[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 13, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 36732-36739]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2021-14836]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

[Case Number 2020-005; EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022]


Energy Conservation Program: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver 
to Vinotemp International Corp. From the Department of Energy Walk-In 
Coolers and Walk-In Freezers Test Procedure

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

ACTION: Notification of decision and order.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') gives notification of 
a Decision and Order (Case Number 2020-005) that grants to Vinotemp 
International Corp. (``Vinotemp'') a waiver from specified portions of 
the DOE test procedure for determining the energy efficiency of 
specified walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. Due to the design of 
the specific basic models of walk-in refrigeration systems subject to 
this Decision and Order, the current test procedure evaluates such 
models in a manner that is unrepresentative of their energy use. Under 
the Decision and Order, Vinotemp is required to test and rate the 
specified basic models of its walk-in cooler refrigeration systems in 
accordance with the alternate test procedure set forth in the Decision 
and Order.

DATES: The Decision and Order is effective on July 13, 2021. The 
Decision and Order will terminate upon the compliance date of any 
future amendment to the test procedure for walk-in coolers and walk-in 
freezers located at title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations 
(``CFR''), part 431, subpart R, appendix C that addresses the issues 
presented in this waiver. At such time, Vinotemp must use the relevant 
test procedure for this equipment for any testing to demonstrate 
compliance with the applicable standards, and any other representations 
of energy use.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 
20585-0121. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1b5a48444c7a726d7e6944497e6a6e7e686f685b7e7e357f747e357c746d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="ebaab8b4bc8a829d8e99b4b98e9a9e8e989f98ab8e8ec58f848ec58c849d">[email protected]</span></a>.
    Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General 
Counsel, Mail Stop GC-33, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue 
SW, Washington, DC 20585-0103. Telephone: (202) 586-8145. Email: 
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#5d10343e353c383173163439321d352c73393238733a322b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bdf0d4ded5dcd8d193f6d4d9d2fdd5cc93d9d2d893dad2cb">[email protected]</span></a>.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In accordance with Sec.  431.401(f)(2) of 
title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') (10 CFR 
431.401(f)(2)), DOE gives notification of the issuance of its Decision 
and Order as set forth below. The Decision and Order grants Vinotemp a 
waiver from the applicable test procedure at 10 CFR part 431, subpart 
R, appendix C for specified basic models of walk-in cooler 
refrigeration systems, and provides that Vinotemp must test and rate 
such walk-in cooler refrigeration systems using the alternate test 
procedure specified in the Decision and Order. Vinotemp's 
representations concerning the energy efficiency of the specified basic 
models must be based on testing according to the provisions and 
restrictions in the alternate test procedure set forth in the Decision 
and Order, and the representations must fairly disclose the test 
results. Distributors, retailers, and private labelers are held to the 
same requirements when making representations regarding the energy 
efficiency of these products. (42 U.S.C. 6314(d))
    Manufacturers not currently distributing equipment in commerce in 
the United States that employ a technology or characteristic that 
results in the same need for a waiver from the applicable test 
procedure must petition for and be granted a waiver prior to the 
distribution in commerce of that equipment in the United States. 
Manufacturers may also submit a request for interim waiver pursuant to 
the requirements of 10 CFR 431.401. (10 CFR 431.401(j))

