Subsequently, we again met with NIST,
manufacturers, and environmental groups to discuss options for
improving the effectiveness of the current test procedure. AHAM then
sent a letter to the Department which compiled many of the discussed
changes and suggested a new approach to testing soil-sensing
dishwashers.
In preparing this Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, we have taken into
consideration different views on how to improve the current test
procedure and incorporated suggestions from industry and other
stakeholders. The amendments proposed in this notice will provide a
more accurate procedure for determining the energy factor for
dishwashers employing soil-sensing technology than the existing one,
which does not adequately measure the energy use of these models. We
also propose to update the average use cycles to reflect current usage
patterns, and to revise the measurements and calculations required to
determine the values used to estimate the annual operating cost for all
dishwashers. The Department welcomes test data to determine the effects
of these modifications on any existing soil-sensing dishwasher.
C. Summary of the Proposed Test Procedure Revisions
The Department proposes the following changes to the dishwasher
test procedure:
1. Update the test procedure to reflect changes in dishwasher
design and consumer practices.
Add test procedures for soil-sensing dishwashers.
Add new definitions for sensor normal cycle and sensor
truncated normal cycle.
Add a new formula for calculating the machine and water
energy consumption per cycle for soil-sensing models.
Update the representative average number of use cycles per
year.
Combine explanation of the Estimated Annual Operating Cost
(EAOC) calculation for dishwashers both with and without normal and
truncated normal cycles.
Base the definitions of compact and standard dishwashers
on place-setting capacity.
2. Improve testing repeatability.
Revise definition 1.10, ``Truncated Normal Cycle''
(previously 1.5).
Tighten the tolerance for ambient temperature.
Add more detail to test chamber installation requirements.
Add an instruction for manufacturers to run a conditioning
cycle prior to the test.
Introduce a new section, Section 3, ``Instrumentation,''
to consolidate all measurement specifications and to base tolerances on
nominal values.
Improve the overall format while introducing the new
methodology for soil-sensing dishwashers.
3. Correct the last published rule.
Correct typographical errors in definition 1.11, ``Water
Heating Dishwasher'' (previously 1.6), and in section 2.2.2,
``electrical.''
Remove obsolete text specific to dishwashers manufactured
before May 14, 1994.
II. Discussion
A. General Discussion
While this proposed rulemaking retains many of the features of the
current test procedure for measuring the energy use of dishwashers, it
also includes important changes. We are retaining the current method
for testing conventional, or non-soil-sensing dishwashers. However, we
propose to amend the established test procedure by adding a new test
method for measuring the energy consumption of soil-sensing models. The
new procedure for the soil-sensing models will require manufacturers to
measure the energy consumption of both short and long cycles, and
weight the average results by the percentage of users who pre-rinse
their dishes and those who do not pre-treat. This variable of consumer
behavior is an important factor in determining whether a dishwasher
sensor will select a short wash cycle or a long wash cycle. The sensor
will select a short cycle with reduced energy consumption if pre-rinsed
dishes add little food matter into the water. The sensor will select a
longer cycle, increasing energy use, if dirty dishes raise the level of
food matter in the water. In order to determine a fair representation
of how these soil-sensing machines perform, the Department is
especially interested in receiving comments on user behavior with
regard to pre-treatment of dishes, or more directly, information on the
average soil load that dishwashers today encounter. Such data on
consumer pre-rinsing behavior will help us to assign more accurate
percentages to how often a dishwasher's load is heavily soiled, versus
how often the load of dishes is almost soil-free.
B. Changes in Dishwasher Design and Consumer Practices
1. Soil-Sensing Technology
The introduction of dishwasher models using soil-sensing technology
prompted the need to revise the current test procedure, last revised in
1987, because the current test method does not accurately measure the
energy consumption of models with variable cycles. The soil-sensing (or
adaptive control) dishwashers adjust the length of the washing cycle
according to the amount of soil matter in the water. A well-rinsed dish
load will trigger a short wash cycle, while more heavily soiled dishes
will trigger a longer cycle. The soil-sensing dishwashers measure the
level of turbidity in the water or the pressure drop across filter
screens to determine the soil level and select the appropriate cycle.
However, when soil-sensing dishwashers are tested with the current test
procedure, which uses only clean dishes, the absence of soils
invariably triggers a shortened cycle. Thus, the energy factors
obtained are very high and do not reflect a dishwasher's performance
when a soiled load is present. At least one manufacturer, Maytag, has
reported to DOE lower energy factors than those obtained using the
current test procedure because it recognizes that the
[[Page 52251]]
results are not representative of the energy and water consumption that
consumers are likely to experience under normal use. Some loads could
be highly soiled, triggering a longer cycle and resulting in a lower
energy factor for the machine. Thus, the test procedure for soil-
sensing machines should provide reliable data reflecting performance
under both types of loads, well-rinsed and soiled, without greatly
increasing the test burden or cost to manufacturers.
As a first step in establishing testing procedures for the new
models, the Department proposes to add definitions for conventional and
soil-sensing dishwashers, and to prescribe a distinct test method for
each. The test for conventional dishwashers remains essentially the
same. The new test for soil-sensing models is based on a method
developed by AHAM. Following a series of discussions with
manufacturers, AHAM suggested a method to collect representative data
by artificially forcing soil-sensing dishwashers into a maximum sensor
normal cycle. DOE is proposing to adapt this method with modifications
proposed by NIST. Although the concept is unchanged, NIST determined
that language was needed to address the calculation of machine energy
and water energy, adding weighting factors to each.
Under the new test procedure, manufacturers would test a soil-
sensing dishwasher in accordance with the current DOE test procedure in
the normal cycle and record the energy and water consumption values for
the ``minimum sensor normal'' as Mmin and Vmin,
respectively. They would then adjust the dishwasher cycle to reflect
maximum soil loading and repeat the test, recording the energy and
water consumption values for the ``maximum sensor normal'' as
Mmax and Vmax, respectively. Each manufacturer
would record, in the certification report, keystroke instructions on
how to force a dishwasher into a maximum sensor normal response.
The next step would be to weight energy and water consumption
values according to the fraction of people who do and do not pre-treat
their dishes. The electrical energy consumption per cycle for the
machine will be expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as: M
= [Mmin .(P) + Mmax .(1-
P)], where P equals the fraction of people who pre-treat dishes and (1-
P) equals the fraction of people who do not pre-treat dishes.
Similarly, the water consumption per cycle for the machine will be
expressed in gallons per cycle and defined as: V = [Vmin
.(P) + Vmax .(1-P)] , using the same
weighting factors (P and 1-P).
