[House Report 119-417]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office]
119th Congress } { Report
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
1st Session } { 119-417
=======================================================================
SAVING HOMEOWNERS FROM OVERREGULATION WITH
EXCEPTIONAL RINSING ACT
----------------
December 30, 2025.--Committed to the Committee of the Whole House on
the State of the Union and ordered to be printed
----------------
Mr. Guthrie, from the Committee on Energy and Commerce,
submitted the following
R E P O R T
together with
MINORITY VIEWS
[To accompany H.R. 4593]
The Committee on Energy and Commerce, to whom was referred
the bill (H.R. 4593) to amend the Energy Policy and
Conservation Act to revise the definition of showerhead, having
considered the same, reports favorably thereon without
amendment and recommends that the bill do pass.
CONTENTS
Page
Purpose and Summary.............................................. 2
Background and Need for Legislation.............................. 2
Committee Action................................................. 3
Committee Votes.................................................. 3
Oversight Findings and Recommendations........................... 5
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority, and Tax Expenditures 5
Congressional Budget Office Estimate............................. 5
Federal Mandates Statement....................................... 5
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives............ 5
Duplication of Federal Programs.................................. 5
Related Committee and Subcommittee Hearings...................... 5
Committee Cost Estimate.......................................... 6
Earmark, Limited Tax Benefits, and Limited Tariff Benefits....... 7
Advisory Committee Statement..................................... 7
Applicability to Legislative Branch.............................. 7
Section-by-Section Analysis of the Legislation................... 7
Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported............ 7
Minority, Additional, or Dissenting Views........................ 26
Purpose and Summary
H.R. 4593, the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With
Exceptional Rinsing (SHOWER) Act, was introduced by
Representative Fry on July 22, 2025, and referred to the
Committee on Energy and Commerce on July 22, 2025. H.R. 4593
would codify the definition of a showerhead to be consistent
with the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME)
A112.18.1-2024 standard.
Background and Need for Legislation
On December 12, 1975, the Energy Policy and Conservation
Act (EPCA) was signed into law.\1\ This substantial piece of
legislation had sweeping impacts across all corners of the
energy sector, including energy production, demand, and
efficiency. As it relates to energy efficiency, the law
established federal policies regulating energy and water
consuming appliances such as stoves, dishwashers, and hot water
heaters. The statute also regulates and defines a showerhead
as, ``any showerheads (including a handheld showerhead), except
a safety shower showerhead.''\2\
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\1\Pub. L. No. 94-163.
\2\42 U.S. Code Sec. 6291(31)(D).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Along with defining the appliances that are to be
regulated, EPCA sets minimum efficiency standards for energy
and water usage of covered appliances. EPCA was later amended
by the 1992 Energy Policy Act,\3\ which among other things, set
water usage standards for showerheads. Under current law, the
showerhead water usage standard is set as the ``maximum water
use allowed for any showerhead manufactured after January 1,
1994, is 2.5 gallons per minute when measured at a flowing
water pressure of 80 pounds per square inch.''\4\
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\3\42 U.S.C. Sec. 13201.
\4\42 U.S. Code Sec. 6295(j)(1).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
While these standards and definitions are simple, the Obama
Administration changed the traditional regulatory
interpretation of the statute by clarifying that the 2.5
gallons per minute standard applied to the entire shower
system, rather than an individual faucet, meaning that a shower
system with more than one faucet would have a lower overall
flowrate to individual showerheads.\5\ Given this unorthodox
interpretation of the statute, the definition and subsequent
standards have changed between administrations. Most recently,
the Trump Administration returned the definition and standard
back to how the law was originally intended by Congress in the
1992 Energy Policy Act.\6\
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\5\78 Fed. Reg. 62970 (Oct. 23, 2025), ``Energy Conservation
Program for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial and Industrial
Equipment: Test Procedures for Showerheads, Faucets, Water Closets,
Urinals, and Commercial Prerinse Spray Valves.''
\6\Press Release, The White House, Fact Sheet: President Donald J.
Trump Makes America's Showers Great Again, (April 9, 2025) https://
www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/04/fact-sheet-president-donald-j-
trump-makes-americas-showers-great-again/.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
While returning to the intended definition of a showerhead
is a step in the right direction, achieving this by executive
action exposes the matter to future changes. As a result, the
Committee finds it necessary to codify a clear definition of a
showerhead to prevent a constantly changing definition.
H.R. 4593 aims to restore predictability and certainty to
the industry by codifying the definition of a showerhead and
preventing novel political interpretations with every new
administration. The clarification of the definition provides
clarity for manufacturers, improves consumer experience, and
codifies Congress's original intent.