Case # 2020-005

Decision and Order

I. Background and Authority

    The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\ 
authorizes the U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') to regulate the 
energy efficiency of a number of consumer products and certain 
industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317) Title III, Part C \2\ of 
EPCA established the Energy Conservation Program for Certain Industrial 
Equipment, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve 
the energy efficiency for certain types of industrial equipment. This 
equipment includes walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers (collectively, 
``walk-ins''), the focus of this document. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(G))
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    \1\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute 
as amended through the Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec. 
27, 2020).
    \2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code, 
Part C was redesignated as Part A-1.
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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 include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6311), test 
procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6315), 
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6313), and the authority to 
require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6316; 42 
U.S.C. 6299).
    The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that 
manufacturers of covered equipment must use as the basis for: (1) 
Certifying to DOE that their equipment complies with the applicable 
energy conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 
6316(a); 42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), and (2) making representations about the 
efficiency of that equipment (42 U.S.C. 6314(d)). Similarly, DOE must 
use these test procedures to determine whether the equipment complies 
with relevant standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a); 42 
U.S.C. 6295(s))
    Under 42 U.S.C. 6314, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures 
DOE is required to follow when prescribing or amending test procedures 
for covered walk-ins. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed 
or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce 
test results which reflect energy efficiency, energy use or estimated 
annual operating cost of walk-ins during a representative average use 
cycle and requires that test procedures not be unduly burdensome to 
conduct. (42 U.S.C.6314(a)(2)) The test procedure for walk-ins is set 
forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') at 10 CFR part 431, 
subpart R, appendix C, Uniform Test Method for the Measurement of Net 
Capacity and AWEF of Walk-in Cooler and Walk-in Freezer Refrigeration 
Systems (``Appendix C'').
    Any interested person may submit a petition for waiver from DOE's 
test procedure requirements. 10 CFR 431.401(a)(1). DOE will grant a 
waiver from the test procedure requirements if DOE determines either 
that the basic model for which the waiver was requested contains a 
design

[[Page 36733]]

characteristic that prevents testing of the basic model according to 
the prescribed test procedures, or that the prescribed test procedures 
evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true 
energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate 
comparative data. 10 CFR 431.401(f)(2). DOE may grant the waiver 
subject to conditions, including adherence to alternate test 
procedures. Id.
    As soon as practicable after the granting of any waiver, DOE will 
publish in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to 
amend its regulations so as to eliminate any need for the continuation 
of such waiver. 10 CFR 431.401(l). As soon thereafter as practicable, 
DOE will publish in the Federal Register a final rule to that effect. 
Id. When DOE amends the test procedure to address the issues presented 
in a waiver, the waiver will automatically terminate on the date on 
which use of that test procedure is required to demonstrate compliance. 
10 CFR 431.401(h)(3).

