[Federal Register Volume 87, Number 50 (Tuesday, March 15, 2022)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 14622-14659]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2022-04017]



[[Page 14621]]

Vol. 87

Tuesday,

No. 50

March 15, 2022

Part II





Department of Energy





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10 CFR Parts 429 and 430





Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Consumer Boilers; 
Proposed Rule

Federal Register / Vol. 87 , No. 50 / Tuesday, March 15, 2022 / 
Proposed Rules

[[Page 14622]]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Parts 429 and 430

[EERE-2019-BT-TP-0037]
RIN 1904-AE83


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedure for Consumer Boilers

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comment.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') proposes to amend the 
test procedures for consumer boilers to incorporate by reference the 
latest version of the industry standards currently referenced in the 
Federal test procedure. DOE proposes to relocate the test procedure in 
a new appendix separate from the residential furnace test procedure. 
DOE also proposes to remove an extraneous definition from its 
regulatory definitions. DOE is seeking comment from interested parties 
on the proposal.

DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
proposal no later than May 16, 2022. See section V, ``Public 
Participation,'' for details. DOE will hold a webinar on Thursday, 
April 7, 2022, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. See section V, ``Public 
Participation,'' for webinar registration information, participant 
instructions, and information about the capabilities available to 
webinar participants. If no participants register for the webinar, it 
will be cancelled.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using 
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments. Alternatively, interested persons 
may submit comments, identified by docket number EERE-2019-BT-TP-0037 
and/or RIN 1904-AE83, by any of the following methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#7a391514090f171f08381513161f0809484a4b432e2a4a4a494d3a1f1f541e151f541d150c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="da99b5b4a9afb7bfa898b5b3b6bfa8a9e8eaebe38e8aeaeae9ed9abfbff4beb5bff4bdb5ac">[email protected]</span></a>. Include the docket 
number EERE-2019-BT-TP-0037 and/or RIN 1904-AE83 in the subject line of 
the message.
    No telefacsimiles (faxes) will be accepted. For detailed 
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on the 
rulemaking process, see section V of this document.
    Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions 
through a variety of mechanisms, including postal mail and hand 
delivery/courier, the Department has found it necessary to make 
temporary modifications to the comment submission process in light of 
the ongoing coronavirus (``COVID-19'') pandemic. DOE is currently 
suspending receipt of public comments via postal mail and hand 
delivery/courier. If a commenter finds that this change poses an undue 
hardship, please contact Appliance Standards Program staff at (202) 
586-1445 to discuss the need for alternative arrangements. Once the 
COVID-19 pandemic health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates 
resuming all of its regular options for public comment submission, 
including postal mail and hand delivery/courier.
    Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, 
webinar or public meeting attendee lists and transcripts (if a webinar 
or public meeting is held), comments, and other supporting documents/
materials, is available for review at www.regulations.gov. All 
documents in the docket are listed in the www.regulations.gov index. 
However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing 
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly 
available.
    The docket web page can be found at www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2019-BT-TP-0037. The docket web page contains instructions on how 
to access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. See 
section V for information on how to submit comments through 
www.regulations.gov.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: 
    Ms. Julia Hegarty, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy 
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, EE-2J, 
1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Telephone: 
(240) 597-6737. Email <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#da9baaaab6b3bbb4b9bf89aebbb4bebba8bea98bafbfa9aeb3b5b4a99abfbff4beb5bff4bdb5ac"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="08497878646169666b6d5b7c69666c697a6c7b597d6d7b7c6167667b486d6d266c676d266f677e">[email protected]</span></a>.
    Ms. Amelia Whiting, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the 
General Counsel, GC-33, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-2588. Email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#87c6eae2ebeee6a9d0efeef3eee9e0c7eff6a9e3e8e2a9e0e8f1"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="60210d050c09014e37080914090e072008114e040f054e070f16">[email protected]</span></a>.
    For further information on how to submit a comment, review other 
public comments and the docket, or participate in a public meeting (if 
one is held), contact the Appliance and Equipment Standards Program 
staff at (202) 287-1445 or by email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1f5e6f6f73767e717c7a4c6b7e717b7e6d7b6c4e6a7a6c6b7670716c5f7a7a317b707a31787069"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="e7a697978b8e86898482b49386898386958394b6928294938e888994a78282c9838882c9808891">[email protected]</span></a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DOE proposes to maintain and amend a 
previously approved incorporation by reference and to newly incorporate 
by reference the following industry standards into the Code of Federal 
Regulations (``CFR'') at 10 CFR part 430:
    American National Standards Institute (``ANSI'')/American Society 
of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (``ASHRAE'') 
Standard 103-2017 (ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017), ``Method of Testing for 
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and 
Boilers,'' approved July 3, 2017.
    ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 41.6-2014 (ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014), ``Standard 
Method for Humidity Measurement,'' approved July 3, 2014. Copies of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014 can be obtained from the 
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning 
Engineers, Inc., 180 Technology Parkway NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 
30092, (800) 527-4723 or (404) 636-8400, or online at: www.ashrae.org.
    ASTM, International (``ASTM'') Standard D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018) 
(ASTM D2156-09 (R2018)), ``Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in 
Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels,'' reapproved October 1, 2018.
    Copies of ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) can be obtained from the ASTM, 
International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, 
PA 19428-2959 or online at: www.astm.org.
    International Electrotechnical Commission (``IEC'') 62301 (IEC 
62301), ``Household electrical appliances-Measurement of standby 
power,'' (Edition 2.0 2011-01).
    Copies of IEC 62301 can be obtained from the American National 
Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, 
(212) 642-4900, or online at: webstore.ansi.org.
    See section IV.M of this document for a further discussion of these 
standards.

Table of Contents

I. Authority and Background
    A. Authority
    B. Background
    C. Deviation From Appendix A
II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
III. Discussion
    A. Scope of Applicability
    B. Definitions
    C. Metric
    D. Updates to Industry Standards
    E. Test Procedure Requirements
    1. Ambient Conditions
    2. Combustion Airflow Settings
    3. Input Rates for Step Modulating Boilers
    4. Return Water Temperature
    5. Active Mode Electrical Energy Consumption

[[Page 14623]]

    6. Standby Mode and Off Mode
    7. Full Fuel Cycle
    8. Conversion Factor for British Thermal Units
    F. Alternative Efficiency Determination Methods
    G. Certification Requirements
    1. Linear Interpolation
    2. Supplemental Test Instructions
    3. Standby Mode and Off Mode Certification
    H. Test Procedure Costs and Harmonization
    1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
    2. Harmonization With Industry Standards
    I. Compliance Date
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
    B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
    D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
    E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
    F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
    G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 1999
    I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
    J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration 
Act of 1974
    M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference
V. Public Participation
    A. Participation in the Webinar
    B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for 
Distribution
    C. Conduct of the Webinar
    D. Submission of Comments
    E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Authority and Background

    Furnaces, which includes consumer boilers, are included in the list 
of ``covered products'' for which DOE is authorized to establish and 
amend energy conservation standards and test procedures. (42 U.S.C. 
6291(23); 42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(5)) DOE's energy conservation standards and 
test procedures for consumer boilers are currently prescribed at title 
10 CFR 430.32(e)(2), and 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix N, 
Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Furnaces 
and Boilers (``appendix N''). The following sections discuss DOE's 
authority to establish test procedures for consumer boilers and 
relevant background information regarding DOE's consideration of test 
procedures for this product.

A. Authority

    Title III, Part B \1\ of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act 
(``EPCA''),\2\ Pub. L.'') 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified) 
established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other 
Than Automobiles, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to 
improve energy efficiency. These products include consumer boilers, 
which are the subject of this document. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(5))
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    \1\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part B was redesignated Part A.
    \2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through the Infrastructure Investment and JobsEnergy Act 
of 2020, Public Law 117-58 (Nov. 15, 2021116-260 (Dec. 27, 2020).
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    The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant 
provisions of EPCA specifically include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291), 
test procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294), 
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the authority to 
require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
    The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that 
manufacturers of covered products must use as the basis for: (1) 
Certifying to DOE that their products comply with the applicable energy 
conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), 
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of those consumer 
products (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test 
procedures to determine whether the products comply with relevant 
standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
    Federal energy efficiency requirements for covered products 
established under EPCA generally supersede State laws and regulations 
concerning energy conservation testing, labeling, and standards. (42 
U.S.C. 6297) DOE may, however, grant waivers of Federal preemption in 
limited circumstances for particular State laws or regulations, in 
accordance with the procedures and other provisions of EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 
6297(d))
    Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, the statute sets forth the criteria and 
procedures DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures 
for covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed 
or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce 
test results which measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated 
annual operating cost of a covered product during a representative 
average use cycle or period of use and not be unduly burdensome to 
conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    EPCA also requires that, at least once every 7 years, DOE evaluate 
test procedures for each type of covered product, including the 
consumer boilers that are the subject of this document, to determine 
whether amended test procedures would more accurately or fully comply 
with the requirements for the test procedures to not be unduly 
burdensome to conduct and be reasonably designed to produce test 
results that reflect energy efficiency, energy use, and estimated 
operating costs during a representative average use cycle or period of 
use. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(1)(A))
    If the Secretary determines, on his own behalf or in response to a 
petition by any interested person, that a test procedure should be 
prescribed or amended, the Secretary shall promptly publish in the 
Federal Register proposed test procedures and afford interested persons 
an opportunity to present oral and written data, views, and arguments 
with respect to such procedures. The comment period on a proposed rule 
to amend a test procedure shall be at least 60 days but may not exceed 
270 days. In prescribing or amending a test procedure, the Secretary 
shall take into account such information as the Secretary determines 
relevant to such procedure, including technological developments 
relating to energy use or energy efficiency of the type (or class) of 
covered products involved. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)) If DOE determines 
that test procedure revisions are not appropriate, DOE must publish its 
determination not to amend the test procedures. DOE is publishing this 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) in satisfaction of the 7-year 
lookback review requirement specified in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(b)(1)(A))

B. Background

    As stated, DOE's existing test procedure for consumer boilers 
appears at Title 10 of the CFR part 430, subpart B, appendix N 
(``Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Furnaces 
and Boilers'') and is used to determine the annual fuel utilization 
efficiency (``AFUE''), which is the regulatory metric for consumer 
boilers.
    DOE most recently updated its test procedure for consumer boilers 
in a final rule published in the Federal Register on January 15, 2016 
(``January 2016 final rule''). 81 FR 2628. The January 2016 final rule 
amended the existing DOE test procedure for

[[Page 14624]]

consumer boilers to improve the consistency and accuracy of test 
results generated using the DOE test procedure and to reduce test 
burden. In particular, the modifications relevant to consumer boilers 
included: (1) Clarifying the definition of the electrical power term, 
``PE''; (2) adopting a smoke stick test for determining whether minimum 
default draft factors can be applied; (3) allowing for optional 
measurement of condensate during establishment of steady-state 
conditions; (4) updating references to the applicable installation and 
operation (``I&O'') manual and providing clarifications for when the 
I&O manual does not specify test set-up; and (5) revising the AFUE 
reporting precision. DOE also revised the definitions of several terms 
in the test procedure and added an enforcement provision to provide a 
method of test for DOE to determine compliance with the automatic means 
design requirement mandated by the Energy Independence and Security Act 
of 2007, Public Law 110-140 (Dec. 19, 2007). 81 FR 2628, 2629-2630.
    On May 15, 2020, DOE published in the Federal Register a request 
for information (``May 2020 RFI'') seeking comments on the existing DOE 
test procedure for consumer boilers, which incorporates by reference 
ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103-1993. 85 FR 29352. ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 
provides test procedures for determining the AFUE of residential 
central furnaces and boilers. In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested 
comments, information, and data about a number of issues, including: 
(1) The test procedure's scope and definitions; (2) updates to industry 
standards; (3) ambient test conditions; (4) provisions for testing 
boilers with manually adjustable combustion airflow; (5) calculation of 
steady-state heat loss for condensing, modulating boilers; and (6) 
provisions for testing step modulating boilers. Id. at 85 FR 29354-
29357. DOE also sought comment generally on whether the current test 
procedures are reasonably designed to produce results that measure 
energy efficiency during a representative average use cycle or period 
of use, whether any potential amendments would make the test procedure 
unduly burdensome to conduct, whether existing test procedures limit a 
manufacturer's ability to provide additional features, on the impact of 
any potential amendments on manufacturers including small businesses, 
on whether there are any potential issues related to emerging smart 
technologies, and generally on any other aspect of the test procedure 
for consumer boilers. Id. at 85 FR 23957.
    DOE received comments in response to the May 2020 RFI from the 
interested parties listed in Table I.1.

  Table I.1--Written Comments Received in Response to the May 2020 RFI
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                                   Reference in this
          Commenter(s)                   NOPR           Commenter type
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Air-Conditioning, Heating and     AHRI..............  Trade Association.
 Refrigeration Institute.
Pacific Gas and Electric          CA IOUs...........  Utilities.
 Company, San Diego Gas and
 Electric, Southern California
 Edison (collectively referred
 to as the California Investor
 Owned Utilities).
Northwest Energy Efficiency       NEEA..............  Efficiency
 Alliance.                                             Organization.
Weil-McLain.....................  Weil-McLain.......  Manufacturer.
Bradford White Corporation......  BWC...............  Manufacturer.
Rheem Manufacturing Company.....  Rheem.............  Manufacturer.
Burnham Holdings, Inc...........  BHI...............  Manufacturer.
Energy Kinetics, Inc............  Energy Kinetics...  Manufacturer.
Lochinvar.......................  Lochinvar.........  Manufacturer.
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C. Deviation From Appendix A

    In accordance with section 3(a) of 10 CFR part 430, subpart C, 
appendix A (``appendix A''), DOE notes that it is deviating from the 
provision in appendix A regarding the pre-NOPR stages for a test 
procedure rulemaking. Section 8(b) of appendix A states if DOE 
determines that it is appropriate to continue the test procedure 
rulemaking after the early assessment process, it will provide further 
opportunities for early public input through Federal Register 
documents, including notices of data availability and/or requests for 
information. DOE is opting to deviate from this provision due to the 
substantial feedback and information supplied by commenters in response 
to the May 2020 RFI. As discussed in section I.B of this NOPR, the May 
2020 RFI requested submission of comments, data, and information 
pertinent to test procedures for consumer boilers. In response to the 
May 2020 RFI, stakeholders provided substantial comments and 
information, which DOE has found sufficient to identify the need to 
modify the test procedures for consumer boilers.

II. Synopsis of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    In this NOPR, DOE proposes to update appendix N to remove the 
provisions applicable only to consumer boilers and to rename the 
current appendix as ``Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy 
Consumption of Furnaces.'' Correspondingly, DOE proposes to create a 
new test procedure at 10 CFR 430 subpart B, appendix EE, ``Uniform Test 
Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Boilers'' (``appendix 
EE''). In the new appendix EE, DOE proposes to include all provisions 
currently included in appendix N relevant to consumer boilers, with the 
following modifications:
    (1) Incorporate by reference the current revision to the applicable 
industry standard, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, ``Methods of Testing for 
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and 
Boilers.''
    (2) Incorporate by reference the current revision of ASTM Standard 
D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018), ``Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in 
Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels.''
    (3) Incorporate by reference ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014, ``Standard 
Method for Humidity Measurement.''
    (4) Update the definitions to reflect the changes in ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017 as compared to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.
    DOE also proposes in this NOPR to remove the definition of outdoor 
furnace or boiler from 10 CFR 430.2.
    DOE's proposed actions are summarized in Table II.1 compared to the 
current test procedure as well as the reason for the proposed change.

[[Page 14625]]



  Table II.1--Summary of Changes in Proposed Test Procedure Relative to
                         Current Test Procedure
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                  Proposed test
 Current DOE test procedure         procedure            Attribution
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test procedure requirements   Test procedure        Industry standard
 based on industry standard    requirements based    update to ANSI/
 ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.         on ANSI/ASHRAE 103-   ASHRAE 103-2017.
                               2017.
Procedure for adjusting oil-  Procedure for         Industry standard
 fired burner references       adjusting oil-fired   update to ASTM
 industry standard ASTM        burner references     D2156-09
 D2156-09 (Reapproved 2013).   industry standard     (Reapproved 2018).
                               ASTM D2156-09
                               (Reapproved 2018).
Limits the maximum relative   References ANSI/      Referenced by
 humidity during certain       ASHRAE 41.6 for       industry standard
 tests, but does not provide   instructions for      ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
 specific instructions for     measuring relative    2017, which is
 how to measure relative       humidity of the       being proposed in
 humidity.                     test room.            this NOPR.
Includes a definition for     Removes the           Remove an unused
 ``outdoor furnace or          definition for        definition.
 boiler'' at 10 CFR 430.2.     ``outdoor furnace
                               or boiler''.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE tentatively determines that the proposed amendments described 
in section III of this document could minimally impact the measured 
efficiency of certain consumer boilers, but that if such impacts are 
realized, re-testing and re-rating would not be required. DOE also 
tentatively determines that the proposed test procedures improve the 
representativeness of the test method and would not be unduly 
burdensome to conduct. Discussion of DOE's proposed actions are 
addressed in detail in section III of this document.

III. Discussion

A. Scope of Applicability

    As discussed, in the context of ``covered products,'' EPCA includes 
boilers in the definition of ``furnace.'' (42 U.S.C. 6291(23)) EPCA 
defines the term ``furnace'' to mean a product which utilizes only 
single-phase electric current, or single-phase electric current or DC 
current in conjunction with natural gas, propane, or home heating oil, 
and which: (1) Is designed to be the principal heating source for the 
living space of a residence; (2) is not contained within the same 
cabinet with a central air conditioner whose rated cooling capacity is 
above 65,000 British thermal units (``Btu'') per hour; (3) is an 
electric central furnace, electric boiler, forced-air central furnace, 
gravity central furnace, or low pressure steam or hot water boiler; and 
(4) has a heat input rate of less than 300,000 Btu per hour for 
electric boilers and low pressure steam or hot water boilers and less 
than 225,000 Btu per hour for forced-air central furnaces, gravity 
central furnaces, and electric central furnaces. Id. DOE has codified 
this definition in its regulations at 10 CFR 430.2.
    DOE defines ``electric boiler'' as an electrically powered furnace 
designed to supply low pressure steam or hot water for space heating 
application. A low pressure steam boiler operates at or below 15 pounds 
per square inch gauge (``psig'') steam pressure; a hot water boiler 
operates at or below 160 psig water pressure and 250 degrees Fahrenheit 
([deg]F) water temperature. 10 CFR 430.2.
    DOE defines ``low pressure steam or hot water boiler'' as an 
electric, gas or oil burning furnace designed to supply low pressure 
steam or hot water for space heating application. 10 CFR 430.2. As with 
an electric boiler, a low pressure steam boiler operates at or below 15 
pounds psig steam pressure; a hot water boiler operates at or below 160 
psig water pressure and 250 [deg]F water temperature. Id.
    The scope of the test procedure for consumer boilers is specified 
in section 1.0 of appendix N, which references section 2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-1993. In relevant part, section 2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 states 
that the industry test standard applies to boilers \3\ with inputs less 
than 300,000 Btu per hour (``Btu/h''); having gas, oil, or electric 
input; and intended for use in residential applications. Further, ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 applies to equipment that utilizes single-phase 
electric current or low-voltage DC current.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ ASHRAE 103-1993 defines a ``boiler'' as: A self-contained 
fuel-burning or electrically heated appliance for supplying low-
pressure steam or hot water for space heating application. This 
definition covers electric boilers and low-pressure steam or hot 
water boilers as those terms are defined by DOE at 10 CFR 430.2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether any consumer 
boilers are available on the market that are covered by the scope 
provision of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993, but that are not covered by the 
definition of ``furnace'' as codified by DOE at 10 CFR 430.2. 85 FR 
29352, 29354. DOE also requested comment on whether any consumer 
boilers on the market are covered by DOE's definition of ``furnace'' 
that are not covered by the scope provision of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993. 
Id.
    AHRI, Rheem, and Weil-McLain stated that air-to-water and water-to-
water heat pumps fall under the definition of ``furnace'' in the CFR, 
but are not covered by the current test procedures. (AHRI, No. 6 at p. 
1; Rheem, No. 9 at p. 2; Weil-McLain, No. 5 at p. 3) \4\ BHI commented 
that if DOE were to regulate hydronic heat pumps, such products should 
be classified as heat pumps and the boiler definition in 10 CFR 430.2 
should be modified to explicitly exclude them. BHI also stated that 
ASHRAE 103 is not intended to evaluate such products. (BHI, No. 11 at 
p. 1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ This and subsequent parentheticals parenthetical provide a 
reference for information located in the docket of DOE's rulemaking 
to develop test procedures for consumer boilers. (Docket No. EERE-
2019-BT-TP-0037, which is maintained at www.regulations.gov/docket?D=EERE-2019-BT-TP-0037). Parenthetical references are 
arranged as follows: (commenter name, comment docket ID number, page 
of that document).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    NEEA recommended that DOE add a definition for combination space 
and domestic hot water boilers as the current DOE definitions are 
ambiguous when it comes to the developing product category as these 
products fit both the definition of consumer boiler and water heater. 
NEEA also suggested that DOE adopt a test procedure referencing 
industry standards ASHRAE 124 and Canadian Standards Association (CSA) 
P.9, as appropriate, once the ongoing revision to ASHRAE 124 is 
finalized. (NEEA, No. 10 at pp. 3-4) Rheem also recommended that DOE 
consider adopting a test procedure for combination boilers. (Rheem, No. 
9 at p. 2)
    DOE tentatively agrees with commenters that air-to-water and water-
to-water heat pumps meet the definitional criteria to be classified as 
a consumer boiler. These products utilize only single-phase electric 
current, are designed to be the principal heating source for the living 
space of a residence, are not contained within the

[[Page 14626]]

same cabinet with a central air conditioner whose rated cooling 
capacity is above 65,000 Btu per hour, meet the definition of an 
electric boiler,\5\ and have a heat input rate of less than 300,000 Btu 
per hour (i.e., the requirement for electric boilers). As such they 
meet the criteria of ``furnace'' as defined in 10 CFR 430.2. DOE also 
tentatively agrees with commenters that the current test procedure in 
appendix N does not address such products and would not provide a rated 
value that is representative of the performance of these products. In 
particular, the AFUE metric for electric boilers in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
1993 is calculated as 100 percent minus jacket loss.\6\ This metric 
provides a representative measure of efficiency for electric boilers 
using electric resistance technology, for which an efficiency value of 
100 percent (the ratio of heat output to energy input) is the maximum 
upper limit that technically could be achieved. The AFUE metric does 
not allow for ratings greater than 100 percent for electric boilers. 
However, this metric would not provide a representative or meaningful 
measure of efficiency for a boiler with a heat pump supplying the heat 
input, because heat pump efficiency (in terms of heat output to energy 
input) typically exceeds 100 percent.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \5\ As discussed in section III.B of this document, ``electric 
boiler'' means an electrically powered furnace designed to supply 
low pressure steam or hot water for space heating application. A 
low-pressure steam boiler operates at or below 15 psig steam 
pressure; a hot water boiler operates at or below 160 psig water 
pressure and 250 [deg]F water temperature. 10 CFR 430.2.
    \6\ The term ``jacket loss'' is used by industry to mean the 
transfer of heat from the outer surface (i.e., jacket) of a boiler 
to the ambient air surrounding the boiler.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Based on a review of the market, hydronic air-to-water and water-
to-water heat pumps offered in the United States are often advertised 
as competing products for consumer boilers, but typically provide 
representations of energy efficiency using a Coefficient of Performance 
(``COP'') metric. They are often marketed for low-temperature radiator, 
floor heating, and domestic hot water applications, but also can be 
marketed for use in high-temperature radiator applications.
    DOE tentatively proposes to determine that hydronic air-to-water 
and water-to-water heat pumps are consumer boilers under EPCA, but that 
due to the lack of a Federal test procedure, such products are not 
subject to the current performance standards at 10 CFR 430.32(e). DOE 
identified AHRI 550/590, 2020, ``Standard for Performance Rating of 
Water-Chilling and Heat Pump Water-Heating Packages Using the Vapor 
Compression Cycle'' (``AHRI 550/590''), as an industry test method that 
some manufacturers use for evaluating the heating efficiency of 
hydronic air-to-water and water-to-water heat pumps in terms of heating 
coefficient of performance (COP<INF>H</INF>).\7\ DOE was not able to 
identify any industry method for determining AFUE of such products. DOE 
further notes that AFUE is defined as the efficiency descriptor for 
boilers in EPCA. (See 42 U.S.C. 6291(20).)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \7\ AHRI 550/590 is available at: www.ahrinet.org/App_Content/ahri/files/STANDARDS/AHRI/AHRI_Standard_550-590_I-P_2015_with_Errata.pdf.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE seeks comment on whether any other industry test methods exist 
for determining the heating efficiency of air-to-water or water-to-
water heat pumps. DOE seeks comment specifically on AHRI 550/590, and 
whether it would be appropriate for adoption as a Federal test 
procedure for such products, and if so, whether modifications could be 
made to result in an AFUE rating.
    Regarding NEEA's comment on combination space and domestic hot 
water boilers, DOE is aware that the industry standard for testing 
these products (ASHRAE 124, ``Methods of Testing for Rating Combination 
Space-Heating and Water-Heating Appliances'') is currently under 
revision. DOE plans to further evaluate the industry test method once 
it is finalized and available. DOE is not proposing a specific 
definition for combination space and water heating boilers at this 
time. DOE notes, however, that to the extent that a combination space 
and water heating product meets the definition of electric boiler or 
low pressure steam or hot water boiler, it is subject to the test 
procedure at appendix N and energy conservation standards for consumer 
boilers at 10 CFR 430.32(e)(2), and must be tested and rated 
accordingly. DOE is unaware of any design characteristics of 
combination space and water heating products that would prevent their 
testing according to appendix N.