The manufacturers would then use the water consumption to calculate
the energy required to heat the supply water. Next, they would combine
that energy with the machine energy to yield the total per cycle energy
consumption for the test unit. Additionally, if the test unit has a
truncated cycle option (a cycle preset to eliminate the power-dry
feature), the test would be repeated and the data collected for the
``minimum truncated sensor normal'' and the ``maximum truncated sensor
normal'' cycles. These values would be used to calculate the EAOC under
the current method.
The Department has reviewed these suggestions and proposes to adopt
this method for testing soil-sensing dishwashers with some
modification. We believe that although the methodology is acceptable,
the matter of how to force the dishwasher into a maximum response mode
must be clarified. The Department therefore proposes to include a
clause stating that if a manufacturer does not have a way to
artificially force a maximum sensor normal cycle, the manufacturer must
introduce a soil load according to the AHAM DW-1 performance test to
trigger a maximum response.
A second issue is the determination of what percentages should be
used in prorating the Mmin, Mmax,
Vmin, and Vmax values. AHAM proposed using data
obtained from the Soap and Detergent Association (SDA) based on surveys
of the number of persons who pre-treat their soiled dishes versus those
who merely scrape the soiled dishes or load them directly into the
dishwasher. The SDA report, based on 1995 data, states that 79 percent
of the people surveyed pre-treat their dishes (using water to rinse,
scrub, or soak the dishes) and 21 percent of those surveyed do nothing
or merely scrape their plates. However, the SDA report also cautions
that because these results are based on consumer perception and
interpretation, not on objective measures of loads washed, their survey
has ``the inherent uncertainties of consumer questionnaires.'' The
resulting data could give an ``indication of the use and patterns of
use,'' but ``should probably not be used in an energy standards setting
framework.'' (See SDA letter to AHAM, July 13, 1998.)
The Oregon Office of Energy submitted a comment expressing concern
about the lack of hard data regarding consumer pre-treatment of dishes
and the acceptance of the 79-21 weights suggested by the SDA survey.
The comment questioned the ``rather loose definition of `pre-treatment
of dishes with water,''' and stated that ``without more exacting data
as to what `pre-treatment' means, and what effect partially rinsed
dishes (or combined loads of `pre-treated' and not `pre-treated') might
have on existing sensor-equipped models, [they] will argue against any
weighting proposal other than 50-50.'' (See Stephens letter, p. 2,
December 16, 1998.)
The Department agrees that given the disclaimer within the SDA
report and other expressed concerns, the 1995 SDA data is not
sufficient for determining the percentages of pre-treatment. For this
reason, we collected additional data from a 1989 Proctor and Gamble
survey which found that approximately 73 percent of the surveyed
population pre-treated their dishes, while 27 percent did not pre-treat
their dishes. This information supports the AHAM statement that the
number of persons who pre-treat their dishes has increased over the
past 10 years. Another dishwasher user survey conducted in 1999 by
Dethman and Associates for the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance and
the Consortium for Energy Efficiency found that 63 percent of
respondents rated their dishes as ``somewhat clean,'' with small
particles of food left, or ``very clean,'' with all or almost all of
the food gone. However, when Dethman and Associates calculated a
cleanliness score based on a series of questions, the results showed
that 83 percent of respondents rated their loads as ``somewhat clean''
or ``very clean.'' This discrepancy highlights the subjective nature of
these surveys and the variation in results depending on the way
questions were presented. We are therefore using these data as a
qualitative indication and not as a quantitative measure of consumer
practices.
Other reasons for regarding the data as an imperfect approximation
involve the assumptions behind the use of the percentages in the
prorated calculation procedure. Prorating assumes a linear relationship
between soil loading and energy consumption, which may or may not apply
to a given dishwasher design. Also, as illustrated by the Dethman and
Associates Dishwasher Survey Report, dishes loaded into dishwashers do
not simply fall into two distinct categories, clean and dirty, but vary
along a continuum from clean, at one extreme, to heavily soiled on the
other. Because of this variation, some loads that are not pre-treated
may still not require, or trigger, the maximum cycle, while on the
other hand, a pre-treated load may contain some heavily soiled dishes
that require the washer to go beyond the
[[Page 52252]]
minimum cycle to clean them adequately. A more precise calculation
would require detailed soil loading statistics reflecting consumer
behavior, as well as specific dishwasher response patterns to the
loadings over a corresponding range of values.
Lacking more precise data at this time, the Department is proposing
to use the following compromise figures as a reasonable surrogate for
average soil loading: 70 percent to represent the percentage of the
population that pre-treats their dishes and 30 percent to represent the
percentage that does not pre-treat their dishes. Since the
determination of these percentages is critical to the test procedure
formula for the soil-sensing dishwashers, we are especially interested
in receiving comments on the percentages proposed. If stakeholders
propose alternative percentages for consumer pre-treatment behavior, it
is critical that they provide data or other information that justifies
those percentages.
2. Representative Average Dishwasher Use
In 1983, DOE amended the dishwasher test procedure to reduce the
representative average use from 416 cycles per year to 322 cycles per
year based on a Proctor and Gamble survey of consumer use conducted
prior to 1982. For this rulemaking, the Department solicited new survey
data from the SDA for more recent years. In response, the SDA provided
survey results for selected years between 1985 and 1995 which indicate
that the number of cycles consumers use on a yearly basis has
decreased. Therefore, the Department is proposing to revise the
representative average annual use to 264 cycles per year 1.
This change effectively lowers the annual energy use and therefore the
estimated EAOC, defined as the product of the per cycle energy
consumption, the representative average-use cycles, and the cost of
energy.
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\1\ 264 represents the average number of cycles per year for the
odd years, 85/86, 87/88, 89/90, 91/92, 93/94, 95/96, based on survey
data obtained by a member company of the SDA and provided to the
Department by AHAM via letter dated July 22, 1998. Note: data for
survey years 90/91 and 92/93 were disregarded as part of the
incomplete set of data points for the even survey years.
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3. Standby Electricity Consumption
The Department received a comment from the Oregon Office of Energy
calling our attention to the issue of standby electricity consumption
in dishwasher models using transformers and microprocessors to power
timers, display lights, and other advanced cycle, control, and soil-
sensing features. The comment urged that this ``invisible'' power
consumption be included in the overall energy consumption for
dishwashers to give a more complete and accurate calculation of energy
use than is currently available (See Stephens letter, p. 3, supra).
Although we recognize that it is important to evaluate standby power
consumption in both dishwashers and other appliances, the Department
plans to develop a consistent policy for all covered appliances on a
program-wide basis. Until that time, we will not address standby power
consumption in individual test procedure rulemakings.
4. New Definitions for ``Compact'' and ``Standard'' Dishwashers
DOE proposes to change the definitions of ``compact'' and
``standard'' dishwashers, found in section 430.32(f). The current test
procedure uses exterior width to define the following product classes.
