1 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 

Test Procedure for Microwave Ovens 

Standby Power SupplementalNotice of Proposed Rulemakingand Active Mode Public Meeting 

Wes AndersBuilding Technologies Office of Energy EfficU.S. Department of E

September 16, 2010 
Introduction 

Purpose of the Test Procedure Public Meetin

 Present the Department’s proposed standby and off mode 

procedures for microwave oven 

 Seek comment from participants on the proposed test pro Discuss specific issues or questions related to the propos Discuss the next steps for the standby power rulemaking  Discuss steps to initiate a new active mode test procedure 

rulemaking for microwave ovens. 

2 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Standby Power Test Procedure SNOPR

3 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Steps in the Microwave Oven Standby Power Test Pro

NOPR SNOPR 

Rulemaking 

Final 

Rule 

 NOPR issued by DOE on October 1, 2008 (NOPR Public Mee

November 14, 2008) 

 SNOPR issued by DOE on July 22, 2010 (SNOPR Public Mee

September 16, 2010) 

4 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Steps in the Microwave Oven Standby Power Test Pro

NOPR SNOPR 

Rulemaking 

Final 

Rule 

 Comments on SNOPR from interested parties 

• Transcript records oral comments from today’s public meeting • Written comments (comment period closes October 4, 2010) 

 DOE reviews and considers all comments  Final Rule Publication 

• In accordance with the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA

amended by Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (EISA is required to publish a final rule addressing standby mode and off m

consumption in the test procedure for microwave ovens by March 3

5 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Standby Power Test Procedure Overview and Is

1. Products Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 

2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

6 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Regulatory History 

 The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (42 U.S.C. 6291 et 

forth criteria and procedures for DOE’s adoption and amentest procedures for covered products. 

 Historically, DOE’s test procedure for microwave ovens app

appendix I to subpart B of Title 10 of the Code of Federal Re

 That test procedure was part of an October 3, 1997, final ru

revised the test procedures for other cooking products to m

their efficiency and energy use more accurately.

• Incorporated by reference portions of IEC Standard 705-1998 and A

2-1993, Methods for Measuring the Performance of Microwave OveHouseholds and Similar Purposes. 

• Did not address measures of standby or off mode energy use for m

ovens. 

7 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Regulatory History – Continued 

 EISA 2007 Amendments to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6291 et seq.)

• Directs DOE to incorporate a measure of standby and off mode ene

consumption into its microwave oven test procedure by March 31, 2

 Microwave Oven Test Procedure Notice of Proposed Rulem

(Issued on October 1, 2008, referred to as the October 2008 

• DOE proposed incorporating provisions from IEC Standard 62301 i

active mode test procedure, as well as language to clarify applicatioprovisions for measuring standby mode and off mode power in mic

ovens.. 

• Interested parties commented on, among other things, the harmoni

mode definitions and testing procedures with the rest of the world, ithe consideration of IEC Standard 62301 Second Edition. 

8 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Determination to Continue Test Procedure Rulem

 After the October 2008 TP NOPR, DOE decided to allow for 

consideration of a revised version of IEC Standard 62301, wexpected to be published in July 2009.

• Based on review of drafts of the updated IEC Standard 62301, the 

could include different mode definitions. 

 DOE later received information that IEC Standard 62301 Sec

Edition is not expected to be published until late 2010.

• EPCA requires DOE to establish test procedures for standby and o

March 31, 2011. 

• DOE is conducting a concurrent energy conservation standards rul

standby and off mode energy use. 

 As a result, DOE published this SNOPR to consider the new 

definitions from the most recent draft version of IEC StandaSecond Edition. 

• The most recent version at the time of the SNOPR was designated 

Standard 62301 Committee Draft for Vote (IEC Standard 62301 CD

• Since then, the Final Draft International Standard (FDIS) was issue

9 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Repeal of Regulatory Provisions for Microwave O

Cooking Efficiency

 DOE repealed the regulatory provisions establishing the co

efficiency test procedure for microwave ovens under EPCA rule published on July 22, 2010.