B. Definitions

    In addition to the overarching definition for a furnace (which 
includes boilers) and the associated definitions for ``electric 
boiler'' and ``low pressure steam or hot water boiler'' presented in 
section III.A of this document, DOE also has defined ``outdoor 
boilers'' and ``weatherized warm air boilers'' at 10 CFR 430.2 as 
follows:
    <bullet> Outdoor furnace or boiler is a furnace or boiler normally 
intended for installation out-of-doors or in an unheated space (such as 
an attic or a crawl space).
    <bullet> Weatherized warm air furnace or boiler means a furnace or 
boiler designed for installation outdoors, approved for resistance to 
wind, rain, and snow, and supplied with its own venting system.
    In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested comment on the definitions 
currently applicable to consumer boilers and whether any of these 
definitions need to be revised, and if so, how. 85 FR 29352, 29355.
    BWC stated that the definition for ``outdoor boiler'' \8\ should be 
made more similar to ``weatherized warm air furnace or boiler'' by 
adding the weather-resistant conditions, asserting that the only 
difference between these two products is that a weatherized warm air 
furnace or boiler requires that venting be supplied. BWC also commented 
that ANSI Z21.13, ``Gas-Fired Low Pressure Steam and Hot Water 
Boilers,'' does not differentiate between outdoor and weatherized 
boilers. (BWC, No. 4 at p. 1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \8\ DOE interprets BWC's comment as referring to the definition 
of ``outdoor furnace or boiler'' at 10 CFR 430.2.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Lochinvar and CA IOUs commented that changes to the definitions are 
not needed. (Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 1; CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 4) CA IOUs 
also recommended that DOE avoid any modifications to existing 
definitions that would reduce the ability of the test procedure to 
compare performance across products that use different technologies to 
provide similar consumer utility. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 4)
    Regarding the definition of ``outdoor furnace or boiler,'' the 
energy conservation standards for boilers at 10 CFR 430.32(e)(2)(iii) 
do not distinguish between outdoor or weatherized boilers. With regard 
to the test procedure, different jacket loss factors are applied based 
on whether a boiler is intended to be installed indoors, outdoors, or 
as an isolated combustion system. The heating seasonal efficiency 
(Effy<INF>HS</INF>) calculation, which is an element of AFUE, is based 
on the assumption that all weatherized boilers are located outdoors 
(see section 10.1 of appendix N). Appendix N does not specify a 
separate jacket loss assumption for ``outdoor furnaces or boilers.'' As 
such, DOE has initially determined that the definition for ``outdoor 
furnace or boiler'' is extraneous in that the boiler testing method is 
described based on whether the boiler is weatherized (and thus required 
to be tested under the assumption that it is intended for

[[Page 14627]]

installation outdoors), not whether it meets the definition of an 
``outdoor boiler.'' For analogous reasons, the definition appears to be 
extraneous with regard to consumer furnaces. Further, the definition of 
``outdoor boiler'' is not used elsewhere in the test method or energy 
conservation standards. For these reasons, DOE does not propose to 
modify the definition for outdoor furnace or boiler and instead 
proposes to remove this definition from its regulations.
    DOE seeks comment on its proposal to remove the definition of 
``outdoor furnace or boiler'' from its regulations. DOE seeks comment 
on whether removing the definition for ``outdoor furnace or boiler'' 
would impact the application of the test procedure or energy 
conservation standards for any such products.
    In addition to the definitions included in 10 CFR 430.2, section 
2.0 of appendix N incorporates by reference the definitions in Section 
3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993, with modifications and additions as 
specified in section 2.0 of appendix N. Sections 2.1 through 2.13 of 
appendix N provide additional definitions relevant to the consumer 
boilers test procedure.
    DOE requested comment on whether the definitions for consumer 
boilers in section 2.0 through section 2.13 of appendix N, including 
those from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 that are incorporated by reference, are 
still appropriate or whether amendments are needed. 85 FR 29352, 29355.
    Lochinvar and Weil McLain stated that the definitions in ASHRAE 
103-1993 and the CFR are still adequate and/or do not require changes. 
(Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 2; Weil McLain, No. 5 at p. 3) BWC stated that 
the definition listed in 10 CFR 430.2 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 
definitions as being appropriate. (BWC, No. 4 at p. 2) The CA IOUs 
recommended that DOE make no changes to the current definitions for 
consumer boilers in the code and that the current definitions 
adequately cover these products for the purpose of performing the DOE 
test procedure. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 4)
    As discussed in section III.C of this document, DOE is proposing to 
incorporate by reference the most recent version of ASHRAE 103: ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE is proposing minor modifications to the 
definitions in appendix N to account for the inclusion of several 
definitions in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 that were not included ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-1993. Specifically, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 includes definitions for 
``air intake terminal,'' ``control,'' and ``isolated combustion 
system'' that are not in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993. The definitions for 
``control'' and ``isolated combustion system'' in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 
are almost identical as currently defined in sections 2.3 and 2.7 of 
appendix N, respectively. Therefore, DOE proposes to remove those two 
definitions from the consumer boiler test procedure in the CFR, as they 
would be redundant with the definitions incorporated by reference 
through ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    DOE seeks comment on its proposal to incorporate by reference the 
definitions in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and to remove the definitions for 
``control'' and ``isolated combustions system'' from the consumer 
boiler test procedure at appendix N accordingly.
    As discussed further in section III.D of this document, DOE is 
proposing to move the consumer boiler testing provisions from appendix 
N to a proposed new appendix EE and maintain the consumer furnace test 
provisions in appendix N. The proposed changes to definitions, if made 
final, would be applicable only to the test procedure for consumer 
boilers in proposed new appendix EE.

C. Metric

    As discussed, the energy conservation standards for consumer 
boilers rely on the AFUE metric. 10 CFR 430.32(e)(2). For gas-fired and 
oil-fired boilers, AFUE accounts for fossil fuel consumption in active, 
standby, and off modes, but does not include electrical energy 
consumption. For electric boilers, AFUE accounts for electrical energy 
consumption in active mode. EPCA defines the term ``annual fuel 
utilization efficiency,'' in part, as meaning the efficiency descriptor 
for furnaces and boilers. (42 U.S.C. 6291(20)). In addition, separate 
metrics for power consumption during standby mode and off mode 
(P<INF>W,SB</INF> and P<INF>W,OFF</INF>, respectively) are used to 
regulate standby mode and off mode energy consumption. 10 CFR 
430.32(e)(2)(iii)(B).
    AFUE is defined by ASHRAE 103 (both the 1993 and 2017 version) as 
the ratio of annual output energy to annual input energy, which 
includes any non-heating-season pilot input loss, but, for gas- or oil-
fired furnaces or boilers, does not include electric energy. For gas- 
and oil-fired boilers, the AFUE test generally consists of steady-
state, cool down, and heat up tests, during which various measurements 
are taken (e.g., flue gas temperature, concentration of CO<INF>2</INF> 
in the flue gas). (See Sections 9.1, 9.5, and 9.6, respectively, of 
both ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.) For condensing 
boilers, condensate collection tests during steady state and cyclic 
operation are also specified. (See Sections 9.2 and 9.8 of both ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.) The test measurements are 
used in conjunction with certain assumptions, to calculate the AFUE. 
(See Section 11 of both ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.)
    Energy Kinetics provided comments pertaining to the AFUE metric, 
including suggestions of how it could be made more representative of 
field performance. Energy Kinetics asserted that oversizing is not 
accurately reflected in AFUE; specifically, that the 0.7 oversize 
factor in the AFUE test method is too low, and that a more 
representative oversize factor would be a value of 3 to 4.\9\ Energy 
Kinetics further asserted that AFUE does not appropriately account for 
idle losses and provided an example of a boiler with an AFUE of 83.5 
percent and idle loss of 4.87 percent that the commenter argued would 
consume 63 percent more fuel than a boiler with an AFUE of 87.5 percent 
and an idle loss of 0.15 percent. (Energy Kinetics, No. 3 at p. 1)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \9\ The oversize factor is applied to account for the typical 
practice of sizing a boiler such that the heating capacity exceeds 
the heating load. In ASHRAE 103-1993, for non-modulating boilers the 
oversize factor is assigned as a national average value of 0.7, and 
for modulating boilers the oversize factor is calculated based on 
the ratio of the heating capacity to the average design heating 
requirement. In ASHRAE 103-2017, the oversize factor at the maximum 
input rate is assigned as 0.7 for both modulating and non-modulating 
models.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Energy Kinetics suggested that DOE change from the AFUE metric to a 
combination of a thermal efficiency metric and an idle loss metric. The 
commenter argued that both AFUE and thermal efficiency are closely 
aligned to steady-state efficiency, but thermal efficiency is a faster 
and easier test to perform and is currently used in commercial boiler 
testing. Energy Kinetics suggested that idle loss could either be 
measured or a prescribed value to foster innovation and recognize 
better performing systems, while also simultaneously reducing test 
burden. (Energy Kinetics, No. 3 at p. 2)
    Energy Kinetics stated that AFUE does not account for the impact of 
energy savings controls, which prevents comparisons of the performance 
of various types of boilers and controls. Energy Kinetics stated that 
AFUE assumes that the boiler is in the conditioned space and that any 
heat lost from the boiler is gained in the conditioned space; and 
asserted that in practice this heat is wasted in basements, up 
chimneys, and out draft hoods and draft regulators. Energy

[[Page 14628]]

Kinetics also argued that for combined heat and hot water boilers in 
the conditioned space, heat lost in summer while heating domestic water 
should have an impact on air conditioning cooling loads. Energy 
Kinetics asserted that AFUE does not apply to boilers that provide both 
space heating and domestic hot water. The commenter also asserted that 
use of AFUE for both boilers and furnaces creates the false implication 
that the products can be compared, but that they cannot be compared due 
to differences in distribution losses. (Energy Kinetics, No. 3 at p. 2)
    As noted previously, EPCA defines AFUE as the efficiency descriptor 
for boilers. (42 U.S.C. 6291(20)) Therefore, DOE must use AFUE as the 
efficiency metric for boilers and cannot change to thermal efficiency 
and idle loss as suggested by Energy Kinetics. Further, EPCA prescribes 
a design requirement that hot water boilers must include an automatic 
means for adjusting water temperature, which will limit idle losses and 
reduce the potential for energy savings from further accounting for 
such losses as a separate metric or within the AFUE metric. (42 U.S.C. 
6295(f)(3)(A)-(B)) Idle loss could be further addressed in the context 
of AFUE as opposed to evaluating a separate metric. At present time, 
DOE does not have sufficient data to propose prescribed values that 
would address idle loss. DOE seeks further comment from interested 
parties regarding whether idle losses could be better reflected in the 
test method. For the reasons discussed, DOE is not proposing to adopt 
an idle loss or thermal efficiency metric, or to incorporate a specific 
test for idle loss in the AFUE test method at this time.
    Regarding the other issues identified with the AFUE metric, DOE 
notes that certain control systems, such as modulating burner control 
systems, are accounted for in the test procedure with specific 
instructions regarding how such units should be tested. (See, for 
example, sections 7.4 and 10.1 of appendix N, which provide specific 
instructions for testing and calculating AFUE of modulating boilers.) 
As discussed in the preceding paragraph, other control systems, such as 
an automatic means for adjusting water temperature, are required by 
prescriptive standard. (42 U.S.C. 6295(f)(3)(A)-(B)); 10 CFR 
430.32(e)(2)(iii)(A). Energy Kinetics did not provide specific comments 
or recommendations regarding what additional control systems should be 
accounted for. DOE is not proposing additional changes related to 
controls.
    Regarding the assumption that boilers are installed indoors, DOE 
notes that EPCA states that AFUE for boilers that are not weatherized 
is determined based on the assumption that they are located within the 
heated space. (See 42 U.S.C. 6291(20)(C).) Regarding boilers that 
provide both space heating and domestic hot water, DOE notes that such 
products can be tested separately for AFUE for space heating and for 
their water heating performance under the DOE test methods for water 
heaters. As discussed in section III.A of this document, an industry 
test method for combined heating and domestic hot water boiler systems 
(ASHRAE 124) is currently under revision, and DOE plans to evaluate the 
industry test method further once it is finalized and available. 
Lastly, regarding both boilers and furnaces using AFUE, DOE notes that 
EPCA prescribes AFUE as the metric for both furnaces and boilers. (See 
42 U.S.C. 6291(20)).

D. Updates to Industry Standards

    As discussed, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 is referenced throughout 
appendix N for various testing requirements pertaining to determination 
of the AFUE of consumer boilers. Appendix N also references certain 
sections of IEC 62301 (Second Edition) for determining the electrical 
standby mode and off mode energy consumption, and ASTM D2156-09 
(Reapproved 2013) for adjusting oil burners. DOE noted in the May 2020 
RFI that in the case of IEC 62301, the version of the standard that is 
currently incorporated by reference is still the most recent version; 
and in the case of ASTM D2156-09, the most recent iteration of the 
standard is a version reapproved in 2018 that did not contain any 
changes from the 2009 version. 85 FR 29352, 29355. DOE did not receive 
any comments pertaining to its incorporation by reference of IEC 62301 
or ASTM D2156-09 and continues to view these as the appropriate 
standards to reference. DOE proposes to maintain the current reference 
to IEC 62301, and to update the reference to ASTM D2156-09 to reflect 
the version that was reapproved in 2018.
    As discussed, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 provides procedures for 
determining the AFUE of consumer boilers (and furnaces). As mentioned 
previously, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 has been updated multiple times since 
1993. In the rulemaking that culminated in the January 2016 final rule, 
DOE initially proposed to incorporate by reference the most recent 
version of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 available at the time (i.e., ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2007), but ultimately declined to adopt the proposal in the final 
rule based on concerns about the impact that changing to ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2007 would have on AFUE ratings of products distributed in commerce 
at that time. 81 FR 2628, 2632-2633 (Jan. 15, 2016). DOE stated that 
further evaluation was needed to determine the potential impacts of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 on the measured AFUE of boilers. Id. DOE theorized 
that ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 might better account for the operation of 
two-stage and modulating products and stated that the Department may 
further investigate adopting it or a successor test procedure in the 
future. Id.
    After the January 2016 final rule, ANSI/ASHRAE 103 was again 
updated to the current version (i.e., ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017). In the May 
2020 RFI, DOE identified several substantive differences between ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 that pertain to consumer 
boilers and requested further comment on the differences between ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 85 FR 29352, 29355. These 
differences included that:

    1. ASHRAE 103-2017 includes calculations for determining the 
average on-time and off-time per cycle for two-stage and modulating 
boilers, rather than assigning fixed values as in ASHRAE 103-1993;
    2. ASHRAE 103-2017 includes calculations for the part-load at 
maximum and reduced fuel input rates of condensing two-stage and 
modulating boilers when the heat up and cool down tests are omitted 
as per section 9.10, while ASHRAE 103-1993 does not include these 
calculations; \10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \10\ DOE published a final rule in the Federal Register on July 
10, 2013, that added equations to appendix N to calculate the part-
load efficiencies at the maximum input rate and reduced input rates 
for two-stage and modulating condensing furnaces and boilers when 
the manufacturer chooses to omit the heat-up and cool-down tests 
under the test procedure. 78 FR 41265. The equations in ASHRAE 103-
2017 are identical to those in appendix N.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3. ASHRAE 103-2017 increases post-purge time from less than 5 
seconds in ASHRAE 103-1993 to less than or equal to 30 seconds for 
determining whether section 9.10, ``Optional Test Procedures for 
Conducting Furnaces and Boilers that have no OFF-Period Flue Loss,'' 
is applicable for units with no measurable airflow through the 
combustion chamber during the burner off-period, and it also makes 
the application for the default draft factor values in section 9.10 
a requirement rather than optional;
    4. ASHRAE 103-2017 changes the method for determining national 
average burner operating hours (BOH), average annual fuel energy 
consumption (EF), and average annual auxiliary electrical energy 
consumption (EAE), especially for two-stage and modulating products, 
based on a 2002 study from NIST.

Id.

[[Page 14629]]

    DOE requested information on whether any differences not identified 
by DOE in the May 2020 RFI would impact the consumer boiler test 
procedure. Id.
    BWC stated that the only difference between ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 
and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 is for the indoor air temperature requirements 
and noted that the 1993 version of the standard specifies a temperature 
of 70 [deg]F, while the 2017 version simply references the actual 
indoor air temperature. (BWC, No. 4 at p. 2) BWC further stated that it 
believes this difference accounts for only slight changes in 
calculation with little to no added burden in the test procedure. (BWC, 
No. 4 at p. 2) Lochinvar identified a change that was not discussed in 
the RFI, which is that the oversize factor for non-condensing, 
modulating boilers has been changed from being calculated based on the 
design heating requirement (``DHR'') to a constant oversize factor of 
0.7. Lochinvar also explained that the constant oversize factor removes 
variations based on where the boiler outputs fall in the ADHR ranges 
and is more representative and provides more consistent AFUE results 
across the range of boiler output capacities. (Lochinvar, No. 8, at p. 
2)
    While DOE acknowledges the change discussed by BWC, in that the 
equations in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 refer to the indoor air temperature 
as the variable ``T<INF>IA</INF>,'' rather than defined as ``70,'' DOE 
notes that Section 11.2.10.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 defines 
T<INF>IA</INF> as 70 [deg]F, the ``assumed average indoor air 
temperature.'' Therefore, the use of T<INF>IA</INF> in place of ``70'' 
in subsequent sections of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 is equivalent to the use 
of ``70'' in each analogous equation in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.
    DOE also acknowledges the change identified by Lochinvar, and notes 
that this change resolves in part an issue with the calculations for 
modulating, condensing models in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993. In the May 2020 
RFI, DOE discussed that the calculations in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 either 
rely on certain values calculated for non-condensing, non-modulating 
boilers to determine the AFUE of condensing, modulating boilers, or 
result in a circular reference. 85 FR 29352, 29357. Changing the 
oversize factor to a constant 0.7 for condensing, modulating boilers, 
rather than basing it on an equation, appears to partially, but not 
fully, resolve the potential circular reference in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017. In further reviewing the calculations in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, 
DOE interprets them to rely on certain values calculated for non-
condensing, non-modulating boilers to determine the AFUE of condensing, 
modulating boilers to avoid a circular reference.
    Specifically, the issue arises within the calculation of steady 
state efficiencies at maximum and minimum input rate, which depends in 
part on the steady-state heat loss due to condensate going down the 
drain at the maximum and reduced input rates. (See Section 11.5.7.3 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, which refers to Section 11.3.7.3.) The steady-
state heat loss due to condensate going down the drain at the maximum 
and minimum input rates is calculated in part based on the national 
average outdoor air temperature at the maximum and minimum input rates. 
(See Section 11.5.7.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, which refers to Section 
11.3.7.2.) The national average outdoor air temperatures at the maximum 
and minimum input rates are both a function of the balance point 
temperature. (See Section 11.5.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, which 
refers to Section 11.4.8.3.) The balance point temperature is 
calculated based on the oversize factor at maximum input rate (which 
is, as discussed previously, a constant value in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017) 
and the ratio of the heating capacity at the minimum input rate to the 
heating capacity at the maximum input rate. (See Section 11.5.8.4 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, which references Section 11.4.8.4.) The heating 
capacities at the minimum and maximum input rates are calculated based 
in part on the steady-state efficiencies at minimum and maximum input 
rates, respectively. (See Section 11.5.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, 
which references Section 11.4.8.1.) If the calculations were 
interpreted to refer back to the steady-state efficiencies at minimum 
and maximum input rates for a modulating, condensing model, as 
determined by Section 11.5.7.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, a circular 
reference would result. However, since there is no specific instruction 
to use the values as calculated by Section 11.5.7.2, DOE interprets 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 to instead instruct that the steady-state 
efficiency at maximum and reduced input rates be determined as 
specified in Section 11.4.8.1, which refers to Section 11.4.7, which in 
turn refers to Section 11.2.7 for the calculation of steady-state 
efficiency for non-condensing, non-modulating boilers. The steady-state 
efficiencies at maximum and minimum input calculated using Section 
11.2.7 can then be used to obtain values for output capacities at the 
maximum and reduced input, which are needed to calculate the balance 
point temperature, the average outdoor air temperature at maximum and 
minimum input, and finally the heat loss due to condensate going down 
the drain at maximum and minimum input rates. DOE proposes to add 
provisions to clarify the approach for calculating steady-state 
efficiencies at maximum and minimum input rates for condensing, 
modulating boilers using ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    DOE seeks comment on its proposal to clarify the calculation of 
steady-state efficiencies at maximum and minimum input rates for 
condensing, modulating boilers using ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    DOE also considered the impact of the change in oversize factor 
from a calculated value to a constant value. DOE analysis suggests that 
changing the oversize factor from being determined by an equation to 
being specified as a constant value of 0.7 is unlikely to have a 
substantive impact on AFUE ratings, as DOE calculations indicate the 
AFUE value is not particularly sensitive to changes in the oversize 
factor value. For example, DOE reviewed test data for three modulating, 
condensing boilers and found that the change in oversize factor from a 
calculated value, as specified in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993, to 0.7 changed 
the AFUE rating by 0.01 AFUE percentage points or less for all 3 
models. DOE also examined more extreme scenarios for these boilers, in 
which DOE assigned oversize factors from a minimum of 0 to a maximum of 
1.31 and found that the resulting AFUE values differed by only up to 
0.07 AFUE percentage points as compared to the AFUE with the assigned 
0.7 oversize factor, and only up to 0.13 AFUE percentage points when 
comparing the AFUE result at the upper and lower bounds. These minimum 
and maximum oversize factors correspond to the minimum and maximum 
values that would result from calculation based on the procedure for 
determining these values in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 (i.e., heating 
capacity divided by design heating requirement minus one; see Section 
11.4.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993).
    As such, DOE is proposing to adopt the constant 0.7 oversize factor 
through incorporation by reference of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 
Accordingly, DOE is also proposing to remove calculation requirements 
corresponding to multiple degrees of oversizing.
    DOE also requested information on whether the differences between 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 identified in the May 
2020 RFI would impact the measured AFUE,

[[Page 14630]]

and if so, DOE requested test data demonstrating the degree of such 
impact. DOE also requested comment on whether the updates to ANSI/
ASHRAE 103 are appropriate for adoption in the Federal test procedure 
for consumer boilers, whether the changes would allow for more 
representative energy efficiency ratings, and whether the changes would 
increase test burden. 85 FR 29352, 29355-29356.
    AHRI, Rheem, BWC, Lochinvar, CA IOUs, and NEEA supported updating 
the test procedure to incorporate by reference ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 
(AHRI, No. 6 at p. 3; Rheem, No. 9 at p. 3; BWC, No. 4 at p. 2; 
Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 2; CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 5; NEEA, No. 10 at p. 1) 
AHRI, Rheem, and Lochinvar encouraged DOE to gather data on whether the 
differences between the 1993 and 2017 versions of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 
would impact measured AFUE. (AHRI, No. 6 at p. 3 ; Rheem, No. 9 at p. 
3; Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 2)
    AHRI stated that it does not believe that adopting the 2017 edition 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 would significantly affect the efficiency ratings or 
change the test burden. AHRI commented that members did not have 
sufficient time to reliably assess the impact on measure efficiency and 
encouraged DOE to generate data to determine if adopting ASHRAE 103-
2017 would have any effect on the appliance efficiency rating. (AHRI, 
No. 6 at p. 3) Similarly, Rheem stated that it does not believe that 
adopting the 2017 edition of the ANSI/ASHRAE 103 would significantly 
affect the efficiency ratings, although retesting existing models to 
the new edition would temporarily increase the test burden. (Rheem, No. 
9 at p. 3) The CA IOUs also stated that it believed that ASHRAE 103-
2017 is more representative of typical operation for two-stage, 
modulating, and condensing boiler technologies and that updating to 
this standard should not create significant additional burden, as the 
majority of changes are reflected in the calculation methodology rather 
than the test procedure. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 5)
    Lochinvar asserted that the testing methods in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 
represent a significant improvement as compared to those referenced by 
DOE in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 for residential boilers, and cited the use 
of calculated values rather than referencing graphs, more realistic on- 
and off-cycle times, and the uniform oversize factor regardless of 
output rate as providing a more representative average use cycle and 
more repeatable results. (Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 2) Lochinvar stated 
that updating to the 2017 version may result in variations of up to 0.5 
percent AFUE in either direction for any given model. (Id.) Lochinvar 
also stated that it does not believe that referencing ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 would change the measured efficiency enough to result in 
substantially different efficiency ratings as compared to those 
currently certified, and, therefore, does not believe that retesting 
would be necessary if the referenced industry standard were updated. 
(Id. at pp. 2-3)
    BHI tentatively supported updating to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, with 
the caveat that it has not fully studied the impacts of the potential 
changes. BHI also requested that DOE provide industry with a set of 
sample calculations for each type of boiler covered by the standard, if 
DOE adopts ASHRAE 103-2017, to ensure that everyone is operating from 
identical methods of calculating AFUE or provide industry with a vetted 
software tool. (BHI, No. 11 at p. 2)
    NEEA stated that an update to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 would better 
capture the performance of two stage and modulating units. (NEEA, No. 
10 at pp. 1-2) NEEA explained that while the update my affect AFUE 
ratings, the revised ratings will better reflect annual energy 
performance leading to a more accurate representation of boiler energy 
use. Id.
    Weil McLain recommended against updating to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, 
arguing that the 1993 version of ASHRAE 103 is still appropriate and 
that the resulting increases in accuracy and resolution of the test 
method would not increase the accuracy of the test procedure due to the 
reporting of AFUE to the tenth of a percent, nor would be worth the 
burden of changing the test procedure. (Weil McLain, No. 5 at p. 3)
    In this rulemaking, DOE evaluated whether the differences between 
the 1993 and 2017 editions of ASHRAE 103 would result in differences in 
the measured AFUE.
    DOE's preliminary review of prior test data has indicated a 
potential for difference in AFUE for certain units, specifically two-
stage or modulating models, due to the changes to the cycle times 
between the two editions. In the development of the January 2016 final 
rule, DOE conducted preliminary testing to examine the impacts of the 
changes in cycle times between the 1993 and 2007 editions of ASHRAE 
103, which are comparable to the changes between the 1993 and 2017 
editions of ASHRAE 103. 81 FR 2628, 2633. Data collected for the 
January 2016 final rule for three models of condensing, modulating 
boilers showed that the changes in on-cycle and off-cycle times 
resulted in changes in AFUE of 0.11, -0.50, and 0.22 percent, 
respectively. For two models of non-condensing, modulating boilers, 
calculating the AFUE based on the on-cycle and off-cycle times in ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2007 changed the AFUE by 0.11 and -0.14 percent, 
respectively.\11\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \11\ These data were presented at a public meeting for the March 
11, 2015 NOPR pertaining to test procedures for furnaces and boilers 
and can be found at: www.regulations.gov/document/EERE-2012-BT-TP-0024-0021.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In addition, AHRI submitted data for testing it had conducted in 
response to the changes proposed in a test procedure NOPR for consumer 
furnaces and boilers that was published by DOE on March 11, 2015 (80 FR 
12876). The data from AHRI, in relevant part, examined the change in 
AFUE resulting from using ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007 as compared to ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 for three units. The data showed changes in AFUE of -
0.05 percent for a non-condensing, modulating unit, and -0.03 and 0.23 
percent for two condensing, modulating units. (See EERE-2012-BT-TP-
0024-0036 at p. 10)
    In reviewing ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 as compared to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
1993, DOE tentatively concludes that the improvements included in ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017 provide a more representative average use cycle for 
consumer boilers, and in particular, for two-stage and modulating 
boilers. Specifically, DOE expects that the use of calculated values 
rather than referencing graphs, the specification of more 
representative on- and off-cycle times, and the specification of a 
constant oversize factor regardless of output rate would improve the 
results obtained from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 as compared to ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-1993.
    Therefore, DOE proposes to update the reference to ANSI/ASHRAE 103 
in the test procedure for consumer boilers to the 2017 edition. DOE 
tentatively concludes that a change from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 to ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017 would not materially alter the burden or cost of 
conducting an AFUE test. Additional details on DOE's assessment of the 
burden associated with this proposed change are in section III.G.1 of 
this document. DOE is proposing changes only with respect to consumer 
boilers, and not for consumer furnaces. DOE is not proposing to amend 
the reference to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 for the provisions applicable to 
consumer furnaces. As discussed, to implement this change for boilers 
only, DOE proposes to move the test provisions for consumer boilers to 
a new appendix, appendix EE, ``Uniform

[[Page 14631]]

Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption of Boilers.''
    Corresponding to the updated industry standard, DOE proposes to 
make several modifications in the proposed new appendix EE as compared 
to the current test method in appendix N. As discussed in section III.B 
of this document, DOE proposes to remove from new appendix EE 
definitions for ``control'' and ``isolated combustion system,'' as 
these definitions are included in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE also 
proposes to remove the sections for calculating part-load efficiency at 
reduced and maximum fuel input rates (currently sections 10.2 and 10.3 
in appendix N) from proposed new appendix EE. These sections were 
initially adopted by DOE because ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 did not provide 
calculations for the scenario allowed under section 9.10 of ASHRAE 103 
(which is included in both the 1993 and 2017 versions), in which the 
heat up and cool down tests can be optionally skipped provided that 
certain criteria are met. ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 added equations to 
address that scenario that are identical to those previously adopted by 
DOE, rendering those sections duplicative. DOE is also proposing minor 
changes to the test method for models with post-purge times longer than 
3 minutes, consistent with the updates included in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017. DOE is also proposing changes to the calculations in section 10, 
consistent with changes in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE notes that 
appendix N includes certain clarifications to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 
(e.g., to specify a reference to a manufacturer's I&O manual rather 
than a manufacturer recommendation), and DOE proposes to maintain those 
clarifications in new appendix EE to the extent they apply to ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017.
    As discussed earlier in this section, test data indicate that the 
update to the 2017 edition of ASHRAE 103 could result in changes to the 
measured AFUE of two-stage and modulating boilers ranging from -0.50 
percent to 0.23 percent, with no discernable trend in the direction or 
magnitude of change. DOE also notes that several commenters indicated 
that incorporating ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 would likely not significantly 
impact rated values.
    DOE seeks further comment on its proposal to update the 
incorporation by reference of ASHRAE 103 to the most recent version 
(i.e., ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017) and in particular the potential impact on 
ratings and whether retesting would be required.