Compact dishwashers are those models less than 22 inches in exterior
width. Standard dishwashers are equal to or greater than 22 inches in
exterior width.
Upon reinvestigation of this definition, however, we believe that
using width to determine the product class is not correct. The proposed
definition would use place setting capacity to distinguish compact from
standard models, the determinant used by industry and by the Federal
Trade Commission (FTC) for labeling. Thus, the Department proposes to
define a compact dishwasher as a unit with a capacity of fewer than
eight place settings, and a standard dishwasher as a unit with a
capacity of eight or more place settings. This change should provide a
more accurate, useful, and consistent classification for consumers. We
are aware, for example, of a few models for which the current DOE
classification system seems inconsistent and misleading. Whirlpool, for
example, manufactures an under-counter dishwasher under the Roper
Brand, model RUD0800EB, which has an eight place setting capacity.
Because it is only 18 inches wide, however, it is classified as a
compact dishwasher. Under the proposed definition, the Whirlpool 18
inch model, along with all models having an 8 place setting plus six
serving piece capacity, would be classified as standard dishwashers.
Another dishwasher that presents a potential for mislabeling under
the current width-based definition is the ``DishDrawer'' model
manufactured by Fisher & Paykel which can be purchased with one drawer
(model DD601) or two drawers (model DD602). This two drawer system
operates as two stacked dishwashers sharing the same plumbing and
washing system that can operate together or independently. However, if
a customer only purchases the single drawer option, with its loading
capacity of approximately 6 place settings, the single drawer model
would be incorrectly classified as a standard-sized dishwasher because
the drawer is greater than 22 inches wide. Disregarding the DOE
definition, Fisher and Paykel has already marketed its single drawer
model as a compact dishwasher, despite its standard-sized width.
The Department believes that a capacity-based definition of
dishwasher class will be more useful to consumers when making
purchasing decisions, since it appears that capacity, not width, is the
criterion which most often determines a consumer's selection of a
standard or compact model. This change will also ensure that all
dishwashers are held to the appropriate minimum energy standard for
their intended class, and that Federal definitions for making
dishwasher class distinctions are rational. We therefore propose that
the Department's definition of standard and compact dishwashers be
based on capacity, consistent with the following FTC definitions (16
CFR Part 305 Appendix C):
`` `Compact' includes countertop dishwasher models with a capacity
of fewer than eight (8) place settings.
`` `Standard' includes portable or built-in dishwasher models with
a capacity of eight (8) or more place settings.
``Place settings shall be in accordance with Appendix C to Subpart
B of 10 CFR part 430, [2.6.2].''
The Department proposes to modify Section 430.32(f) to read as
follows:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Energy
factor
Product class (cycles/
KWh)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Compact Dishwasher (capacity less than eight place 0.62
settings plus six serving pieces as specified in section 6
of AHAM Standard DW-1)......................................
(2) Standard Dishwasher (capacity equal to or greater than 0.46
eight place settings plus six serving pieces as specified in
section 6 of AHAM Standard DW-1)............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
This definition would also be consistent with the current test
procedure's requirement that an eight place setting load plus six
serving pieces be used in dishwashers with water heating capabilities
for tests of the
[[Page 52253]]
normal cycle at temperatures below 140 deg.F. Thus, if this change is
adopted, the manufacturers of eight place setting capacity dishwashers
would still be held to the same test required of all standard
dishwashers.
Because the new definitions will change the size classifications
for some dishwashers, models manufactured after the effective date of
this rulemaking must meet the energy standard designated for their new
size category. For example, under the proposed definition, a few
models, such as Whirlpool model RUD0800EB, would be reclassified from
compact to standard dishwashers and would thereby have a lower energy
factor requirement (decreased from 0.62 cycles/kWh to 0.46 cycles/kWh).
Conversely, those dishwashers not capable of handling the eight place
setting plus six serving piece load, such as the Fisher & Paykel model
DD601, would be required to meet higher energy factor (increased from
0.46 cycles/kWh to 0.62 cycles/kWh), which the Fisher & Paykel model
already does (the energy factor for the one drawer model is 1.16
cycles/kWh). We would, however, like to know about any other
dishwashers that would be affected by this change in definition.
C. Improving Testing Repeatability
The Department proposes several changes to clarify the existing
test procedure and improve its repeatability when multiple tests are
conducted.
In the definitions of 10 CFR part 430, Subpart B, Appendix
C, the Department proposes to modify the definition of ``Truncated
Normal Cycle.''
Under the current definition, section 1.5, `` `Truncated Normal
Cycle' means the normal cycle interrupted to eliminate the power-dry
feature after the termination of the last rinse operation.'' Since the
test procedure calls for the test cycle to be selected prior to its
initiation and for the cycle to run to completion, we believe that it
is more accurate to substitute the word ``preset'' for ``interrupted.''
This change supports the statement in the test procedure that the cycle
type be set and allowed to proceed to completion. The new definition
would read: `` `Truncated Normal Cycle' means the normal cycle preset
to eliminate the power-dry feature after the termination of the last
rinse operation.''
The Department proposes that the tolerance for the ambient
temperature in testing conditions be tightened from the current range
of between 70 deg.F and 85 deg.F to 75 5 deg.F.
According to NIST, a 15 deg. temperature variation produced
significant differences in the average machine energy consumption for
the same dishwasher running the normal cycle with an 8 piece load. NIST
tests found that the average total energy consumption of dishwashers
tested at 85 deg.F ambient would be 17.6 percent lower than
dishwashers tested at 70 deg.F ambient. We feel this is a significant
percentage of variation which should be reduced by narrowing the
allowable temperature range for testing. This change would also be
consistent with AHAM performance tests, which must be conducted in the
temperature range of 75 5 deg.F, and would bring the
temperature range closer to the one used by the IEC standard for
testing dishwashers (59 deg.F to 77 deg.F , 205 deg.C).
The new language would be:
``2.5 Ambient and machine temperature. Using a temperature
measuring device as specified in 3.1 of this Appendix, maintain the
room ambient air temperature at 755 deg.F, and ensure
that the dishwasher and the test load are at room ambient
temperature at the start of each test cycle.''
The Department proposes to incorporate more detailed
requirements for test chamber installation.
Currently, there are no installation instructions in the event that
the manufacturer does not specify them. The test chamber provides an
insulating effect which simulates under counter conditions and reduces
heat loss to the environment, thereby increasing the overall energy
performance. In an effort to improve the consistency of test results
among laboratories, DOE proposes to add more detailed instructions to
the dishwasher test procedure, using the wording proposed by AHAM. We
are basing these proposed installation instructions on Underwriters
Laboratories publication UL 749, ``Standard for Safety: Household
Dishwashers,'' to support uniformity among testing laboratories without
adding significantly to the test burden. The proposed revised
installation instructions are as follows:
``2. Testing conditions: 2.1 Installation Requirements. Install
the dishwasher according to the manufacturer's instructions. A
standard or compact under-counter or under-sink dishwasher must be
tested in a rectangular enclosure constructed of nominal 0.374 inch
(9.5 mm) plywood painted black. The enclosure must consist of a top,
a bottom, a back, and two sides. If the dishwasher includes a
countertop as part of the appliance, omit the top of the enclosure.