• DOE determined that the microwave oven test procedure provision

cooking efficiency do not produce accurate and repeatable test res

• Unaware of any test procedures that have been developed that add

concerns with the DOE microwave oven cooking efficiency test pro

 DOE also published a notice of a workshop on today, Septe

2010, to discuss a separate rulemaking process to establish provisions for measuring microwave oven energy efficiency (cooking) mode. 

10 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

11 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Covered Products 

Products Covered by this Test Procedure Rulem

 10 CFR 430.2 defines “microwave oven” as “a class of kitc

and ovens which is a household cooking appliance consistcompartment designed to cook or heat food by means of menergy.” 

 DOE stated in the October 2008 TP NOPR that the proposed 

amendments cover all microwave ovens for which the primof heating energy is electromagnetic (microwave) energy.

• Included microwave ovens with and without thermal elements (des

surface browning of food). 

• Did not include the following: 

– Combination ovens - ovens consisting of a single compartment in whic

energy and one or more other technologies, such as thermal or halogen elements or convection systems, contribute to cooking the food. 

– Microwave/conventional range – classified by DOE regulations, has sep

compartments or components consisting of a microwave oven, a conve

and a conventional cooking top.

• DOE requested data on the efficiency characteristics of combinatio

the November 2007 ANOPR, but did not receive any information. 

12 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Covered Products 

Products Covered by this Test Procedure Rulem

 DOE received comments from interested parties in respons

October 2008 TP NOPR that the proposed definition for procovered by this test procedure was unclear.

• Sought clarification on the definition of a “microwave oven” and “co

oven” and whether combination ovens would be covered by the tes

 DOE conducted a survey of microwave oven models curren

available on the U.S. market, including countertop, over-theand built-in configurations.

• Fewer than 1 percent of the available models (1 out of 129) have th

elements for grilling but no convection capability. 

• 16 percent (21 out of 129) are combination units (microwave + con

possibly thermal elements). 

 DOE does not believe that including microwave ovens with 

elements only, with or without further specification of the fthe thermal elements, would substantially affect the numbeof covered products in this rulemaking. 

13 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Covered Products 

Products Covered by this Test Procedure Rulem

 DOE proposes to include combination microwave ovens be

would be covered products under the regulatory definition

• Combination microwave ovens are capable of cooking or heating fo

of microwave energy.

• Preliminary analysis indicates standby and off modes for combinati

microwave ovens are comparable to those for microwave ovens wiwithout thermal elements only. 

14 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Covered Products 

Request for Comment: Covered Products 

DOE invites comment on the proposal to clarify the definition “microwave oven” provided in 10 CFR 430.2 to cover microwovens with or without thermal elements designed for surface browning of food as well as combination microwave ovens (imicrowave ovens that incorporate convection features and pother cooking means). DOE also welcomes comment on the pthat the same testing procedures and calculations can be appeach of these types of microwave ovens, and whether there aadditional standby and off modes or other product features fparticular type of microwave oven that would require separatprocedures. (Issue #1) 

15 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

16 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Effective Date 

Effective Date for the Test Procedure 

 EPCA requires that the microwave oven test procedure be 

to incorporate measurement of standby and off mode powe31, 2011. 

 While DOE published a NOPR on October 17, 2008 and sub

a final rule on April 8, 2009 for the standards rulemaking foproducts (including microwave ovens), DOE determined it to consider the revised IEC Standard 62301 Second Editionin July 2009, in determining whether to adopt energy consestandards for standby and off mode power consumption of microwave ovens. 

 Later received information that the revised IEC Standard 62

not be available until late-2010. 

 DOE determined to publish this SNOPR to consider the new 

definitions from the language in IEC Standard 62301 CDV. 

17 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Effective Date 

Effective Date for the Test Procedure 

 The effective date of any modified microwave oven test pro

would be 30 days after the publication of the test procedure Rule. 