Committee Action
On September 16, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
legislative hearing on H.R. 4593. The Subcommittee received
testimony from:
Jeff Novak, Acting General Counsel and
Principal Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Department of
Energy;
George Lowe, Vice President of Governmental
Affairs and Public Policy, American Gas Association;
Jennifer Cleary, Vice President of
Regulatory Affairs, Association of Home Appliance
Manufacturers;
Brian Tebbenkamp, President and Owner,
Patriot Homes Inc; and
Andrew deLaski, Executive Director,
Appliance Standards Awareness Project.
On November 19, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy met in
open markup session and forwarded H.R. 4593, without amendment,
to the full Committee by a record vote of 17 yeas and 14 nays.
On December 3, 2025, the full Committee on Energy and
Commerce met in open markup session and ordered H.R. 4593,
without amendment, favorably reported to the House by a record
vote of 28 yeas and 20 nays.
Committee Votes
Clause 3(b) of rule XIII requires the Committee to list the
record votes on the motion to report legislation and amendments
thereto. The following reflects the record votes taken during
the Committee consideration:
[GRAPHIC(S) NOT AVAILABLE IN TIFF FORMAT]
Oversight Findings and Recommendations
Pursuant to clause 2(b)(1) of rule X and clause 3(c)(1) of
rule XIII, the Committee held hearings and made findings that
are reflected in this report.
New Budget Authority, Entitlement Authority, and Tax Expenditures
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(2) of rule XIII, the Committee
finds that H.R. 4593 would result in no new or increased budget
authority, entitlement authority, or tax expenditures or
revenues.
Congressional Budget Office Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(3) of rule XIII, at the time this
report was filed, the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974 was not available.
Federal Mandates Statement
The Committee adopts as its own the estimate of Federal
mandates prepared by the Director of the Congressional Budget
Office pursuant to section 423 of the Unfunded Mandates Reform
Act.
Statement of General Performance Goals and Objectives
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(4) of rule XIII, the general
performance goal or objective of this legislation is to codify
the definition of showerhead as having the meaning given such
term in ASME A112.18.1-2024.
Duplication of Federal Programs
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(5) of rule XIII, no provision of
H.R. 4593 is known to be duplicative of another Federal
program, including any program that was included in a report to
Congress pursuant to section 21 of Public Law 111-139 or the
most recent Catalog of Federal Domestic Assistance.
Related Committee and Subcommittee Hearings
Pursuant to clause 3(c)(6) of rule XIII, the following
related hearings were used to develop or consider H.R. 4593:
On February 5, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
hearing on H.R. 4593. The title of the hearing was ``Powering
America's Future: Unleashing American Energy.'' The
Subcommittee received testimony from:
Amanda Eversole, Executive Vice President
and Chief Advocacy Officer, American Petroleum
Institute;
Brigham McCown, Senior Fellow and Director,
Initiative on American Energy Security, The Hudson
Institute;
Gary Arnold, Business Manager, Denver
Pipefitters Local 208; and
Tyler O'Conner, Partner, Crowell & Moring
LLP.
On March 5, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy held a hearing
on H.R. 4593. The title of the hearing was ``Scaling for
Growth: Meeting the Demand for Reliable, Affordable
Electricity.'' The Subcommittee received testimony from:
Todd Brickhouse, CEO and General Manager,
Basin Electric Power Cooperative;
Asim Z. Haque, Senior Vice President for
Governmental and Member Servies, PJM;
Noel W. Black, Senior Vice President of
Regulatory Affairs, Southern Company; and
Tyler H. Norris, James B. Duke Fellow, Duke
University.
On February 26, 2025, the Subcommittee on Oversight and
Investigations held a hearing on H.R. 4593. The title of the
hearing was ``Examining the Biden Administration's Energy and
Environment Spending Push.'' The Subcommittee received
testimony from:
Johnathan Black, Chief Advisor for Strategic
Planning and Program Oversight, Office of Inspector
General, U.S. Department of Energy;
J. Alfredo Gomez, Director, Natural
Resources and Environment team, U.S. Government
Accountability Office;
Nicole Murley, Acting Inspector General,
Office of Inspector General, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency; and
Frank Rusco, Director, Natural Resources and
Environment team, U.S. Government Accountability
Office.
On September 9, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
hearing on H.R. 4593. The title of the hearing was ``Building
the American Dream: Examining Affordability, Choice, and
Security in Appliance and Buildings Policies.'' The
Subcommittee received testimony from:
Buddy Hughes, Chairman, National Association
of Home Builders;
Ben Lieberman, Senior Fellow, Competitive
Enterprise Institute;
Jim Steffes, Senior Vice President of
Regulatory Affairs, Washington Gas; and
Kara Saul-Rinaldi, Chief Policy Officer,
Building Performance Association.