Bring the enclosure into the closest contact with the appliance that
the configuration of the dishwasher will allow.''
The Department proposes that manufacturers include a
preconditioning cycle as part of the test procedure prior to running
the test cycle.
We are aware that it is a common industry practice to run a
preconditioning cycle for dishwashers before conducting a test. This
ensures that the water lines and sump area of the pump are primed,
which better approximates normal household conditions. Without this
preconditioning cycle, the dishwasher consumes more water in the first
fill than under normal operation As a result, we believe this step
should be included as part of the test procedure in order to improve
consistency among laboratories.
DOE proposes to introduce a new section, Section 3
``Instrumentation'' to consolidate all measurement specifications and
to base tolerances on nominal values.
Within this section, the Department proposes to add specifications
for temperature measurement devices which were not stated previously.
This will limit the variation in testing equipment accuracy. This
separate section should also make it easier to identify the
instrumentation requirements and will eliminate the need to restate
measurement specifications in each section. The Department also
proposes to change the way tolerances are specified to reduce the
variation in testing conditions. By basing tolerances on nominal
values, manufacturers will have a target specification and tolerance
rather than a range of acceptable values.
We propose to combine the sections explaining the
Estimated Annual Operating Cost calculation (EAOC) for dishwashers with
and without truncated normal cycles.
We are consolidating these two sections to simplify the test
procedure since the calculation for these two cases is identical.
D. Corrections to Last Published Rule
The Department will correct two typographical errors found
in the last published test procedure.
In current Section 1.11 ``Water Heating Dishwasher,'' ``heating''
was misspelled, and in current Section 2.2.1 ``Dishwashers that operate
with an electrical supply of 240 volts,'' ``electrical'' was
misspelled. Both are corrected in the amended test procedure.
The Department proposes to remove language specific to
dishwashers manufactured before 1994.
In the last published dishwasher test procedure, we set a date, May
14, 1994, prior to which all dishwashers were required to be equipped
with an option to dry without heat. However, for dishwashers
manufactured on or after
[[Page 52254]]
May 14, 1994, the sole requirement is that all dishwasher models meet
the minimum energy standard. Therefore, since language specific to
dishwashers manufactured before 1994 is no longer meaningful, the
Department proposes to remove it. The resulting Section 430.32 would
read:
(f) Dishwashers. The energy factor of dishwashers manufactured on
or after May 14, 1994, must not be less than:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Energy
factor
Product class (cycles/
KWh)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Compact Dishwasher (capacity less than eight place 0.62
settings plus six serving pieces as specified in section 6
of AHAM Standard DW-1)......................................
(2) Standard Dishwasher (capacity equal to or greater than 0.46
eight place settings plus six serving pieces as specified in
section 6 of AHAM Standard DW-1)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Department proposes that ``AHAM'' be defined within
Appendix C. The current test procedure references the AHAM DW-1
publication for the specifications of the test load without stating
what ``AHAM'' stands for. Therefore, to clarify the source of the
publication, we propose to introduce the following definition: ``
`AHAM' means the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.''
E. Re-Testing Soil-Sensing Dishwasher Models With New Test Procedure
Based on our discussions with industry representatives, we
understand that soil-sensing dishwashers represent a small portion of
the overall dishwasher market. Because most soil-sensing models appear
to be fully compliant with the current standard, rather than marginally
compliant, we do not expect a significant number of machines to fail to
meet the current standard using the new test procedure. Thus, the new
test procedure will not require the Department to conduct a series of
tests to determine whether to alter the minimum energy conservation
standards currently in effect for dishwashers. However, once the new
test procedure takes effect (30 days) after the publication of the
final rulemaking, all manufacturers must re-test and rate soil-sensor
models such that all representations are based on the new test
procedure, effective 180 days after it becomes applicable. They must
report the new energy use information to the Department, and all models
previously in compliance with the standard which no longer meet the
standard will be grandfathered. If, however, the Department changes the
minimum energy standard in the future, all models must comply with that
standard, using the test procedure in effect at that time.
III. Procedural Requirements
A. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
In this proposed rule, the Department proposes amendments to test
procedures that may be used to implement future energy conservation
standards for dishwashers. The Department has determined that this
proposed rule falls into a class of actions that are categorically
excluded from review under the National Environmental Policy Act of
1969 (NEPA), 42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq. The proposed rule is covered by
Categorical Exclusion A5, for rulemakings that interpret or amend an
existing rule without changing the environmental effect, as set forth
in the Department's NEPA regulations in Appendix A to Subpart D, 10 CFR
part 1021. This proposed rule will not affect the quality or
distribution of energy usage and, therefore, will not result in any
environmental impacts. Accordingly, neither an environmental impact
statement nor an environmental assessment is required.
B. Review Under Executive Order 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and
Review''
This regulatory proposal is not a ``significant regulatory action''
under Executive Order 12866, ``Regulatory Planning and Review.'' 58 FR
51735 (October 4, 1993). Accordingly, the proposed action is not
subject to review under the Executive Order by the Office of
Information and Regulatory Affairs.
C. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980
The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, requires
that an agency prepare an initial regulatory flexibility analysis for
any rule, for which a general notice of proposed rulemaking is
required, that would have a significant economic effect on small
entities unless the agency certifies that the proposed rule, if
promulgated, will not have a significant economic impact on a
substantial number of small entities. 5 U.S.C. 605.
This proposed rule prescribes test procedures that will be used to
test compliance with energy conservation standards. The proposed rule
affects dishwasher test procedures and would not have a significant
economic impact, but rather would provide common testing methods.
Therefore DOE believes that the proposed rule would not have a
``significant economic impact on a substantial number of small
entities,'' and the preparation of a regulatory flexibility analysis is
not warranted.
D. ``Takings'' Assessment Review
DOE has determined pursuant to Executive Order 12630,
``Governmental Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected
Property Rights,'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this regulatory
proposal, if adopted, would not result in any takings which might
require compensation under the Fifth Amendment to the United States
Constitution.
E. Federalism Review
Executive Order 12612, ``Federalism,'' 52 FR 41685 (October 30,
1987), requires that regulations, rules, legislation, and any other
policy actions be reviewed for any substantial direct effects on
States, on the relationship between the Federal Government and the
States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among
various levels of Government. If there are substantial direct effects,
then this Executive Order requires preparation of a Federalism
assessment to be used in all decisions involved in promulgating and
implementing a policy action.