 The standby and off mode provisions would not need to be 

the compliance date of any microwave oven energy conserstandards for standby and off mode energy use. 

 Clarification would also be provided that, as of 180 days af

publication of a test procedure final rule, any representatiothe standby mode and off mode energy consumption would be based upon the applicable provisions of this test proced

18 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Effective Date 

Effective Date for the Test Procedure 

 Interested parties commented in response to the October 2

NOPR that DOE should harmonize the effective date for stawith the 2013 effective date for a 1-Watt (W) standard in othcountries 

 DOE’s determination to consider language from the draft v

IEC 62301 Edition 2 will result in methodology and an effecwhich are harmonized to the extent possible with certain instandby and off mode standards. 

19 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

20 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Measures of Energy Consumption 

Measures of Energy Consumption 

 Historically, DOE defined several measures of energy cons

for microwave ovens: 

• Cooking efficiency • Energy Factor (EF) • Annual energy consumption 

 DOE’s rulemaking analyses used EF as the energy conser

metric. 

 DOE does not currently have a test procedure to measure 

and off mode energy consumption for microwave ovens. 

 For the October 2008 TP NOPR, DOE evaluated the EF to d

whether it could be modified to measure standby and off m

energy consumption.

• DOE stated that it was technically infeasible to integrate the meas

standby and off mode energy consumption into the measure of ac

energy consumption because of the variability in the current cooki

measurement from which the active mode EF and annual energy consumption were derived. 

21 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Measures of Energy Consumption 

Measures of Energy Consumption 

 EPCA requires standby mode and off mode energy consum

integrated into the overall energy efficiency, energy consuother energy descriptor, unless the Secretary determines t

(i) the current test procedure already fully accounts for and incorpora

off mode energy consumption; or 

(ii) such an integrated test procedure is technically infeasible, in whic

Secretary shall prescribe a separate standby and off mode energprocedure, if technically feasible. (42 U.S.C. 6296(gg)(2)(A)) 

 Because the test procedure does not currently address ac

energy use for microwave ovens, the requirement to integmode and off mode energy consumption does not apply.

• DOE will consider the statutory requirement to integrate the test p

standby and off mode into an active mode test procedure, where 

feasible, as any active mode test procedures are developed. 

22 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Measures of Energy Consumption 

Measures of Energy Consumption 

 DOE addressed issues with the cooking efficiency measur

its repeal of the active mode test procedure.

• DOE believes that it is infeasible to specify a food load in the test 

this time. Specification of a food load would require additional anainputs from interested parties to understand what a representative and how to ensure consistency in food properties from test to test

• DOE is unaware of any test procedures that have been developed 

address these concerns with the DOE microwave oven cooking efprocedure.

• DOE is unaware of any research or data on consumer usage indic

a representative food load would be, or any data showing how charepresentative test load would affect the measured EF or repeatabresults. 

 For these reasons, DOE proposes only to establish the tes

procedure for microwave ovens to address standby mode mode energy consumption in the SNOPR. 

23 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Measures of Energy Consumption 

Request for Comment: Cooking Efficiency Test 

DOE welcomes comment on test procedures and methods foactive mode cooking efficiency that address the concerns wirepeatability and consistency of test results. DOE also welcoconsumer usage data on representative food loads, as well aindicating how changes to the test load would affect the meaEF and on the repeatability of such test results. DOE will consuch information in its separate rulemaking to develop new mof measuring microwave oven active mode cooking efficienc#2) 

24 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

25 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Incorporating IEC Standard 62301 

IEC Standard 62301 – Testing Methods and Proc

 DOE proposed in the December 2008 NOPR to incorporate 

clauses from IEC Standard 62301 First Edition for measuristandby mode and off mode power consumption. 

 Section 4 clauses – provide conditions for: 

• Supply voltage, frequency, and waveform • Ambient room air temperature • Power measurement meter tolerances 

 Section 5 clauses: 

• Clarify the measurement of standby mode for units with a short-du

higher power state before a lower power state 

• Provide methods for measuring standby mode and off mode powe

power measurement is either stable or unstable (i.e., varies over a representative cycle). 