On September 16, 2025, the Subcommittee on Energy held a
legislative hearing on H.R. 4593. The title of the hearing was
``Appliance and Buildings Policies: Restoring the American
Dream of Home Ownership and Consumer Choice.'' The Subcommittee
received testimony from:
Jeff Novak, Acting General Counsel and
Principal Deputy General Counsel, U.S. Department of
Energy;
George Lowe, Vice President of Governmental
Affairs and Public Policy, American Gas Association;
Jennifer Cleary, Vice President of
Regulatory Affairs, Association of Home Appliance
Manufacturers;
Brian Tebbenkamp, President and Owner,
Patriot Homes Inc.; and
Andrew deLaski, Executive Director,
Appliance Standards Awareness Project.
Committee Cost Estimate
Pursuant to clause 3(d)(1) of rule XIII, the Committee
adopts as its own the cost estimate prepared by the Director of
the Congressional Budget Office pursuant to section 402 of the
Congressional Budget Act of 1974. At the time this report was
filed, the estimate was not available.
Earmark, Limited Tax Benefits, and Limited Tariff Benefits
Pursuant to clause 9(e), 9(f), and 9(g) of rule XXI, the
Committee finds that H.R. 4593 contains no earmarks, limited
tax benefits, or limited tariff benefits.
Advisory Committee Statement
No advisory committees within the meaning of section 5(b)
of the Federal Advisory Committee Act were created by this
legislation.
Applicability to Legislative Branch
The Committee finds that the legislation does not relate to
the terms and conditions of employment or access to public
services or accommodations within the meaning of section
102(b)(3) of the Congressional Accountability Act.
Section-by-Section Analysis of the Legislation
Section 1: Short title
Section 1 provides a short title of ``Saving Homeowners
from Overregulation With Exceptional Rinsing'' or the ``SHOWER
Act.''
Section 2: Revised definition of showerhead
Section 2 amends Section 321(31)(D) of the Energy Policy
and Conservation Act to define the term ``showerhead'' as
having the meaning given such term in the ASME A112.81.1-2024
definition, excluding safety shower showerheads. This section
also directs the Secretary of Energy to promulgate revisions to
existing regulations as necessary in order to conform
regulations to the new definition of a showerhead as amended by
this legislation.
Changes in Existing Law Made by the Bill, as Reported
In compliance with clause 3(e) of rule XIII of the Rules of
the House of Representatives, changes in existing law made by
the bill, as reported, are shown as follows (existing law
proposed to be omitted is enclosed in black brackets, new
matter is printed in italics, and existing law in which no
change is proposed is shown in roman):
ENERGY POLICY AND CONSERVATION ACT
* * * * * * *
TITLE III--IMPROVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY
* * * * * * *
Part B--Energy Conservation Program for Consumer
Products Other Than Automobiles
definitions
Sec. 321. For purposes of this part:
(1) The term ``consumer product'' means any article
(other than an automobile, as defined in section
32901(a)(3) of title 49, United States Code) of a
type--
(A) which in operation consumes, or is
designed to consume, energy or, with respect to
showerheads, faucets, water closets, and
urinals, water; and
(B) which, to any significant extent, is
distributed in commerce for personal use or
consumption by individuals;
without regard to whether such article of such type is
in fact distributed in commerce for personal use or
consumption by an individual, except that such term
includes fluorescent lamp ballasts, general service
fluorescent lamps, incandescent reflector lamps,
showerheads, faucets, water closets, and urinals
distributed in commerce for personal or commercial use
or consumption.
(2) The term ``covered product'' means a consumer
product of a type specified in section 322.
(3) The term ``energy'' means electricity, or fossil
fuels. The Secretary may, by rule, include other fuels
within the meaning of the term ``energy'' if he
determines that such inclusion is necessary or
appropriate to carry out the purposes of this Act.
(4) The term ``energy use'' means the quantity of
energy directly consumed by a consumer product at point
of use, determined in accordance with test procedures
under section 323.
(5) The term ``energy efficiency'' means the ratio of
the useful output of services from a consumer product
to the energy use of such product, determined in
accordance with test procedures under section 323.
(6) The term ``energy conservation standard'' means--
(A) a performance standard which prescribes a
minimum level of energy efficiency or a maximum
quantity of energy use, or, in the case of
showerheads, faucets, water closets, and
urinals, water use, for a covered product,
determined in accordance with test procedures
prescribed under section 323; or
(B) a design requirement for the products
specified in paragraphs (6), (7), (8), (10),
(15), (16), (17), and (20) of section 322(a);
and
includes any other requirements which the Secretary may
prescribe under section 325(r).