The proposed rule published today would not regulate the States.
Accordingly, DOE has determined that preparation of a Federalism
assessment is unnecessary.
F. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act
No new information or recordkeeping requirements are imposed by
this proposed rulemaking. Accordingly, no OMB clearance is required
under the Paperwork Reduction Act, 44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.
G. Review Under Executive Order 12988, ``Civil Justice Reform''
With respect to the review of existing regulations and the
promulgation of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988,
``Civil Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (February 7, 1996), imposes on
executive agencies the following requirements: (1) Eliminate drafting
errors and ambiguity; (2) write regulations to minimize litigation; and
(3) provide a clear legal standard for affected conduct rather than a
general standard and promote simplification and burden reduction. With
regard to the review required by section 3(a), section 3(b) of the
Executive Order specifically requires that Executive agencies make
every reasonable effort to
[[Page 52255]]
ensure that the regulation: (1) Clearly specifies the preemptive
effect, if any; (2) clearly specifies any effect on existing Federal
law or regulation; (3) provides a clear legal standard for affected
conduct while promoting simplification and reducing burdens; (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 of the Executive Order 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.
The Department reviewed today's proposed rule under the standards
of Section 3 of the Executive Order and determined that, to the extent
permitted by law, it meets the requirements of those standards.
H. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
Section 202 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (``Unfunded
Mandates Act'') requires that the Department prepare a budgetary impact
statement before promulgating a rule that includes a Federal mandate
that may result in expenditure by state, local, and tribal governments,
in the aggregate, or by the private sector, of $100 million or more in
any one year. The budgetary impact statement must include: (i)
Identification of the Federal law under which the rule is promulgated;
(ii) a qualitative and quantitative assessment of anticipated costs and
benefits of the Federal mandate and an analysis of the extent to which
such costs to state, local, and tribal governments may be paid with
Federal financial assistance; (iii) if feasible, estimates of the
future compliance costs and of any disproportionate budgetary effects
the mandate has on particular regions, communities, non-Federal units
of government, or sectors of the economy; (iv) if feasible, estimates
of the effect on the national economy; and (v) a description of the
Department's prior consultation with elected representatives of state,
local, and tribal governments and a summary and evaluation of the
comments and concerns presented.
The Department has determined that the action proposed today does
not include a Federal mandate that may result in estimated costs of
$100 million or more to state, local, or tribal governments in the
aggregate or to the private sector. Therefore, the requirements of
Sections 203 and 204 of the Unfunded Mandates Act do not apply to this
action.
I. Review Under the Plain Language Directives
Section 1(b)(12) of Executive Order 12866 requires that each agency
shall draft its regulations to be simple and easy to understand, with
the goal of minimizing the potential for uncertainty and litigation
arising from such uncertainty. Similarly, the Presidential memorandum
of June 1, 1998 (63 FR 31883) directs the heads of executive
departments and agencies to use, by January 1, 1999, plain language in
all proposed and final rulemaking documents published in the Federal
Register, unless the rule was proposed before that date.
Today's proposed rule uses the following general techniques to
abide by Section 1(b)(12) of Executive Order 12866 and the Presidential
memorandum of June 1, 1998 (63 FR 31883):
Organization of the material to serve the needs of the
readers (stakeholders).
Use of common, everyday words in short sentences.
Shorter sentences and sections.
We invite your comments on how to make this proposed rule easier to
understand.
J. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act,
1999
Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. No. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a
Family Policymaking Assessment for any proposed rule or policy that may
affect family well-being. Today's proposal would not have any impact on
the autonomy or integrity of the family as an institution. Accordingly,
DOE has concluded that it is not necessary to prepare a Family
Policymaking Assessment.
IV. Public Comment
A. Written Comment Procedures
The Department invites interested persons to participate in the
proposed rulemaking by submitting data, comments, or information with
respect to the proposed issues set forth in today's proposed rule to
Ms. Barbara Twigg, at the address indicated at the beginning of this
notice. We will consider all submittals received by the date specified
at the beginning of this notice in developing the final rule.
According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any person submitting information that
he or she believes to be confidential and exempt by law from public
disclosure should submit one complete copy of the document and ten (10)
copies, if possible, from which the information believed to be
confidential has been deleted. The Department of Energy will make its
own determination with regard to the confidential status of the
information and treat it according to its determination.
Factors of interest to the Department when evaluating requests to
treat as confidential information that has been submitted include: (1)
A description of the items; (2) an indication as to whether and why
such items are customarily treated as confidential within the industry;
(3) whether the information is generally known by or available from
other sources; (4) whether the information has previously been made
available to others without obligation concerning its confidentiality;
(5) an explanation of the competitive injury to the submitting person
which would result from public disclosure; (6) an indication as to when
such information might lose its confidential character due to the
passage of time; and (7) why disclosure of the information would be
contrary to the public interest.
B. Public Workshop
1. Procedures for Submitting Requests To Speak
You will find the time and place of the public workshop listed at
the beginning of this notice of proposed rulemaking. The Department
invites any person who has an interest in today's notice of proposed
rulemaking, or who is a representative of a group or class of persons
that has an interest in these proposed issues, to make a request for an
opportunity to make an oral presentation. If you would like to attend
the public workshop, please notify Ms. Brenda Edwards-Jones at (202)
586-2945. You may hand deliver requests to speak to the address
indicated at the beginning of this notice between the hours of 8:00
a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays, or
send them by mail.
The person making the request should state why he or she, either
individually or as a representative of a group or class of persons, is
an appropriate spokesperson, briefly describe the nature of the
interest in the rulemaking, and provide a telephone number for contact.
The Department requests each person selected to be heard to submit
an
[[Page 52256]]
advance copy of his or her statement at least two weeks prior to the
date of this workshop as indicated at the beginning of this notice. The
Department, at its discretion, may permit any person wishing to speak
who cannot meet this requirement to participate if that person has made
alternative arrangements with the Office of Codes and Standards in
advance. The letter making a request to give an oral presentation must
ask for such alternative arrangements.
2. Conduct of Workshop
The workshop (hearing) will be conducted in an informal, conference
style. The Department may use a professional facilitator to facilitate
discussion, and a court reporter will be present to record the
transcript of the meeting. We will present summaries of comments
received before the workshop, allow time for presentations by workshop
participants, and encourage all interested parties to share their views
on issues affecting this rulemaking. Following the workshop, we will
provide an additional comment period, during which interested parties
will have an opportunity to comment on the proceedings at the workshop,
as well as on any aspect of the rulemaking proceeding.
The Department will arrange for a transcript of the workshop and
will make the entire record of this rulemaking, including the
transcript, available for inspection in the Department's Freedom of
Information Reading Room. Any person may purchase a copy of the
transcript from the transcribing reporter.