E. Test Procedure Requirements

1. Ambient Conditions
    The current consumer boilers test procedure specifies that the 
ambient air temperature during testing must be between 65 [deg]F and 
100 [deg]F for non-condensing boilers, and between 65 [deg]F and 85 
[deg]F for condensing boilers. See section 7.0 of appendix N and 
Section 8.5.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993. In addition, the relative 
humidity cannot exceed 80 percent during condensate measurement. 
Section 8.0 of appendix N and 9.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.
    In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested comment and data on the effects 
of ambient temperature and relative humidity on AFUE results, whether 
the current ranges of allowable conditions adversely impact the 
representativeness of AFUE values or repeatability of AFUE testing, and 
whether a narrower range of allowable ambient conditions would increase 
testing burden. 85 FR 29352, 29356.
    AHRI and Rheem encouraged DOE to defer to the ambient conditions 
specified in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and stated that any changes would 
mainly impact condensing models. (AHRI, No. 6, at p. 4; Rheem, No. 9 at 
p. 3) Lochinvar stated that the prior record and DOE conclusions 
pertaining to ambient temperature ranges and relative humidity limits 
remain valid and that further revisions are not necessary. (Lochinvar, 
No. 8 at p. 3) Lochinvar also asserted that tightening ambient 
condition tolerances could disproportionately impact small businesses, 
as they are less likely to be able to absorb the costs of equipment to 
maintain such ambient conditions. (Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 6) Weil 
McLain and BHI also supported the use of industry consensus test 
procedures and recommended maintaining the range of operating 
conditions established in industry standards. (Weil McLain, No. 5 at p. 
4; BHI, No. 11 at p. 2)
    CA IOUs recommended that DOE narrow the range of allowable ambient 
temperature to between 55 [deg]F and 75 [deg]F during the test, with a 
tolerance of <plus-minus>2 [deg]F, to better represent field 
conditions. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 4) NEEA also recommended that DOE 
update ambient and combustion air temperatures to better reflect real 
world conditions that exist in basements, garages, or semi-conditioned 
spaces and operate during winter months when temperatures are colder. 
(NEEA, No. 10 at p. 2) Specifically, NEEA suggested limiting the range 
of ambient air temperatures to be reflective of temperatures in spaces 
where consumer boilers are likely to be installed; limiting the range 
of combustion air temperatures to reflect the likely conditioners 
boilers will see (i.e. reflective of the outside air temperature for 
condensing products; and limit the range of allowable conditions 
overall to reduce the opportunities for gaming the test procedure and 
ensure consistency of ratings across multiple tested products. (NEEA, 
No. 10 at p. 2) NEEA explained that the ambient air temperature and the 
combustion air temperature are likely to affect the boiler's 
performance and will affect radiation and convection losses and 
combustion efficiency, respectively. (NEEA, No. 10 at p. 2)
    In the January 2016 final rule, DOE investigated concerns regarding 
the ambient air temperature and humidity ranges allowed by the test 
method. 81 FR 2628, 2638. In that rulemaking, some commenters raised 
concerns that the wide range of allowable ambient conditions could 
impact test results, and that the ranges were initially developed based 
on laboratory conditions that are now outdated, (i.e., more closely 
controlled conditions may now be achievable). Id. DOE had tested one 
non-condensing boiler at several ambient conditions and found that the 
effects on AFUE were not statistically significant. DOE also conducted 
a series of eight AFUE tests on a condensing, modulating unit and found 
that the variations in AFUE could not be definitively attributed to 
changes in ambient conditions based on the data. 80 FR 12875, 12890 
(Mar. 11, 2015) Therefore, DOE did not propose to update the ambient 
conditions in the NOPR that preceded the January 2016 final rule and 
stated in the January 2016 final rule that the impact of ambient 
conditions on AFUE values warranted further study, but that DOE did not 
have adequate data to justify changing the test procedure to narrow the 
ambient temperature or humidity ranges. Id.
    In response to that NOPR, and again in response to the May 2020 
RFI, BHI provided test data for a single condensing boiler which showed 
a change in AFUE of 1.3 percent when the relative humidity was changed 
from approximately 30 percent to 70 percent. BHI did not support 
changing the ambient temperature or humidity limitations in ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017, stating in response to the May 2020 RFI that minimal changes 
should be made to industry standards. (BHI, No. 11 at pp. 2, 11 \12\)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \12\ See also Docket No. EERE-2012-BT-TP-0024-0035 at p. 7.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    After considering these comments and test data, DOE tentatively 
concludes that it lacks sufficient evidence to determine

[[Page 14632]]

that ambient conditions affect AFUE to the extent that a model tested 
under different ambient conditions within the current allowable bounds 
of the test method could have significantly different AFUE ratings. 
Although BHI provided test data for a single unit showing a difference, 
DOE notes that DOE's previous test data, obtained from multiple units, 
did not indicate conclusively that ambient test conditions within the 
current bounds cause substantive differences in AFUE. Therefore, DOE is 
not proposing to change the ambient test condition requirements.
2. Combustion Airflow Settings
    In the course of the rulemaking for the January 2016 final rule, to 
provide for greater consistency in burner airflow settings during 
testing, DOE proposed specifying that the excess air ratio, flue oxygen 
(``O<INF>2</INF>'') percentage, or flue carbon dioxide 
(``CO<INF>2</INF>'') percentage be within the middle 30th percentile of 
the acceptable range specified in the I&O manual. 80 FR 12876, 12883, 
12906 (Mar. 11, 2015). In absence of a specified range in the I&O 
manual, DOE proposed requiring the combustion airflow to be adjusted to 
provide between 6.9 percent and 7.1 percent dry flue gas O<INF>2</INF>, 
or the lowest dry flue gas O<INF>2</INF> percentage that produces a 
stable flame, no carbon deposits, and an air-free flue gas carbon 
monoxide (``CO'') ratio below 400 parts per million (``ppm'') during 
the steady-state test described in Section 9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2007, 
whichever is higher. 80 FR 12876, 12906. However, after considering 
comments regarding the representativeness of the proposal and the 
potential impact on rated AFUE, DOE determined that further study was 
needed to determine how such changes would impact AFUE ratings. 81 FR 
2628, 2636.
    In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether more specific 
instructions for setting the excess air ratio, flue O<INF>2</INF> 
percentage, and/or flue CO<INF>2</INF> percentage should be provided in 
the consumer boilers test procedure, and if so, what those instructions 
should entail. 85 FR 29352, 29356. DOE was particularly interested in 
understanding whether such a change would improve the 
representativeness of the test method, and whether it would impact test 
burden.
    AHRI suggested that for boilers with manually adjustable airflows, 
the CO<INF>2</INF> level be set to within 0.1 percent of the 
CO<INF>2</INF> level, if specified, or within 0.2 percent of the 
maximum if a range is given. In addition, the commenters recommended 
that flue CO levels be maintained below 400 ppm and, for oil boilers, 
that the smoke level not exceed smoke spot number 1 as measured by ASTM 
D-2156.\13\ The commenters suggested that if those conditions are not 
met at the CO<INF>2</INF> levels described above, then the highest 
possible CO<INF>2</INF> level that meets the CO and smoke criteria (as 
applicable) should be used. (AHRI, No. 6 at p. 4) Rheem explained that 
more specific instructions for setting the excess air ratio, the flue 
O<INF>2</INF> level, and/or the flue CO<INF>2</INF> level should be 
added to the test procedure. Rheem further stated its support for the 
proposed language included with AHRI's comments. (Rheem, No. 9 at p. 3)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \13\ Section 3.1.1 of ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) defines ``smoke spot 
number, n'' as the number of the spot on the standard scale most 
closely matching the color (or shade) of the test spot. In section 
4, ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) summarizes the test method for determining 
the smoke spot number as follows: A test smoke spot is obtained by 
pulling a fixed volume of flue gas through a fixed area of standard 
filter paper. The color (or shade) of the spot thus produced is 
visually matched with a standard scale, and the smoke density is 
expressed as a ``smoke spot number.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    BWC stated that the AHRI residential boiler certification program 
operations manual sufficiently addresses setup and adjustment of 
O<INF>2</INF> and CO<INF>2</INF> and urged DOE to harmonize the Federal 
test procedure with these instructions in the AHRI operations manual. 
BWC explained that it would be more representative of how boilers will 
be setup and operate in the field. BWC stated that, for premix boilers, 
when O<INF>2</INF> and CO<INF>2</INF> values are not listed in the 
setup instructions the current test procedure requires conducting the 
tests at the CO air-free (COAF) limit, which is unrepresentative of 
manufacturer-recommended field setup, and could lead to inaccurate AFUE 
ratings. BWC stated that it believes capturing the original 
CO<INF>2</INF> level the unit was set at during its initial 
certification would provide greater consistency to test results. (BWC, 
No. 4 at p. 2)
    Lochinvar suggested that, for boilers with adjustable combustion 
airflow, the CO<INF>2</INF> should be set to either the I&O manual 
specification or, if a range is specified, to the upper limit of the 
range. If no CO<INF>2</INF> setting is specified, Lochinvar suggested 
testing in the as-found condition. (Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 3) Lochinvar 
also recommended the following requirements be added to the test 
method: (1) For oil or power gas burner units with natural or induced 
draft, the draft in the firebox be as specified in the manufacturer's 
I&O instructions; (2) on forced draft or pressure-fired boilers, the 
pressure at the vent connection be as specified in the manufacturer's 
I&O instructions, or when a range of pressure is provided combustion 
shall be set to the recommended pressure that results in the highest 
CO<INF>2</INF>; (3) when tests are required at reduced input rates and 
I&O instructions include instruction for adjusting the air/fuel ratio, 
firebox pressure, or vent pressure at the minimum firing rate, the 
adjustments shall be made as specified in the previous paragraphs but 
to the values provided for the minimum firing rate, or otherwise, no 
adjustments to the air/fuel ratio, firebox pressure or vent pressure at 
the minimum firing rate shall be made; and (4) no firebox or vent 
pressure adjustments shall be made to outdoor boilers. (Lochinvar No. 8 
at pp. 3-4)
    CA IOUs requested that DOE add explicit guidelines for flue 
O<INF>2</INF>, CO<INF>2</INF>, or excess air ratios, but did not 
provide specific suggestions. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 5) BHI expressed 
concern that the addition of CO<INF>2</INF> adjustment requirements 
would create significant burden in the form of requiring existing 
boilers to be retested, and that this change would result in 
significant reductions in AFUE ratings across the market. BHI 
recommended that if DOE elects to make this change, conditions similar 
to those recommended by AHRI should be adopted. (BHI, No. 11 at p. 3)
    Weil McLain also expressed concern with the adoption of a 
requirement for CO<INF>2</INF> during testing for boilers with manually 
adjustable airflow, asserting that it could introduce an advantage or 
disadvantage to this product type relative to others that serve the 
same market (i.e., including more combustion property requirements on 
one category of regulated product and not all gas-fired categories of 
regulated products), and may limit technologies and future enhancements 
in the field of combustion science. Weil-McLain stated that if the DOE 
pursues this topic, it recommended that DOE take a combustion 
technology neutral position by recognizing that: (A) Increasing the 
combustion CO<INF>2</INF> is ultimately constrained by a corresponding 
increase in the percentage of CO in the flue products and (B) there are 
gas-fired appliances for which the CO<INF>2</INF> is designed into the 
combustion system and require physically changing or modifying 
components to change the CO<INF>2</INF>. Weil-McLain instead 
recommended establishing a limit of 400 ppm of CO on an air-free basis 
without additional constraints on combustion products for gas-fired 
appliances with the ability to adjust the CO<INF>2</INF>. (Weil McLain, 
No. 5 at pp. 4-5)

[[Page 14633]]

    After considering these comments, DOE tentatively concludes that it 
lacks sufficient data and information to indicate that establishing a 
requirement for setting the excess air ratio, flue O<INF>2</INF> 
percentage, and/or flue CO<INF>2</INF> percentage would provide ratings 
that are more representative than the ratings provided under the 
current approach. Therefore, DOE has tentatively determined to maintain 
the current test procedure and is not proposing to establish a 
requirement for setting the excess air ratio, flue O<INF>2</INF> 
percentage, and/or flue CO<INF>2</INF> percentage.
3. Input Rates for Step Modulating Boilers
    Appendix N includes a number of specific provisions for consumer 
boilers with step modulating controls. Boilers with step modulating 
controls are capable of operating at reduced input rates (i.e., less 
than that maximum nameplate input rate) and gradually or incrementally 
increasing or decreasing the input rate as needed to meet the heating 
load. The test procedure currently requires step modulating boilers to 
be tested at the maximum rate and a minimum (i.e., ``reduced'') input 
rate for the steady-state test (referencing Section 9.1 of ASRHAE 103-
1993), the reduced input rate for the cool-down test (referencing 
Section 9.5.2.4 of ASRHAE 103-1993), and the reduced input rate for the 
heat-up test (referencing Section 9.6.2.1 of ASRHAE 103-1993). In 
addition, both the optional tracer gas test and the measurement of 
condensate under cyclic conditions, when conducted, are performed at 
the reduced input rate (referencing Sections 9.7.5 and 9.8 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993, respectively). ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 contains the same 
input rate requirements for modulating boilers as ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.
    In the May 2020 RFI, DOE requested comment on whether the existing 
provisions for testing step modulating boilers appropriately reflect 
the performance of such boilers. If not, DOE sought specific 
recommendations on the changes that would be necessary to make the test 
procedure more representative for such products. 85 FR 29352, 29357.
    AHRI, Rheem, BWC, and Weil McLain commented that the current 
federal test procedure for modulating units is representative and 
appropriate. (AHRI No. 6 at p. 5; Rheem, No. 9 at p. 4; BWC, No. 4 at 
p. 2; Weil McLain, No. 5 at p. 5)
    Based on the comments received and absent information to the 
contrary, DOE is not proposing changes for step modulating units to 
account for operation at any additional input rates beyond those 
already specified by the test procedure.
4. Return Water Temperature
    The test procedure at appendix N currently requires a nominal 
return water temperature of 120 [deg]F to 124 [deg]F for non-condensing 
boilers and 120 [deg]F <plus-minus> 2 [deg]F for condensing boilers. 
(See section 7.0 of appendix N and Sections 8.4.2.3 and 8.4.2.3.2 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993.)
    CA IOUs recommended that DOE adopt multiple entering water 
temperatures for condensing and non-condensing boilers, respectively, 
consistent with the methodology developed by the ASHRAE 155P Committee 
for testing and rating commercial boilers. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 2)
    On January 15, 2016, DOE published a final rule amending the energy 
conservation standards for consumer furnaces (the ``January 2016 ECS 
final rule''). 81 FR 2320. For its analysis for the January 2016 ECS 
final rule, DOE investigated the relationship between return water 
temperature and field performance, and developed adjustment factors to 
modify the AFUE based on expected return water temperatures. DOE 
developed adjustment factors for low, medium, and high return water 
temperature scenarios and estimated that, on average, AFUE would vary 
from the rated value by -2.66 percent to +3.15 percent depending on the 
model characteristics and return water temperature.\14\ While DOE 
developed three return water temperature scenarios, there is a wide 
range of potential return water temperatures in the field. 81 FR 2320, 
2354.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \14\ See chapter 7 of the January 2016 ECS Final Rule technical 
support document (Document No. 70 in Docket No. EERE-2012-BT-STD-
0047), found online at www.regulations.gov/document/EERE-2012-BT-STD-0047-0070.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    EPCA requires DOE to establish test procedures that are reasonably 
designed to produce test results which measure energy efficiency of a 
consumer boilers during a representative average use cycle or period of 
use, as determined by the Secretary, and shall not be unduly burdensome 
to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) DOE tentatively concludes that given 
the wide potential range of operating conditions, the single return 
water temperature specified in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 provides an average 
value that allows for a comparison of performance at comparable rating 
conditions and is reasonably representative.
    DOE seeks additional comment on whether the return water 
temperature in the current test method and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 are 
representative and appropriate, and whether any specific changes to the 
required conditions could improve representativeness. DOE is also 
interested in receiving comment on the test burden that would result 
from changing the return water temperature(s) specified in the test 
procedure.
5. Active Mode Electrical Energy Consumption
    As noted in section III.C of this document, for gas-fired and oil-
fired boilers, AFUE accounts for fossil fuel consumption in active, 
standby, and off modes, but does not include electrical energy 
consumption.
    In response to the May 2020 RFI, CA IOUs recommended that all of 
the active mode energy use should be accounted for; however, 
information on the active mode electrical energy use be reported 
separately, as is done for off mode and standby mode, to enable product 
differentiation and to identify best performing boilers regarding 
electrical energy consumption. (CA IOUs, No. 7 at p. 4)
    As stated, AFUE does not include active mode or standby mode and 
off mode electrical consumption for gas-fired and oil-fired boilers. As 
such, active mode and standby mode and off mode electrical energy 
consumption is not a factor in determining whether a gas-fired or oil-
fired boiler complies with the applicable energy conservation standard, 
and is therefore not required to be reported. The DOE test procedure 
includes provisions for determining the average annual auxiliary 
electrical energy consumption for gas-fired and oil-fired boilers 
(E<INF>AE</INF>), as a separate metric from AFUE, that accounts for 
active mode, standby mode, and off mode electrical consumption. (See 
appendix N, section 10.4.3.) E<INF>AE</INF> is referenced by the 
calculations at 10 CFR 430.23(n)(1) for determining the estimated 
annual operating cost for furnaces. However, the provisions at 10 CFR 
430.23(n) include several incorrect references to sections in appendix 
N. DOE is proposing to correct the incorrect section references as part 
of this NOPR, but does not view this as a substantive change to the 
requirements of 10 CFR 430.23(n). Specifically, DOE proposes to change 
references to sections 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, and 10.5 of appendix N to 
reference sections 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, and 10.7 of appendix N, 
respectively.

[[Page 14634]]

    Although not required to be reported separately to DOE, to the 
extent that a manufacturer voluntarily chooses to make representations 
as to the active mode and standby mode and off mode electrical 
consumption of a gas-fired or oil-fired boiler, such representations 
must fairly disclose the results of testing according to the DOE test 
procedure. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(1))
6. Standby Mode and Off Mode
    As discussed in section III.C of this document, separate metrics 
for power consumption during standby mode and off mode 
(P<INF>W,SB</INF> and P<INF>W,OFF</INF>, respectively) are used to 
regulate standby mode and off mode energy consumption. These values are 
measured in accordance with the procedures in IEC 62301, with certain 
exceptions specified regarding test conditions, instrumentation 
requirements, and rounding requirements. (See appendix N, section 
8.11.)
    AHRI recommended that DOE consider streamlining the standby and off 
mode power consumption test procedure. (AHRI, No. 6 at p. 6) AHRI 
stated that it will investigate means to streamline the process and 
will submit a proposal, but AHRI did not have sufficient time to 
develop a proposal for this comment deadline. (AHRI, No. 6 at p. 6) DOE 
has not received further input or detail from AHRI on this issue prior 
to the issuance of this NOPR.
    Lochinvar suggested that the standby mode and off mode test 
procedure be simplified by allowing a measurement of standby and off 
mode energy consumption using a calibrated power meter. (Lochinvar, No. 
8 at p. 5)
    EPCA requires that DOE amend test procedures to include standby 
mode and off mode energy consumption, ``taking into consideration the 
most current versions of Standards 62301 and 62087 of the International 
Electrotechnical Commission.'' (42 U.S.C. 6295(gg)(2)(A)) The DOE test 
method currently references IEC 62301, which provides instructions for 
measuring standby mode and off mode energy consumption. IEC 62301 
provides several options for measuring the standby mode and off mode 
power consumption using either the ``sampling method,'' ``average 
reading method,'' or ``direct meter reading method.'' Although these 
methods vary, if the standby or off mode consumption is stable, each 
method can be completed in under 1 hour, and the sampling method can be 
completed in as little as 15 minutes. DOE has determined that the 
provisions in IEC 62301 provide an appropriate representation of 
standby mode and off mode energy consumption and are not unduly 
burdensome. See generally 77 FR 76831 (Dec. 31, 2012). The commenters 
did not present data to show that a simplified method could produce 
results equivalent to IEC 62301. For these reasons, DOE is not 
proposing to amend the test method for standby mode and off mode energy 
consumption.
    DOE seeks further comment on whether a simplified approach for 
measuring standby mode and off mode electrical energy consumption is 
appropriate and would provide accurate, representative results that are 
comparable to those obtained with IEC 62301.
7. Full Fuel Cycle
    Energy Kinetics stated that Full Fuel Cycle (``FFC'') efficiency 
and source efficiency analysis should be incorporated into the test 
procedure to allow for comparisons between direct fired heat and hot 
water systems and electric grid-based systems. Energy Kinetics argued 
that low electric power generation efficiency and high transmission and 
distribution losses create a false sense of high efficiency for vapor 
compression cycle heating equipment when compared to direct fired 
heating equipment. (Energy Kinetics, No. 3 at p. 3)
    The FFC accounts for the energy consumed in extracting, processing, 
and transporting fuels. Generally, DOE uses the National Energy 
Modeling System (``NEMS'') as the basis for deriving the energy and 
emission multipliers used to conduct FFC analyses in support of energy 
conservation standards rulemakings. 77 FR 49701 (Aug. 17, 2012). DOE 
also uses NEMS to derive factors to convert site electrical energy use 
or savings to primary energy consumption by the electric power sector. 
NEMS is updated annually in association with the preparation of the 
Energy Information Administration's Annual Energy Outlook. The energy 
and emission multipliers used to conduct FFC analyses are subject to 
change each year.
    DOE has previously considered a FFC metric in the January 2016 
final rule. In that final rule, DOE concluded that a mathematical 
adjustment to the test procedure to account for FFC is not appropriate, 
because the mathematical adjustment to the site-based energy descriptor 
relies on information that is updated annually, which would require 
annual updating of the test method. 81 FR 2628, 2639. DOE maintains 
that position for this NOPR, as the circumstances are the same as when 
DOE last considered this issue for the January 2016 final rule, and 
accordingly is not proposing to amend the test procedure to reflect 
FFC.
8. Conversion Factor for British Thermal Units
    Upon its review of the current appendix N test procedure, DOE 
observed inconsistencies in the existing formulas with respect to the 
values used to convert energy in watts (W) or kilowatts (kW) to Btu/h. 
For example, section 10.5 of the current appendix N indicates that the 
conversion factor from watt-hours to Btu (i.e., watts to Btu/h) is 
3.412. Simultaneously, section 10.4 of the current appendix N includes 
equations which include 341,300 as the conversion factor between Watts 
and Btu/h expressed for percentage points (essentially identifying the 
conversion factor from watt-hours to Btu as 3.413 instead of 3.412).
    ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 also has these inconsistencies. (See, for 
example, section 4 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 and Appendix B of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993, which use 3.412 W/(Btu/h) and 3.413 W/(Btu/h), 
respectively). ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 strictly uses the 3.413 W/(Btu/h) 
conversion factor, however.
    DOE notes that the conversion factor between watts and Btu/h is 
generally accepted to be 1 watt = 3.412142 Btu/h (or 1 Btu/h = 
0.2930711 watts), as published in the ASHRAE Fundamentals Handbook.\15\ 
This value is more appropriately rounded to 3.412 W/(Btu/h); therefore, 
DOE is making a correction to the proposed appendix N and appendix EE 
test procedures to use 3.412 W/(Btu/h) in all calculations. This 
correction is not expected to affect AFUE ratings.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \15\ 2021 ASHRAE Handbook: Fundamentals (I-P Edition). Peachtree 
Corners, GA: American Society of Heating, Refrigeration and Air-
Conditioning Engineers, 2021.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

F. Alternative Efficiency Determination Methods

    At 10 CFR 429.70, DOE includes provisions for alternative 
efficiency determination methods (``AEDMs''), which are computer 
modeling or mathematical tools that predict the performance of non-
tested basic models. They are derived from mathematical models and 
engineering principles that govern the energy efficiency and energy 
consumption characteristics of a type of covered equipment. These 
computer modeling and mathematical tools, when properly developed, can 
provide a relatively straight-forward and reasonably accurate means to 
predict the energy usage or efficiency characteristics of a basic model 
of a

[[Page 14635]]

given covered product or equipment and reduce the burden and cost 
associated with testing. 78 FR 79579, 79580 (Dec. 31, 2013; the 
``December 2013 AEDM Final Rule'').
    Where authorized by regulation, AEDMs enable manufacturers to rate 
and certify their basic models by using the projected energy use or 
energy efficiency results derived from these simulation models in lieu 
of testing. Id at 78 FR 79580. DOE has authorized the use of AEDMs for 
certain covered products and equipment that are difficult or expensive 
to test in an effort to reduce the testing burden faced by 
manufacturers of expensive or highly customized basic models. Id. DOE's 
regulations currently permit manufacturers of certain products and 
equipment to use AEDMs to rate their non-tested basic models (and 
combinations, where applicable) provided they meet the Department's 
regulations governing such use.
    Weil-McLain encouraged DOE to allow use of AEDMs for consumer 
boilers similar to DOE's existing approach to allow AEDMs for 
commercial equipment (which DOE understands to refer to commercial 
package boilers) in order to reduce testing burden and speed the new 
product development process while maintaining the intent of EPCA. 
(Weil-McLain, No. 5 at pp. 1-2)
    Currently, manufacturers of consumer boilers (or furnaces more 
generally) are not authorized to use an AEDM to determine ratings for 
these products. However, as discussed in section III.G.1 of this NOPR, 
manufacturers of cast iron boilers may determine AFUE for models at a 
capacity other than the highest or lowest of the group of basic models 
having identical intermediate sections and combustion chambers through 
linear interpolation of data obtained for the smallest and largest 
capacity units of the family. See 10 CFR 429.18(a)(2)(iv)(A). These 
provisions already provide manufacturers with an alternative method of 
rating consumer boilers without testing every model, and this 
alternative method reduces manufacturer test burden. Further, DOE 
explained in the December 2013 AEDM Final Rule that the AEDM provisions 
extend to those products or equipment which ``have expensive or highly-
customized basic models.'' 78 FR 79579, 79580. The current AEDM 
provisions for commercial HVAC equipment (including commercial package 
boilers, for example) were in part the result of a negotiated 
rulemaking effort by the Appliance Standards and Rulemaking Federal 
Advisory Committee (ASRAC) in 2013. Id. Boilers designed for 
residential applications were not considered at the time.\16\ 78 FR 
79579. Hence, at this time, DOE does not have sufficient information to 
propose AEDM regulations for consumer boilers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \16\ Working group meeting transcripts can be found at 
www.regulations.gov under Docket No. EERE-2013-BT-NOC-0023.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE requests further comment on whether AEDM provisions similar to 
those in place for commercial equipment would be necessary and 
appropriate for consumer boilers.