(7) The term ``estimated annual operating cost''
means the aggregate retail cost of the energy which is
likely to be consumed annually, and in the case of
showerheads, faucets, water closets, and urinals, the
aggregate retail cost of water and wastewater treatment
services likely to be incurred annually, in
representative use of a consumer product, determined in
accordance with section 323.
(8) The term ``measure of energy consumption'' means
energy use, energy efficiency, estimated annual
operating cost, or other measure of energy consumption.
(9) The term ``class of covered products'' means a
group of covered products, the functions or intended
uses of which are similar (as determined by the
Secretary).
(10) The term ``manufacture'' means to manufacture,
produce, assemble, or import.
(11) The terms ``import'' and ``importation'' mean to
import in to the customs territory of the United
States.
(12) The term ``manufacturer'' means any person who
manufactures a consumer product.
(13) The term ``retailer'' means a person to whom a
consumer product is delivered or sold, if such delivery
or sale is for purposes of sale or distribution in
commerce to purchasers who buy such product for
purposes other than resale.
(14) The term ``distributor'' means a person (other
than a manufacturer or retailer) to whom a consumer
product is delivered or sold for purposes of
distribution in commerce.
(15)(A) The term ``private labeler'' means an owner
of a brand or trademark on the label of a consumer
product which bears a private label.
(B) A consumer product bears a private label if (i)
such product (or its container) is labeled with the
brand or trademark of a person other than a
manufacturer of such product, (ii) the person with
whose brand or trademark such product (or container) is
labeled has authorized or caused such product to be so
labeled, and (iii) the brand or trademark of a
manufacturer of such product does not appear on such
label.
(16) The term ``to distribute in commerce'' and
``distribution in commerce'' mean to sell in commerce,
to import, to introduce or deliver for introduction
into commerce, or to hold for sale or distribution
after introduction into commerce.
(17) The term ``commerce'' means trade, traffic,
commerce, or transportation--
(A) between a place in a State and any place
outside thereof, or
(B) which affects trade, traffic, commerce,
or transportation described in subparagraph
(A).
(18) The term ``Commission'' means the Federal Trade
Commission.
(19) The term ``AV'' is the adjusted volume for
refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and freezers, as
defined in the applicable test procedure prescribed
under section 323.
(20) The term ``annual fuel utilization efficiency''
means the efficiency descriptor for furnaces and
boilers, determined using test procedures prescribed
under section 323 and based on the assumption that
all--
(A) weatherized warm air furnaces or boilers
are located out-of-doors;
(B) warm air furnaces which are not
weatherized are located indoors and all
combustion and ventilation air is admitted
through grills or ducts from the outdoors and
does not communicate with air in the
conditioned space; and
(C) boilers which are not weatherized are
located within the heated space.
(21) The term ``central air conditioner'' means a
product, other than a packaged terminal air
conditioner, which--
(A) is powered by single phase electric
current;
(B) is air-cooled;
(C) is rated below 65,000 Btu per hour;
(D) is not contained within the same cabinet
as a furnace the rated capacity of which is
above 225,000 Btu per hour; and
(E) is a heat pump or a cooling only unit.
(22) The term ``efficiency descriptor'' means the
ratio of the useful output to the total energy input,
determined using the test procedures prescribed under
section 323 and expressed for the following products in
the following terms:
(A) For furnaces and direct heating
equipment, annual fuel utilization efficiency.
(B) For room air conditioners, energy
efficiency ratio.
(C) For central air conditioning and central
air conditioning heat pumps, seasonal energy
efficiency ratio.
(D) For water heaters, energy factor.
(E) For pool heaters, thermal efficiency.
(23) The term ``furnace'' means 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--
(A) is designed to be the principal heating
source for the living space of a residence;
(B) is not contained within the same cabinet
with a central air conditioner whose rated
cooling capacity is above 65,000 Btu per hour;
(C) is an electric central furnace, electric
boiler, forced-air central furnace, gravity
central furnace, or low pressure steam or hot
water boiler; and
(D) 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.
(24) The terms ``heat pump'' or ``reverse cycle''
mean a product, other than a packaged terminal heat
pump, which--
(A) consists of one or more assemblies;
(B) is powered by single phase electric
current;
(C) is rated below 65,000 Btu per hour;
(D) utilizes an indoor conditioning coil,
compressors, and refrigerant-to-outdoor-air
heat exchanger to provide air heating; and
(E) may also provide air cooling,
dehumidifying, humidifying circulating, and air
cleaning.