C. Issues Requested for Comment
The Department of Energy is interested in receiving comments and/or
data concerning the feasibility, workability, and appropriateness of
the test procedures proposed in this proposed rulemaking. Also, DOE
welcomes discussion on improvements or alternatives to these
approaches. We are especially interested in any data regarding:
(1) The frequency with which dishwashers' loads are pre-treated;
(2) The amount of water energy consumed in pretreatment (kW);
(3) The degree of cleanliness of pre-treated dishes;
(4) The typical soil levels for the normal cycle;
(5) The frequency that max., min., and other normal cycles are run
and the corresponding energy consumption for those respective cycles;
(6) Any dishwashers adversely affected by changing the definitions
of compact and standard models; and
(7) any soil-sensing dishwashers adversely affected by the new test
procedure.
These data will help us to select the percentages reflecting how
often dishwashers encounter well-rinsed or soiled loads.
List of Subjects in 10 CFR Part 430
Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation,
Household appliances.
Issued in Washington, DC, on September 20, 1999.
Dan W. Reicher,
Assistant Secretary, Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy.
For the reasons set forth in the preamble, the Department proposes
to amend Part 430 of Chapter II of Title 10, Code of Federal
Regulations, to read as follows.
PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS
1. The authority citation for Part 430 continues to read as
follows:
Authority: 42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.
2. Section 430.23 of Subpart B is amended by revising the section
heading, and paragraph (c) to read as follows:
Sec. 430.23 Test procedures for the measurement of energy consumption.
* * * * *
(c) Dishwashers. (1) The Estimated Annual Operating Cost (EAOC) for
dishwashers is defined as follows:
(i) When electrically-heated water (120 deg.F or 140 deg.F) is
used or when cold water (50 deg.F) is used--
(A) For dishwashers having a truncated normal cycle as defined in
1.10 of appendix C to this subpart, EAOCt=N x
De x [0.5 x (Mn+Mt)], and
(B) For dishwashers not having a truncated normal cycle,
EAOCn=N x De x Mn,
where
N=the representative average use of 264 cycles per year,
De=the representative average unit cost of electrical energy
in dollars per kilowatt-hour as provided by the Secretary.
Mn=the total machine electrical energy consumption per-cycle
for the normal cycle as defined in 1.5 of Appendix C to this subpart,
in kilowatt-hours and determined according to 5.1 of Appendix C to this
subpart.
Mt=the total machine electrical energy consumption per-cycle
for the truncated normal cycle as defined in 1.10 of Appendix C to this
subpart, in kilowatt-hours and determined according to 5.1 of Appendix
C to this subpart.
(C) You must round off the resulting estimated annual operating
cost to the nearest dollar per year.
(ii) When gas-heated or oil-heated water is used:
(A) For dishwashers having a truncated normal cycle as defined in
1.10 of Appendix C to this subpart, EAOCt=N x
[(De x 0.5(Mn+Mt))+(Dw
x 0.5(Wn+Wt))], and
(B) For dishwashers not having a truncated normal cycle,
EAOCn=N x [(De x
Mn)+(Dw x Wn)],
where
N, De, Mn, and Mt are defined in
(c)(1)(i) of this section.
Dw=the representative average unit cost in dollars per Btu
for gas or oil, as appropriate, as provided by the Secretary.
Wn=the total water energy consumption per cycle for the
normal cycle as defined in 1.5 of appendix C to this subpart, in Btus
and determined according to 5.3 of appendix C to this subpart.
Wt=the total water energy consumption per cycle for the
truncated normal cycle as defined in 1.10 of appendix C to this
subpart, in Btus and determined according to 5.3 of appendix C to this
subpart.
(C) You must round off the resulting estimated annual operating
cost to the nearest dollar per year.
(2) The energy factor for dishwashers, expressed in cycles per
kilowatt-hour is defined as:
(i) For dishwashers not having a truncated normal cycle, as defined
in 1.10 of Appendix C to this subpart, the reciprocal of the total
energy consumption per cycle for the normal cycle in kilowatt-hours per
cycle, determined according to 5.5 of appendix C to this subpart, and
(ii) For dishwashers having a truncated normal cycle, as defined in
1.10 of appendix C to this subpart, the reciprocal of one-half the sum
of--
(A) The total energy consumption per cycle for the normal cycle,
plus
(B) The total energy consumption per cycle for the truncated normal
cycle, each in kilowatt-hours per cycle and determined according to 5.5
of appendix C to this subpart.
(3) Other useful measures of energy consumption for dishwashers are
those which the Secretary determines are likely to assist consumers in
making purchasing decisions and which are
[[Page 52257]]
derived from the application of Appendix C to this subpart.
* * * * *
3. Appendix C to Subpart B of Part 430 is revised to read as
follows:
Appendix C to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for
Measuring the Energy Consumption of Dishwashers
1. Definitions
1.1 AHAM means the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
1.2 Conventional dishwasher means a dishwasher that does not
have a mechanism to adjust the cycle and/or number of wash or rinse
operations based on the soil load of the dishes.
1.3 Cycle means a sequence of operations of a dishwasher which
performs a complete dishwashing function, and may include variations
or combinations of washing, rinsing, and drying.
1.4 Cycle type means any complete sequence of operations
capable of being preset on the dishwasher prior to the initiation of
machine operation.
1.5 Normal cycle means the cycle type recommended by the
manufacturer for completely washing a full load of normally soiled
dishes including the power-dry feature.
1.6 Power-dry feature means the introduction of electrically
generated heat into the washing chamber for the purpose of improving
the drying performance of the dishwasher.
1.7 Sensor normal cycle means the range of operations in a
soil-sensing dishwasher that constitutes the cycle type recommended
by the manufacturer for completely washing a full load of normally
soiled dishes including the power-dry feature.
1.8 Sensor truncated normal cycle means the sensor normal cycle
preset to eliminate the power-dry feature after the termination of
the last rinse operation.
1.9 Soil-sensing dishwasher means a dishwasher that has a
mechanism to adjust the cycle and/or number of wash or rinse
operations based on the soil load of the dishes.
1.10 Truncated normal cycle means the normal cycle preset to
eliminate the power-dry feature after the termination of the last
rinse operation.
1.11 Water heating dishwasher means a dishwasher which is
designed for heating cold inlet water (nominal 50 deg.F) or a
dishwasher for which the manufacturer recommends operation with a
nominal inlet water temperature of 120 deg.F, and may operate at
either of these inlet water temperatures by providing internal water
heating to above 120 deg.F in at least one wash phase of the normal
cycle.