26 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Incorporating IEC Standard 62301 

Current Version of IEC Standard 62301 

 Although IEC is in the process of developing IEC Standard 

Edition 2, DOE considered IEC Standard 62301 First Editiocurrent version under EPCA for the October 2008 NOPR anSNOPR. 

 The SNOPR does not affect DOE’s proposal of the clauses 

sections 4 and 5 of IEC Standard 62301 identified in the OcTP NOPR. 

27 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Incorporating IEC Standard 62301 

IEC Standard 62301 – Testing Methods and Proc

 Interested parties commented that DOE should consider re

paragraph 5.2 “Preparation of Appliance or Equipment” froStandard 62301 for test setup. 

• Paragraph 5.2 states that “[t]he appliance shall be tested at factor

settings. Where there are no indications for such settings, the appbe tested as supplied.” 

• The clause provides clarification to the installation requirements fo

and off mode energy consumption testing. 

• The clause provides additional guidance regarding specifications f

setup that would result in a measure of standby and off mode eneconsumption that is most representative of actual consumer usage

 For these reasons, DOE is also proposing to incorporate b

reference paragraph 5.2 of IEC Standard 62301. 

28 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Incorporating IEC Standard 62301 

IEC Standard 62301 – Electrical Supply 

 DOE received comments regarding the accuracy of the eq

providing electrical supply for testing and that DOE should the electrical supply requirements in IEC Standard 62301.

• DOE believes that the electrical supply specifications in IEC Stand

including voltage and frequency, are generally recognized as suitaproducing robust standby and off mode power measurements in movens. 

 For this reason, DOE proposes to incorporate by reference 

electrical supply requirements in paragraph 4.3 of IEC Sta62301 

29 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Incorporating IEC Standard 62301 

Request for Comment: Incorporation of IEC Sta

62301 

DOE invites comment on the adequacy of IEC Standard 6230measure standby mode and off mode power for microwave ogeneral, and on the suitability of incorporating into DOE reguthe specific provisions described previously. (Issue #3) 

30 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

31 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes 

 DOE proposed in the October 2008 TP NOPR to use the EP

definitions of “active mode,” “standby mode,” and “off mo

 For reasons discussed previously, DOE decided to consid

standby, off, and active mode definitions from the draft veStandard 62301 CDV for the SNOPR. 

• New mode definitions expand upon the EPCA mode definitions • Provides additional guidance as to which functions are associated 

mode. 

 For these reasons, DOE is proposing standby, off, and act

definitions based on the definitions provided in IEC Stand

CDV. 

 The proposed mode definitions remained substantively th

IEC Standard 62301 FDIS. 

32 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – Standby Mode 

 DOE is proposing the following definition of standby mode

• “Standby mode” means any product modes where the energy usin

connected to a mains power source and offers one or more of the user oriented or protective functions which may persist for an inde

– To facilitate the activation of other modes (including activation 

deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including remo

internal sensor, or timer; 

– Continuous functions, including information or status displays 

clocks) or sensor-based functions. 

• Additional clarification that a timer is a continuous clock function (w

or may not be associated with a display) that provides regular schtasks (e.g., switching) and that operates on a continuous basis. 

 DOE is not proposing that standby power be measured at 

lowest power state selectable by the user”, as recommendAHAM, because this would potentially conflict with the reqto test at “factory or ‘default” settings” in paragraph 5.2 of Standard 62301. 

33 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – Off Mode 

 DOE is proposing the following definition of off mode.

• “Off mode” means a mode which includes any product modes whe

energy using product is connected to a mains power source and is 

providing any standby mode or active mode function and where th

may persist for an indefinite time. An indicator that only shows the the product is in the off position is included within the classification mode. 