G. Certification Requirements

1. Linear Interpolation
    Certification requirements for consumer boilers are provided at 10 
CFR 429.18. These requirements, in part, allow for manufacturers to 
make representations of efficiency for basic models of sectional cast-
iron boilers having identical intermediate sections and combustion 
chambers using linear interpolation of data obtained for the smallest 
and largest capacity units of the family. 10 CFR 429.18(a)(2)(iv)(A). 
AHRI and Lochinvar recommended that DOE extend the applicability of the 
existing linear interpolation provisions to boilers with any type of 
heat exchanger material. Specifically, AHRI and Lochinvar suggested 
that DOE include an additional section to the linear interpolation 
provisions stating, ``for each basic model or input capacity of boilers 
having similar geometric construction other than the higher or lowest 
input capacity in the group of basic models and is not a sectional 
cast-iron boiler.'' Both commenters proposed language which reflects 
these potential changes and also includes editorial updates. (AHRI No. 
6 at p. 2; Lochinvar, No. 8, at p. 5)
    DOE adopted the linear interpolation provision applicable to cast-
iron boilers in a final rule published on April 13, 1979 (``April 1979 
Final Rule''). 44 FR 22410. In the April 1979 Final Rule, DOE discussed 
the effects of sectional design of cast-iron boilers. Data submitted 
showed that the annual fuel utilization efficiency, energy consumption 
and estimated annual operating cost of sectional cast iron boilers 
(i.e., cast iron boilers consisting of an assembly of two end sections 
and a variable number of identical intermediate sections, the number of 
intermediate sections depending on the desired heating capacity) can be 
accurately predicted by a linear interpolation based on data obtained 
from units having the smallest and largest number of intermediate 
sections. Id. 44 FR 22415. Therefore, little or no new information 
would result from any requirement for actual testing of middle-sized 
units. Id. In particular, data was submitted that showed the 
efficiencies measured according to DOE test procedures of 15 groups of 
sectional cast-iron boilers, with each group comprising boilers 
identical except for the number of intermediate sections. Id. An 
analysis of the data showed that linear interpolation for the middle-
sized units resulted in errors in the measured efficiency of less than 
2 percent compared to actual test results. Id. DOE concluded that since 
the tolerance of all measures of energy consumption had been 
established as 5 percent (applicable to the test procedures at that 
time), the reliability of measured energy consumption for the middle-
sized units would not be significantly diminished by a linear 
interpolation based on data obtained from testing units having the 
smallest and largest number of intermediate sections and the same 
combustion chamber. Id. As discussed, the analysis of this issue in the 
April 1979 Final Rule was limited to cast-iron boilers, for which a 
robust sample of test data was provided to justify the use of a linear 
interpolation approach. Commenters have not provided any data or other 
information to demonstrate that using a linear interpolation method 
with other types of heat exchanger materials would produce 
representative test results. Lacking such data or information that 
would justify extending the approach to other materials, DOE is not 
proposing to extend the linear interpolation approach to boilers with 
other heat exchanger materials. If presented with such data or other 
information, DOE could consider such a change.
    DOE seeks comment on data or other information that demonstrates 
that using a linear interpolation method for heat exchanger materials 
other than cast iron would produce representative test results.
2. Supplemental Test Instructions
    For commercial boilers, DOE provides that a certification report 
may include supplemental testing instructions, if such information is 
necessary to run a valid test. Specifically, supplemental information 
must include any additional testing and testing set up instructions 
(e.g., specific operational or control codes or settings), which would 
be necessary to operate the basic model under the required conditions 
specified by the relevant test procedure. 10 CFR 429.60(b)(4).
    BHI suggested the creation of a repository for test instructions, 
similar to that currently in place for commercial boilers, instead of 
requiring a waiver to

[[Page 14636]]

allow for use of specific test instructions not included in the I&O 
manual or the DOE test procedure. BHI stated that control systems are 
increasingly complex, which it asserted makes it impractical to run the 
test without special tools or codes in many cases. Further, BHI stated 
there are safety and reliability concerns with putting testing-specific 
instructions in the I&O manual. BHI also asserted that the use of the 
waiver process for these test instruction issues is burdensome, 
unnecessary, and is unjustifiably inconsistent with the test procedure 
rule for commercial boilers. (BHI, No. 11 at pp. 3-4)
    BHI did not provide specific examples of test instructions that 
could not be included in the I&O manual due to concerns about safety or 
reliability, and that would thus need to be presented in a waiver. In 
addition, DOE has not received any petitions for waiver for any basic 
models of consumer boilers, indicating that there is not a problem with 
testing absent such additional information. Therefore, DOE is not 
proposing to establish a repository for test instructions for consumer 
boilers. Should testing of a consumer boiler necessitate controls or 
instructions other than those included in the I&O manual, manufacturers 
may petition for a waiver under the process established at 10 CFR 
430.27.
    DOE seeks further comment on whether supplemental test instructions 
are necessary for testing consumer boilers.
3. Standby Mode and Off Mode Certification
    Lochinvar suggested that standby mode and off mode power 
consumption determined for a single basic model be permitted to be used 
for a product line. Lochinvar stated that the variation in standby and 
off mode power consumption between products of the same basic model are 
small enough to utilize the basic model's rating for the entire product 
line. (Lochinvar, No. 8 at p. 5)
    DOE defines ``basic model'' in relevant part as meaning all units 
of a given type of covered product (or class thereof) manufactured by 
one manufacturer; having the same primary energy source; and which have 
essentially identical electrical, physical, and functional (or 
hydraulic) characteristics that affect energy consumption, energy 
efficiency, water consumption, or water efficiency. 10 CFR 430.2. If 
consumer boiler models are sufficiently similar that they can be 
grouped as a single basic model consistent with the definition above, 
it would be expected that these individual models would have nearly 
identical standby mode and off mode power consumption. In such an 
instance, standby mode and off mode power consumption determined for an 
individual model could be used for all individual models within the 
same basic model.

H. Test Procedure Costs and Harmonization

1. Test Procedure Costs and Impact
    In response to the May 2020 RFI, Weil-McLain encouraged DOE to 
evaluate the cumulative burden upon industry based upon the average 
number of regulated product categories and active regulations for 
manufacturers during future product efficiency rulemakings. (Weil-
McLain, No. 5 at p. 2)
    EPCA requires that any amended test procedures prescribed must be 
reasonably designed to produce test results which measure energy 
efficiency, energy use or estimated annual operating cost of a covered 
product during a representative average use cycle or period of use and 
not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3)) In 
proposing amendments to the test procedure for consumer boilers, DOE 
considers the burden to industry. In this NOPR, DOE proposes to amend 
the existing test procedure for consumer boilers by updating the 
references to industry standards to reference the most recent versions, 
i.e., to reference ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and ASTM D2156-09 (R2018). DOE 
has tentatively determined that these proposed amendments would not 
impact testing costs or increase burden, as discussed in the following 
paragraphs.
a. ASTM D2156-09 (R2018)
    DOE proposes to incorporate by reference the most recent version of 
ASTM D2156-09, which was reaffirmed in 2018. Because the relevant 
provisions of ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) are unchanged from the version of 
ASTM D2156-09 currently incorporated by reference, this proposed change 
would not result in any change to how the test procedure is conducted, 
would not impact the measured AFUE ratings, and would not result in any 
change to the burden associated with the test procedure.
b. ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
    DOE proposes to incorporate by reference the most recent version of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. DOE has tentatively concluded 
that the test procedure referencing ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 would not 
impact the test procedure burden as compared to the current test 
procedure. As discussed in section III.D of this document, based on a 
review of test data and comments from stakeholders, DOE has tentatively 
determined that while the proposed amendment could result in 
differences in the measured values, such differences would be minimal 
and would not require re-testing or re-rating of any consumer boilers.
    Based on this initial determination, manufacturers would be able to 
rely on data generated under the current test procedure, should the 
proposed amendments be finalized. As such, it would be unlikely that 
retesting of consumer boilers would be required solely as a result of 
DOE's adoption of the proposed amendments to the test procedure. 
However, if a manufacturer were to re-test a model using the proposed 
procedure, DOE estimates that the cost of performing the proposed AFUE 
test at a third-party laboratory would be $3,000.
    DOE requests comment on DOE's tentative determination as to the 
impact and associated costs of the proposed incorporation by reference 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
c. ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014
    DOE proposes to incorporate by reference the most recent version of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6, ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014. ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014 is 
referenced in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 for determining the relative 
humidity of the room air during testing of condensing boilers. (See 
Section 8.5.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.) The previous version of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993, includes limitations on the relative 
humidity of the test room during testing of condensing boilers (see 
Sections 9.2 and 9.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993), but does not provide 
instructions on how the measurements must be obtained. The reference to 
ASHRAE 41.6-2014 in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 will ensure a consistent 
approach to determining the relative humidity for the purpose of 
meeting the test conditions. Because the DOE test method and ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-1993 currently limit relative humidity allowed during 
testing, DOE reasons that relative humidity already must be measured 
under the current procedure. DOE has thus tentatively concluded that 
the incorporation by reference of ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014 would not 
impact the test procedure burden as compared to the current test 
procedure, as the method would likely be similar to current practices.

[[Page 14637]]

    DOE requests comment on DOE's tentative determination the proposed 
incorporation by reference of ASHRAE 41.6-2014 will not increase test 
burden.
2. Harmonization With Industry Standards
    DOE's established practice is to adopt relevant industry standards 
as DOE test procedures unless such methodology would be unduly 
burdensome to conduct or would not produce test results that reflect 
the energy efficiency, energy use, water use (as specified in EPCA) or 
estimated operating costs of that product during a representative 
average use cycle or period of use. Section 8(c) of appendix A of 10 
CFR part 430 subpart C. In cases where the industry standard does not 
meet this EPCA statutory criteria for test procedures, DOE will make 
modifications as part of the rulemaking process.
    Appendix N incorporates by reference ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103 for 
scope, definitions, classifications, requirements, instruments, 
apparatus, testing conditions, testing procedure, nomenclature, and 
calculations for determining AFUE. Appendix N also incorporates by 
reference IEC 62301 for measuring standby mode and off mode power 
consumption, and ASTM D2156-09 (Reapproved 2013) for adjusting oil 
burners. The industry standards DOE proposes to incorporate by 
reference via amendments described in this NOPR are discussed in 
further detail in section IV.M of this document. DOE notes that DOE has 
previously established certain modifications to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 to 
improve representativeness and repeatability, provide additional 
direction, and reduce burden. Similarly, DOE has established 
modifications to IEC 62301 to substitute conditions for room ambient 
temperature and electrical supply from ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 to reduce 
burden. In general, DOE has determined that those modifications remain 
relevant to the updated editions of the referenced industry test 
standards and is not proposing to amend or delete those previously 
established modifications.
    DOE requests comments on the benefits and burdens of the proposed 
updates and additions to industry standards referenced in the test 
procedure for consumer boilers.

I. Compliance Date

    EPCA prescribes that, if DOE amends a test procedure, all 
representations of energy efficiency and energy use, including those 
made on marketing materials and product labels, must be made in 
accordance with that amended test procedure, beginning 180 days after 
publication of such a test procedure final rule in the Federal 
Register. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(2))
    If DOE were to publish an amended test procedure, EPCA provides an 
allowance for individual manufacturers to petition DOE for an extension 
of the 180-day period if the manufacturer may experience undue hardship 
in meeting the deadline. (42 U.S.C. 6293(c)(3)) To receive such an 
extension, petitions must be filed with DOE no later than 60 days 
before the end of the 180-day period and must detail how the 
manufacturer will experience undue hardship. (Id.)

IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget (``OMB'') has determined that 
this test procedure rulemaking does not constitute a ``significant 
regulatory action'' under section 3(f) of Executive Order (``E.O.'') 
12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, 58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). 
Accordingly, this action was not subject to review under the Executive 
order by the Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs (``OIRA'') in 
OMB.

B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires 
preparation of an initial regulatory flexibility analysis (``IRFA'') 
for any rule that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless 
the agency certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. 
As required by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small 
Entities in Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (Aug. 16, 2002), DOE 
published procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that 
the potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly 
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made 
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General 
Counsel's website: <a href="http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel">energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel</a>.
    DOE reviewed this proposed rule under the provisions of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act and the procedures and policies published on 
February 19, 2003. DOE certifies that the proposed rule, if adopted, 
would not have significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities. The factual basis of this certification is set forth in 
the following paragraphs.
    Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, the statute sets forth the criteria and 
procedures DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures 
for covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed 
or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce 
test results which measure energy efficiency, energy use or estimated 
annual operating cost of a covered product during a representative 
average use cycle or period of use and not be unduly burdensome to 
conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    In this NOPR, DOE proposes to update 10 CFR part 430 subpart B, 
appendix N, ``Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption 
of Furnaces and Boilers,'' to remove the provisions applicable only to 
consumer boilers and rename the appendix ``Uniform Test Method for 
Measuring the Energy Consumption of Furnaces.'' Correspondingly, DOE 
proposes to create a new appendix EE, ``Uniform Test Method for 
Measuring the Energy Consumption of Boilers.'' In the proposed new 
appendix EE, DOE proposes to include all provisions currently included 
in appendix N for consumer boilers, with the following modifications:
(1) Incorporate by reference the current revision to the applicable 
industry standard, ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, ``Methods of Testing for 
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and 
Boilers''
(2) Incorporate by reference the current revision of ASTM Standard 
D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018), ``Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in 
Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels'' (ASTM D2156-09)
(3) Incorporate by reference ASHRAE 41.6-2014, ``Standard Method for 
Humidity Measurement''
(4) Update the definitions to reflect the changes in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 as compared to ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993. Also remove definition of 
outdoor furnace or boiler from 10 CFR 430.2

    For manufacturers of consumer boilers, the Small Business 
Administration (``SBA'') has set a size threshold, which defines those 
entities classified as ``small businesses'' for the purposes of the 
statute. DOE used the SBA's small business size standards to determine 
whether any small entities would be subject to the requirements of the 
rule. See 13 CFR part 121. The equipment covered by this rule is 
classified under North American Industry Classification System

[[Page 14638]]

(``NAICS'') code 333414,\17\ ``Heating Equipment (except Warm Air 
Furnaces) Manufacturing.'' In 13 CFR 121.201, the SBA sets a threshold 
of 500 employees or fewer for an entity to be considered as a small 
business for this category. DOE identified manufacturers using DOE's 
Compliance Certification Database (``CCD''),\18\ the AHRI database,\19\ 
the California Energy Commission's Modernized Appliance Efficiency 
Database System (``MAEDbS''),\20\ the ENERGY STAR Product Finder 
database,\21\ and the prior consumer boiler energy conservation 
standards rulemaking. DOE used the publicly available information and 
subscription-based market research tools (e.g., reports from Dun & 
Bradstreet \22\) to identify 28 original equipment manufacturers 
(``OEMs'') of the covered equipment. Of the 28 OEMs, DOE identified 
seven domestic manufacturers of consumer boilers that met the SBA 
definition of a ``small business.''
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \17\ The size standards are listed by NAICS code and industry 
description and are available at: www.sba.gov/document/support--table-size-standards (Last accessed on September 22, 2021).
    \18\ DOE's Compliance Certification Database is available at: 
www.regulations.doe.gov/ccms (last accessed July 12, 2021).
    \19\ The AHRI Database is available at: www.ahridirectory.org 
(last accessed March 3, 2021).
    \20\ California Energy Commission's MAEDbS is available at 
cacertappliances.energy.ca.gov/Pages/ApplianceSearch.aspx (last 
accessed September 22, 2021).
    \21\ The ENERGY STAR Product Finder database is available at 
energystar.gov/productfinder/ (last accessed September 22, 2021).
    \22\ app.dnbhoovers.com.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    As stated earlier, in this NOPR, DOE proposes to amend the existing 
test procedure for consumer boilers by updating the references to 
industry standards to reference the most recent versions. Based on a 
review of test data and stakeholder comments, DOE has initially 
determined that the proposed amendments to reference ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 in the test procedure would not require retesting or re-rating. 
DOE conducted testing to compare the results from testing in accordance 
with ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 (the 1993 version is currently incorporated 
by reference in the DOE test procedure) with results using the more 
recent editions of ANSI/ASHRAE 103 to reach this tentative 
determination, which is further supported by a majority of comments 
from industry stakeholders indicating no expected impact of updating 
this test standard reference. ASTM Standard D2156-09, which is 
currently incorporated by reference, was reapproved in 2018 with no 
substantial differences. Therefore, DOE's proposal to incorporate the 
version of ASTM D2156-09 reapproved in 2018 would not result in any 
impact on results or test burden. DOE also proposes to incorporate by 
reference ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014, a test method for determination of 
relative humidity. ANSI/ASHRAE 103-1993 (and by extension, the current 
DOE test procedure) includes limitations on the relative humidity of 
the test room during certain testing, but it does not provide 
instructions on how the measurements must be obtained. ASHRAE 41.6-2014 
is referenced in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 as the required approach to 
determining the relative humidity for the purpose of meeting the test 
conditions. The test method in ASHARE 41.6-2014 is understood to be 
similar to current industry practices and is thus not expected to 
introduce any new test burden for manufacturers.
    As such, the test procedure amendments would not result in any 
change in burden associated the DOE test procedure for consumer 
boilers.
    Therefore, DOE initially concludes that the test procedure 
amendments proposed in this NOPR would not have a ``significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities,'' and that 
the preparation of an IRFA is not warranted. DOE will transmit the 
certification and supporting statement of factual basis to the Chief 
Counsel for Advocacy of the Small Business Administration for review 
under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).
    DOE welcomes comment on the Regulatory Flexibility certification 
conclusion.

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Manufacturers of consumer boilers must certify to DOE that their 
products comply with any applicable energy conservation standards. To 
certify compliance, manufacturers must first obtain test data for their 
products according to the DOE test procedures, including any amendments 
adopted for those test procedures. DOE has established regulations for 
the certification and recordkeeping requirements for all covered 
consumer products and commercial equipment, including consumer boilers. 
(See generally 10 CFR part 429.) The collection-of-information 
requirement for the certification and recordkeeping is subject to 
review and approval by OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (``PRA''). 
This requirement has been approved by OMB under OMB control number 
1910-1400. Public reporting burden for the certification is estimated 
to average 35 hours per response, including the time for reviewing 
instructions, searching existing data sources, gathering and 
maintaining the data needed, and completing and reviewing the 
collection of information.
    In this NOPR, DOE is proposing to update references to industry 
test standards to reference the most current versions. DOE is also 
proposing to reorganize the test procedures so that boilers are 
addressed in an appendix separate from furnaces generally. The proposed 
amendments would not establish new or amended reporting requirements.
    Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is 
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays 
a currently valid OMB Control Number.

D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    In this NOPR, DOE proposes test procedure amendments that it 
expects will be used to develop and implement future energy 
conservation standards for consumer boilers. DOE has determined that 
this rule falls into a class of actions that are categorically excluded 
from review under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 
U.S.C. 4321 et seq.) and DOE's implementing regulations at 10 CFR part 
1021. Specifically, DOE has determined that adopting test procedures 
for measuring energy efficiency of consumer products and industrial 
equipment is consistent with activities identified in 10 CFR part 1021, 
appendix A to subpart D, A5 and A6. Accordingly, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (Aug. 4, 1999) 
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing 
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have federalism 
implications. The Executive order requires agencies to examine the 
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would 
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess 
the necessity for such actions. The Executive order also requires 
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely 
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory 
policies that have federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE

[[Page 14639]]

published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental 
consultation process it will follow in the development of such 
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE has examined this proposed rule and has 
determined that it would not have a substantial direct effect on the 
States, on the relationship between the national government and the 
States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the 
various levels of government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal 
preemption of State regulations as to energy conservation for the 
products that are the subject of this proposed rule. States can 
petition DOE for exemption from such preemption to the extent, and 
based on criteria, set forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further 
action is required by Executive Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

    Regarding the review of existing regulations and the promulgation 
of new regulations, section 3(a) of Executive Order 12988, ``Civil 
Justice Reform,'' 61 FR 4729 (Feb. 7, 1996), imposes on Federal 
agencies the general duty to adhere to the following requirements: (1) 
Eliminate drafting errors and ambiguity, (2) write regulations to 
minimize litigation, (3) provide a clear legal standard for affected 
conduct rather than a general standard, and (4) promote simplification 
and burden reduction. Section 3(b) of Executive Order 12988 
specifically requires that executive agencies make every reasonable 
effort to ensure that the regulation (1) clearly specifies the 
preemptive effect, if any, (2) clearly specifies any effect on existing 
Federal law or regulation, (3) provides a clear legal standard for 
affected conduct while promoting simplification and burden reduction, 
(4) specifies the retroactive effect, if any, (5) adequately defines 
key terms, and (6) addresses other important issues affecting clarity 
and general draftsmanship under any guidelines issued by the Attorney 
General. Section 3(c) of Executive Order 12988 requires Executive 
agencies to review regulations in light of applicable standards in 
sections 3(a) and 3(b) to determine whether they are met or it is 
unreasonable to meet one or more of them. DOE has completed the 
required review and determined that, to the extent permitted by law, 
the proposed rule meets the relevant standards of Executive Order 
12988.

G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (``UMRA'') 
requires each Federal agency to assess the effects of Federal 
regulatory actions on State, local, and Tribal governments and the 
private sector. Public Law 104-4, sec. 201 (codified at 2 U.S.C. 1531). 
For a proposed regulatory action likely to result in a rule that may 
cause the expenditure by State, local, and Tribal governments, in the 
aggregate, or by the private sector of $100 million or more in any one 
year (adjusted annually for inflation), section 202 of UMRA requires a 
Federal agency to publish a written statement that estimates the 
resulting costs, benefits, and other effects on the national economy. 
(2 U.S.C. 1532(a), (b)) The UMRA also requires a Federal agency to 
develop an effective process to permit timely input by elected officers 
of State, local, and Tribal governments on a proposed ``significant 
intergovernmental mandate,'' and requires an agency plan for giving 
notice and opportunity for timely input to potentially affected small 
governments before establishing any requirements that might 
significantly or uniquely affect small governments. On March 18, 1997, 
DOE published a statement of policy on its process for 
intergovernmental consultation under UMRA. 62 FR 12820; also available 
at http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel. DOE examined this 
proposed rule according to UMRA and its statement of policy and 
determined that the rule contains neither an intergovernmental mandate, 
nor a mandate that may result in the expenditure of $100 million or 
more in any year, so these requirements do not apply.

H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
1999

    Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family 
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being. 
This proposed rule 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.

I. Review Under Executive Order 12630

    DOE has determined, under Executive Order 12630, ``Governmental 
Actions and Interference with Constitutionally Protected Property 
Rights'' 53 FR 8859 (March 18, 1988), that this proposed regulation 
would not result in any takings that might require compensation under 
the Fifth Amendment to the U.S. Constitution.

J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations Act, 
2001

    Section 515 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001 (44 U.S.C. 3516 note) provides for agencies to review most 
disseminations of information to the public under guidelines 
established by each agency pursuant to general guidelines issued by 
OMB. OMB's guidelines were published at 67 FR 8452 (Feb. 22, 2002), and 
DOE's guidelines were published at 67 FR 62446 (Oct. 7, 2002). DOE has 
reviewed this proposed rule under the OMB and DOE guidelines and has 
concluded that it is consistent with applicable policies in those 
guidelines.

K. Review Under Executive Order 13211

    Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355 
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB, 
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy 
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as any action by an 
agency that promulgated or is expected to lead to promulgation of a 
final rule, and that (1) is a significant regulatory action under 
Executive Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is likely to 
have a significant adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use 
of energy; or (3) is designated by the Administrator of OIRA as a 
significant energy action. For any proposed significant energy action, 
the agency must give a detailed statement of any adverse effects on 
energy supply, distribution, or use should the proposal be implemented, 
and of reasonable alternatives to the action and their expected 
benefits on energy supply, distribution, and use.
    The proposed regulatory action to amend the test procedure for 
measuring the energy efficiency of consumer boilers is not a 
significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it 
would not have a significant adverse effect on the supply, 
distribution, or use of energy, nor has it been designated as a 
significant energy action by the Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it 
is not a significant energy action, and, accordingly, DOE has not 
prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.

L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration Act of 
1974

    Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act 
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the 
Federal Energy

[[Page 14640]]

Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal Energy 
Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; ``FEAA'') 
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed 
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of 
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of 
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with 
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission 
(``FTC'') concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards 
on competition.
    The proposed modifications to the test procedure for consumer 
boilers would reference testing methods contained in certain sections 
of the following commercial standards: ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103 (ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017), ASTM D2156-09 (R2018), and ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 41.6-
2014 (ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014). DOE has evaluated these standards and is 
unable to conclude whether they fully comply with the requirements of 
section 32(b) of the FEAA (i.e., whether they were developed in a 
manner that fully provides for public participation, comment, and 
review.) DOE will consult with both the Attorney General and the 
Chairman of the FTC concerning the impact of these test procedures on 
competition, prior to prescribing a final rule.

M. Description of Materials Incorporated by Reference

    In this NOPR, DOE proposes to incorporate by reference the test 
standard published by ANSI/ASHRAE, titled ``Method of Testing for 
Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential Central Furnaces and 
Boilers,'' ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. The purpose of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 is 
to provide procedures for determining the annual fuel utilization 
efficiency of consumer furnaces and boilers. Relevant to the DOE test 
procedure, the standard includes test methods for cyclic and part-load 
performance and calculation procedures for establishing seasonal 
performance. The standard provides information on definitions, 
classifications, requirements, instruments, methods of testing, testing 
procedures, nomenclature, and calculations for determining the AFUE of 
consumer boilers.
    ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 includes a reference to ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014, 
``Standard Method for Humidity Measurement,'' which DOE also proposes 
to incorporate by reference. ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014 includes 
instructions for measuring the relative humidity of the test room air.
    Copies of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014 can be 
obtained from the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers, Inc., Publication Sales, 180 Technology Parkway 
NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, (800) 527-4723 or (404) 636-8400, or 
online at: www.ashrae.org.
    In this NOPR, DOE also proposes to incorporate by reference the 
test standard published by ASTM, titled ``Standard Test Method for 
Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning Distillate Fuels,'' ASTM 
D2156-09 (R2018)). ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) includes instructions for 
determining the amount of smoke produced by an oil burner to ensure the 
burner is adjusted properly.
    Copies of ASTM D2156-09 (R2018) can be obtained from the ASTM 
International,100 Barr Harbor Drive, P.O. Box C700, West Conshohocken, 
PA 19428-2959 or online at: www.astm.org.
    In this NOPR, DOE also proposes to incorporate by reference the 
test standard published by IEC, titled ``Household electrical 
appliances--Measurement of standby power,'' Edition 2.0 2011-01 (IEC 
62301). IEC 62301 includes instructions for determining the electrical 
power consumption during standby mode.
    Copies of IEC 62301 can be obtained from the American National 
Standards Institute, 25 W 43rd Street, 4th Floor, New York, NY 10036, 
(212) 642-4900, or online at: webstore.ansi.org.

V. Public Participation

A. Participation in the Webinar

    The time and date for the webinar are listed in the DATES section 
at the beginning of this document. If no participants register for the 
webinar, it will be cancelled. Webinar registration information, 
participant instructions, and information about the capabilities 
available to webinar participants will be published on DOE's website: 
www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/standards.aspx?productid=45&action=viewcurrent. Participants are 
responsible for ensuring their systems are compatible with the webinar 
software.

B. Procedure for Submitting Prepared General Statements for 
Distribution

    Any person who has an interest in the topics addressed in this 
document, or who is representative of a group or class of persons that 
has an interest in these issues, may request an opportunity to make an 
oral presentation at the webinar. Such persons may submit to 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1a5b6a6a76737b74797f496e7b747e7b687e694b6f7f696e737574695a7f7f347e757f347d756c"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="9cddececf0f5fdf2fff9cfe8fdf2f8fdeef8efcde9f9efe8f5f3f2efdcf9f9b2f8f3f9b2fbf3ea">[email protected]</span></a>. Persons who wish to speak 
should include with their request a computer file in WordPerfect, 
Microsoft Word, PDF, or text (ASCII) file format that briefly describes 
the nature of their interest in this rulemaking and the topics they 
wish to discuss. Such persons should also provide a daytime telephone 
number where they can be reached.
    Persons requesting to speak should briefly describe the nature of 
their interest in this rulemaking and provide a telephone number for 
contact. DOE requests persons selected to make an oral presentation to 
submit an advance copy of their statements at least two weeks before 
the webinar. At its discretion, DOE may permit persons who cannot 
supply an advance copy of their statement to participate, if those 
persons have made advance alternative arrangements with the Building 
Technologies Office. As necessary, requests to give an oral 
presentation should ask for such alternative arrangements.

C. Conduct of the Webinar

    DOE will designate a DOE official to preside at the webinar/public 
meeting and may also use a professional facilitator to aid discussion. 
The meeting will not be a judicial or evidentiary-type public hearing, 
but DOE will conduct it in accordance with section 336 of EPCA (42 
U.S.C. 6306). A court reporter will be present to record the 
proceedings and prepare a transcript. DOE reserves the right to 
schedule the order of presentations and to establish the procedures 
governing the conduct of the webinar. There shall not be discussion of 
proprietary information, costs or prices, market share, or other 
commercial matters regulated by U.S. anti-trust laws. After the 
webinar/public meeting and until the end of the comment period, 
interested parties may submit further comments on the proceedings and 
any aspect of the rulemaking.
    The webinar will be conducted in an informal, conference style. DOE 
will allow time for prepared general statements by participants and 
encourage all interested parties to share their views on issues 
affecting this rulemaking. Each participant will be allowed to make a 
general statement (within time limits determined by DOE), before the 
discussion of specific topics. DOE will permit, as time permits, other 
participants to comment briefly on any general statements.
    At the end of all prepared statements on a topic, DOE will permit 
participants

[[Page 14641]]

to clarify their statements briefly. Participants should be prepared to 
answer questions by DOE and by other participants concerning these 
issues. DOE representatives may also ask questions of participants 
concerning other matters relevant to this rulemaking. The official 
conducting the webinar/public meeting will accept additional comments 
or questions from those attending, as time permits. The presiding 
official will announce any further procedural rules or modification of 
the above procedures that may be needed for the proper conduct of the 
webinar/public meeting.
    A transcript of the webinar/public meeting will be included in the 
docket, which can be viewed as described in the Docket section at the 
beginning of this document. In addition, any person may buy a copy of 
the transcript from the transcribing reporter.