II. Vinotemp's Petition for Waiver: Assertions and Determinations

    DOE received correspondence from Vinotemp, docketed on June 29, 
2020, seeking an interim waiver from the DOE test procedure applicable 
to walk-ins set forth in Appendix C for certain basic models Vinotemp 
characterized as ``wine cellar'' systems. (Vinotemp, No. 1 \3\) By 
letter docketed on December 10, 2020, Vinotemp submitted a petition for 
waiver for certain basic models of walk-in cooler refrigeration systems 
to supplement its original interim waiver request (Vinotemp, No. 3).\4\ 
The December 10, 2020 submission also explicitly stated that none of 
the basic models could operate below 45 [deg]F and provided external 
static pressure (``ESP'') values for the subject basic models.\5\ 
Vinotemp included additional basic models and clarified the specified 
external static pressure values as maximum values (rather than tested 
values) for the specified basic models in an updated petition for 
interim waiver, received on March 11, 2021 (Vinotemp, No. 10). Vinotemp 
stated that the specified basic models of walk-in cooler refrigeration 
systems operate at a temperature range of 45 [deg]F to 65 [deg]F and 50 
to 70 percent relative humidity (``RH''), rather than the 35 [deg]F 
with less than 50 percent RH test conditions prescribed by the test 
procedure for walk-in cooler applications. Vinotemp stated that the 
units operate at temperature and relative humidity ranges optimized for 
long-term storage of wine, reflecting conditions in natural caves, and 
that they are usually located in air-conditioned spaces. Vinotemp 
asserted that the specified units cannot operate at 35 [deg]F.
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    \3\ A notation in the form ``Vinotemp, No. 1'' identifies a 
written submission: (1) Made by Vinotemp; and (2) recorded in 
document number 1 that is filed in the docket of this petition for 
waiver (Docket No. EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022) and available at 
www.regulations.gov.
    \4\ The waiver process under 10 CFR 431.401 requires that a 
petition for interim waiver must reference the related petition for 
waiver. (10 CFR 431.401(b)(2))
    \5\ The December 10, 2020 update was consistent with a letter 
from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute 
(``AHRI'') recommending that a 45 [deg]F minimum temperature be used 
for testing wine cellar cooling systems, and that testing be 
conducted at an external static pressure (``ESP'') value equal to 50 
percent of the maximum ESP to be specified by manufacturers for each 
basic model. The AHRI letter is available at Docket No. EERE-2020-
BT-WAV-0022-0002.
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    On May 4, 2021, DOE published a notification announcing its receipt 
of the petition for waiver and granted Vinotemp an interim waiver. 86 
FR 23692 (``Notification of Petition for Waiver''). In the Notification 
of Petition for Waiver, DOE noted that the ``Self-contained'' and 
``Self-packaged'' basic models of walk-in refrigeration systems 
identified by Vinotemp in its petition are self-contained, single-
package systems. Although not specifically addressed in Vinotemp's 
request for waiver, DOE notes that operating a wine cellar at the 35 
[deg]F condition would adversely mechanically alter the intended 
performance of the system, which would include icing of the evaporator 
coil that could potentially damage the compressor, and would not result 
in an accurate representation of the performance of the cooling unit. 
86 FR 23692, 23695. Additionally, although not explicitly identified by 
Vinotemp, DOE recognized that because of their single-package design, 
these basic models have insufficient space within the units and 
insufficient lengths of liquid line and evaporator outlet line for the 
dual mass flow meters (i.e., two independent meters) and the dual 
temperature and pressure measurements (i.e., two independent sets of 
measuring equipment) required by the test procedure's refrigerant 
enthalpy method. Id. AHRI 1250-2009 (``Standard for Performance Rating 
of Walk-in Coolers and Freezers'' \6\)--the industry testing standard 
on which DOE's test procedure is based--does not include specific 
provisions for testing single-package systems, and testing these basic 
models using the refrigerant enthalpy method as required by Appendix C 
would require extensive additional piping to route the pipes out of the 
system--where the components could be installed--and then back in. This 
additional piping would impact unit performance, would likely be 
inconsistent between test labs, and would result in unrepresentative 
test values for the unit under test. AHRI has published a revised 
version of the test standard that provides provisions for single-
package systems without requiring extensive additional piping (AHRI 
1250-2020, 2020 Standard for Performance Rating of Walk-in Coolers and 
Freezers).
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    \6\ This also includes the related Errata sheet published by 
AHRI, dated December 2015.
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    In the Notification of Petition for Waiver, DOE established an 
alternate test procedure that was a modified version of the alternate 
test procedure suggested by Vinotemp. 86 FR 23692, 23698-23700. The 
alternate test procedure prescribed in the Notification of Petition for 
Waiver is the same as the alternate test procedure established in other 
waivers and interim waivers granted by DOE for similarly situated 
equipment.\7\ Specifically, the required alternate test procedure 
establishes unit cooler air inlet conditions of 55 [deg]F and 55 
percent RH, specifies primary and secondary capacity measurement 
methods for single-package systems, requires testing at 50 percent of 
maximum external static pressure for ducted units, and defines wine 
cellar box load and evaporator cycle periods for calculation of Annual 
Walk-in Energy Factor (``AWEF'') for the specified basic models of 
walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. Id. DOE solicited comments from 
interested parties on all aspects of the petition and the modified 
alternate test procedure. Id.
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    \7\ See Notice of Decision and Order granting a waiver to 
Vinotheque (Case No. 2019-011; 86 FR 26504 (May 14, 2021); Notice of 
Decision and Order granting a waiver to CellarPro (Case No. 2019-
009; 86 FR 26496 (May 14, 2021); and Notice of Decision and Order 
granting a waiver to Air Innovations (Case No. 2019-010; 86 FR 23702 
(May 4, 2021).
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    DOE received one comment, which was submitted by the Pacific Gas 
and Electric Company, San Diego Gas and Electric, and Southern 
California Edison (collectively, ``the CA IOUs'').\8\ The CA IOUs 
stated their agreement with DOE that since the subject basic models are 
unable to operate below 45 [deg]F, there is limited opportunity for 
market confusion from labeling the products tested according to the 
test procedure waivers as walk-in coolers. (CA IOUs, No. 12)
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    \8\ Comment available in Docket No. EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022 at 
www.regulations.gov.
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    For the reasons explained here and in the Notification of Petition 
for Waiver, absent a waiver the basic models identified by Vinotemp in 
its petition