2. Test Conditions
2.1 Installation Requirements. Install the dishwasher according
to the manufacturer's instructions. A standard or compact under-
counter or under-sink dishwasher must be tested in a rectangular
enclosure constructed of nominal 0.374 inch (9.5 mm) plywood painted
black. The enclosure must consist of a top, a bottom, a back, and
two sides. If the dishwasher includes a counter top as part of the
appliance, omit the top of the enclosure. Bring the enclosure into
the closest contact with the appliance that the configuration of the
dishwasher will allow.
2.2 Electrical energy supply.
2.2.1 Dishwashers that operate with an electrical supply of 115
volts. Maintain the electrical supply to the dishwasher within two
percent of 115 volts and within one percent of the nameplate
frequency as specified by the manufacturer.
2.2.2 Dishwashers that operate with an electrical supply of 240
volts. Maintain the electrical supply to the dishwasher within two
percent of 240 volts and within one percent of its nameplate
frequency as specified by the manufacturer.
2.3 Water temperature. Measure the temperature of the water
supplied to the dishwasher using a temperature measuring device as
specified in 3.1 of this Appendix.
2.3.1 Dishwashers to be tested at a nominal 140 deg.F inlet
water temperature. Maintain the water supply temperature at 140
5 deg.5.
2.3.2 Dishwashers to be tested at a nominal 120 deg.F inlet
water temperature. Maintain the water supply temperature at 120
2 deg.F.
2.3.3 Dishwashers to be tested at a nominal 50 deg.F inlet
water temperature. Maintain the water supply temperature at 50
2 deg.F.
2.4 Water pressure. Using a water pressure gauge as specified
in 3.3 of this Appendix, maintain the pressure of the water supply
at 35 2.5 pounds per square inch gauge (psig).
2.5 Ambient and machine temperature. Using a temperature
measuring device as specified in 3.1 of this Appendix, maintain the
room ambient air temperature at 75 5 deg.F, and ensure
that the dishwasher and the test load are at room ambient
temperature at the start of each test cycle.
2.6 Load.
2.6.1 Conventional dishwashers to be tested at a nominal inlet
temperature of 140 deg.F. These units must be tested on the normal
cycle without a test load.
2.6.2 Conventional dishwashers to be tested at a nominal inlet
temperature of 50 deg.F or 120 deg.F. These units must be tested on
the normal cycle with a test load of eight place settings plus six
serving pieces, as specified in Section 6 of AHAM Standard DW-1. If
the capacity of the dishwasher, as stated by the manufacturer, is
less than eight place settings, then the test load must be the
stated capacity.
2.6.3 Soil-sensing dishwashers to be tested at a nominal inlet
temperature of 140 deg.F. These units must be tested on the sensor
normal cycle, as defined in 1.7 of this Appendix, without a test
load.
2.6.4 Soil-sensing dishwashers to be tested at a nominal inlet
temperature of 50 deg.F or 120 deg.F. These units must be tested on
the sensor normal cycle, as defined in 1.7 of this Appendix, with a
test load of eight place settings plus six serving pieces, as
specified in section 6 of AHAM Standard DW-1. If the capacity of the
dishwasher, as stated by the manufacturer, is less than eight place
settings, then the test load must be the stated capacity.
2.7 Testing requirements. Provisions in this Appendix
pertaining to dishwashers that operate with a nominal inlet
temperature of 50 deg.F or 120 deg.F apply only to water heating
dishwashers.
2.8 Preconditioning cycle. Perform a preconditioning cycle by
establishing the testing conditions set forth in sections 2.1
through 2.5 of this Appendix. Set the dishwasher to the normal cycle
without using a test load, initiate the cycle, and allow the cycle
to proceed to completion. Ensure that the water lines and sump area
of the pump are primed.
3. Instrumentation
3.1 Temperature measuring device. The device must have an error
no greater than 1 deg.F over the range being measured.
3.2 Water meter. The water meter must have a resolution of no
larger than 0.1 gallons and a maximum error no greater than 1.5
percent for all water flow rates from one to five gallons per minute
and for all water temperatures encountered in the test cycle.
3.3 Water pressure gauge. The water pressure gauge must have a
resolution of one pound per square inch (psi) and must have an error
no greater than 5 percent of any measured value over the range of 35
2.5 psig.
3.4 Watt-hour meter. The watt-hour meter must have a resolution
of no greater than 1 watt-hour and a maximum error of no more than 1
percent of the measured value for any demand greater than 50 watts.
4. Test Cycle and Measurements
4.1 Test cycle. Perform a test cycle by establishing the
testing conditions set forth in section 2 of this Appendix, setting
the dishwasher to the cycle type to be tested, initiating the cycle,
and allowing the cycle to proceed to completion.
4.2 Machine electrical energy consumption.
4.2.1 Conventional dishwashers only. Measure the electrical
energy consumed by the machine during the test cycle, M, expressed
in kilowatt-hours per cycle, using a water supply temperature as set
forth in 2.3 of this Appendix and using a watt-hour meter as
specified in 3.4.
4.2.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers only. Measure the electrical
energy consumed by the machine during the minimum sensor normal
cycle, Mmin, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle, using
a water supply temperature as set forth in 2.3 of this Appendix and
using a watt-hour meter as specified in 3.4. Measure the electrical
energy consumed by the machine during the maximum sensor normal
cycle, Mmax, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle, using
a water supply temperature as set forth in 2.3 of this Appendix and
using a watt-hour meter as specified in 3.4. If a manufacturer
cannot artificially force a maximum sensor normal response, the
manufacturer must introduce a soil load, as specified in the AHAM
DW-1 performance test, and record the machine electrical energy
consumption as Mmax.
4.3 Water consumption.
4.3.1 Conventional dishwashers only. Measure the water
consumption, V, specified as the number of gallons delivered to the
[[Page 52256]]
dishwasher during the entire test of the normal cycle, using a water
meter as specified in 3.2 of this Appendix.
4.3.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers only. Measure the minimum water
consumption, vMin, specified as the number of gallons
delivered to the dishwasher during the sensor normal test cycle,
using a water meter as specified in 3.2 of this Appendix. Measure
the maximum water consumption, Vmax, specified as the
number of gallons delivered to the dishwasher during the maximum
sensor normal test cycle, using a water meter as specified in 3.2 of
this Appendix.
4.4 Report values. You must report the electrical energy
consumption and water consumption values for the machine, as
measured.
5. Calculation of Derived Results From Test Measurements
5.1 Machine energy consumption. Determine the machine energy
consumption for conventional or soil-sensing dishwashers according
to sections 5.1.1 and 5.2.2, respectively. Use the notation
Mn to represent the resulting value, M, for a test of the
normal or sensor normal cycle and Mt to represent the
resulting value, M, for a test of the truncated normal or sensor
truncated normal cycle.