D. Submission of Comments

    DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
proposed rule no later than the date provided in the DATES section at 
the beginning of this proposed rule. Interested parties may submit 
comments using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section at 
the beginning of this document.
    Submitting comments via www.regulations.gov. The 
www.regulations.gov web page will require you to provide your name and 
contact information. Your contact information will be viewable to DOE 
Building Technologies staff only. Your contact information will not be 
publicly viewable except for your first and last names, organization 
name (if any), and submitter representative name (if any). If your 
comment is not processed properly because of technical difficulties, 
DOE will use this information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your 
comment due to technical difficulties and cannot contact you for 
clarification, DOE may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. 
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not 
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your 
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, 
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any 
documents submitted with the comments.
    Do not submit to www.regulations.gov information for which 
disclosure is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and 
commercial or financial information (hereinafter referred to as 
Confidential Business Information (``CBI'')). Comments submitted 
through www.regulations.gov cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received 
through the website will waive any CBI claims for the information 
submitted. For information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential 
Business Information section.
    DOE processes submissions made through www.regulations.gov before 
posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of being 
submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being processed 
simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several 
weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that www.regulations.gov 
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
    Submitting comments via email. Comments and documents submitted via 
email also will be posted to www.regulations.gov. If you do not want 
your personal contact information to be publicly viewable, do not 
include it in your comment or any accompanying documents. Instead, 
provide your contact information on a cover letter. Include your first 
and last names, email address, telephone number, and optional mailing 
address. The cover letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it 
does not include any comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. No faxes will be accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that are not 
secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.
    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. Pursuant to 10 CFR 1004.11, any 
person submitting information that he or she believes to be 
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via 
email, two well-marked copies: One copy of the document marked 
confidential including all the information believed to be confidential, 
and one copy of the document marked non-confidential with the 
information believed to be confidential deleted. DOE will make its own 
determination about the confidential status of the information and 
treat it according to its determination.
    It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public 
docket, without change and as received, including any personal 
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be 
exempt from public disclosure).

E. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment

    Although DOE welcomes comments on any aspect of this proposal, DOE 
is particularly interested in receiving comments and views from 
interested parties concerning the following issues:
    (1) DOE seeks comment on whether any other industry test methods 
exist for determining the heating efficiency of air-to-water or water-
to-water heat pumps. DOE seeks comment specifically on AHRI 550/590, 
and whether it would be appropriate for adoption as a Federal test 
procedure for such products, and if so, whether modifications could be 
made to result in an AFUE rating.
    (2) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to remove the definition of 
``outdoor furnace or boiler'' from its regulations. DOE seeks comment 
on whether removing the definition for ``outdoor furnace or boiler'' 
would impact the application of the test procedure or energy 
conservation standards for any such products.
    (3) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to incorporate by reference 
the definitions in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and to remove the definitions 
for ``control'' and ``isolated combustions system'' from the consumer 
boiler test procedure at appendix N accordingly.
    (4) DOE seeks comment on its proposal to clarify the calculation of 
steady-state efficiencies at maximum and minimum input rates for 
condensing, modulating boilers using ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    (5) DOE seeks further comment on its proposal to update the 
incorporation by reference of ASHRAE 103 to the most recent version 
(i.e., ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017) and in particular the potential impact on 
ratings and whether retesting would be required.
    (6) DOE seeks additional comment on whether the return water 
temperature in the current test method and ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 are 
representative and appropriate, and whether any specific changes to the 
required conditions could improve

[[Page 14642]]

representativeness. DOE is also interested in receiving comment on the 
test burden that would result from changing the return water 
temperature(s) specified in the test procedure.
    (7) DOE seeks further comment on whether a simplified approach for 
measuring standby mode and off mode electrical energy consumption is 
appropriate and would provide accurate, representative results that are 
comparable to those obtained with IEC 62301.
    (8) DOE requests further comment on whether AEDM provisions similar 
to those in place for commercial equipment would be necessary and 
appropriate for consumer boilers.
    (9) DOE seeks comment on data or other information that 
demonstrates that using a linear interpolation method for heat 
exchanger materials other than cast iron would produce representative 
test results.
    (10) DOE seeks further comment on whether supplemental test 
instructions are necessary for testing consumer boilers.
    (11) DOE requests comment on DOE's tentative determination as to 
the impact and associated costs of the proposed incorporation by 
reference of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    (12) DOE requests comment on DOE's tentative determination the 
proposed incorporation by reference of ASHRAE 41.6-2014 will not 
increase test burden.
    (13) DOE requests comments on the benefits and burdens of the 
proposed updates and additions to industry standards referenced in the 
test procedure for consumer boilers.
    (14) DOE welcomes comment on the Regulatory Flexibility 
certification conclusion.

VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this notice of 
proposed rulemaking and request for comment.

List of Subjects

10 CFR Part 429

    Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business 
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

10 CFR Part 430

    Administrative practice and procedure, Confidential business 
information, Energy conservation, Household appliances, Imports, 
Incorporation by reference, Intergovernmental relations, Small 
businesses.

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on February 
17, 2022, by Kelly J. Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant 
Secretary for Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, pursuant to 
delegated authority from the Secretary of Energy. That document with 
the original signature and date is maintained by DOE. For 
administrative purposes only, and in compliance with requirements of 
the Office of the Federal Register, the undersigned DOE Federal 
Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to sign and submit the 
document in electronic format for publication, as an official document 
of the Department of Energy. This administrative process in no way 
alters the legal effect of this document upon publication in the 
Federal Register.

    Signed in Washington, DC, on February 22, 2022.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.

    For the reasons stated in the preamble, DOE is proposing to amend 
parts 429 and 430 of chapter II of title 10, Code of Federal 
Regulations as set forth below:

PART 429--CERTIFICATION COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT FOR CONSUMER 
PRODUCTS AND COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL EQUIPMENT

0
1. The authority citation for part 429 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6317; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.

0
2. Section 429.134 is amended by revising paragraphs (h) introductory 
text, (h)(1)(i)(A), and (h)(2)(i)(A) to read as follows:


Sec.  429.134  Product-specific enforcement provisions.

* * * * *
    (h) Residential boilers--test protocols for functional verification 
of automatic means for adjusting water temperature. These tests are 
intended to verify the functionality of the design requirement that a 
boiler has an automatic means for adjusting water temperature for 
single-stage, two-stage, and modulating boilers. These test methods are 
intended to permit the functional testing of a range of control 
strategies used to fulfill this design requirement. Section 2, 
Definitions, and paragraph 6.1.a of appendix EE to subpart B of part 
430 of this chapter apply for the purposes of this paragraph (h).
    (1) * * *
    (i) * * *
    (A) Boiler installation. Boiler installation in the test room shall 
be in accordance with the setup and apparatus requirements of section 
6.0 of appendix EE to subpart B of part 430 of this chapter.
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) * * *
    (A) Boiler installation. Boiler installation in the test room shall 
be in accordance with the setup and apparatus requirements by section 
6.0 of appendix EE to subpart B of part 430 of this chapter.
* * * * *

PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

0
3. The authority citation for part 430 continues to read as follows:

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6309; 28 U.S.C. 2461 note.


Sec.  430.2  [Amended]

0
4. Section 430.2 is amended by removing the definition of ``outdoor 
furnace or boiler''.
0
5. Section 430.3 is amended by:
0
a. Revising paragraph (a);
0
b. Revising paragraphs (g) introductory text and (g)(11);
0
c. Redesignating paragraphs (g)(17) and (18) as paragraphs (g)(18) and 
(19), respectively, and adding new paragraph (g)(17); and
0
d. Revising paragraph (j) introductory text;
0
e. Adding paragraph (j)(3); and
0
f. Revising paragraph (o)(6).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  430.3  Materials incorporated by reference.

    (a) Certain material is incorporated by reference into this 
[chapter/subchapter/part/subpart] with the approval of the Director of 
the Federal Register in accordance with 5 U.S.C. 552(a) and 1 CFR part 
51. To enforce any edition other than that specified in this section, 
the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) must publish a document in the 
Federal Register and the material must be available to the public. All 
approved material is available for inspection at DOE and at the 
National Archives and Records Administration (NARA). Contact DOE at: 
U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable 
Energy, Building Technologies Program, Sixth Floor, 950 L'Enfant Plaza 
SW, Washington, DC 20024, (202) 586-2945, https://www.energy.gov/eere/
buildings/

[[Page 14643]]

appliance-and-equipment-standards-program. For information on the 
availability of this material at NARA, email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#6e081c4007001d1e0b0d1a0701002e000f1c0f40090118"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="5533277b3c3b26253036213c3a3b153b3427347b323a23">[email protected]</span></a>, 
or go to: www.archives.gov/federal-register/cfr/ibr-locations.html. The 
material may be obtained from the sources in the following paragraphs 
of this section.
* * * * *
    (g) ASHRAE. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-
Conditioning Engineers, Inc., Publication Sales, 180 Technology Parkway 
NW, Peachtree Corners, GA 30092, 800-527-4723 or 404-636-8400, or go to 
www.ashrae.org.
* * * * *
    (11) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 41.6-2014, (``ASHRAE 41.6-2014''), 
Standard Method for Humidity Measurement, ANSI approved July 3, 2014, 
IBR approved for appendices F and EE to subpart B of this part.
* * * * *
    (17) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 103-2017, (``ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017''), 
Method of Testing for Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency of Residential 
Central Furnaces and Boilers, ANSI approved July 3, 2017, IBR approved 
for Sec.  430.23 and appendix EE to subpart B of this part.
* * * * *
    (j) ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, Post Office Box 
C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, telephone (877) 909-2786, 
website: www.astm.org;
* * * * *
    (3) ASTM D2156-09 (Reapproved 2018) (``ASTM D2156-09 (R2018)''), 
Standard Test Method for Smoke Density in Flue Gases from Burning 
Distillate Fuels, approved October 1, 2018, IBR approved for appendix 
EE to subpart B of this part.
* * * * *
    (o) * * *
    (6) IEC 62301 (``IEC 62301''), Household electrical appliances--
Measurement of standby power, (Edition 2.0, 2011-01), IBR approved for 
appendices C1, D1, D2, F, G, H, I, J2, N, O, P, Q, X, X1, Y, Z, BB, CC, 
and EE to subpart B of this part.
* * * * *
0
6. Section 430.23 is amended by revising paragraph (n) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  430.23  Test Procedures for the measurement of energy and water 
consumption.

* * * * *
    (n) Furnaces. (1) The estimated annual operating cost for furnaces 
is the sum of:
    (i) Product of the average annual fuel energy consumption, in Btu's 
per year for gas or oil furnaces or in kilowatt-hours per year for 
electric furnaces, determined according to section 10.2.2 or 10.3 of 
appendix N (furnaces, excluding low pressure steam or hot water boilers 
and electric boilers) or appendix EE (low pressure steam or hot water 
boilers and electric boilers) of this subpart, as applicable, and the 
representative average unit cost in dollars per Btu for gas or oil, or 
dollars per kilowatt-hour for electric, as appropriate, as provided 
pursuant to section 323(b)(2) of the Act; plus
    (ii) The product of the average annual auxiliary electric energy 
consumption in kilowatt-hours per year determined according to section 
10.2.3 of appendix N (furnaces, excluding low pressure steam or hot 
water boilers and electric boilers) or appendix EE (low pressure steam 
or hot water boilers and electric boilers) of this subpart, as 
applicable, and the representative average unit cost in dollars per 
kilowatt-hour as provided pursuant to section 323(b)(2) of the Act.
    (iii) Round the resulting sum to the nearest dollar per year.
    (2) The annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) for furnaces, 
expressed in percent, is the ratio of the annual fuel output of useful 
energy delivered to the heated space to the annual fuel energy input to 
the furnace.
    (i) For gas and oil furnaces, determine AFUE according to section 
10.1 of appendix N (furnaces, excluding low pressure steam or hot water 
boilers and electric boilers) or appendix EE (low pressure steam or hot 
water boilers and electric boilers) of this subpart, as applicable.
    (ii) For electric furnaces, excluding electric boilers, determine 
AFUE in accordance with Section 11.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE) 103-1993 
(incorporated by reference, see Sec.  430.3); for electric boilers, 
determine AFUE in accordance with ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    (iii) Round the annual fuel utilization efficiency to one-tenth of 
a percentage point.
    (3) The estimated regional annual operating cost for furnaces must 
be rounded off to the nearest dollar per year and is defined as 
follows:
    (i) When using appendix N for furnaces excluding low pressure steam 
or hot water boilers and electric boilers (see the note at the 
beginning of appendix N),
    (A) For gas or oil-fueled furnaces,

(E<INF>FR</INF> x C<INF>BTU</INF>) = (E<INF>AER</INF> x 
C<INF>KWH</INF>)

Where:

E<INF>FR</INF> = the regional annual fuel energy consumption in Btu 
per year, determined according to section 10.7.1 of appendix N;
C<INF>BTU</INF> = the representative average unit cost in dollars 
per Btu of gas or oil, as provided pursuant to section 323(b)(2) of 
the Act;
E<INF>AER</INF> = the regional annual auxiliary electrical energy 
consumption in kilowatt-hours per year, determined according to 
section 10.7.2 of appendix N; and
C<INF>KWH</INF> = the representative average unit cost in dollars 
per kilowatt-hour of electricity, as provided pursuant to section 
323(b)(2) of the Act.

    (B) For electric furnaces,

(E<INF>ER</INF> x C<INF>KWH</INF>)

Where:

E<INF>ER</INF> = the regional annual fuel energy consumption in 
kilowatt-hours per year, determined according to section 10.7.3 of 
appendix N; and
C<INF>KWH</INF> is as defined in paragraph (n)(3)(i)(A) of this 
section.

    (ii) When using appendix EE for low pressure steam or hot water 
boilers and electric boilers (see the note at the beginning of appendix 
EE),
    (A) For gas or oil-fueled boilers,

(E<INF>FR</INF> x C<INF>BTU</INF>) + (E<INF>AER</INF> x 
C<INF>KWH</INF>)

Where:

E<INF>FR</INF> = the regional annual fuel energy consumption in Btu 
per year, determined according to section 10.5.1 of appendix EE;
C<INF>BTU</INF> and C<INF>KWH</INF> are as defined in paragraph 
(n)(3)(i)(A) of this section; and
E<INF>AER</INF> = the regional annual auxiliary electrical energy 
consumption in kilowatt-hours per year, determined according to 
section 10.5.2 of appendix EE.

    (B) For electric boilers,

(E<INF>ER</INF> x C<INF>KWH</INF>)

Where:

E<INF>ER</INF> = the regional annual fuel energy consumption in 
kilowatt hours per year, determined according to section 10.5.3 of 
appendix EE; and
C<INF>KWH</INF> is as defined in paragraph (n)(3)(i)(A) of this 
section.

    (4) The energy factor for furnaces, expressed in percent, is the 
ratio of annual fuel output of useful energy delivered to the heated 
space to the total annual energy input to the furnace determined 
according to either section 10.6 of appendix N (furnaces, excluding low 
pressure steam or hot water boilers and electric boilers) or section 
10.4 of appendix EE (low pressure steam or hot water boilers and 
electric boilers) of this subpart, as applicable.
    (5) The average standby mode and off mode electrical power 
consumption for furnaces shall be determined according to section 8.10 
of appendix N (furnaces, excluding low pressure steam or hot water 
boilers and electric boilers) or section 8.9 of appendix EE (low

[[Page 14644]]

pressure steam or hot water boilers and electric boilers) of this 
subpart, as applicable. Round the average standby mode and off mode 
electrical power consumption to the nearest tenth of a watt.
    (6) Other useful measures of energy consumption for furnaces shall 
be those measures of energy consumption which the Secretary determines 
are likely to assist consumers in making purchasing decisions and which 
are derived from the application of appendix N (furnaces, excluding low 
pressure steam or hot water boilers and electric boilers) or appendix 
EE (low pressure steam or hot water boilers and electric boilers) of 
this subpart.
* * * * *
0
7. Appendix N to subpart B of part 430 is revised to read as follows:

Appendix N to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Consumer Furnaces Other Than Boilers

    0. Incorporation by reference.
    DOE incorporated by reference in Sec.  430.3, the entire 
standards for ASHRAE Standard 103-1993, ASTM D2156-09 (R2018), and 
IEC 62301. In cases where there is a conflict, the language of the 
test procedure in this appendix takes precedence over the 
incorporated standards. However, only the following enumerated 
provisions of ASHRAE 103-1993 apply to this appendix:
    (1) ASHRAE 103-1993
    (i) section 2 ``Scope'' as referenced in section 1.0 of this 
appendix;
    (ii) section 3 ``Definitions'' as referenced in section 2.0 of 
this appendix;
    (iii) section 4 ``Classifications'' as referenced in section 3.0 
of this appendix;
    (iv) section 5 ``Requirements'' as referenced in section 4.0 of 
this appendix;
    (v) section 6 ``Instruments'' as referenced in section 5.0 of 
this appendix;
    (vi) section 7 ``Apparatus'' (except for sections 7.1, 7.2.2.2, 
7.2.2.5, 7.2.3.1, and 7.8) as referenced in section 6.0 of this 
appendix;
    (vii) section 8 ``Methods of Testing'' (except for sections 
8.2.1.3, 8.4.1.1, 8.4.1.1.2, 8.4.1.2, 8.4.2.1.4, 8.4.2.1.6, 8.6.1.1, 
8.7.2, and 8.8.3) as referenced in section 7.0 of this appendix;
    (viii) section 9 ``Test Procedure'' (except for sections 
9.1.2.2.1, 9.1.2.2.2, 9.5.1.1, 9.5.1.2.1, 9.5.1.2.2,, 9.7.4, and 
9.10) as referenced in section 8.0 of this appendix;
    (ix) section 10 ``Nomenclature'' as referenced in section 9.0 of 
this appendix; and
    (x) section 11 ``Calculations'' (except for sections 11.5.11.1, 
11.5.11.2) as referenced in section 10.0 of this appendix.
    1.0 Scope. The scope of this appendix is as specified in Section 
2 of ASHRAE 103-1993 as it pertains to furnaces other than low 
pressure steam or hot water boilers or to electric boilers. Low 
pressure steam or hot water boilers and electric boilers are 
addressed in appendix EE of this subpart.
    2.0 Definitions. Definitions include those specified in Section 
3 of ASHRAE 103-1993 and the following additional and modified 
definitions.
    Active mode means the condition in which the furnace is 
connected to the power source, and at least one of the burner, 
electric resistance elements, or any electrical auxiliaries such as 
blowers, are activated.
    Control means a device used to regulate the operation of a piece 
of equipment and the supply of fuel, electricity, air, or water.
    Draft inducer means a fan incorporated in the furnace that 
either draws or forces air into the combustion chamber.
    Gas valve means an automatic or semi-automatic device consisting 
essentially of a valve and operator that controls the gas supply to 
the burner(s) during normal operation of an appliance. The operator 
may be actuated by application of gas pressure on a flexible 
diaphragm, by electrical means, by mechanical means or by other 
means.
    Installation and operation (I&O) manual means instructions for 
installing, commissioning, and operating the furnace, which are 
supplied with the product when shipped by the manufacturer.
    Isolated combustion system means a system where a unit is 
installed within the structure, but isolated from the heated space. 
A portion of the jacket heat from the unit is lost, and air for 
ventilation, combustion and draft control comes from outside the 
heated space.
    Multi-position furnace means a furnace that can be installed in 
more than one airflow configuration (i.e., upflow or horizontal; 
downflow or horizontal; upflow or downflow; and upflow, or downflow, 
or horizontal).
    Off mode means a mode in which the furnace is connected to a 
mains power source and is not providing any active mode or standby 
mode function, and where the mode may persist for an indefinite 
time. The existence of an off switch in off position (a disconnected 
circuit) is included within the classification of off mode.
    Off switch means the switch on the furnace that, when activated, 
results in a measurable change in energy consumption between the 
standby and off modes.
    Oil control valve means an automatically or manually operated 
device consisting of an oil valve for controlling the fuel supply to 
a burner to regulate burner input.
    Standby mode means any mode in which the furnace is connected to 
a mains power source and offers one or more of the following space 
heating functions that may persist:
    a. Activation of other modes (including activation or 
deactivation of active mode) by remote switch (including thermostat 
or remote control), internal or external sensors, and/or timer; and
    b. Continuous functions, including information or status 
displays or sensor-based functions.
    Thermal stack damper means a type of stack damper that relies 
exclusively upon the changes in temperature in the stack gases to 
open or close the damper.
    3.0 Classifications. Classifications are as specified in Section 
4 of ASHRAE 103-1993 for furnaces.
    4.0 Requirements. Requirements are as specified in Section 5 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993 for furnaces.
    5.0 Instruments. Instruments must be as specified in Section 6 
of ASHRAE 103-1993.
    6.0 Apparatus. The apparatus used in conjunction with the 
furnace during the testing must be as specified in Section 7 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993 except for Sections 7.1, 7.2.2.2, 7.2.2.5, 7.2.3.1, 
and 7.8; and as specified in sections 6.1 through 6.5 of this 
appendix.
    6.1 General.
    a. Install the furnace in the test room in accordance with the 
I&O manual, as defined in section 2.6 of this appendix, except that 
if provisions within this appendix are specified, then the 
provisions herein drafted and prescribed by DOE govern. If the I&O 
manual and any additional provisions of this appendix are not 
sufficient for testing a furnace, the manufacturer must request a 
waiver from the test procedure pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27.
    b. If the I&O manual indicates the unit should not be installed 
with a return duct, then the return (inlet) duct specified in 
Section 7.2.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993 is not required.
    c. Test multi-position furnaces in the least efficient 
configuration. Testing of multi-position furnaces in other 
configurations is permitted if energy use or efficiency is 
represented pursuant to the requirements in 10 CFR part 429.
    d. The apparatuses described in section 6 of this appendix are 
used in conjunction with the furnace during testing. Each piece of 
apparatus shall conform to material and construction specifications 
listed in this appendix and in ASHRAE 103-1993, and the reference 
standards cited in this appendix and in ASHRAE 103-1993.
    e. Test rooms containing equipment must have suitable facilities 
for providing the utilities (including but not limited to 
environmental controls, applicable measurement equipment, and any 
other technology or tools) necessary for performance of the test and 
must be able to maintain conditions within the limits specified in 
section 6 of this appendix.
    6.2 Forced-air central furnaces (direct vent and direct 
exhaust).
    a. Units not equipped with a draft hood or draft diverter must 
be provided with the minimum-length vent configuration recommended 
in the I&O manual or a 5-ft flue pipe if there is no recommendation 
provided in the I&O manual (see Figure 4 of ASHRAE 103-1993). For a 
direct exhaust system, insulate the minimum-length vent 
configuration or the 5-ft flue pipe with insulation having an R-
value not less than 7 and an outer layer of aluminum foil. For a 
direct vent system, see Section 7.5 of ASHRAE 103-1993 for 
insulation requirements.
    b. For units with power burners, cover the flue collection box 
with insulation having an R-value of not less than 7 and an outer 
layer of aluminum foil before the cool-down and heat-up tests 
described in Sections 9.5 and 9.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993, respectively. 
However, do not apply the insulation for the jacket loss test (if 
conducted) described in

[[Page 14645]]

Section 8.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 or the steady-state test described in 
Section 9.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993.
    c. For power-vented units, insulate the shroud surrounding the 
blower impeller with insulation having an R-value of not less than 7 
and an outer layer of aluminum foil before the cool-down and heat-up 
tests described in Sections 9.5 and 9.6, respectively, of ASHRAE 
103-1993. Do not apply the insulation for the jacket loss test (if 
conducted) described in Section 8.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 or the 
steady-state test described in Section 9.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993. Do 
not insulate the blower motor or block the airflow openings that 
facilitate the cooling of the combustion blower motor or bearings.
    6.3 Downflow furnaces. Install an internal section of vent pipe 
the same size as the flue collar for connecting the flue collar to 
the top of the unit, if not supplied by the manufacturer. Do not 
insulate the internal vent pipe during the jacket loss test (if 
conducted) described in Section 8.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 or the 
steady-state test described in Section 9.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993. Do 
not insulate the internal vent pipe before the cool-down and heat-up 
tests described in Sections 9.5 and 9.6, respectively, of ASHRAE 
103-1993. If the vent pipe is surrounded by a metal jacket, do not 
insulate the metal jacket. Install a 5-ft test stack of the same 
cross-sectional area or perimeter as the vent pipe above the top of 
the furnace. Tape or seal around the junction connecting the vent 
pipe and the 5-ft test stack. Insulate the 5-ft test stack with 
insulation having an R-value not less than 7 and an outer layer of 
aluminum foil. (See Figure 3-E of ASHRAE 103-1993.)
    6.4 Units with draft hoods or draft diverters. Install the stack 
damper in accordance with the I&O manual. Install 5 feet of stack 
above the damper.
    a. For units with an integral draft diverter, cover the 5-ft 
stack with insulation having an R-value of not less than 7 and an 
outer layer of aluminum foil.
    b. For units with draft hoods, insulate the flue pipe between 
the outlet of the furnace and the draft hood with insulation having 
an R-value of not less than 7 and an outer layer of aluminum foil.
    c. For units with integral draft diverters that are mounted in 
an exposed position (not inside the overall unit cabinet), cover the 
diverter boxes (excluding any openings through which draft relief 
air flows) before the beginning of any test (including jacket loss 
test) with insulation having an R-value of not less than 7 and an 
outer layer of aluminum foil.
    d. For units equipped with integral draft diverters that are 
enclosed within the overall unit cabinet, insulate the draft 
diverter box with insulation as described in Section 6.4.c before 
the cool-down and heat-up tests described in Sections 9.5 and 9.6, 
respectively, of ASHRAE 103-1993. Do not apply the insulation for 
the jacket loss test (if conducted) described in Section 8.6 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993 or the steady-state test described in Section 9.1 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993.
    6.5 Condensate collection. Attach condensate drain lines to the 
unit as specified in the I&O manual. Maintain a continuous downward 
slope of drain lines from the unit. Additional precautions (such as 
eliminating any line configuration or position that would otherwise 
restrict or block the flow of condensate or checking to ensure a 
proper connection with condensate drain spout that allows for 
unobstructed flow) must be taken to facilitate uninterrupted flow of 
condensate during the test. Collection containers must be glass or 
polished stainless steel to facilitate removal of interior deposits. 
The collection container must have a vent opening to the atmosphere.
    7.0 Testing conditions. The testing conditions must be as 
specified in Section 8 of ASHRAE 103-1993, except for Sections 
8.2.1.3, 8.4.1.1, 8.4.1.1.2, 8.4.1.2, 8.4.2.1.4, 8.4.2.1.6, 8.6.1.1, 
8.7.2, and 8.8.3; and as specified in sections 7.1 to 7.9 of this 
appendix, respectively.
    7.1 Fuel supply, gas. In conducting the tests specified herein, 
gases with characteristics as shown in Table 1 of ASHRAE 103-1993 
shall be used. Maintain the gas supply, ahead of all controls for a 
furnace, at a test pressure between the normal and increased values 
shown in Table 1 of ASHRAE 103-1993. Maintain the regulator outlet 
pressure at a level approximating that recommended in the I&O 
manual, as defined in section 2.6 of this appendix, or, in the 
absence of such recommendation, to the nominal regulator settings 
used when the product is shipped by the manufacturer. Use a gas 
having a specific gravity as shown in Table 1 of ASHRAE 103-1993 and 
with a higher heating value within <plus-minus>5% of the higher 
heating value shown in Table 1 of ASHRAE 103-1993. Determine the 
actual higher heating value in Btu per standard cubic foot for the 
gas to be used in the test within an error no greater than 1%.
    7.2 Gas burner. Adjust the burners of gas-fired furnaces to 
their maximum Btu input ratings at the normal test pressure 
specified by section 7.1 of this appendix. Correct the burner input 
rate to reflect gas characteristics at a temperature of 60 [deg]F 
and atmospheric pressure of 30 in of Hg and adjust down to within 
<plus-minus>2 percent of the hourly Btu nameplate input rating 
specified by the manufacturer as measured during the steady-state 
performance test in section 8 of this appendix. Set the primary air 
shutters in accordance with the I&O manual to give a good flame at 
this condition. If, however, the setting results in the deposit of 
carbon on the burners during any test specified herein, the tester 
shall adjust the shutters and burners until no more carbon is 
deposited and shall perform the tests again with the new settings 
(see Figure 9 of ASHRAE 103-1993). After the steady-state 
performance test has been started, do not make additional 
adjustments to the burners during the required series of performance 
tests specified in section 9 of ASHRAE 103-1993. If a vent-limiting 
means is provided on a gas pressure regulator, keep it in place 
during all tests.
    7.3 Modulating gas burner adjustment at reduced input rate. For 
gas-fired furnaces equipped with modulating-type controls, adjust 
the controls to operate the unit at the nameplate minimum input 
rate. If the modulating control is of a non-automatic type, adjust 
the control to the setting recommended in the I&O manual. In the 
absence of such recommendation, the midpoint setting of the non-
automatic control shall be used as the setting for determining the 
reduced fuel input rate. Start the furnace by turning the safety 
control valve to the ``ON'' position.
    7.4 Oil burner. Adjust the burners of oil-fired furnaces to give 
a CO<INF>2</INF> reading specified in the I&O manual and an hourly 
Btu input during the steady-state performance test described in 
section 8 of this appendix. Ensure the hourly BTU input is within 
<plus-minus>2% of the normal hourly Btu input rating as specified in 
the I&O manual. Smoke in the flue may not exceed a No. 1 smoke 
during the steady-state performance test as measured by the 
procedure in ASTM D2156R13). Maintain the average draft over the 
fire and in the flue during the steady-state performance test at the 
value specified in the I&O manual. Do not allow draft fluctuations 
exceeding 0.005 in. water. Do not make additional adjustments to the 
burner during the required series of performance tests. The 
instruments and measuring apparatus for this test are described in 
section 6 of this appendix and shown in Figure 8 of ASHRAE 103-1993.
    7.5 Adjust air throughputs to achieve a temperature rise that is 
the higher of a and b, below, unless c applies. A tolerance of 
<plus-minus>2 [deg]F is permitted.
    a. 15 [deg]F less than the nameplate maximum temperature rise or
    b. 15 [deg]F higher than the minimum temperature rise specified 
in the I&O manual.
    c. A furnace with a non-adjustable air temperature rise range 
and an automatically controlled airflow that does not permit a 
temperature rise range of 30 [deg]F or more must be tested at the 
midpoint of the rise range.
    7.6 Establish the temperature rise specified in section 7.5 of 
this appendix by adjusting the circulating airflow. This adjustment 
must be accomplished by symmetrically restricting the outlet air 
duct and varying blower speed selection to obtain the desired 
temperature rise and minimum external static pressure, as specified 
in Table 4 of ASHRAE 103-1993. If the required temperature rise 
cannot be obtained at the minimum specified external static pressure 
by adjusting blower speed selection and duct outlet restriction, 
then the following applies.
    a. If the resultant temperature rise is less than the required 
temperature rise, vary the blower speed by gradually adjusting the 
blower voltage so as to maintain the minimum external static 
pressure listed in Table 4 of ASHRAE 103-1993. The airflow 
restrictions shall then remain unchanged. If static pressure must be 
varied to prevent unstable blower operation, then increase the 
static pressure until blower operation is stabilized, except that 
the static pressure must not exceed the maximum external static 
pressure as specified by the manufacturer in the I&O manual.
    b. If the resultant temperature rise is greater than the 
required temperature rise, then the unit can be tested at a higher 
temperature rise value, but one not greater than nameplate maximum 
temperature rise. In order not to exceed the maximum