34 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – On/Off Switch 

 DOE considered the issue of whether a microwave oven th

plugged in but not consuming energy due to the presence 

on/off switch would be in disconnected mode or off mode. 

 DOE first reviewed the discussion provided in annex A of 

Standard 62301 CDV, which is informative only.

• Section A.2 states that disconnected mode is included as a mode 

because many products are removed by users from mains power substantial periods of time. DOE interprets this condition to refer to cord being unplugged from the power source.

• Section A.2 further states that “[a] product may have several off m

may have no off mode. Switches on products that are labelled as on/off or standby may not reflect the mode classification based on functions active in that mode.” 

– This statement is not definitive regarding how to treat the presence of a 

on/off switch. 

– However, DOE infers it to mean that products equipped with such swit

operate in off or standby mode(s), depending on what components ma

energized with the switch in the “off” position. 

35 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – On/Off Switch 

 In considering section A.2 in total, DOE concludes that 

disconnected mode for microwave ovens would be associwith the removal of the power cord from the power source

 Based on this review, DOE tentatively concludes that zero 

consumption due to activation of an on/off switch would bindicative of off mode rather than disconnected mode. 

• This conclusion is a revision of DOE’s determination proposed in t

2008 TP NOPR. 

• Classification of an on/off switch as operating in off mode in the ab

other energy use associated with standby mode would encourage manufacturers to provide such an energy-saving feature, 

36 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – Active Mode 

 DOE is proposing the following definition of active mode.

• “Active mode” means a mode which includes product modes whe

energy using product “is connected to a mains power source, has activated and provides one or more main functions”, with the addclarification that “delay start mode is a one off user initiated short function that is associated with an active mode.” 

37 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Definition of Modes – Active Mode 

 IEC Standard 62301 CD2, provided additional clarification 

“delay start mode is a one off user initiated short duration that is associated with an active mode.” 

 IEC Standard 62301 CDV eliminated this clarification. 

• In response to comments on IEC Standard 62301 CD2 that led to 

Standard 62301 CDV, IEC states that delay start mode is a one oof limited duration. 

• Suggests that IEC does not consider it as part of standby mode, a

conclusion is made as to whether it would be considered part of aeither. 

 DOE is tentatively proposing to consider delay start mode 

of active mode because it is a condition of finite duration user-initiated and uniquely associated with a cooking cyc

 DOE also determined that cooking or warming of food wo

considered active mode functions as well. 

38 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Mode Definitions 

Request for Comment: Definition of Modes 

DOE seeks comment on its proposed definitions of standby off mode, and active mode, which are based on the languagStandard 62301 CDV. DOE also seeks comment on specific that would be classified as standby, off, and active modes. (

39 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

40 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Adding Specifications for Test Methods an

Measurements for Standby and Off Mode Tes

 DOE noted in the October 2008 TP NOPR that IEC Standar

does not specify closely the test method for measuring the consumption in cases in which the measured power is not 

• Section 5.3.2 states that “[i]f the power varies over a cycle (i.e., a 

sequence of power states that occur over several minutes or hourperiod selected to average power or accumulate energy shall be ocomplete cycles in order to get a representative average value.” 

 For the October 2008 TP NOPR, DOE investigated clarifyin

language that would provide accurate and repeatable test measurements. 

• DOE’s testing of standby power led it to propose the test period in 

which the power is not stable as “a 12-hour ± 30-second period.” 

41 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Alternate Methods to Reduce Test Burden for Unsta

 DOE also investigated test methods to determine standby 

over a shorter period than 12 hours.

• An 18-point method was evaluated in the November 2007 standar

– Standby power consumption and line voltage are measured as the cloc

through all the possible digit combinations (in terms of active elements

– Regression analysis is performed to quantify the impact of the number 

elements (by digit) and voltage on power consumption. 

– Results are then integrated across the number of minutes that each ac

combination is “on” through the course of the 12 hours. 

– Results were within 1 to 2 percent of the 12-hour test results. 