(25) The term ``pool heater'' means an appliance
designed for heating nonpotable water contained at
atmospheric pressure, including heating water in
swimming pools, spas, hot tubs and similar
applications.
(26) The term ``thermal efficiency of pool heaters''
means a measure of the heat in the water delivered at
the heater outlet divided by the heat input of the pool
heater as measured under test conditions specified in
section 2.8.1 of the American National Standard for Gas
Fired Pool Heaters, Z21.56-1986, or as may be
prescribed by the Secretary.
(27) The term ``water heater'' means a product which
utilizes oil, gas, or electricity to heat potable water
for use outside the heater upon demand, including--
(A) storage type units which heat and store
water at a thermostatically controlled
temperature, including gas storage water
heaters with an input of 75,000 Btu per hour or
less, oil storage water heaters with an input
of 105,000 Btu per hour or less, and electric
storage water heaters with an input of 12
kilowatts or less;
(B) instantaneous type units which heat water
but contain no more than one gallon of water
per 4,000 Btu per hour of input, including gas
instantaneous water heaters with an input of
200,000 Btu per hour or less, oil instantaneous
water heaters with an input of 210,000 Btu per
hour or less, and electric instantaneous water
heaters with an input of 12 kilowatts or less;
and
(C) heat pump type units, with a maximum
current rating of 24 amperes at a voltage no
greater than 250 volts, which are products
designed to transfer thermal energy from one
temperature level to a higher temperature level
for the purpose of heating water, including all
ancillary equipment such as fans, storage
tanks, pumps, or controls necessary for the
device to perform its function.
(28) The term ``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.
(29)(A) The term ``fluorescent lamp ballast'' means a
device which is used to start and operate fluorescent
lamps by providing a starting voltage and current and
limiting the current during normal operation.
(B) The term ``ANSI standard'' means a standard
developed by a committee accredited by the American
National Standards Institute.
(C) The term ``ballast efficacy factor'' means the
relative light output divided by the power input of a
fluorescent lamp ballast, as measured under test
conditions specified in ANSI standard C82.2-1984, or as
may be prescribed by the Secretary.
(D)(i) The term ``F40T12 lamp'' means a nominal 40
watt tubular fluorescent lamp which is 48 inches in
length and one-and-a-half inches in diameter, and
conforms to ANSI standard C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-
ANSI-1010-1).
(ii) The term ``F96T12 lamp'' means a nominal 75 watt
tubular fluorescent lamp which is 96 inches in length
and oneand-a-half inches in diameter, and conforms to
ANSI standard C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-3007-
1).
(iii) The term ``F96T12HO lamp'' means a nominal 110
watt tubular fluorescent lamp which is 96 inches in
length and one-and-a-half inches in diameter, and
conforms to ANSI standard C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-
ANSI-1019-1).
(E) The term ``input current'' means the root-mean-
square (RMS) current in amperes delivered to a
fluorescent lamp ballast.
(F) The term ``luminaire'' means a complete lighting
unit consisting of a fluorescent lamp or lamps,
together with parts designed to distribute the light,
to position and protect such lamps, and to connect such
lamps to the power supply through the ballast.
(G) The term ``ballast input voltage'' means the
rated input voltage of a fluorescent lamp ballast.
(H) The term ``nominal lamp watts'' means the wattage
at which a fluorescent lamp is designed to operate.
(I) The term ``power factor'' means the power input
divided by the product of ballast input voltage and
input current of a fluorescent lamp ballast, as
measured under test conditions specified in ANSI
standard C82.2-1984, or as may be prescribed by the
Secretary.
(J) The term ``power input'' means the power
consumption in watts of a ballast and fluorescent lamp
or lamps, as determined in accordance with the test
procedures specified in ANSI standard C82.2-1984, or as
may be prescribed by the Secretary.
(K) The term ``relative light output'' means the
light output delivered through the use of a ballast
divided by the light output delivered through the use
of a reference ballast, expressed as a percent, as
determined in accordance with the test procedures
specified in ANSI standard C82.2-1984, or as may be
prescribed by the Secretary.
(L) The term ``residential building'' means a
structure or portion of a structure which provides
facilities or shelter for human residency, except that
such term does not include any multifamily residential
structure of more than three stories above grade.
(M) The term ``F34T12 lamp'' (also known as a
``F40T12/ES lamp'') means a nominal 34 watt tubular
fluorescent lamp that is 48 inches in length and 1\1/2\
inches in diameter, and conforms to ANSI standard
C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-1006-1).