[[Page 14646]]

temperature rise, the speed of a direct-driven blower may be 
increased by increasing the circulating air blower motor voltage.
    7.7 Measurement of jacket surface temperature. Divide the jacket 
of the furnace into 6-inch squares when practical, and otherwise 
into 36-square-inch regions comprising 4-inch by 9-inch or 3-inch by 
12-inch sections, and determine the surface temperature at the 
center of each square or section with a surface thermocouple. Record 
the surface temperature of the 36-square-inch areas in groups where 
the temperature differential of the 36-square-inch areas is less 
than 10 [deg]F for temperature up to 100 [deg]F above room 
temperature, and less than 20 [deg]F for temperatures more than 100 
[deg]F above room temperature. For forced-air central furnaces, the 
circulating air blower compartment is considered as part of the duct 
system, and no surface temperature measurement of the blower 
compartment needs to be recorded for the purpose of this test. For 
downflow furnaces, measure all cabinet surface temperatures of the 
heat exchanger and combustion section, including the bottom around 
the outlet duct and the burner door, using the 36-square-inch 
thermocouple grid. The cabinet surface temperatures around the 
blower section do not need to be measured (See Figure 3-E of ASHRAE 
103-1993).
    7.8 Installation of vent system. Keep the vent or air intake 
system supplied by the manufacturer in place during all tests. Test 
units intended for installation with a variety of vent pipe lengths 
with the minimum vent length as specified in the I&O manual, or a 5-
ft. flue pipe if there are no recommendations in the I&O manual. Do 
not connect a furnace employing a direct vent system to a chimney or 
induced-draft source. Vent combustion products solely by using the 
venting incorporated in the furnace and the vent or air intake 
system supplied by the manufacturer. For units that are not designed 
to significantly preheat the incoming air, see section 7.4 of this 
appendix and Figure 4a or 4b of ASHRAE 103-1993. For units that do 
significantly preheat the incoming air, see Figure 4c or 4d of 
ASHRAE 103-1993.
    7.9 Additional optional method of testing for determining DP and 
DF for furnaces. On units whose design is such that there is no 
measurable airflow through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger 
when the burner(s) is (are) off as determined by the optional test 
procedure in section 7.9.1 of this appendix, D<INF>F</INF> and 
D<INF>P</INF> may be set equal to 0.05.
    7.9.1 Optional test method for indicating the absence of flow 
through the heat exchanger. Manufacturers may use the following test 
protocol to determine whether air flows through the combustion 
chamber and heat exchanger when the burner(s) is (are) off. The 
minimum default draft factor (as allowed per Sections 8.8.3 and 9.10 
of ASHRAE 103-1993) may be used only for units determined pursuant 
to this protocol to have no airflow through the combustion chamber 
and heat exchanger.
    7.9.1.1 Test apparatus. Use a smoke stick that produces smoke 
that is easily visible and has a density less than or approximately 
equal to air. Use a smoke stick that produces smoke that is non-
toxic to the test personnel and produces gas that is unreactive with 
the environment in the test chamber.
    7.9.1.2 Test conditions. Minimize all air currents and drafts in 
the test chamber, including turning off ventilation if the test 
chamber is mechanically ventilated. Wait at least two minutes 
following the termination of the furnace on-cycle before beginning 
the optional test method for indicating the absence of flow through 
the heat exchanger.
    7.9.1.3 Location of the test apparatus. After all air currents 
and drafts in the test chamber have been eliminated or minimized, 
position the smoke stick based on the following equipment 
configuration:
    (a) For horizontal combustion air intakes, approximately 4 
inches from the vertical plane at the termination of the intake vent 
and 4 inches below the bottom edge of the combustion air intake; or
    (b) for vertical combustion air intakes, approximately 4 inches 
horizontal from vent perimeter at the termination of the intake vent 
and 4 inches down (parallel to the vertical axis of the vent).
    7.9.1.4 Duration of test. Establish the presence of smoke from 
the smoke stick and then monitor the direction of the smoke flow for 
no less than 30 seconds.
    7.9.1.5 Test results. During visual assessment, determine 
whether there is any draw of smoke into the combustion air intake 
vent.
    (a) If absolutely no smoke is drawn into the combustion air 
intake, the furnace meets the requirements to allow use of the 
minimum default draft factor pursuant to Section 8.8.3 and/or 
Section 9.10 of ASHRAE 103-1993.
    (b) If there is any smoke drawn into the intake, proceed with 
the methods of testing as prescribed in Section 8.8 of ASHRAE 103-
1993.
    8.0 Test procedure. Conduct testing and measurements as 
specified in Section 9 of ASHRAE 103-1993 except for Sections 
9.1.2.2.1, 9.1.2.2.2, 9.5.1.1, 9.5.1.2.1, 9.5.1.2.2, 9.7.4, and 
9.10; and as specified in sections 8.1 through 8.10 of this 
appendix. Section 8.4 of this appendix may be used in lieu of 
Section 9.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993.
    8.1 Fuel input. For gas units, measure and record the steady-
state gas input rate in Btu/hr, including pilot gas, corrected to 
standard conditions of 60 [deg]F and 30 in. Hg. Use measured values 
of gas temperature and pressure at the meter and barometric pressure 
to correct the metered gas flow rate to the above standard 
conditions. For oil units, measure and record the steady-state fuel 
input rate.
    8.2 Electrical input. During the steady-state test, perform a 
single measurement of all of the electrical power involved in burner 
operation (PE), including energizing the ignition system, controls, 
gas valve or oil control valve, and draft inducer, if applicable.
    During the steady-state test, perform a single measurement of 
the electrical power to the circulating air blower (BE).
    8.3 Input to interrupted ignition device. For burners equipped 
with an interrupted ignition device, record the nameplate electric 
power used by the ignition device, PE<INF>IG</INF>, or record that 
PE<INF>IG</INF> = 0.4 kW if no nameplate power input is provided. 
Record the nameplate ignition device on-time interval, 
t<INF>IG</INF>, or, if the nameplate does not provide the ignition 
device on-time interval, measure the on-time interval with a 
stopwatch at the beginning of the test, starting when the burner is 
turned on. Set t<INF>IG</INF> = 0 and PE<INF>IG</INF> = 0 if the 
device on-time interval is less than or equal to 5 seconds after the 
burner is on.
    8.4 Optional test procedures for condensing furnaces, 
measurement of condensate during the establishment of steady-state 
conditions. For units with step-modulating or two-stage controls, 
conduct the test at both the maximum and reduced inputs. In lieu of 
collecting the condensate immediately after the steady state 
conditions have been reached as required by Section 9.2 of ASHRAE 
103-1993, condensate may be collected during the establishment of 
steady state conditions as defined by Section 9.1.2.1 of ASHRAE 103-
1993. Perform condensate collection for at least 30 minutes. Measure 
condensate mass immediately at the end of the collection period to 
prevent evaporation loss from the sample. Record fuel input for the 
30-minute condensate collection test period. Observe and record fuel 
higher heating value (HHV), temperature, and pressures necessary for 
determining fuel energy input (Qc,ss). Measure the fuel quantity and 
HHV with errors no greater than 1%. The humidity for the room air 
shall at no time exceed 80%. Determine the mass of condensate for 
the establishment of steady state conditions (Mc,ss) in pounds by 
subtracting the tare container weight from the total container and 
condensate weight measured at the end of the 30-minute condensate 
collection test period.
    8.5 Cool-down test for gas- and oil-fueled gravity and forced-
air central furnaces without stack dampers. Turn off the main burner 
after completing steady-state testing, and measure the flue gas 
temperature by means of the thermocouple grid described in Section 
7.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 at 1.5 minutes 
(T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>3</INF>)) and 9 minutes 
(T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>4</INF>)) after shutting off the burner. 
When taking these temperature readings, the integral draft diverter 
must remain blocked and insulated, and the stack restriction must 
remain in place. On atmospheric systems with an integral draft 
diverter or draft hood and equipped with either an electromechanical 
inlet damper or an electromechanical flue damper that closes within 
10 seconds after the burner shuts off to restrict the flow through 
the heat exchanger in the off-cycle, bypass or adjust the control 
for the electromechanical damper so that the damper remains open 
during the cool-down test.
    For furnaces that employ post-purge, measure the length of the 
post-purge period with a stopwatch. Record the time from burner 
``OFF'' to combustion blower ``OFF'' (electrically de-energized) as 
t<INF>P</INF>. If the measured t<INF>P</INF> is less than or equal 
to 30 seconds, set t<INF>P</INF> at 0 and conduct the cool-down test 
as if there is no post-purge. If t<INF>P</INF> is prescribed by the 
I&O manual or measured to be greater than 180 seconds, stop the 
combustion blower at 180 seconds and use that value for 
t<INF>P</INF>. Measure the flue gas temperature by means of the 
thermocouple grid described in Section 7.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 at the 
end of the post-purge period,

[[Page 14647]]

t<INF>P</INF>(T<INF>F,OFF</INF> (t<INF>P</INF>)), and at the time 
(1.5 + t<INF>P</INF>) minutes (T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>3</INF>)) and 
(9.0 + t<INF>P</INF>) minutes (T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>4</INF>)) 
after the main burner shuts off.
    8.6 Cool-down test for gas- and oil-fueled gravity and forced-
air central furnaces without stack dampers and with adjustable fan 
control. For a furnace with adjustable fan control, measure the time 
delay between burner shutdown and blower shutdown, t\+\. This time 
delay, t\+\, will be 3.0 minutes for non-condensing furnaces or 1.5 
minutes for condensing furnaces or until the supply air temperature 
drops to a value of 40 [deg]F above the inlet air temperature, 
whichever results in the longest fan on-time. For a furnace without 
adjustable fan control or with the type of adjustable fan control 
whose range of adjustment does not allow for the time delay, t\+\, 
specified above, bypass the fan control and manually control the fan 
to allow for the appropriate delay time as specified in Section 
9.5.1.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993. For a furnace that employs a single 
motor to drive both the power burner and the indoor air circulating 
blower, the power burner and indoor air circulating blower must be 
stopped at the same time.
    8.7 Direct measurement of off-cycle losses testing method. 
[Reserved.]
    8.8 Calculation options. The rate of the flue gas mass flow 
through the furnace and the factors D<INF>P</INF>, D<INF>F</INF>, 
and D<INF>S</INF> are calculated by the equations in Sections 
11.6.1, 11.6.2, 11.6.3, 11.6.4, 11.7.1, and 11.7.2 of ASHRAE 103-
1993. On units whose design is such that there is no measurable 
airflow through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger when the 
burner(s) is (are) off (as determined by the optional test procedure 
in section 7.9 of this appendix), D<INF>F</INF> and D<INF>P</INF> 
may be set equal to 0.05.
    8.10 Optional test procedures for condensing furnaces that have 
no off-period flue losses. For units that have applied the test 
method in section 7.9 of this appendix to determine that no 
measurable airflow exists through the combustion chamber and heat 
exchanger during the burner off-period and having post-purge periods 
of less than 5 seconds, the cool-down and heat-up tests specified in 
Sections 9.5 and 9.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993 may be omitted. In lieu of 
conducting the cool-down and heat-up tests, the tester may use the 
losses determined during the steady-state test described in Section 
9.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993 when calculating heating seasonal efficiency, 
Effy<INF>HS</INF>.
    8.10 Measurement of electrical standby and off mode power.
    8.10.1 Standby power measurement. With all electrical 
auxiliaries of the furnace not activated, measure the standby power 
(P<INF>W,SB</INF>) in accordance with the procedures in IEC 62301, 
except that Section 8.5, Room Ambient Temperature, of ASHRAE 103-
1993 and the voltage provision of Section 8.2.1.4, Electrical 
Supply, of ASHRAE 103-1993 shall apply in lieu of the corresponding 
provisions of IEC 62301 at Section 4.2, Test room, and the voltage 
specification of Section 4.3, Power supply. Frequency shall be 60Hz. 
Clarifying further, IEC 62301 Section 4.4, Power measurement 
instruments, and Section 5, Measurements, apply in lieu of ASHRAE 
103-1993 Section 6.10, Energy Flow Rate. Measure the wattage so that 
all possible standby mode wattage for the entire appliance is 
recorded, not just the standby mode wattage of a single auxiliary. 
Round the recorded standby power (P<INF>W,SB</INF>) to the second 
decimal place, except for loads greater than or equal to 10W, which 
must be recorded to at least three significant figures.
    8.10.2 Off mode power measurement. If the unit is equipped with 
an off switch or there is an expected difference between off mode 
power and standby mode power, measure off mode power 
(P<INF>W</INF>,<INF>OFF</INF>) in accordance with the standby power 
procedures in IEC 62301, except that Section 8.5, Room Ambient 
Temperature, of ASHRAE 103-1993 and the voltage provision of Section 
8.2.1.4, Electrical Supply, of ASHRAE 103-1993 shall apply in lieu 
of the corresponding provisions of IEC 62301 at Section 4.2, Test 
room, and the voltage specification of Section 4.3, Power supply. 
Frequency shall be 60Hz. Clarifying further, IEC 62301 Section 4.4, 
Power measurement instruments, and Section 5, Measurements, apply 
for this measurement in lieu of ASHRAE 103-1993 Section 6.10, Energy 
Flow Rate. Measure the wattage so that all possible off mode wattage 
for the entire appliance is recorded, not just the off mode wattage 
of a single auxiliary. If there is no expected difference in off 
mode power and standby mode power, let P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = 
P<INF>W,SB</INF>, in which case no separate measurement of off mode 
power is necessary. Round the recorded off mode power 
(P<INF>W,OFF</INF>) to the second decimal place, except for loads 
greater than or equal to 10W, in which case round the recorded value 
to at least three significant figures.
    9.0 Nomenclature. Nomenclature includes the nomenclature 
specified in Section 10 of ASHRAE 103-1993 and the following 
additional variables:

Eff<INF>motor</INF> = Efficiency of power burner motor
PE<INF>IG</INF> = Electrical power to the interrupted ignition 
device, kW
R<INF>T,a</INF> = R<INF>T,F</INF> if flue gas is measured
    = R<INF>T,S</INF> if stack gas is measured
R<INF>T,F</INF> = Ratio of combustion air mass flow rate to 
stoichiometric air mass flow rate
R<INF>T,S</INF> = Ratio of the sum of combustion air and relief air 
mass flow rate to stoichiometric air mass flow rate
t<INF>IG</INF> = Electrical interrupted ignition device on-time, 
min.
T<INF>a,SS,X</INF> = T<INF>F,SS,X</INF> if flue gas temperature is 
measured, [deg]F
    = T<INF>S,SS,X</INF> if stack gas temperature is measured, 
[deg]F
y<INF>IG</INF> = Ratio of electrical interrupted ignition device on-
time to average burner on-time
y<INF>P</INF> = Ratio of power burner combustion blower on-time to 
average burner on-time
E<INF>SO</INF> = Average annual electric standby mode and off mode 
energy consumption, in kilowatt-hours
P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = Furnace off mode power, in watts
P<INF>W,SB</INF> = Furnace standby mode power, in watts

    10.0 Calculation of derived results from test measurements. 
Perform calculations as specified in Section 11 of ASHRAE 103-1993, 
except for Sections 11.5.11.1, 11.5.11.2, and appendices B and C; 
and as specified in Sections 10.1 through 10.11 and Figure 1 of this 
appendix.
    10.1 Annual fuel utilization efficiency. The annual fuel 
utilization efficiency (AFUE) is as defined in Sections 11.2.12 
(non-condensing systems), 11.3.12 (condensing systems), 11.4.12 
(non-condensing modulating systems) and 11.5.12 (condensing 
modulating systems) of ASHRAE 103-1993, except for the definition 
for the term Effy<INF>HS</INF> in the defining equation for AFUE. 
Effy<INF>HS</INF> is defined as:
    Effy<INF>HS</INF> = heating seasonal efficiency as defined in 
Sections 11.2.11 (non-condensing systems), 11.3.11 (condensing 
systems), 11.4.11 (non-condensing modulating systems) and 11.5.11 
(condensing modulating systems) of ASHRAE 103-1993, except that for 
condensing modulating systems Sections 11.5.11.1 and 11.5.11.2 are 
replaced by Sections 10.2 and 10.3 of this appendix. 
Effy<INF>HS</INF> is based on the assumptions that all weatherized 
warm air furnaces are located outdoors and that non-weatherized warm 
air furnaces are installed as isolated combustion systems.
    10.2 Part-load efficiency at reduced fuel input rate. If the 
option in Section 8.9 of this appendix is not employed, calculate 
the part-load efficiency at the reduced fuel input rate, 
Effy<INF>U,R,</INF> for condensing furnaces equipped with either 
step-modulating or two-stage controls, expressed as a percent and 
defined as:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.000


[[Page 14648]]


    If the option in section 8.9 of this appendix is employed, 
calculate Effy<INF>U,R</INF> as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.001

Where:

L<INF>L,A</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.2.7 of ASHRAE 103-
1993,
L<INF>G</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.3.11.1 of ASHRAE 103-
1993, at reduced input rate,
L<INF>C</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.3.11.2 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at reduced input rate,
L<INF>J</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
t<INF>ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.9.11 of ASHRAE 
103-1993,
Q<INF>P</INF> = pilot fuel input rate determined in accordance with 
Section 9.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993 in Btu/h,
Q<INF>IN</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 
103-1993,
t<INF>OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.9.12 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at reduced input rate,
L<INF>S,ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.5 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at reduced input rate,
L<INF>S,OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.6 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at reduced input rate,
L<INF>I,ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.7 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at reduced input rate,
L<INF>I,OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.8 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at reduced input rate,
C<INF>J</INF> = jacket loss factor and equal to:
    = 0.0 for furnaces intended to be installed indoors
    = 1.7 for furnaces intended to be installed as isolated 
combustion systems
    = 3.3 for furnaces intended to be installed outdoors
L<INF>S,SS</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.6 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at reduced input rate,
C<INF>S</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.3.10.1 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at reduced input rate.

    10.3 Part-Load Efficiency at Maximum Fuel Input Rate. If the 
option in section 8.9 of this appendix is not employed, calculate 
the part-load efficiency at maximum fuel input rate, 
Effy<INF>U,H</INF>, for condensing furnaces equipped with two-stage 
controls, expressed as a percent and defined as:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.002

    If the option in section 8.9 of this appendix is employed, 
calculate Effy<INF>U,H</INF> as follows:
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.003

Where:

L<INF>L,A</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.2.7 of ASHRAE 103-
1993,
L<INF>G</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.3.11.1 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>C</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.3.11.2 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>J</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
t<INF>ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.9.11 of ASHRAE 
103-1993,
Q<INF>P</INF> = pilot fuel input rate determined in accordance with 
Section 9.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993 in Btu/h,
Q<INF>IN</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 
103-1993,
t<INF>OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.9.12 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>S,ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.5 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>S,OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.6 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>I,ON</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.7 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
L<INF>I,OFF</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.8 of ASHRAE 
103-1993 at maximum input rate,
C<INF>J</INF> = value as defined in Section 10.2 of this appendix,
L<INF>S,SS</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.6 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at maximum input rate,
C<INF>S</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.10.1 of ASHRAE 103-
1993 at maximum input rate.

    10.4 National average burner operating hours, average annual 
fuel energy consumption, and average annual auxiliary electrical 
energy consumption for gas or oil furnaces.
    10.4.1 National average number of burner operating hours. For 
furnaces equipped with single-stage controls, the national average 
number of burner operating hours is defined as:

BOH<INF>SS</INF> = 2,080 (0.77) (A) DHR-2,080 (B)

Where:

2,080 = national average heating load hours
0.77 = adjustment factor to adjust the calculated design heating 
requirement and heating load hours to the actual heating load 
experienced by the heating system
A = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE + y<INF>IG</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + (Q<INF>IN</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for forced draft unit, indoors
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE Eff<INF>motor</INF> + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + (Q<INF>IN</INF>-
Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for

[[Page 14649]]

forced draft unit, isolated combustion system,
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE (1 - Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + (Q<INF>IN</INF>-
Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for induced draft unit, indoors, 
and
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + 
(Q<INF>IN</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for induced draft 
unit, isolated combustion system.
DHR = typical design heating requirements as listed in Table 8 (in 
kBtu/h) of ASHRAE 103-1993, using the proper value of 
Q<INF>OUT</INF> defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993.
B = 2 Q<INF>P</INF> (Effy<INF>HS</INF>) (A)/100,000

Where:

Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
 = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not provided 
by the manufacturer.
100,000 = factor that accounts for percent and kBtu
y<INF>P</INF> = ratio of induced or forced draft blower on-time to 
average burner on-time, as follows:
    1 for units without post-purge;
    1 + (t<INF>P</INF>/3.87) for single stage furnaces with post 
purge; or
    1 + (t<INF>P</INF>/10) for two-stage and step modulating 
furnaces with post purge.
PE = all electrical power related to burner operation at full load 
steady-state operation, including electrical ignition device if 
energized, controls, gas valve or oil control valve, and draft 
inducer, as determined in section 8.2 of this appendix.
y<INF>IG</INF> = ratio of burner interrupted ignition device on-time 
to average burner on-time, as follows:
    0 for burners not equipped with interrupted ignition device;
    (t<INF>IG</INF>/3.87) for single-stage furnaces; or
    (t<INF>IG</INF>/10) for two-stage and step modulating furnaces;
PE<INF>IG</INF> = electrical input rate to the interrupted ignition 
device on burner (if employed), as defined in section 8.3 of this 
appendix
y = ratio of blower on-time to average burner on-time, as follows:
    1 for furnaces without fan delay;
    1 + (t<SUP>+</SUP> - t<SUP>-</SUP>)/3.87 for single-stage 
furnaces with fan delay; or
    1 + (t<SUP>+</SUP> - t<SUP>-</SUP>)/10 for two-stage and step 
modulating furnaces with fan delay.
BE = circulating air fan electrical energy input rate at full-load 
steady-state operation as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix.
t<INF>P</INF> = post-purge time as defined in section 8.5 of this 
appendix
 = 0 if t<INF>P</INF> is equal to or less than 30 seconds
t<INF>IG</INF> = on-time of the burner interrupted ignition device, 
as defined in section 8.3 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Effy<INF>HS</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 (non-condensing 
systems) or Section 11.3.11.3 (condensing systems) of ASHRAE 103-
1993, percent, and calculated on the basis of:
    isolated combustion system installation, for non-weatherized 
warm air furnaces; or
    outdoor installation, for furnaces that are weatherized.
2 = ratio of the average length of the heating season in hours to 
the average heating load hours
t<SUP>+</SUP> = delay time between burner shutoff and the blower 
shutoff measured as defined in Section 9.5.1.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993
t<SUP>-</SUP> = as defined in Section 9.6.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993

    10.4.1.1 For furnaces equipped with two stage or step modulating 
controls the average annual energy used during the heating season, 
E<INF>M</INF>, is defined as:

E<INF>M</INF> = (Q<INF>IN</INF> - Q<INF>P</INF>) BOH<INF>SS</INF> + 
(8,760 - 4,600) Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ASHRAE 103-1993
BOH<INF>SS</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix, in 
which the weighted Effy<INF>HS</INF> as defined in Section 11.4.11.3 
or 11.5.11.3 of ASHRAE 103-1993 is used for calculating the values 
of A and B, the term DHR is based on the value of Q<INF>OUT</INF> 
defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 or 11.5.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993, and 
the term (y<INF>P</INF>PE + y<INF>IG</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + yBE) in 
the factor A is increased by the factor R, which is defined as:
    R = 2.3 for two stage controls
     = 2.3 for step modulating controls when the ratio of minimum-
to-maximum output is greater than or equal to 0.5
     = 3.0 for step modulating controls when the ratio of minimum-
to-maximum output is less than 0.5
A = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE + y<INF>IG</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) R + (Q<INF>IN</INF> - Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for forced draft unit, indoors
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE Eff<INF>motor</INF> + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) R + (Q<INF>IN</INF> - 
Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for forced draft unit, isolated 
combustion system,
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE (1 - Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) R + (Q<INF>IN</INF> - 
Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for induced draft unit, indoors, 
and
 = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) R + 
(Q<INF>IN</INF> - Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for induced 
draft unit, isolated combustion system.