5.1.1 Conventional dishwashers only. For each test cycle
(normal or truncated normal), use the measured value recorded in
section 4.2.1 as the per-cycle machine electrical energy
consumption, M, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle.
5.1.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers only. For each test cycle
(sensor normal or sensor truncated normal), calculate the electrical
energy consumption for the machine, M, expressed in kilowatt-hours
per cycle and defined as:
M=[Mmin x (P)+Mmax x (1-P)]
where,
Mmin=the machine electrical energy consumption during the
sensor normal cycle as measured according to section 4.2.2.
P=the fraction of residential dishwasher owners that pre-treat
dishes=0.70.
Mmax=the machine electrical energy consumption with the
maximum sensor normal response as measured according to section
4.2.2.
(1-P)=the fraction of residential dishwasher owners that do not pre-
treat dishes=0.30.
5.2 Water consumption per cycle for soil-sensing dishwashers
only. For each test cycle (sensor normal or sensor truncated
normal), calculate the water consumption, V, expressed in gallons
per cycle and defined as:
V=[Vmin x (P)+Vmax x (1-P)]
where,
Vmin=the water consumption during the minimum sensor
normal cycle, as measured according to section 4.3.2.
P=the fraction of residential dishwasher owners that pre-treat
dishes = 0.70.
Vmax=the water consumption with the maximum sensor normal
response, as measured according to section 4.3.2.
(1-P)=the fraction of residential dishwasher owners that do not pre-
treat dishes = 0.30.
5.3 Water energy consumption per cycle for dishwashers using
electrically heated water. Determine the water energy consumption
for conventional dishwashers according to sections 5.3.1.1 and
5.3.2.1. Determine the water energy consumption for soil-sensing
dishwashers according to sections 5.3.1.2 and 5.3.2.2. Use the
notation Wen to represent the resulting value,
We, for a test of the normal or sensor normal cycle and
Wet to represent the resulting value, We, for
a test of the truncated normal or sensor truncated normal cycle.
5.3.1 Dishwashers that operate with a nominal 140 deg.F inlet
water temperature, only.
5.3.1.1 Conventional dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption, We, expressed in
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
We=V x T'' x K
where,
V=reported water consumption in gallons per cycle, as measured in
4.3.1 of this Appendix.
T''=nominal water heater temperature rise=90 deg.F.
K=specific heat of water in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=0.0024.
5.3.1.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption, We, expressed in
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
We=V x T'' x K
where,
V is calculated in 5.2 of this Appendix.
T''=nominal water heater temperature rise=90 deg.F.
K=specific heat of water in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=0.0024.
5.3.2 Dishwashers that operate with a nominal inlet water
temperature of 120 deg.F.
5.3.2.1 Conventional dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption, We, expressed in
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
We=V x T' x K
where,
V=reported water consumption in gallons per cycle, as measured in
4.3.1 of this Appendix.
T'=nominal water heater temperature rise=70 deg.F.
K=specific heat of water in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=0.0024.
5.3.2.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption, We, expressed in
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
We=V x T' x K
where,
V is calculated in 5.2 of this Appendix.
T'=nominal water heater temperature rise=70 deg.F.
K=specific heat of water in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=0.0024.
5.4 Water energy consumption per cycle using gas-heated or oil-
heated water. Determine the water energy consumption for
conventional dishwashers according to Secs. 5.4.1.1 and 5.4.2.1.
Determine the water energy consumption for soil-sensing dishwashers
according to sections 5.4.1.2 and 5.4.2.2. Use the notation
Wgn to represent the resulting value, Wg, for
a test of the normal or sensor normal cycle and Wgt to
represent the resulting value, Wg, for a test of the
truncated normal or sensor truncated normal cycle.
5.4.1 Dishwashers that operate with a nominal 140 deg.F inlet
water temperature, only.
5.4.1.1 Conventional dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption using gas-heated or oil-
heated water, Wg, expressed in Btus per cycle and defined
as:
Wg=V x T'' x C/e
where,
V=reported water consumption in gallons per cycle, as measured in
4.3.1 of this Appendix.
T''=nominal water heater temperature rise=90 deg.F.
C=specific heat of water in Btus per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=8.20.
e=nominal gas or oil water heater recovery efficiency=0.75.
5.4.1.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption using gas heated or oil
heated water, Wg, expressed in Btus per cycle and defined
as:
Wg=V x T'' x C/e
where,
V is calculated in 5.2 of this Appendix.
T''=nominal water heater temperature rise=90 deg.F.
C=specific heat of water in Btus per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=8.20.
e=nominal gas or oil water heater recovery efficiency=0.75.
5.4.2 Dishwashers that operate with a nominal inlet water
temperature of 120 deg.F.
5.4.2.1 Conventional dishwashers. For each test cycle,
calculate the water energy consumption using gas heated or oil
heated water, Wg, expressed in Btus per cycle and defined
as:
Wg=V x T'' x C/e.
where,
V is measured in 4.3.1 of this Appendix.
T'=nominal water heater temperature rise=70 deg.F.
C=specific heat of water in Btus per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=8.20.
e=nominal gas or oil water heater recovery efficiency=0.75.
5.4.2.2 Soil-sensing dishwashers. Calculate for the cycle type
under test the water energy consumption per cycle using gas heated
or oil heated water, Wg, expressed in Btus per cycle and
defined as:
Wg=V x T' x C/e.
where
V is calculated in 5.2 of this Appendix.
T'=nominal water heater temperature rise=70 deg.F.
C=specific heat of water in Btus per gallon per degree
Fahrenheit=8.20.
e=nominal gas or oil water heater recovery efficiency=0.75.
5.5 Total energy consumption per cycle. For each test cycle,
calculate the total per-cycle energy consumption, E, expressed in
[[Page 52259]]
kilowatt-hours per cycle, and defined as the sum of the per-cycle
machine electrical energy consumption, M, plus the per-cycle water
energy consumption of electrically-heated water, W, calculated for
the cycle type, according to 5.1 and 5.3 respectively.
4. Section 430.32 of Subpart C is amended by revising paragraph (f)
to read as follows:
Sec. 430.32 Energy and water conservation standards and effective
dates.
* * * * *
(f) Dishwashers. The energy factor of dishwashers manufactured on
or after May 14, 1994, must not be less than:
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Energy
factor
Product class (cycles/
KWh)
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Compact Dishwasher (capacity less than eight place 0.62
settings plus six serving pieces as specified in section 6
of AHAM Standard DW-1)......................................
(2) Standard Dishwasher (capacity equal to or greater than 0.46
eight place settings plus six serving pieces as specified in
section 6 of AHAM Standard DW-1)............................
------------------------------------------------------------------------
* * * * *
[FR Doc. 99-25186 Filed 9-27-99; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