[[Page 36734]]

cannot be tested and rated for energy consumption on a basis 
representative of their true energy consumption characteristics. As 
noted previously, the alternate test procedure prescribed in the 
Interim Waiver modified Vinotemp's suggested alternate test procedure 
by including ESP provisions for certain systems that can be installed 
with (1) ducted evaporator air, (2) with or without ducted evaporator 
air, (3) ducted condenser air, or (4) with or without ducted condenser 
air. For such systems, testing is conducted at 50 percent of the 
maximum ESP specified by the manufacturer, subject to a tolerance of -
0.00/+0.05 inches of water column (``in. wc.''). (Vinotemp, No. 2)
    Selection of a representative ESP equal to half the maximum ESP is 
based on the expectation that most installations will require less than 
the maximum allowable duct length. In the absence of field data, DOE 
expects that a range of duct lengths from the minimal length to the 
maximum allowable length would be used; thus, half of the maximum ESP 
would be representative of most installations.
    If the basic model provides multiple condenser or unit cooler fan 
speed settings, the speed setting used is as instructed in the unit's 
installation instructions. However, if the installation instructions do 
not specify a fan speed setting for ducted installation, systems that 
can be installed with ducts would be tested with the highest available 
fan speed. The ESP is set for testing either by symmetrically 
restricting the outlet duct or, if using the indoor air enthalpy 
method, by adjusting the airflow measurement apparatus blower.
    The alternate test procedure also specifies the requirements for 
measuring ESP consistent with the provisions provided in AHRI 1250-2020 
when using the indoor air enthalpy method with unit coolers.
    Additionally, the alternate test procedure requires that specified 
basic models that are split systems must be tested as matched pairs. 
According to Vinotemp's petition, the walk-in refrigeration system 
basic models that are split-systems are sold as full systems (i.e., 
matched pairs) rather than as individual unit cooler and condensing 
unit components. This Order provides no direction regarding refrigerant 
line connection operating conditions, and as such is inapplicable to 
testing the basic models as individual components. Consequently, this 
Order addresses only matched-pair testing of the specified basic models 
that are split-systems.
    Contrary to Vinotemp's request, the Order does not modify the 
condenser air entering dry bulb temperature for outdoor condensers. 86 
FR 23692, 23697. Vinotemp had suggested a 90 [deg]F condenser air 
entering dry bulb temperature in its waiver request; however, the 
company did not provide technical justification for this request, and 
DOE has determined that outdoor wine cellar refrigeration units must be 
tested at 95 [deg]F, 59 [deg]F, and 35 [deg]F, consistent with the 
current DOE test procedure.
    For the reasons explained in the Notification of Petition for 
Waiver, the Order does not include a 0.55 correction factor in the 
alternate test procedure as suggested by Vinotemp. 86 FR 23692, 23697-
23698. The company had observed that the test procedure in appendix A 
to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 (``Appendix A''), which applies to 
miscellaneous refrigeration products, includes such a factor to adjust 
for average use, and sought to include such a factor as part of its 
petition. As explained in the Notice of Petition for Waiver, the 
closed-door conditions on which the miscellaneous refrigeration 
correction factor is based are not present in the test procedure for 
walk-in cooler refrigeration systems, and the referenced AHRI 1250-2009 
provisions assume a load factor of 50 percent, consistent with Appendix 
C. Id. As a result, applying the 0.55 correction factor as suggested by 
Vinotemp is not appropriate for the specified basic models.
    DOE is requiring that Vinotemp test and rate specified wine cellar 
walk-in refrigeration system basic models according to the alternate 
test procedure specified in this Decision and Order. This alternate 
procedure is a modified version of the one suggested by Vinotemp. The 
alternate test procedure required under this Order is the same 
alternate test procedure prescribed in the Interim Waiver Order.
    This Decision and Order applies only to the basic models listed and 
does not extend to any other basic models. DOE evaluates and grants 
waivers for only those basic models specifically set out in the 
petition, not future models that may be manufactured by the petitioner. 
Vinotemp may request that DOE extend the scope of this waiver to 
include additional basic models that employ the same technology as 
those listed in this waiver. 10 CFR 431.401(g). Vinotemp may also 
submit another petition for waiver from the test procedure for 
additional basic models that employ a different technology and meet the 
criteria for test procedure waivers. 10 CFR 431.401(a)(1).
    DOE notes that it may modify or rescind the waiver at any time upon 
DOE's determination that the factual basis underlying the petition for 
waiver is incorrect, or upon a determination that the results from the 
alternate test procedure are unrepresentative of the basic models' true 
energy consumption characteristics. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(1). Likewise, 
Vinotemp may request that DOE rescind or modify the waiver if the 
company discovers an error in the information provided to DOE as part 
of its petition, determines that the waiver is no longer needed, or for 
other appropriate reasons. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2).
    As set forth previously, the test procedure specified in this 
Decision and Order is not the same as the test procedure suggested by 
Vinotemp. If Vinotemp believes that the alternate test method it 
suggested provides representative results and is less burdensome than 
the test method required by this Decision and Order, Vinotemp may 
submit a request for modification under 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2) that 
addresses the concerns that DOE has specified with that procedure. 
Vinotemp may also submit another less burdensome alternative test 
procedure not expressly considered in this notification under the same 
provision.