• For the SNOPR, DOE also investigated a single 10-minute measu

period with a starting clock time of 3:33. 

– The proportion of time that each possible number of segments in a 7-s

display that are lit over the 10-minute time period from 3:33 to 3:42 is rof the distribution of lit segments over a 12-hour period with an arbitrar

time. 

– Suggests that the 10-minute test period starting at 3:33 would produce 

standby power measurements that are comparable to average standby measured over 12 hours. 

42 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Comparison of Measurement Methods for Unstabl

 DOE conducted limited testing of 11 microwave ovens : 

Test 

Unit 

Display 

Type 

12-Hour Method 18-Point Method 10-Minute M

Standby Watts* Standby Watts* % Difference Standby Watts* 

1 LCD 1.567 1.552 -0.99% 1.592 

2 LCD 1.571 1.560 -0.70% 1.554 

3 LCD 1.812 1.812 0.03% 1.801 

4 LCD 1.490 1.475 -0.96% 1.492 

5 LCD 1.859 1.847 -0.60% 1.874 

6 LCD 3.788 3.798 0.26% 3.818 

7 LCD 3.641 3.642 0.04% 3.606 

8 LED 1.802 1.796 -0.35% 1.797 

9 LED 1.825 1.820 -0.25% 1.816 

10 LED 3.185 3.177 -0.27% 3.290 

11 VFD 5.600 5.611 0.20% 5.607 

* Standby power normalized to 120V supply power.** For this test, supply power was significantly different than 120V, so DOE does not believe this  Because data for the 10-minute method agrees with the 12-hour data 

is proposing, for microwave ovens for which standby power consumstable, the clock display shall be set at 3:33 at the conclusion of the period and the test period shall be 10 minutes. 

43 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Request for Comment: Test Cycle 

DOE seeks comment on its proposed clarification to IEC Sta62301, in which DOE specifies a test period of 10 minutes winitial clock display time of 3:33 for microwave ovens for whmeasured power is not stable, and the test burden associatsuch testing requirements. (Issue #5) 

44 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Representative Measurements 

 Both the 18-point and 10-minute approaches for accelerate

standby testing offer the possibility that a microwave oven programmed to alter its behavior when such a test is detecorder to minimize measured standby power consumption.

• Example: a microwave oven could be programmed to turn off its c

sensors and/or dim its display only during the display times assocthe 18 measurement points or between display times 3:33 and 3:4

 The microwave oven test procedure is designed to provide 

measurement consistent with representative average consof the product, even if the test conditions and/or procedur

not themselves all be representative of average consumer 

 DOE’s proposed language:

• Makes explicit in the regulatory text the Department’s long held int

that the purpose of the test procedure is to measure representativ

• Proposes a specific mechanism—the waiver process—as a mand

requirement for all products for which the test procedure would nocapture the energy consumption during representative use. 

45 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Request for Comment: Test Procedure Waiver

Products for which Test Measurements are n

Representative

DOE seeks comment on the proposed language requiring pwaivers to address products equipped with controls or othethat modify the operation of energy using components durinenergy test. DOE seeks comment on whether more specific could or should be provided to define either the product characteristics that would make the test procedure unsuitabor to define representative average use. (Issue #6) 

46 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Methods and Measurements 

Testing Burden 

 DOE believes the proposed test procedure would not subs

add to manufacturer test burden because: 

• The number of units to be tested according to the sampling require

10 CFR 430.24(i) is reasonable. 

• A 5-minute stabilization period and a 5-minute or 10-minute test ti

depending on whether the standby power consumption is stable ois reasonable. 

• It would allow manufacturers that conduct testing on the productio

order to assure product quality to continue to do so. 