(N) The term ``F96T12/ES lamp'' means a nominal 60
watt tubular fluorescent lamp that is 96 inches in
length and 1\1/2\ inches in diameter, and conforms to
ANSI standard C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-3006-
1).
(O) The term ``F96T12HO/ES lamp'' means a nominal 95
watt tubular fluorescent lamp that is 96 inches in
length and 1\1/2\ inches in diameter, and conforms to
ANSI standard C78.81-2003 (Data Sheet 7881-ANSI-1017-
1).
(P) The term ``replacement ballast'' means a ballast
that--
(i) is designed for use to replace an
existing ballast in a previously installed
luminaire;
(ii) is marked ``FOR REPLACEMENT USE ONLY'';
(iii) is shipped by the manufacturer in
packages containing not more than 10 ballasts;
and
(iv) has output leads that when fully
extended are a total length that is less than
the length of the lamp with which the ballast
is intended to be operated.
(30)(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (E), the
term ``fluorescent lamp'' means a low pressure mercury
electric-discharge source in which a fluorescing
coating transforms some of the ultraviolet energy
generated by the mercury discharge into light,
including only the following:
(i) Any straight-shaped lamp (commonly
referred to as 4-foot medium bi-pin lamps) with
medium bi-pin bases of nominal overall length
of 48 inches and rated wattage of 28 or more.
(ii) Any U-shaped lamp (commonly referred to
as 2-foot U-shaped lamps) with medium bi-pin
bases of nominal overall length between 22 and
25 inches and rated wattage of 28 or more.
(iii) Any rapid start lamp (commonly referred
to as 8-foot high output lamps) with recessed
double contact bases of nominal overall length
of 96 inches and 0.800 nominal amperes, as
defined in ANSI C78.1-1978 and related
supplements.
(iv) Any instant start lamp (commonly
referred to as 8-foot slimline lamps) with
single pin bases of nominal overall length of
96 inches and rated wattage of 52 or more, as
defined in ANSI C78.3-1978 (R1984) and related
supplement ANSI C78.3a-1985.
(B) The term ``general service fluorescent lamp''
means fluorescent lamps which can be used to satisfy
the majority of fluorescent applications, but does not
include any lamp designed and marketed for the
following nongeneral lighting applications:
(i) Fluorescent lamps designed to promote
plant growth.
(ii) Fluorescent lamps specifically designed
for cold temperature installations.
(iii) Colored fluorescent lamps.
(iv) Impact-resistant fluorescent lamps.
(v) Reflectorized or aperture lamps.
(vi) Fluorescent lamps designed for use in
reprographic equipment.
(vii) Lamps primarily designed to produce
radiation in the ultra-violet region of the
spectrum.
(viii) Lamps with a color rendering index of
87 or greater.
(C) Except as provided in subparagraph (E), the term
``incandescent lamp'' means a lamp in which light is
produced by a filament heated to incandescence by an
electric current, including only the following:
(i) Any lamp (commonly referred to as lower
wattage nonreflector general service lamps,
including any tungsten-halogen lamp) that has a
rated wattage between 30 and 199 watts, has an
E26 medium screw base, has a rated voltage or
voltage range that lies at least partially
within 115 and 130 volts, and is not a
reflector lamp.
(ii) Any lamp (commonly referred to as a
reflector lamp) which is not colored or
designed for rough or vibration service
applications, that contains an inner reflective
coating on the outer bulb to direct the light,
an R, PAR, ER, BR, BPAR, or similar bulb shapes
with E26 medium screw bases, a rated voltage or
voltage range that lies at least partially
within 115 and 130 volts, a diameter which
exceeds 2.25 inches, and has a rated wattage
that is 40 watts or higher.
(iii) Any general service incandescent lamp
(commonly referred to as a high- or higher-
wattage lamp) that has a rated wattage above
199 watts (above 205 watts for a high wattage
reflector lamp).
(D) General service incandescent lamp.--
(i) In general.--The term ``general
service incandescent lamp'' means a
standard incandescent or halogen type
lamp that--
(I) is intended for general
service applications;
(II) has a medium screw base;
(III) has a lumen range of
not less than 310 lumens and
not more than 2,600 lumens or,
in the case of a modified
spectrum lamp, not less than
232 lumens and not more than
1,950 lumens; and
(IV) is capable of being
operated at a voltage range at
least partially within 110 and
130 volts.
(ii) Exclusions.--The term ``general
service incandescent lamp'' does not
include the following incandescent
lamps:
(I) An appliance lamp.
(II) A black light lamp.
(III) A bug lamp.
(IV) A colored lamp.
(V) An infrared lamp.