Where:

Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
 = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not provided 
by the manufacturer.
Effy<INF>HS</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.11.3 or 11.5.11.3 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993, and calculated on the basis of:
    isolated combustion system installation, for non-weatherized 
warm air furnaces; or
    outdoor installation, for furnaces that are weatherized.
8,760 = total number of hours per year
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ASHRAE 103-1993

    10.4.1.2 For furnaces equipped with two-stage or step-modulating 
controls, the national average number of burner operating hours at 
the reduced operating mode (BOH<INF>R</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = X<INF>R</INF> E<INF>M</INF>/Q<INF>IN,R</INF>

Where:

X<INF>R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.7 of ASHRAE 103-1993
E<INF>M</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN,R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.2 of ASHRAE 103-
1993

    10.4.1.3 For furnaces equipped with two-stage controls, the 
national average number of burner operating hours at the maximum 
operating mode (BOH<INF>H</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>H</INF> = X<INF>H</INF> E<INF>M</INF>/Q<INF>IN</INF>

Where:

X<INF>H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993
E<INF>M</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993

    10.4.1.4 For furnaces equipped with step-modulating controls, 
the national average number of burner operating hours at the 
modulating operating mode (BOH<INF>M</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>M</INF> = X<INF>H</INF> E<INF>M</INF>/Q<INF>IN,M</INF>

Where:

X<INF>H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.6 of ASHRAE 103-1993
E<INF>M</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN,M</INF> = Q<INF>OUT,M</INF>/(Effy<INF>SS,M</INF>/100)
Q<INF>OUT,M</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.10 or 11.5.8.10 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993, as appropriate
Effy<INF>SS,M</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.8 or 11.5.8.8 of 
ASHRAE 103-1993, as appropriate, in percent
100 = factor that accounts for percent

    10.4.2 Average annual fuel energy consumption for gas or oil 
fueled furnaces. For furnaces equipped with single-stage controls, 
the average annual fuel energy consumption (E<INF>F</INF>) is 
expressed in Btu per year and defined as:

E<INF>F</INF> = BOH<INF>SS</INF> (Q<INF>IN</INF> - Q<INF>P</INF>) + 
8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>SS</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ASHRAE 103-1993
8,760 = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix

    10.4.2.1 For furnaces equipped with either two-stage or step 
modulating controls, E<INF>F</INF> is defined as:

E<INF>F</INF> = E<INF>M</INF> + 4,600 Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

E<INF>M</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ASHRAE 103-1993

    10.4.3 Average annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption 
for gas or oil-fueled furnaces. For furnaces equipped with single-
stage controls, the average annual auxiliary

[[Page 14650]]

electrical consumption (E<INF>AE</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-
hours and defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>SS</INF> (y<INF>P</INF> PE + y<INF>IG</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + yBE) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>SS</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
y<INF>P</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
y<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
y = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
BE = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.11 of this appendix

    10.4.3.1 For furnaces equipped with two-stage controls, 
E<INF>AE</INF> is defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>R</INF> (y<INF>P</INF> PE<INF>R</INF> + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + yBE<INF>R</INF>) + BOH<INF>H</INF> 
(y<INF>P</INF> PE<INF>H</INF> + y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y 
BE<INF>H</INF>) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.2 of this appendix
y<INF>P</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
y<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
y = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
BE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
BOH<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.3 of this appendix
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.11 of this appendix

    10.4.3.2 For furnaces equipped with step-modulating controls, 
E<INF>AE</INF> is defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>R</INF> (y<INF>P</INF> PE<INF>R</INF> + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE<INF>R</INF>) + BOH<INF>M</INF> 
(y<INF>P</INF> PE<INF>H</INF> + y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y 
BE<INF>H</INF>) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1.2 of this appendix
y<INF>P</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
y<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
y = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
BE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
BOH<INF>M</INF> = as defined in 10.4.1.4 of this appendix
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.11 of this appendix

    10.5 Average annual electric energy consumption for electric 
furnaces. For electric furnaces, the average annual electrical 
energy consumption (E<INF>E</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-hours 
and defined as:

E<INF>E</INF> = 100 (2,080) (0.77) DHR/(3.412 AFUE) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

100 = to express a percent as a decimal
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
DHR = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
3.412 = conversion factor from watt-hours to Btu
AFUE = as defined in Section 11.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993, in percent, 
and calculated on the basis of:
    Isolated combustion system installation, for non-weatherized 
warm air furnaces; or
    outdoor installation, for furnaces that are weatherized.
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.11 of this appendix.

    10.6 Energy factor.
    10.6.1 Energy factor for gas or oil furnaces. Calculate the 
energy factor, EF, for gas or oil furnaces defined as, in percent:

EF = (E<INF>F</INF> - 4,600 (Q<INF>P</INF>))(Effy<INF>HS</INF>)/
(E<INF>F</INF> + 3,412 (E<INF>AE</INF>))

Where:

E<INF>F</INF> = average annual fuel consumption as defined in 
section 10.4.2 of this appendix
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ASHRAE 103-1993
Q<INF>P</INF> = pilot fuel input rate determined in accordance with 
Section 9.2 of ASHRAE 103-1993 in Btu/h
Effy<INF>HS</INF> = annual fuel utilization efficiency as defined in 
Sections 11.2.11, 11.3.11, 11.4.11 or 11.5.11 of ASHRAE 103-1993, in 
percent, and calculated on the basis of:
    Isolated combustion system installation, for non-weatherized 
warm air furnaces; or
    outdoor installation, for furnaces that are weatherized.
3,412 = conversion factor from kW to Btu/h
E<INF>AE</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix

    10.6.2 Energy factor for electric furnaces. The energy factor, 
EF, for electric furnaces is defined as:

EF = AFUE

Where:

AFUE = annual fuel utilization efficiency as defined in section 
10.4.3 of this appendix, in percent

    10.7 Average annual energy consumption for furnaces located in a 
different geographic region of the United States and in buildings 
with different design heating requirements.
    10.7.1 Average annual fuel energy consumption for gas or oil-
fueled furnaces located in a different geographic region of the 
United States and in buildings with different design heating 
requirements. For gas or oil-fueled furnaces, the average annual 
fuel energy consumption for a specific geographic region and a 
specific typical design heating requirement (E<INF>FR</INF>) is 
expressed in Btu per year and defined as:

E<INF>FR</INF> = (E<INF>F</INF> - 8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>) (HLH/2,080) + 
8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

E<INF>F</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.2 of this appendix
8,760 = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ASHRAE 103-1993
HLH = heating load hours for a specific geographic region determined 
from the heating load hour map in Figure 1 of this appendix
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix

    10.7.2 Average annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption 
for gas or oil-fueled furnaces located in a different geographic 
region of the United States and in buildings with different design 
heating requirements. For gas or oil-fueled furnaces, the average 
annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption for a specific 
geographic region and a specific typical design heating requirement 
(E<INF>AER</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-hours and defined as:

E<INF>AER</INF> = (E<INF>AE</INF> - E<INF>SO</INF>) (HLH/2080) + 
E<INF>SOR</INF>

Where:

E<INF>AE</INF> = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.11 of this appendix
HLH = as defined in section 10.7.1 of this appendix
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
E<INF>SOR</INF> = as defined in section 10.7.3 of this appendix.

    10.7.3 Average annual electric energy consumption for electric 
furnaces located in a different geographic region of the United 
States and in buildings with different design heating requirements. 
For electric furnaces, the average annual electric energy 
consumption for a specific geographic region and a specific typical 
design heating requirement (E<INF>ER</INF>) is expressed in 
kilowatt-hours and defined as:

E<INF>ER</INF> = 100 (0.77) DHR HLH/(3.412 AFUE) + E<INF>SOR</INF>

Where:

100 = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
DHR = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
HLH = as defined in section 10.7.1 of this appendix
3.412 = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix

[[Page 14651]]

AFUE = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix
E<INF>SOR</INF> = E<INF>SO</INF> as defined in section 10.11 of this 
appendix, except that in the equation for E<INF>SO</INF>, the term 
BOH is multiplied by the expression (HLH/2080) to get the 
appropriate regional accounting of standby mode and off mode loss.

    10.8 Annual energy consumption for mobile home furnaces.
    10.8.1 National average number of burner operating hours for 
mobile home furnaces (BOHSS). BOH<INF>SS</INF> is the same as in 
section 10.4.1 of this appendix, except that the value of 
Effy<INF>HS</INF> in the calculation of the burner operating hours, 
BOH<INF>SS</INF>, is calculated on the basis of a direct vent unit 
with system number 9 or 10.
    10.8.2 Average annual fuel energy for mobile home furnaces (EF). 
E<INF>F</INF> is same as in section 10.4.2 of this appendix except 
that the burner operating hours, BOH<INF>SS</INF>, is calculated as 
specified in section 10.8.1 of this appendix.
    10.8.3 Average annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption 
for mobile home furnaces (EAE). E<INF>AE</INF> is the same as in 
section 10.4.3 of this appendix, except that the burner operating 
hours, BOH<INF>SS</INF>, is calculated as specified in section 
10.8.1 of this appendix.
    10.9 Calculation of sales weighted average annual energy 
consumption for mobile home furnaces. To reflect the distribution of 
mobile homes to geographical regions with average HLH<INF>MHF</INF> 
values different from 2,080, adjust the annual fossil fuel and 
auxiliary electrical energy consumption values for mobile home 
furnaces using the following adjustment calculations.
    10.9.1 For mobile home furnaces, the sales weighted average 
annual fossil fuel energy consumption is expressed in Btu per year 
and defined as:

E<INF>F,MHF</INF> = (E<INF>F</INF> - 8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>) 
HLH<INF>MHF</INF>/2,080 + 8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

E<INF>F</INF> = as defined in section 10.8.2 of this appendix
8,760 = as defined in section 10.4.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in section 10.2 of this appendix
HLH<INF>MHF</INF> = 1880, sales weighted average heating load hours 
for mobile home furnaces
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix

    10.9.2 For mobile home furnaces, the sales-weighted-average 
annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption is expressed in 
kilowatt-hours and defined as:

E<INF>AE,MHF</INF> = E<INF>AE</INF> HLH<INF>MHF</INF>/2,080

Where:

E<INF>AE</INF> = as defined in section 10.8.3 of this appendix
HLH<INF>MHF</INF> = as defined in section 10.9.1 of this appendix
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix

    10.10 Direct determination of off-cycle losses for furnaces 
equipped with thermal stack dampers. [Reserved]
    10.11 Average annual electrical standby mode and off mode energy 
consumption. Calculate the annual electrical standby mode and off 
mode energy consumption (E<INF>SO</INF>) in kilowatt-hours, defined 
as:

E<INF>SO</INF> = (P<INF>W,SB</INF> (4160 - BOH) + 4600 
P<INF>W,OFF</INF>) K

Where:

P<INF>W,SB</INF> = furnace standby mode power, in watts, as measured 
in section 8.10.1 of this appendix
4,160 = average heating season hours per year
BOH = total burner operating hours as calculated in section 10.4 of 
this appendix for gas or oil-fueled furnaces. Where for gas or oil-
fueled furnaces equipped with single-stage controls, BOH = 
BOH<INF>SS</INF>; for gas or oil-fueled furnaces equipped with two-
stage controls, BOH = (BOH<INF>R</INF> + BOH<INF>H</INF>); and for 
gas or oil-fueled furnaces equipped with step-modulating controls, 
BOH = (BOH<INF>R</INF> + BOH<INF>M</INF>). For electric furnaces, 
BOH = 100(2080)(0.77)DHR/(E<INF>in</INF> 3.412(AFUE))
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ASHRAE 103-1993
P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = furnace off mode power, in watts, as measured in 
section 8.10.2 of this appendix
K = 0.001 kWh/Wh, conversion factor from watt-hours to kilowatt-
hours

Where:

100 = to express a percent as a decimal
2,080 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
DHR = as defined in section 10.4.1 of this appendix
E<INF>in</INF> = steady-state electric rated power, in kilowatts, 
from Section 9.3 of ASHRAE 103-1993
3.412 = as defined in section 10.4.3 of this appendix
AFUE = as defined in Section 11.1 of ASHRAE 103-1993 in percent

[[Page 14652]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.004

0
8. Appendix EE to subpart B of part 430 is added to read as follows:

Appendix EE to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Consumer Boilers

    0. Incorporation by reference
    DOE incorporated by reference in Sec.  430.3, the entire 
standard for ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, ANSI/ASHRAE 41.6-2014, ASTM 
D2156-09 (R2018), and IEC 62301. However, only enumerated provisions 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 are applicable to this appendix, as follows:
    (1) ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
    (i) section 2 ``Scope'' as referenced in section 1.0 of this 
appendix;
    (ii) section 3 ``Definitions'' as referenced in section 2.0 of 
this appendix;
    (iii) section 4 ``Classifications'' as referenced in section 3.0 
of this appendix;
    (iv) section 5 ``Requirements'' as referenced in section 4.0 of 
this appendix;
    (v) section 6 ``Instruments'' as referenced in section 5.0 of 
this appendix;
    (vi) section 7 ``Apparatus'' (except for sections 7.1 and 7.8) 
as referenced in section 6.0 of this appendix;
    (vii) section 8 ``Methods of Testing'' (except for sections 
8.3.1.3, 8.3.3.1, 8.4.1.1, 8.4.1.1.1, 8.4.1.2, 8.6.1.1, 8.7.2, and 
8.8.3) as referenced in section 7.0 of this appendix;
    (viii) section 9 ``Test Procedure'' (except for 9.1.2.2.1, 
9.1.2.2.2, 9.5.2.1, 9.7.4, and 9.10) as referenced in section 8.0 of 
this appendix;
    (ix) section 10 ``Nomenclature'' as referenced in section 9.0 of 
this appendix; and
    (x) section 11 ``Calculations'' as referenced in section 10.0 of 
this appendix.
    In cases where there is a conflict, the language of the test 
procedure in this appendix takes precedence over the incorporated 
standards.
    1.0 Scope. The scope of this appendix is as specified in Section 
2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 as it pertains to low pressure steam or 
hot water boiler and electric boilers.
    2.0 Definitions. Definitions include those specified in Section 
3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and the following additional and modified 
definitions.
    Active mode means the condition in which the boiler is connected 
to the power source, and at least one of the burner, electric 
resistance elements, or any electrical auxiliaries such as blowers 
or pumps, are activated.
    Boiler pump means a pump installed on a boiler and that is 
separate from the circulating water pump.
    Draft inducer means a fan incorporated in the boiler that either 
draws or forces air into the combustion chamber.
    Gas valve means an automatic or semi-automatic device consisting 
essentially of a valve and operator that controls the gas supply to 
the burner(s) during normal operation of an appliance. The operator 
may be actuated by application of gas pressure on a flexible 
diaphragm, by electrical means, by mechanical means or by other 
means.
    Installation and operation (I&O) manual means instructions for 
installing, commissioning, and operating the boiler, which are 
supplied with the product when shipped by the manufacturer.
    Off mode means a mode in which the boiler is connected to a 
mains power source and is not providing any active mode or standby 
mode function, and where the mode may persist for an indefinite 
time. The existence of an off switch in off position (a disconnected 
circuit) is included within the classification of off mode.
    Off switch means the switch on the boiler that, when activated, 
results in a measurable change in energy consumption between the 
standby and off modes.
    Oil control valve means an automatically or manually operated 
device consisting of an oil valve for controlling the fuel supply to 
a burner to regulate burner input.
    Standby mode means any mode in which the boiler is connected to 
a mains power source and offers one or more of the following space 
heating functions that may persist:
    a. To facilitate the activation of other modes (including 
activation or deactivation of active mode) by remote switch 
(including thermostat or remote control), internal or external 
sensors, or timer;

[[Page 14653]]

    b. Continuous functions, including information or status 
displays or sensor-based functions.
    Thermal stack damper means a type of stack damper that relies 
exclusively upon the changes in temperature in the stack gases to 
open or close the damper.
    3.0 Classifications. Classifications are as specified in Section 
4 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    4.0 Requirements. Requirements are as specified in Section 5 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    5.0 Instruments. Instruments must be as specified in Section 6 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    6.0 Apparatus. The apparatus used in conjunction with the boiler 
during the testing must be as specified in Section 7 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017 except for sections 7.1 and 7.8; and as specified in 
sections 6.1 and 6.2 of this appendix.
    6.1 General.
    a. Install the boiler in the test room in accordance with the 
I&O manual, as defined in section 2.5 of this appendix, except that 
if provisions within this appendix are specified, then the 
provisions herein drafted and prescribed by DOE govern. If the I&O 
manual and any additional provisions of this appendix are not 
sufficient for testing a boiler, the manufacturer must request a 
waiver from the test procedure pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27.
    b. The apparatuses described in section 6 of this appendix are 
used in conjunction with the boiler during testing. Each piece of 
apparatus shall conform to material and construction specifications 
listed in this appendix and in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and the 
reference standards cited in this appendix and in ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.
    c. Test rooms containing equipment must have suitable facilities 
for providing the utilities (including but not limited to 
environmental controls, sufficient fluid source(s), applicable 
measurement equipment, and any other technology or tools) necessary 
for performance of the test and must be able to maintain conditions 
within the limits specified in section 6 of this appendix.
    6.2 Condensate collection. Attach condensate drain lines to the 
unit as specified in the I&O manual. Maintain a continuous downward 
slope of drain lines from the unit. Additional precautions (such as 
eliminating any line configuration or position that would otherwise 
restrict or block the flow of condensate or checking to ensure a 
proper connection with condensate drain spout that allows for 
unobstructed flow) must be taken to facilitate uninterrupted flow of 
condensate during the test. Collection containers must be glass or 
polished stainless steel to facilitate removal of interior deposits. 
The collection container must have a vent opening to the atmosphere.
    7.0 Testing conditions. The testing conditions must be as 
specified in Section 8 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, except for Sections 
8.3.1.3, 8.3.3.1, 8.4.1.1, 8.4.1.1.1, 8.4.1.2, 8.6.1.1, 8.7.2, and 
8.8.3; and as specified in sections 7.1 to 7.8 of this appendix, 
respectively. For condensing furnaces and boilers, the relative 
humidity of the room air shall be measured in accordance with one of 
the methods described in ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 41.6-2014 (see Section 
8.5 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017).
    7.1 Fuel supply, gas. In conducting the tests specified herein, 
gases with characteristics as shown in Table 1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 shall be used. Maintain the gas supply, ahead of all controls 
for a boiler, at a test pressure between the normal and increased 
values shown in Table 1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. Maintain the 
regulator outlet pressure at a level approximating that recommended 
in the I&O manual, as defined in section 2.5 of this appendix, or, 
in the absence of such recommendation, to the regulator settings 
used when the product is shipped by the manufacturer. Use a gas 
having a specific gravity as shown in Table 1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 and with a higher heating value within <plus-minus>5% of the 
higher heating value shown in Table 1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 
Determine the actual higher heating value in Btu per standard cubic 
foot for the gas to be used in the test within an error no greater 
than 1%.
    7.2 Installation of piping. Install piping equipment in 
accordance with the I&O manual. In the absence of such 
specification, install piping in accordance with Section 8.3.1.1 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    7.3 Gas burner. Adjust the burners of gas-fired boilers to their 
maximum Btu input ratings at the normal test pressure specified by 
section 7.1 of this appendix. Correct the burner input rate to 
reflect gas characteristics at a temperature of 60 [deg]F and 
atmospheric pressure of 30 in of Hg and adjust to within <plus-
minus>2 percent of the hourly Btu nameplate input rating specified 
by the manufacturer as measured at the maximum input rate during the 
steady-state performance test in section 8 of this appendix. Set the 
primary air shutters in accordance with the I&O manual to give a 
good flame at this condition. If, however, the setting results in 
the deposit of carbon on the burners during any test specified 
herein, the tester shall adjust the shutters and burners until no 
more carbon is deposited and shall perform the tests again with the 
new settings (see Figure 9 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017). After the 
steady-state performance test has been started, do not make 
additional adjustments to the burners during the required series of 
performance tests specified in Section 9 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. If 
a vent-limiting means is provided on a gas pressure regulator, keep 
it in place during all tests.
    7.4 Modulating gas burner adjustment at reduced input rate. For 
gas-fired boilers equipped with modulating-type controls, adjust the 
controls to operate the unit at the nameplate minimum input rate. If 
the modulating control is of a non-automatic type, adjust the 
control to the setting recommended in the I&O manual. In the absence 
of such recommendation, the midpoint setting of the non-automatic 
control shall be used as the setting for determining the reduced 
fuel input rate. Start the boiler by turning the safety control 
valve to the ``ON'' position. Use a supply water temperature that 
will allow for continuous operation without shutoff by the control. 
If necessary to achieve such continuous operation, supply water may 
be increased above 120 [deg]F; in such cases, gradually increase the 
supply water temperature to determine what minimum supply water 
temperature, with a 20 [deg]F temperature rise across the boiler, 
will be needed to adjust for the minimum input rate at the reduced 
input rate control setting. Monitor regulated gas pressure out of 
the modulating control valve (or entering the burner) to determine 
when no further reduction of gas pressure results. The flow rate of 
water through the boiler shall be adjusted to achieve a 20 [deg]F 
temperature rise.
    7.5 Oil burner. Adjust the burners of oil-fired boilers to give 
a CO<INF>2</INF> reading specified in the I&O manual and an hourly 
Btu input within <plus-minus>2% of the hourly Btu nameplate input 
rating as specified in the I&O manual and as measured at maximum 
input rate during steady-state performance test as described in 
section 8 of this appendix. Smoke in the flue may not exceed a No. 1 
smoke during the steady-state performance test as measured by the 
procedure in ASTM D2156-09 (R2018). Maintain the average draft over 
the fire and in the flue during the steady-state performance test at 
the value specified in the I&O manual. Do not allow draft 
fluctuations exceeding 0.005 in. water. Do not make additional 
adjustments to the burner during the required series of performance 
tests. The instruments and measuring apparatus for this test are 
described in section 6 of this appendix and shown in Figure 8 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    7.6 Measurement of jacket surface temperature. Divide the jacket 
of the boiler into 6-inch squares when practical, and otherwise into 
36-square-inch regions comprising 4 inch by 9 inch or 3 inch by 12 
inch sections, and determine the surface temperature at the center 
of each square or section with a surface thermocouple. Record the 
surface temperature of the 36-square-inch areas in groups where the 
temperature differential of the 36-square-inch areas is less than 10 
[deg]F for temperature up to 100 [deg]F above room temperature, and 
less than 20 [deg]F for temperatures more than 100 [deg]F above room 
temperature.
    7.7 Installation of vent system. Keep the vent or air intake 
system supplied by the manufacturer in place during all tests. Test 
units intended for installation with a variety of vent pipe lengths 
with the minimum vent length as specified in the I&O manual, or a 5-
ft. flue pipe if there are no recommendations in the I&O manual. Do 
not connect a boiler employing a direct vent system to a chimney or 
induced-draft source. Vent combustion products solely by using the 
venting incorporated in the boiler and the vent or air intake system 
supplied by the manufacturer. For units that are not designed to 
significantly preheat the incoming air, see section 7.5 of this 
appendix and Figure 4a or 4b of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. For units that 
do significantly preheat the incoming air, see Figure 4c or 4d of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    7.8 Additional optional method of testing for determining DP and 
DF. On units whose design is such that there is no measurable

[[Page 14654]]

airflow through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger when the 
burner(s) is (are) off as determined by the optional test procedure 
in section 7.8.1 of this appendix, D<INF>F</INF> and D<INF>P</INF> 
may be set equal to 0.05.
    7.8.1 Optional test method for indicating the absence of flow 
through the heat exchanger. Manufacturers may use the following test 
protocol to determine whether air flows through the combustion 
chamber and heat exchanger when the burner(s) is (are) off. The 
minimum default draft factor (as allowed per Sections 8.8.3 and 9.10 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017) may be used only for units determined 
pursuant to this protocol to have no airflow through the combustion 
chamber and heat exchanger.
    7.8.1.1 Test apparatus. Use a smoke stick that produces smoke 
that is easily visible and has a density less than or approximately 
equal to air. Use a smoke stick that produces smoke that is non-
toxic to the test personnel and produces gas that is unreactive with 
the environment in the test chamber.
    7.8.1.2 Test conditions. Minimize all air currents and drafts in 
the test chamber, including turning off ventilation if the test 
chamber is mechanically ventilated. Wait at least two minutes 
following the termination of the boiler on-cycle before beginning 
the optional test method for indicating the absence of flow through 
the heat exchanger.
    7.8.1.3 Location of the test apparatus. After all air currents 
and drafts in the test chamber have been eliminated or minimized, 
position the smoke stick based on the following equipment 
configuration:
    (a) For horizontal combustion air intakes, approximately 4 
inches from the vertical plane at the termination of the intake vent 
and 4 inches below the bottom edge of the combustion air intake; or
    (b) for vertical combustion air intakes, approximately 4 inches 
horizontal from vent perimeter at the termination of the intake vent 
and 4 inches down (parallel to the vertical axis of the vent). In 
the instance where the boiler combustion air intake is closer than 4 
inches to the floor, place the smoke device directly on the floor 
without impeding the flow of smoke.
    7.8.1.4 Duration of test. Establish the presence of smoke from 
the smoke stick and then monitor the direction of the smoke flow for 
no less than 30 seconds.
    7.8.1.5 Test results. During visual assessment, determine 
whether there is any draw of smoke into the combustion air intake 
vent.
    If absolutely no smoke is drawn into the combustion air intake, 
the boiler meets the requirements to allow use of the minimum 
default draft factor pursuant to Section 8.8.3 and/or Section 9.10 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    If there is any smoke drawn into the intake, proceed with the 
methods of testing as prescribed in Section 8.8 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.
    8.0 Test procedure. Conduct testing and measurements as 
specified in Section 9 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017) except for Sections 
9.1.2.2.1, 9.1.2.2.2, 9.5.2.1, 9.7.4, and 9.10; and as specified in 
sections 8.1 through 8.9 of this appendix. Section 8.4 of this 
appendix may be used in lieu of Section 9.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    8.1 Fuel input. For gas units, measure and record the steady-
state gas input rate in Btu/h, including pilot gas, corrected to 
standard conditions of 60 [deg]F and 30 in. Hg. Use measured values 
of gas temperature and pressure at the meter and barometric pressure 
to correct the metered gas flow rate to the above standard 
conditions. For oil units, measure and record the steady-state fuel 
input rate. For maximum input rate, the measured burner input rate 
shall be within <plus-minus>2% of the hourly Btu nameplate input 
rating (Q<INF>IN</INF>) specified by the manufacturer. For 
modulating furnaces and boilers operating at reduced input rate, the 
measured reduced heat input rate (Q<INF>IN,R</INF>) shall be 
recorded. At the discretion of the one testing, the hourly Btu 
nameplate minimum input rating specified by the manufacturer may be 
used in the calculations in place of Q<INF>IN,R</INF> if the 
measured rate is within <plus-minus>2% of the nameplate rating.
    8.2 Electrical input. During the steady-state test, perform a 
single measurement of all of the electrical power involved in burner 
operation (PE), including energizing the ignition system, controls, 
gas valve or oil control valve, and draft inducer, if applicable. 
For boilers, the measurement of PE must include the boiler pump if 
so equipped. If the boiler pump does not operate during the 
measurement of PE, add the boiler pump nameplate power to the 
measurement of PE. If the boiler pump nameplate power is not 
available, use 0.13 kW. For hot water boilers, use the circulating 
water pump nameplate power for BE, or if the pump nameplate power is 
not available, use 0.13 kW.
    8.3 Input to interrupted ignition device. For burners equipped 
with an interrupted ignition device, record the nameplate electric 
power used by the ignition device, PE<INF>IG</INF>, or record that 
PE<INF>IG</INF> = 0.4 kW if no nameplate power input is provided. 
Record the nameplate ignition device on-time interval, 
t<INF>IG</INF>, or, if the nameplate does not provide the ignition 
device on-time interval, measure the on-time interval with a 
stopwatch at the beginning of the test, starting when the burner is 
turned on. Set t<INF>IG</INF> = 0 and PE<INF>IG</INF> = 0 if the 
device on-time interval is less than or equal to 5 seconds after the 
burner is on.
    8.4 Optional test procedures for condensing boilers, measurement 
of condensate during the establishment of steady-state conditions. 
For units with step-modulating or two-stage controls, conduct the 
test at both the maximum and reduced inputs. In lieu of collecting 
the condensate immediately after the steady state conditions have 
been reached as required by Section 9.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, 
condensate may be collected during the establishment of steady state 
conditions as defined by Section 9.1.2.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 
Perform condensate collection for at least 30 minutes. Measure 
condensate mass immediately at the end of the collection period to 
prevent evaporation loss from the sample. Record fuel input for the 
30-minute condensate collection test period. Observe and record fuel 
higher heating value (HHV), temperature, and pressures necessary for 
determining fuel energy input (Qc,ss). Measure the fuel quantity and 
HHV with errors no greater than 1%. The humidity for the room air 
shall at no time exceed 80%. Determine the mass of condensate for 
the establishment of steady state conditions (Mc,ss) in pounds by 
subtracting the tare container weight from the total container and 
condensate weight measured at the end of the 30-minute condensate 
collection test period.
    8.5 Cool-down test for gas- and oil-fueled boilers without stack 
dampers. After steady-state testing has been completed, turn the 
main burner(s) ``OFF'' and measure the flue gas temperature at 3.75 
minutes (temperature designated as T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>3</INF>)) 
and 22.5 minutes (temperature designated as 
T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>4</INF>)) after the burner shut-off using 
the thermocouple grid described in Section 7.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.
    a. During this off-period, for units that do not have pump delay 
after shut-off, do not allow any water to circulate through the hot 
water boilers.
    b. For units that have pump delay on shut-off, except those 
having pump controls sensing water temperature, the unit control 
must stop the pump. Measure and record the time between burner shut-
off and pump shut-off (t\+\) to the nearest second.
    c. For units having pump delay controls that sense water 
temperature, operate the pump for 15 minutes and record t\+\ as 15 
minutes. While the pump is operating, maintain the inlet water 
temperature and flow rate at the same values as used during the 
steady-state test, as specified in Sections 9.1 and 8.4.2.3 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017.
    d. For boilers that employ post-purge, measure the length of the 
post-purge period with a stopwatch. Record the time from burner 
``OFF'' to combustion blower ``OFF'' (electrically de-energized) as 
t<INF>P</INF>. Measure the flue gas temperature by means of the 
thermocouple grid described in Section 7.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 
at the end of the post-purge period t<INF>P</INF> 
(T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>P</INF>)) and at (3.75 + t<INF>P</INF>) 
minutes (T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>3</INF>)) and (22.5 + 
t<INF>P</INF>) minutes (T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>4</INF>)) after the 
main burner shuts off. If t<INF>P</INF> is prescribed by the I&O 
manual or measured to be greater than 3 minutes, also measure the 
flue gas temperature at the midpoint of the post-purge period 
t<INF>P</INF>/2 (T<INF>F,OFF</INF>(t<INF>P</INF>/2)). If the 
measured t<INF>P</INF> is less than or equal to 30 seconds, record 
t<INF>P</INF> as 0 and conduct the cool-down test as if there is no 
post-purge.
    8.6 Direct measurement of off-cycle losses testing method. 
[Reserved.]
    8.7 Calculation options. The rate of the flue gas mass flow 
through the boiler and the factors D<INF>P</INF>, D<INF>F</INF>, and 
D<INF>S</INF> are calculated by the equations in Sections 11.6.1, 
11.6.2, 11.6.3, 11.6.4, 11.7.1, and 11.7.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017. 
On units whose design is such that there is no measurable airflow 
through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger when the burner(s) 
is (are) off (as determined by the optional test procedure in 
section 7.8 of this appendix), D<INF>F</INF> and D<INF>P</INF> may 
be set equal to 0.05.
    8.8 Optional test procedures for condensing boilers that have no 
off-period flue losses. For units that have applied the test method 
in section 7.8 of this appendix to determine that no measurable 
airflow exists through the combustion chamber and heat exchanger 
during the burner off-period