47 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Test Procedure Overview 

1. Product Covered by the Test Procedure Changes 2. Effective Date for the Test Procedure 3. Measures of Energy Consumption 4. Incorporating by Reference IEC Standard 62301 for Measuring Standby Mo

Mode Power in Microwave Ovens 

5. Definitions of “Active Mode”, “Standby Mode”, and “Off Mode” 

6. Specifications for the Test Methods and Measurements for Microwave Ove

Mode and Off Mode Testing 

7. Compliance with Other EPCA Requirements 

48 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Compliance with Other EPCA

Requirements 

Test Burden 

 Section 323(b)(3) of EPCA requires that any prescribed or amended t

shall be reasonably designed to produce test results which measure efficiency, energy use or estimated annual operating cost during a reaverage use cycle or period of use and shall not be unduly burdenso

(42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) 

 DOE tentatively concluded in the October 2008 TP NOPR that propos

amendments for measuring standby and off mode power would satisrequirement.

• Would produce standby and off mode power measurements that are r

for cases when the power is stable and unstable. 

• Would incorporate a test standard that is widely used and accepted in

measure standby and off mode power (IEC Standard 62301). 

• Would not require manufacturers to make major investments in test fa

equipment and would not unduly burdensome to conduct. 

 For similar reasons, DOE concludes for this SNOPR that the propose

amendments would satisfy the EPCA requirement.

• In addition, this SNOPR proposes a significantly shorter test duration 

hours that was proposed in the October 2008 TP NOPR. 

49 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Closing 

How to Submit Comments... 

 Public Meeting – oral comments will be captured in the transcript 

part of the public record. 

 Written comments – SNOPR comment period open until October 

Reference docket #: EERE-2008-BT-TP-0011 and/or RIN #: 1904

Email: MicroOven-2008-TP-0011@ee.doe.gov Mail: Mrs. Brenda Edwards 

U.S. Department of EnergyBuilding Technologies Program 1000 Independence Avenue, SW, Mailstop EE-2J

Washington, DC 20585-0121 

Courier: Mrs. Brenda Edwards 

U.S. Department of Energy

Building Technologies Program950 L'Enfant Plaza, 6th Floor

Washington, DC 20024Telephone: (202) 586-2945

50 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Active Mode Test Procedure Provisions

51 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Repeal Final Rule 

 DOE published a final rule on July 22, 2010, which repealed 

microwave oven test procedure provisions for cooking efficenergy factor (active mode). 

• DOE determined that the provisions did not produce accurate and r

test results. 

• DOE was unaware of any test procedures that have been develope

these concerns. 

52 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Introduction 

Steps in a Potential Microwave Oven Active Mode T

Procedure Rulemaking

NOPR Final Rule 

 Comments on initiating a NOPR from interested parties 

• Transcript records oral comments from today’s public meeting • Written comments 

 DOE reviews and considers all comments  DOE will consider developing a new active mode microwav

procedure by proposing amendments in a NOPR. 

53 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Background 

Previous Active Mode Provisions 

 The active mode provisions incorporated portions of IEC Standard 705

Amendment 2-1993, “Methods for Measuring the Performance of MicroHouseholds and Similar Purposes” (IEC Standard 705).

• IEC Standard 705 has been declared obsolete by IEC. 

 The current IEC test procedure is IEC Standard 60705-2006, “Househo

ovens―Methods of measuring performance” (IEC Standard 60705). 

 As part of energy conservation standards rulemaking for microwave o

AHAM tested microwave ovens to both IEC Standard 705 and IEC Stan

• DOE tested 32 microwave ovens • AHAM tested 21 microwave ovens • Results: 

– DOE observed significant variability in the cooking efficiency measurements 

– DOE was unable to ascertain why similarly designed, equipped, and constru

ovens shows varying efficiencies. 

54 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Background 

Comparison of IEC 705 and IEC 60705 

 Fundamentally, the two test procedures are very similar:

• Cool water outside test vessel to 10 ̊C below room temperature, then pour/weigh 

vessel. 