III. Order

    After careful consideration of all the material that was submitted 
by Vinotemp, the various public-facing materials (e.g., marketing 
materials, product specification sheets, and installation manuals) for 
the units identified in the petition, information provided by Vinotemp 
and other wine cellar walk-in refrigeration system manufacturers in 
meetings with DOE, and the comment received, in this matter, it is 
ordered that:
    (1) Vinotemp must, as of the date of publication of this Order in 
the Federal Register, test and rate the following Wine Mate-branded 
wine cellar walk-in cooler refrigeration system basic models with the 
alternate test procedure as set forth in paragraph (2):

[[Page 36735]]



                          Vinotemp Basic Models
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          Brand name              Configuration       Basic model No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-2500HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-4500HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-6500HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-8500HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-4510HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-6510HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-8510HZD.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-4500DS.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-6500DS.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-8500DS.
Wine Mate.....................  Single-Packaged..  WM-12030DS.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSA.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSD.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSH.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSL.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSI.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSO.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSR.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSV.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-2500SSW.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSA.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSD.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSH.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSL.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSI.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSO.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSR.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSS.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSV.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-4500SSW.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSA.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSD.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSH.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSL.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSR.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-6500SSV.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-8500SSA.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-8500SSD.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-8500SSH.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-8500SSL.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-8500SSS.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-12000SSA.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-12000SSD.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-12000SSH.
Wine Mate.....................  Matched..........  WM-12000SSS.
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    (2) The alternate test procedure for the Vinotemp basic models 
listed in paragraph (1) of this Order is the test procedure for Walk-in 
Cooler Refrigeration Systems prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR part 431, 
subpart R, appendix C, (``Appendix C to Subpart R'') with the 
modifications provided below. All other requirements of Appendix C and 
DOE's other relevant regulations remain applicable.
    In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.1.1 (which specifies 
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
431.303)) to read:

    3.1.1. In Table 1, Instrumentation Accuracy, refrigerant 
temperature measurements shall have an accuracy of <plus-minus>0.5 
[deg]F for unit cooler in/out. Measurements used to determine 
temperature or water vapor content of the air (i.e., wet bulb or dew 
point) shall be accurate to within <plus-minus>0.25 [deg]F; all 
other temperature measurements shall be accurate to within <plus-
minus>1.0 [deg]F.