[[Page 14655]]

and having post-purge periods of less than 30 seconds, the cool-down 
and heat-up tests specified in Sections 9.5 and 9.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017 may be omitted. In lieu of conducting the cool-down and 
heat-up tests, the tester may use the losses determined during the 
steady-state test described in Section 9.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 
when calculating heating seasonal efficiency, Effy<INF>HS</INF>.
    8.9 Measurement of electrical standby and off mode power.
    8.9.1 Standby power measurement. With all electrical auxiliaries 
of the boiler not activated, measure the standby power 
(P<INF>W,SB</INF>) in accordance with the procedures in IEC 62301, 
except that Section 8.5, Room Ambient Temperature, of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017 and the voltage provision of Section 8.2.1.4, Electrical 
Supply, of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 shall apply in lieu of the 
corresponding provisions of IEC 62301 at Section 4.2, Test room, and 
the voltage specification of Section 4.3, Power supply. Frequency 
shall be 60Hz. Clarifying further, IEC 62301 Section 4.4, Power 
measurement instruments, and Section 5, Measurements, apply in lieu 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 Section 6.10, Energy Flow Rate. Measure the 
wattage so that all possible standby mode wattage for the entire 
appliance is recorded, not just the standby mode wattage of a single 
auxiliary. Round the recorded standby power (P<INF>W,SB</INF>) to 
the second decimal place, except for loads greater than or equal to 
10W, which must be recorded to at least three significant figures.
    8.9.2 Off mode power measurement. If the unit is equipped with 
an off switch or there is an expected difference between off mode 
power and standby mode power, measure off mode power 
(P<INF>W,</INF><INF>OFF</INF>) in accordance with the standby power 
procedures in IEC 62301, except that Section 8.5, Room Ambient 
Temperature, of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and the voltage provision of 
Section 8.2.1.4, Electrical Supply, of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 shall 
apply in lieu of the corresponding provisions of IEC 62301 at 
Section 4.2, Test room, and the voltage specification of Section 
4.3, Power supply. Frequency shall be 60Hz. Clarifying further, IEC 
62301 Section 4.4, Power measurement instruments, and Section 5, 
Measurements, apply for this measurement in lieu of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017 Section 6.10, Energy Flow Rate. Measure the wattage so that all 
possible off mode wattage for the entire appliance is recorded, not 
just the off mode wattage of a single auxiliary. If there is no 
expected difference in off mode power and standby mode power, let 
P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = P<INF>W,SB</INF>, in which case no separate 
measurement of off mode power is necessary. Round the recorded off 
mode power (P<INF>W,OFF</INF>) to the second decimal place, except 
for loads greater than or equal to 10W, in which case round the 
recorded value to at least three significant figures.
    9.0 Nomenclature. Nomenclature includes the nomenclature 
specified in Section 10 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 and the following 
additional variables:

Eff<INF>motor</INF> = Efficiency of power burner motor
PE<INF>IG</INF> = Electrical power to the interrupted ignition 
device, kW
R<INF>T,a</INF> = R<INF>T,F</INF> if flue gas is measured
    = R<INF>T,S</INF> if stack gas is measured
R<INF>T,F</INF> = Ratio of combustion air mass flow rate to 
stoichiometric air mass flow rate
R<INF>T,S</INF> = Ratio of the sum of combustion air and relief air 
mass flow rate to stoichiometric air mass flow rate
t<INF>IG</INF> = Electrical interrupted ignition device on-time, 
min.
T<INF>a,SS,X</INF> = T<INF>F,SS,X</INF> if flue gas temperature is 
measured, [deg]F
    = T<INF>S,SS,X</INF> if stack gas temperature is measured, 
[deg]F
y<INF>IG</INF> = Ratio of electrical interrupted ignition device on-
time to average burner on-time
y<INF>P</INF> = Ratio of power burner combustion blower on-time to 
average burner on-time
E<INF>SO</INF> = Average annual electric standby mode and off mode 
energy consumption, in kilowatt-hours
P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = Boiler off mode power, in watts
P<INF>W,SB</INF> = Boiler standby mode power, in watts

    10.0 Calculation of derived results from test measurements. 
Perform calculations as specified in Section 11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017, except for appendices B and C; and as specified in sections 
10.1 through 10.7 and Figure 1 of this appendix.
    10.1 Annual fuel utilization efficiency. The annual fuel 
utilization efficiency (AFUE) is as defined in Sections 11.2.12 
(non-condensing systems), 11.3.12 (condensing systems), 11.4.12 
(non-condensing modulating systems) and 11.5.12 (condensing 
modulating systems) of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, except for the 
following:
    10.1.1 The definition for the term Effy<INF>HS</INF> in the 
defining equation for AFUE. Effy<INF>HS</INF> is defined as:

Effy<INF>HS</INF> = heating seasonal efficiency as defined in 
Sections 11.2.11 (non-condensing systems), 11.3.11 (condensing 
systems), 11.4.11 (non-condensing modulating systems) and 11.5.11 
(condensing modulating systems) of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and is 
based on the assumptions that weatherized boilers are located 
outdoors and that non-weatherized boilers are installed indoors.

    10.1.2 In Section 11.5.7.3 for the purpose of calculating the 
steady-state efficiency of a condensing, modulating boiler at the 
maximum and reduced input rates the following applies:
    10.1.2.1 Calculate steady state efficiencies at the maximum and 
reduced input rates, Effy<INF>SS</INF> and Effy<INF>SS,R</INF>, 
using the equations for non-condensing, non-modulating systems in 
Section 11.2.7 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    10.1.2.2 Use the values for Effy<INF>SS</INF> and 
Effy<INF>SS,R</INF> calculated in the previous step to determine the 
heating capacity at the maximum and reduced input rates, 
Q<INF>OUT</INF> and Q<INF>OUT,R</INF>, according to Sections 
11.4.8.1.1 and 11.4.8.1.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    10.1.2.3 Use the values for Q<INF>OUT</INF> and 
Q<INF>OUT,R</INF> calculated in the previous step to determine the 
balance point temperature, T<INF>C,</INF> according to Section 
11.4.8.4 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    10.1.2.4 Use the value for T<INF>C</INF> determined in the 
previous step to calculate the average outdoor air temperature for 
the maximum and reduced input rates, T<INF>OA,H</INF> and 
T<INF>OA,R</INF>, according to Section 11.4.8.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.
    10.1.2.5 Use the values for T<INF>OA,H</INF> and 
T<INF>OA,R</INF> calculated in the previous step to calculate the 
steady-state heat loss due to condensate going down the drain, 
L<INF>C,SS</INF>, at the maximum and reduced input rates according 
to Section 11.3.7.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017.
    10.1.2.6 Use the values of L<INF>C,SS</INF> at the maximum and 
reduced input rates calculated in the previous step to determine the 
steady-state efficiency for modulating, condensing boilers at the 
maximum and reduced input rates, Effy<INF>SS</INF> and 
Effy<INF>SS,R</INF>, according to Section 11.3.7.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017.
    10.2 National average burner operating hours, average annual 
fuel energy consumption, and average annual auxiliary electrical 
energy consumption for gas or oil boilers.
    10.2.1 National average number of burner operating hours.
    10.2.1.1 For boilers equipped with single-stage controls, the 
national average number of burner operating hours is defined as:

    BOH<INF>SS</INF> = 2,080 (0.77) (A) [(Q<INF>OUT</INF>/1000)/
(1+[alpha])]-2,080 (B)

Where:

2,080 = national average heating load hours
0.77 = adjustment factor to adjust the calculated design heating 
requirement and heating load hours to the actual heating load 
experienced by the heating system
A = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE + y<INF>IG</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + (Q<INF>IN</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for forced draft unit, indoors
    = 100,000/[341,200 (y<INF>P</INF> PE (1-Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + 
y<INF>IG</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y BE) + (Q<INF>IN</INF>-
Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>HS</INF>], for induced draft unit, indoors, 
and
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ANSI/
ASHRAE 103-2017.
[alpha] = value as defined in Section 11.2.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
B = 2 Q<INF>P</INF> (Effy<INF>HS</INF>) (A)/100,000

Where:

Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
    = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not 
provided by the manufacturer.
100,000 = factor that accounts for percent and kBtu
y<INF>P</INF> = ratio of induced or forced draft blower on-time to 
average burner on-time, as follows:
    1 for units without post-purge;
    1 + (t<INF>P</INF>/t<INF>ON</INF>) for single stage boilers with 
post purge; or
    PE = all electrical power related to burner operation at full 
load steady-state operation, including electrical ignition device if 
energized, controls, gas valve or oil control valve, draft inducer, 
and boiler pump, as determined in section 8.2 of this appendix.
y<INF>IG</INF> = ratio of burner interrupted ignition device on-time 
to average burner on-time, as follows:
0 for burners not equipped with interrupted ignition device;
(t<INF>IG</INF>/t<INF>ON</INF>) for single stage boilers
PE<INF>IG</INF> = electrical input rate to the interrupted ignition 
device on burner (if employed), as defined in section 8.3 of this 
appendix

[[Page 14656]]

y = ratio of pump on-time to average burner on-time, as follows:
    1 for boilers without a pump delay;
    1 + (t\+\/t<INF>ON</INF>) for single-stage boilers with pump 
delay;
    BE = circulating water pump electrical energy input rate at 
full-load steady-state operation as defined in section 8.2 of this 
appendix.
t<INF>P</INF> = post-purge time as defined in section 8.5 of this 
appendix
    = 0 if t<INF>P</INF> is equal to or less than 30 seconds
t<INF>IG</INF> = on-time of the burner interrupted ignition device, 
as defined in section 8.3 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Effy<INF>HS</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 (non-condensing 
systems) or Section 11.3.11.3 (condensing systems) of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017, percent, and calculated on the basis of:
    Indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or outdoor 
installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
2 = ratio of the average length of the heating season in hours to 
the average heating load hours
t\+\ = delay time between burner shutoff and the pump shutoff 
measured as defined in section 8.5 of this appendix.
t<INF>ON</INF> = value as defined in Table 7 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.

    10.2.1.2 For boilers equipped with two-stage or step-modulating 
controls, the national average number of burner operating hours at 
the reduced operating mode (BOH<INF>R</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = X<INF>R</INF> (2080)(0.77)[(Q<INF>OUT</INF>/
1,000)/(1 + [alpha])](A<INF>R</INF>)-2080(B<INF>R</INF>)

Where:

X<INF>R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.6 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
2080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 or 11.5.8.1.1 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.4.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
A<INF>R</INF> = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,R</INF>PE<INF>R</INF> + 
y<INF>IG,R</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>R</INF>BE<INF>R</INF>) + 
(Q<INF>IN,R</INF>--Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>U,R</INF>] for forced 
draft unit, indoors; and
    = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,R</INF>PE<INF>R</INF> (1-
Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + y<INF>IG,R</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + 
y<INF>R</INF>BE<INF>R</INF>) + (Q<INF>IN,R</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>U,R</INF>] for induced draft unit, indoors
B<INF>R</INF> = 2Q<INF>P</INF> (Effy<INF>U,R</INF>) (A<INF>R</INF>)/
100,000
100,000 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 1,000 Btu/
kBtu
341,200 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 3,412 Btu/h/
kW
y<INF>P,R</INF> = 1 + (t<INF>p</INF>/t<INF>ON,R</INF>) for two-stage 
and step modulating boilers with post purge
PE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,R</INF> = t<INF>IG</INF>/t<INF>ON,R</INF>
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 8.3 of this appendix
y<INF>R</INF> = 1 + (t\+\)/t<INF>ON,R</INF> for two-stage and step 
modulating boilers with fan delay
BE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
Q<INF>IN,R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Effy<INF>U,R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.11.1 or 11.5.11.1 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and calculated on the basis of:
    Indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or
    outdoor installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
    = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not 
provided by the manufacturer.

    10.2.1.3 For boilers equipped with two-stage controls, the 
national average number of burner operating hours at the maximum 
operating mode (BOH<INF>H</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>H</INF> = X<INF>H</INF> (2080)(0.77)[(Q<INF>OUT</INF>/
1,000)/(1 + [alpha])](A<INF>H</INF>)-2080(B<INF>H</INF>)

Where:

X<INF>H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.5 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
2080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 or 11.5.8.1.1 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.4.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
A<INF>H</INF> = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,H</INF>PE<INF>H</INF> + 
y<INF>IG,H</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + 
(Q<INF>IN,H</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>U,H</INF>] for forced 
draft unit, indoors; and
    = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,H</INF>PE<INF>H</INF> (1-
Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + y<INF>IG,H</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + 
y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + (Q<INF>IN,H</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>U,H</INF>] for induced draft unit, indoors
B<INF>H</INF> = 2Q<INF>P</INF> (Effy<INF>U,H</INF>) (A<INF>H</INF>)/
100,000
100,000 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 1,000 Btu/
kBtu
341,200 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 3412 Btu/h/kW
y<INF>P,H</INF> = 1 + (t<INF>p</INF>/t<INF>ON,H</INF>) for two-stage 
and step modulating boilers with post purge
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,H</INF> = t<INF>IG</INF>/t<INF>ON,H</INF>
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 8.3 of this appendix
y<INF>H</INF> = 1 + (t\+\)/t<INF>ON,H</INF> for two-stage and step 
modulating boilers with fan delay
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
Q<INF>IN,H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Effy<INF>U,H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.11.2 or 11.5.11.2 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and calculated on the basis of:
    indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or
    outdoor installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
    = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not 
provided by the manufacturer.

10.2.1.4 For boilers equipped with step-modulating controls, the 
national average number of burner operating hours at the modulating 
operating mode (BOH<INF>M</INF>) is defined as:

BOH<INF>M</INF> = X<INF>H</INF> (2080)(0.77)[(Q<INF>OUT</INF>/
1,000)/(1+[alpha])](A<INF>M</INF>)-2080(B<INF>M</INF>)

Where:

X<INF>H</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.5 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
2080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.1 or 11.5.8.1.1 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.4.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
A<INF>M</INF> = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,H</INF>PE<INF>H</INF> + 
y<INF>IG,H</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + 
(Q<INF>IN,M</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) Effy<INF>U,M</INF>] for forced 
draft unit, indoors; and
    = 100,000/[341,200(y<INF>P,H</INF>PE<INF>H</INF> (1-
Eff<INF>motor</INF>) + y<INF>IG,H</INF>PE<INF>IG</INF> + 
y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + (Q<INF>IN,M</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) 
Effy<INF>U,M</INF>] for induced draft unit, indoors
B<INF>M</INF> = 2Q<INF>P</INF> (Effy<INF>U,M</INF>) (A<INF>M</INF>)/
100,000
100,000 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 1,000 Btu/
kBtu
341,200 = conversion factor accounting for percent and 3412 Btu/h/kW
y<INF>P,H</INF> = 1 + (t<INF>p</INF>/t<INF>ON,H</INF>) for two-stage 
and step modulating boilers with post purge
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,H</INF> = t<INF>IG</INF>/t<INF>ON,H</INF>
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 8.3 of this appendix
y<INF>H</INF> = 1 + (t\+\)/t<INF>ON,H</INF> for two-stage and step 
modulating boilers with fan delay
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
Q<INF>IN,M</INF> = (100)(Q<INF>OUT,M</INF>/Effy<INF>SS,M</INF>)
Q<INF>OUT,M</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.9 or 11.5.8.9 of 
ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
Effy<INF>SS,M</INF> = value as defined in Section 11.4.8.7 or 
11.5.8.7 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Effy<INF>U,M</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.9.2.3 or 11.5.9.2.3 
of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, and calculated on the basis of:
    indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or
    outdoor installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
Eff<INF>motor</INF> = nameplate power burner motor efficiency 
provided by the manufacturer,
    = 0.50, an assumed default power burner efficiency if not 
provided by the manufacturer.

10.2.2 Average annual fuel energy consumption for gas or oil fueled 
boilers.
10.2.2.1 For boilers equipped with single-stage controls, the 
average annual fuel energy consumption (E<INF>F</INF>) is expressed 
in Btu per year and defined as:

E<INF>F</INF> = BOH<INF>SS</INF> (Q<INF>IN</INF>-Q<INF>P</INF>) + 
8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>SS</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017

[[Page 14657]]

Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
8,760 = total number of hours per year.

    10.2.2.2 For boilers equipped with either two-stage or step 
modulating controls, E<INF>F</INF> is defined as follows. For two-
stage control:

E<INF>F</INF> = 
(BOH<INF>H</INF>)(Q<INF>IN</INF>)+(BOH<INF>R</INF>)(Q<INF>IN,R</INF>)
+[8760-(BOH<INF>H</INF>+BOH<INF>R</INF>)]Q<INF>P</INF>

    For step-modulating control:

E<INF>F</INF> = 
(BOH<INF>M</INF>)(Q<INF>IN,M</INF>)+(BOH<INF>R</INF>)(Q<INF>IN,R</INF>
)+[8760-(BOH<INF>H</INF>+BOH<INF>R</INF>)]Q<INF>P</INF>
Where:

BOH<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
BOH<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
BOH<INF>M</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.4 of this appendix
Q<INF>IN</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
Q<INF>IN,R</INF> = as defined in Section 11.4.8.1.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 
103-2017
Q<INF>IN,M</INF> = as defined in Section 10.2.1.4 of this appendix
8,760 = total number of hours per year
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017.

    10.2.3 Average annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption 
for gas or oil-fueled boilers.
    10.2.3.1 For boilers equipped with single-stage controls, the 
average annual auxiliary electrical consumption (E<INF>AE</INF>) is 
expressed in kilowatt-hours and defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>SS</INF> (y<INF>P</INF> PE + y<INF>IG</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + yBE) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>SS</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
y<INF>P</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
PE = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
y<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
y = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
BE = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.7 of this appendix.

    10.2.3.2 For boilers equipped with two-stage controls, 
E<INF>AE</INF> is defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>R</INF> (y<INF>P,R</INF> PE<INF>R</INF> + 
y<INF>IG,R</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>R</INF>BE<INF>R</INF>) + 
BOH<INF>H</INF> (y<INF>P,H</INF> PE<INF>H</INF> + y<INF>IG,H</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
y<INF>P,R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
PE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
y<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
BE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
BOH<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
y<INF>P,H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
y<INF>IG,H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
y<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.7 of this appendix.

    10.2.3.3 For boilers equipped with step-modulating controls, 
E<INF>AE</INF> is defined as:

E<INF>AE</INF> = BOH<INF>R</INF> (y<INF>P,R</INF> PE<INF>R</INF> + 
y<INF>IG,R</INF> PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>R</INF> BE<INF>R</INF>) + 
BOH<INF>M</INF> (y<INF>P,H</INF> PE<INF>H</INF> + y<INF>IG,H</INF> 
PE<INF>IG</INF> + y<INF>H</INF>BE<INF>H</INF>) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

BOH<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
y<INF>P,R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
PE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
PE<INF>IG</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1 of this appendix
y<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.2 of this appendix
BE<INF>R</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the reduced fuel input rate
BOH<INF>M</INF> = as defined in 10.2.1.4 of this appendix
y<INF>P,H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
PE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
y<INF>IG,H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
y<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.1.3 of this appendix
BE<INF>H</INF> = as defined in section 8.2 of this appendix and 
measured at the maximum fuel input rate
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.7 of this appendix.

    10.3 Average annual electric energy consumption for electric 
boilers. For electric boilers, the average annual electrical energy 
consumption (E<INF>E</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-hours and 
defined as:

E<INF>E</INF> = 100 (2,080) (0.77) [Q<INF>OUT</INF>/(1 + [alpha])]/
(3412 AFUE) + E<INF>SO</INF>

Where:

100 = to express a percent as a decimal
2,080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.2.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
3412 = conversion factor from kilowatt-hours to Btu
AFUE = as defined in Section 11.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017, in 
percent, and calculated on the basis of:
    indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or
    outdoor installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.7 of this appendix.

    10.4 Energy factor.
    10.4.1 Energy factor for gas or oil boilers. Calculate the 
energy factor, EF, for gas or oil boilers defined as, in percent:

EF = (E<INF>F</INF> - 4,600 (Q<INF>P</INF>))(Effy<INF>HS</INF>)/
(E<INF>F</INF> + 3,412 (E<INF>AE</INF>))

Where:

E<INF>F</INF> = average annual fuel consumption as defined in 
section 10.2.2 of this appendix
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
Q<INF>P</INF> = pilot fuel input rate determined in accordance with 
Section 9.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 in Btu/h
Effy<INF>HS</INF> = annual fuel utilization efficiency as defined in 
Sections 11.2.11, 11.3.11, 11.4.11 or 11.5.11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017, in percent, and calculated on the basis of:
    indoor installation, for non-weatherized boilers; or
    outdoor installation, for boilers that are weatherized.
3,412 = conversion factor from kW to Btu/h
E<INF>AE</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.3 of this appendix.

10.4.2 Energy factor for electric boilers. The energy factor, EF, 
for electric boilers is defined as:
EF = AFUE

Where:

AFUE = annual fuel utilization efficiency as defined in section 10.3 
of this appendix, in percent.

    10.5 Average annual energy consumption for boilers located in a 
different geographic region of the United States and in buildings 
with different design heating requirements.
    10.5.1 Average annual fuel energy consumption for gas or oil-
fueled boilers located in a different geographic region of the 
United States and in buildings with different design heating 
requirements. For gas or oil-fueled boilers, the average annual fuel 
energy consumption for a specific geographic region and a specific 
typical design heating requirement (E<INF>FR</INF>) is expressed in 
Btu per year and defined as:

E<INF>FR</INF> = (E<INF>F</INF> - 8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>) (HLH/2,080) + 
8,760 Q<INF>P</INF>
Where:

E<INF>F</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.2 of this appendix
8,760 = as defined in section 10.2.2 of this appendix
Q<INF>P</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.11 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
HLH = heating load hours for a specific geographic region determined 
from the heating load hour map in Figure 1 of this appendix
2,080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix.


[[Page 14658]]


    10.5.2 Average annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption 
for gas or oil-fueled boilers located in a different geographic 
region of the United States and in buildings with different design 
heating requirements. For gas or oil-fueled boilers, the average 
annual auxiliary electrical energy consumption for a specific 
geographic region and a specific typical design heating requirement 
(E<INF>AER</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-hours and defined as:

E<INF>AER</INF> = (E<INF>AE</INF> - E<INF>SO</INF>) (HLH/2080) + 
E<INF>SOR</INF>

Where:

E<INF>AE</INF> = as defined in section 10.2.3 of this appendix
E<INF>SO</INF> = as defined in section 10.7 of this appendix
HLH = as defined in section 10.5.1 of this appendix
2,080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
E<INF>SOR</INF> = as defined in section 10.5.3 of this appendix.

    10.5.3 Average annual electric energy consumption for electric 
boilers located in a different geographic region of the United 
States and in buildings with different design heating requirements. 
For electric boilers, the average annual electric energy consumption 
for a specific geographic region and a specific typical design 
heating requirement (E<INF>ER</INF>) is expressed in kilowatt-hours 
and defined as:

E<INF>ER</INF> = 100 (0.77) [Q<INF>OUT</INF>/(1+[alpha])] HLH/(3.412 
AFUE) + E<INF>SOR</INF>

Where:

100 = as defined in section 10.2.3 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.2.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
HLH = as defined in section 10.5.1 of this appendix
3.412 = as defined in section 10.2.3 of this appendix
AFUE = as defined in section 10.2.3 of this appendix
E<INF>SOR</INF> = E<INF>SO</INF> as defined in section 10.7 of this 
appendix, except that in the equation for E<INF>SO</INF>, the term 
BOH is multiplied by the expression (HLH/2080) to get the 
appropriate regional accounting of standby mode and off mode loss.

    10.6 Direct determination of off-cycle losses for boilers 
equipped with thermal stack dampers. [Reserved]
    10.7 Average annual electrical standby mode and off mode energy 
consumption. Calculate the annual electrical standby mode and off 
mode energy consumption (E<INF>SO</INF>) in kilowatt-hours, defined 
as:

E<INF>SO</INF> = (P<INF>W,SB</INF> (4160 - BOH) + 4600 
P<INF>W,OFF</INF>) K

Where:

P<INF>W,SB</INF> = boiler standby mode power, in watts, as measured 
in section 8.9.1 of this appendix
4,160 = average heating season hours per year
BOH = total burner operating hours as calculated in section 10.2 of 
this appendix for gas or oil-fueled boilers. Where for gas or oil-
fueled boilers equipped with single-stage controls, BOH = 
BOH<INF>SS</INF>; for gas or oil-fueled boilers equipped with two-
stage controls, BOH = (BOH<INF>R</INF> + BOH<INF>H</INF>); and for 
gas or oil-fueled boilers equipped with step-modulating controls, 
BOH = (BOH<INF>R</INF> + BOH<INF>M</INF>). For electric boilers, BOH 
= 100(2080)(0.77)[Q<INF>OUT</INF>/(1+[alpha])]/(E<INF>in</INF> 
3412(AFUE))
4,600 = as defined in Section 11.4.12 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
P<INF>W,OFF</INF> = boiler off mode power, in watts, as measured in 
section 8.9.2 of this appendix
K = 0.001 kWh/Wh, conversion factor from watt-hours to kilowatt-
hours

Where:

100 = to express a percent as a decimal
2,080 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
0.77 = as defined in section 10.2.1.1 of this appendix
Q<INF>OUT</INF> = as defined in Section 11.2.8 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-
2017
[alpha] = as defined in Section 11.2.8.2 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
E<INF>in</INF> = steady-state electric rated power, in kilowatts, 
from Section 9.3 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017
3412 = as defined in section 10.3 of this appendix
AFUE = as defined in Section 11.1 of ANSI/ASHRAE 103-2017 in 
percent.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

[[Page 14659]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP15MR22.005

[FR Doc. 2022-04017 Filed 3-14-22; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C


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