• Cooking efficiency test is run at 100 percent of MWO output. • Heat water sample to room temperature and record time and input power during 

Current DOE Efficiency Test (IEC 705-1988 and Amendment 2-1993)

• Excludes filament heating power requirements• Has tighter ambient temperature requirements (+/- 2 ̊C vs. +/- 5 ̊C)• Has tighter final temperature requirements (Tambient +/- 1 ̊C vs. 20 +/- 2 ̊C) 

Current IEC Test Procedure (IEC 60705-2006)

• Test supplanted IEC 705; IEC considers IEC 705 obsolete. • Energy consumption measurement includes filament heat-up time, which lowers • Requires rounding output power to nearest 50W and efficiency to the nearest wh

more than triples the range of efficiency and power output calculations compared 

• Test procedure does not specify how to determine the filament heat-up time, whi

uncertainty in the power output calculations. 

• Test procedure does not specify the requirements for accuracy of temperature an

measurements.

55 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Background 

Comparison of IEC 705 and IEC 60705 

Based on limited testing, the data from IEC705-1988 and Amendme

is more consistent. Three tests per MWO, 12 MWOs tested Rounding of output power per IEC60705 roughly quadruples test-tovariability. 

Test Unit 

# 

Rated P ower 

Output (W) 

Test to Te

IEC 705-

1988 

st Efficiency R

Rounded 

IEC 60705 

Raw IEC 

60705 

ange (%) 

DOE1 700 1.46 3.57 0.56 DOE6 DOE5 

800 800 

0.06 

0.4 

3.45 3.33 

0.96 0.70 

DOE9 900 0.48 5.00 1.66 

DOE22 DOE19 DOE15 DOE21 

1,100 1,100 1,100 1,100 

0.71 0.47 0.77 0.21 

3.57 3.45 3.39 1.67 

0.50 0.20 0.53 0.76 

DOE27 DOE29 

1,200 1,200 

1.07 0.92 

1.67 0.00 

1.05 0.87 

DOE30 1,250 0.67 1.79 0.82 DOE32 1,300 1.24 5.17 2.14 

Test-to-Test Range (%) 

6 5 4 3 2 1 0 

IEC 60705 Non-Rounded TestIEC 60705 Rounded Test-to-T

1 6 5 9 22 19 15 21 27 

DOE Test Unit # 

56 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Active Mode Methodology 

Other Test Procedures for Measuring Energy Effic

Microwave Ovens.

 IEC Standard 60705 Ed. 4.0 b: 2010  Canada: CAN/CSA C388-M89 (R2007), “Energy Consumption Test Met

Household Microwave Ovens” 

 Australia: AS/NZS 2895.1: 2007, “Performance of household electrical 

Microwave ovens – Methods for measuring the performance of microwhousehold and similar purposes” 

 Japan: JIS C 9250: 1992/Amendment 1: 2007, “Microwave Ovens”  Korea: KS C 9313-95, “Microwave Ovens”  China: GB/T 18800-2008: Household microwave oven – Methods for m

performance 

 China: CCEC/T09-2006, “Microwave Ovens”  Brazil: RESP/012, “Microwave Ovens” 

 Chile: NCh 2642: 2001, “Microwave Ovens”  Others? 

57 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Active Mode Methodology 

Request for Comment: Active Mode Method

DOE seeks comment on issues associated with the current microwave oven test procedure and whether any test methocurrently available to address these concerns. 

58 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens 
Closing 

How to Submit Comments... 

 Public Meeting – oral comments will be captured in the transcript 

part of the public record. 

 Written comments – Reference docket #: EERE-2010-BT-TP-002

RIN #: 1904-AC26 

Email: MWO-2010-TP-0023@ee.doe.gov 

Mail: Mrs. Brenda Edwards 

U.S. Department of EnergyBuilding Technologies Program 1000 Independence Avenue, SW, Mailstop EE-2J

Washington, DC 20585-0121 

Courier: Mrs. Brenda Edwards 

U.S. Department of Energy

Building Technologies Program

950 L'Enfant Plaza, 6th Floor

Washington, DC 20024

Telephone: (202) 586-2945

59 | Test Procedures for Microwave Ovens