    In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.1.4 (which specifies 
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009) and add modifications of AHRI 1250-
2009 Tables 3 and 4 to read:

    3.1.4. In Tables 3 and 4 of AHRI 1250-2009, Section 5, the 
Condenser Air Entering Wet-Bulb Temperature requirement applies only 
to single-packaged dedicated systems. Tables 3 and 4 shall be 
modified to read:

[[Page 36736]]



                Table 3--Fixed Capacity Matched Refrigerator System and Single-Packaged Dedicated System, Condensing Unit Located Indoor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Unit cooler
                                       Unit cooler    air entering    Condenser air      Maximum
          Test description            air entering      relative      entering dry-   condenser air       Compressor status           Test objective
                                        dry-bulb,     humidity, % 1   bulb, [deg]F    entering wet-
                                         [deg]F                                       bulb, [deg]F
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evaporator Fan Power...............              55              55  ..............  ..............  ...........................  Measure fan input
                                                                                                                                   wattage \2\.
Refrigeration Capacity.............              55              55              90          \3\ 65  Compressor On..............  Determine Net
                                                                                                                                   Refrigeration
                                                                                                                                   Capacity of Unit
                                                                                                                                   Cooler, input power,
                                                                                                                                   and EER at Rating
                                                                                                                                   Condition.
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Notes:
\1\ The test condition tolerance (maximum permissible variation of the average value of the measurement from the specified test condition) for relative
  humidity is 3%.
\2\ Measure fan input wattage either by measuring total system power when the compressor and condenser are turned off or by separately submetering the
  evaporator fan.
\3\ Maximum allowable value for Single-Packaged Systems that do not use evaporative Dedicated Condensing Units, where all or part of the equipment is
  located in the outdoor room.


                Table 4--Fixed Capacity Matched Refrigerator System and Single-Packaged Dedicated System, Condensing Unit Located Outdoor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Unit cooler
                                       Unit cooler    air entering    Condenser air      Maximum
          Test description            air  entering     relative      entering dry-   condenser air       Compressor status           Test objective
                                        dry-bulb,      humidity, %    bulb, [deg]F    entering wet-
                                         [deg]F            \1\                        bulb, [deg]F
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evaporator Fan Power...............              55              55  ..............  ..............  ...........................  Measure fan input
                                                                                                                                   wattage \2\.
Refrigeration Capacity A...........              55              55              95          \3\ 68  Compressor On..............  Determine Net
                                                                                                                                   Refrigeration
                                                                                                                                   Capacity of Unit
                                                                                                                                   Cooler, input power,
                                                                                                                                   and EER at Rating
                                                                                                                                   Condition.
Refrigeration Capacity B...........              55              55              59          \3\ 46  Compressor On..............  Determine Net
                                                                                                                                   Refrigeration
                                                                                                                                   Capacity of Unit
                                                                                                                                   Cooler and system
                                                                                                                                   input power at
                                                                                                                                   moderate condition.
Refrigeration Capacity C...........              55              55              35          \3\ 29  Compressor On..............  Determine Net
                                                                                                                                   Refrigeration
                                                                                                                                   Capacity of Unit
                                                                                                                                   Cooler and system
                                                                                                                                   input power at cold
                                                                                                                                   condition.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The test condition tolerance (maximum permissible variation of the average value of the measurement from the specified test condition) for relative
  humidity is 3%.
\2\ Measure fan input wattage either by measuring total system power when the compressor and condenser are turned off or by separately submetering the
  evaporator fan.
\3\ Maximum allowable value for Single-Packaged Dedicated Systems that do not use evaporative Dedicated Condensing Units, where all or part of the
  equipment is located in the outdoor room.