(VI) A left-hand thread lamp.
(VII) A marine lamp.
(VIII) A marine signal
service lamp.
(IX) A mine service lamp.
(X) A plant light lamp.
(XI) A reflector lamp.
(XII) A rough service lamp.
(XIII) A shatter-resistant
lamp (including a shatter-proof
lamp and a shatter-protected
lamp).
(XIV) A sign service lamp.
(XV) A silver bowl lamp.
(XVI) A showcase lamp.
(XVII) A 3-way incandescent
lamp.
(XVIII) A traffic signal
lamp.
(XIX) A vibration service
lamp.
(XX) A G shape lamp (as
defined in ANSI C78.20-2003 and
C79.1-2002 with a diameter of 5
inches or more.
(XXI) A T shape lamp (as
defined in ANSI C78.20-2003 and
C79.1-2002) and that uses not
more than 40 watts or has a
length of more than 10 inches.
(XXII) A B, BA, CA, F, G16-1/
2, G-25, G30, S, or M-14 lamp
(as defined in ANSI C79.1-2002
and ANSI C78.20-2003) of 40
watts or less.
(E) The terms ``fluorescent lamp'' and ``incandescent
lamp'' do not include any lamp excluded by the
Secretary, by rule, as a result of a determination that
standards for such lamp would not result in significant
energy savings because such lamp is designed for
special applications or has special characteristics not
available in reasonably substitutable lamp types.
(F) The term ``incandescent reflector lamp'' means a
lamp described in subparagraph (C)(ii).
(G) The term ``average lamp efficacy'' means the lamp
efficacy readings taken over a statistically
significant period of manufacture with the readings
averaged over that period.
(H) The term ``base'' means the portion of the lamp
which connects with the socket as described in ANSI
C81.61-1990.
(I) The term ``bulb shape'' means the shape of lamp,
especially the glass bulb with designations for bulb
shapes found in ANSI C79.1-1980 (R1984).
(J) The term ``color rendering index'' or ``CRI''
means the measure of the degree of color shift objects
undergo when illuminated by a light source as compared
with the color of those same objects when illuminated
by a reference source of comparable color temperature.
(K) The term ``correlated color temperature'' means
the absolute temperature of a blackbody whose
chromaticity most nearly resembles that of the light
source.
(L) The term ``IES'' means the Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America.
(M) The term ``lamp efficacy'' means the lumen output
of a lamp divided by its wattage, expressed in lumens
per watt (LPW).
(N) The term ``lamp type'' means all lamps designated
as having the same electrical and lighting
characteristics and made by one manufacturer.
(O) The term ``lamp wattage'' means the total
electrical power consumed by a lamp in watts, after the
initial seasoning period referenced in the appropriate
IES standard test procedure and including, for
fluorescent, arc watts plus cathode watts.
(P) The terms ``life'' and ``lifetime'' mean length
of operating time of a statistically large group of
lamps between first use and failure of 50 percent of
the group in accordance with test procedures described
in the IES Lighting Handbook-Reference Volume.
(Q) The term ``lumen output'' means total luminous
flux (power) of a lamp in lumens, as measured in
accordance with applicable IES standards as determined
by the Secretary.
(R) The term ``tungsten-halogen lamp'' means a gas-
filled tungsten filament incandescent lamp containing a
certain proportion of halogens in an inert gas.
(S)(i) The term ``medium base compact fluorescent
lamp'' means an integrally ballasted fluorescent lamp
with a medium screw base and a rated input voltage of
115 to 130 volts and which is designed as a direct
replacement for a general service incandescent lamp.
(ii) The term ``medium base compact
fluorescent lamp'' does not include--
(I) any lamp that is--
(aa) specifically designed to
be used for special purpose
applications; and
(bb) unlikely to be used in
general purpose applications,
such as the applications
described in subparagraph (D);
or
(II) any lamp not described in
subparagraph (D) that is excluded by
the Secretary, by rule, because the
lamp is--
(aa) designed for special
applications; and
(bb) unlikely to be used in
general purpose applications.
(T) Appliance lamp.--The term ``appliance
lamp'' means any lamp that--
(i) is specifically designed to
operate in a household appliance and
has a maximum wattage of 40 watts,
including an oven lamp, refrigerator
lamp, and vacuum cleaner lamp; and
(ii) when sold at retail, is
designated and marketed for the
intended application, with--
(I) the designation on the
lamp packaging; and
(II) marketing materials that
identify the lamp as being for
appliance use.
(U) Candelabra base incandescent lamp.--The
term ``candelabra base incandescent lamp''
means a lamp that uses candelabra screw base as
described in ANSI C81.61-2006, Specifications
for Electric Bases, common designations E11 and
E12.