    In Appendix C to Subpart R, following section 3.2.5 (instructions 
regarding modifications to AHRI 1250-2009), add sections 3.2.6 and 
3.2.7 to read:

    3.2.6 The purpose in section C1 of appendix C is modified by 
extending it to include Single-Packaged Dedicated Systems.
    3.2.7 For general test conditions and data recording (appendix 
C, section C7), the test acceptance criteria in Table 2 and the data 
to be recorded in Table C2 apply to the Dual Instrumentation and 
Calibrated Box methods of test.

    In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.3 to read:

    3.3. Matched systems, single-packaged dedicated systems, and 
unit coolers tested alone: Test any split system wine cellar walk-in 
refrigeration system as a matched pair. Any condensing unit or unit 
cooler component must be matched with a corresponding counterpart 
for testing. Use the test method in AHRI 1250-2009 (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  431.303), appendix C as the method of test for 
matched refrigeration systems, single-packaged dedicated systems, or 
unit coolers tested alone, with the following modifications:
* * * * *
    In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise sections 3.3.3 through 3.3.3.2 
to read:

    3.3.3 Evaporator fan power.
    3.3.3.1 The unit cooler fan power consumption shall be measured 
in accordance with the requirements in Section C3.5 of AHRI 1250-
2009. This measurement shall be made with the fan operating at full 
speed, either measuring unit cooler or total system power input upon 
the completion of the steady state test when the compressors and 
condenser fan of the walk-in system is turned off, or by submetered 
measurement of the evaporator fan power during the steady state 
test.

[[Page 36737]]

    Section C3.5 of AHRI 1250-2009 is revised to read:
    Unit Cooler Fan Power Measurement. The following shall be 
measured and recorded during a fan power test.

EFcomp,on Total electrical power input to fan motor(s) of Unit 
Cooler, W
FS Fan speed (s), rpm
N Number of motors
P<INF>b</INF> Barometric pressure, in. Hg
T<INF>db</INF> Dry-bulb temperature of air at inlet, [deg]F
T<INF>wb</INF> Wet-bulb temperature of air at inlet, [deg]F
V Voltage of each phase, V

    For a given motor winding configuration, the total power input 
shall be measured at the highest nameplated voltage. For three-phase 
power, voltage imbalance shall be no more than 2%.
    3.3.3.2 Evaporator fan power for the off-cycle is equal to the 
on-cycle evaporator fan power with a run time of ten percent of the 
off-cycle time.

EFcomp,off = 0.1 x EFcomp,on

    In Appendix C to Subpart R, following section 3.3.7.2, add new 
sections 3.3.8, 3.3.9, and 3.3.10 to read:

    3.3.8. Measure power and capacity of single-packaged dedicated 
systems as described in sections C4.1.2 and C9 of AHRI 1250-2020. 
The third and fourth sentences of Section C9.1.1.1 of AHRI 1250-2020 
(``Entering air is to be sufficiently dry as to not produce frost on 
the Unit Cooler coil. Therefore, only sensible capacity measured by 
dry bulb change shall be used to calculate capacity.'') shall not 
apply.
    3.3.9. For systems with ducted evaporator air, or that can be 
installed with or without ducted evaporator air: Connect ductwork on 
both the inlet and outlet connections and determine external static 
pressure as described in ASHRAE 37-2009, sections 6.4 and 6.5. Use 
pressure measurement instrumentation as described in ASHRAE 37-2009 
section 5.3.2. Test at the fan speed specified in manufacturer 
installation instructions--if there is more than one fan speed 
setting and the installation instructions do not specify which speed 
to use, test at the highest speed. Conduct tests with the external 
static pressure equal to 50 percent of the maximum external static 
pressure allowed by the manufacturer for system installation within 
a tolerance of -0.00/+0.05 in. wc. If testing with the indoor air 
enthalpy method, adjust the airflow measurement apparatus fan to set 
the external static pressure--otherwise, set the external static 
pressure by symmetrically restricting the outlet of the test duct. 
In case of conflict, these requirements for setting evaporator 
airflow take precedence over airflow values specified in 
manufacturer installation instructions or product literature.
    3.3.10. For systems with ducted condenser air, or that can be 
installed with or without ducted condenser air: Connect ductwork on 
both the inlet and outlet connections and determine external static 
pressure as described in ASHRAE 37-2009, sections 6.4 and 6.5. Use 
pressure measurement instrumentation as described in ASHRAE 37-2009 
section 5.3.2. Test at the fan speed specified in manufacturer 
installation instructions--if there is more than one fan speed 
setting and the installation instructions do not specify which speed 
to use, test at the highest speed. Conduct tests with the external 
static pressure equal to 50 percent of the maximum external static 
pressure allowed by the manufacturer for system installation within 
a tolerance of -0.00/+0.05 in. wc. If testing with the outdoor 
enthalpy method, adjust the airflow measurement apparatus fan to set 
the external static pressure--otherwise, set the external static 
pressure by symmetrically restricting the outlet of the test duct. 
In case of conflict, these requirements for setting condenser 
airflow take precedence over airflow values specified in 
manufacturer installation instructions or product literature. If 
testing using the outdoor air enthalpy method, the requirements of 
section 8.6 of ASHRAE 37-2009 are not applicable.

    In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.3.6 (which specifies 
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009) to read:

    3.3.6. AWEF is calculated on the basis that walk-in box load is 
equal to half of the system net capacity, without variation 
according to high and low load periods and without variation with 
outdoor air temperature for outdoor refrigeration systems, and the 
test must be done as a matched or single-package refrigeration 
system, as follows:
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

[[Page 36738]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN13JY21.005


Where:

BL is the non-equipment-related box load
LF is the load factor
And other symbols are as defined in AHRI 1250-2009.

    (3) Representations. Vinotemp may not make representations about 
the efficiency of a basic model listed in paragraph (1) of this Order 
for compliance, marketing, or other purposes unless the basic model has 
been tested in accordance with the provisions set forth above and such 
representations fairly disclose the results of such testing.
    (4) This waiver shall remain in effect according to the provisions 
of 10 CFR 431.401.
    (5) This Order is issued on the condition that the statements, 
representations, and information provided by Vinotemp are valid. If 
Vinotemp makes any modifications to the controls or configurations of a 
basic model subject to this Order, such modifications will render the 
waiver invalid with respect to that basic model, and Vinotemp will 
either be required to use the current Federal test method or submit a 
new application for a test procedure waiver. DOE may rescind or modify 
this waiver at any time if it determines the factual basis underlying 
the petition for waiver is incorrect, or the results from the alternate 
test procedure are unrepresentative of a basic model's true energy 
consumption characteristics. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(1). Likewise, Vinotemp 
may request that DOE rescind or modify the waiver if Vinotemp discovers 
an error in the information provided to DOE as part of its petition, 
determines that the waiver is no longer needed, or for other 
appropriate reasons. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2).
    (6) Vinotemp remains obligated to fulfill any applicable 
requirements set forth at 10 CFR part 429.
    DOE makes decisions on waivers and interim waivers for only those 
basic models specifically set out in the petition, not future models 
that may be manufactured by the petitioner. Vinotemp may submit a new 
or amended petition for waiver and request for grant of interim waiver, 
as appropriate, for additional basic models of walk-in cooler 
refrigeration systems. Alternatively, if appropriate, Vinotemp may 
request that DOE extend the scope of a waiver or an interim waiver to 
include additional basic models employing the same technology as the 
basic model(s) set forth in the original petition consistent with 10 
CFR 431.401(g).

Signing Authority

    This document of the Department of Energy was signed on July 7, 
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary 
and Acting 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

[[Page 36739]]

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 July 8, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021-14836 Filed 7-12-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C


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