(V) Intermediate base incandescent lamp.--The
term ``intermediate base incandescent lamp''
means a lamp that uses an intermediate screw
base as described in ANSI C81.61-2006,
Specifications for Electric Bases, common
designation E17.
(W) Modified spectrum.--The term ``modified
spectrum'' means, with respect to an
incandescent lamp, an incandescent lamp that--
(i) is not a colored incandescent
lamp; and
(ii) when operated at the rated
voltage and wattage of the incandescent
lamp--
(I) has a color point with
(x,y) chromaticity coordinates
on the Commission
Internationale de l'Eclairage
(C.I.E.) 1931 chromaticity
diagram that lies below the
black-body locus; and
(II) has a color point with
(x,y) chromaticity coordinates
on the C.I.E. 1931 chromaticity
diagram that lies at least 4
MacAdam steps (as referenced in
IESNA LM16) distant from the
color point of a clear lamp
with the same filament and bulb
shape, operated at the same
rated voltage and wattage.
(X) Rough service lamp.--The term ``rough
service lamp'' means a lamp that--
(i) has a minimum of 5 supports with
filament configurations that are C-7A,
C-11, C-17, and C-22 as listed in
Figure 6-12 of the 9th edition of the
IESNA Lighting handbook, or similar
configurations where lead wires are not
counted as supports; and
(ii) is designated and marketed
specifically for ``rough service''
applications, with--
(I) the designation appearing
on the lamp packaging; and
(II) marketing materials that
identify the lamp as being for
rough service.
(Y) 3-way incandescent lamp.--The term ``3-
way incandescent lamp'' includes an
incandescent lamp that--
(i) employs 2 filaments, operated
separately and in combination, to
provide 3 light levels; and
(ii) is designated on the lamp
packaging and marketing materials as
being a 3-way incandescent lamp.
(Z) Shatter-resistant lamp, shatter-proof
lamp, or shatter-protected lamp.--The terms
``shatter-resistant lamp'', ``shatter-proof
lamp'', and ``shatter-protected lamp'' mean a
lamp that--
(i) has a coating or equivalent
technology that is compliant with NSF/
ANSI 51 and is designed to contain the
glass if the glass envelope of the lamp
is broken; and
(ii) is designated and marketed for
the intended application, with--
(I) the designation on the
lamp packaging; and
(II) marketing materials that
identify the lamp as being
shatter-resistant, shatter-
proof, or shatter-protected.
(AA) Vibration service lamp.--The term
``vibration service lamp'' means a lamp that--
(i) has filament configurations that
are C-5, C-7A, or C-9, as listed in
Figure 6-12 of the 9th Edition of the
IESNA Lighting Handbook or similar
configurations;
(ii) has a maximum wattage of 60
watts;
(iii) is sold at retail in packages
of 2 lamps or less; and
(iv) is designated and marketed
specifically for vibration service or
vibration-resistant applications,
with--
(I) the designation appearing
on the lamp packaging; and
(II) marketing materials that
identify the lamp as being
vibration service only.
(BB) General service lamp.--
(i) In general.--The term ``general
service lamp'' includes--
(I) general service
incandescent lamps;
(II) compact fluorescent
lamps;
(III) general service light-
emitting diode (LED or OLED)
lamps; and
(IV) any other lamps that the
Secretary determines are used
to satisfy lighting
applications traditionally
served by general service
incandescent lamps.
(ii) Exclusions.--The term ``general
service lamp'' does not include--
(I) any lighting application
or bulb shape described in any
of subclauses (I) through
(XXII) of subparagraph (D)(ii);
or
(II) any general service
fluorescent lamp or
incandescent reflector lamp.
(CC) Light-emitting diode; led.--
(i) In general.--The terms ``light-
emitting diode'' and ``LED'' means a p-
n junction solid state device the
radiated output of which is a function
of the physical construction, material
used, and exciting current of the
device.
(ii) Output.--The output of a light-
emitting diode may be in--
(I) the infrared region;
(II) the visible region; or
(III) the ultraviolet region.
(DD) Organic light-emitting diode; oled.--The
terms ``organic light-emitting diode'' and
``OLED'' mean a thin-film light-emitting device
that typically consists of a series of organic
layers between 2 electrical contacts
(electrodes).
(EE) Colored incandescent lamp.--The term
``colored incandescent lamp'' means an
incandescent lamp designated and marketed as a
colored lamp that has--
(i) a color rendering index of less
than 50, as determined according to the
test method given in C.I.E. publication
13.3-1995; or
(ii) a correlated color temperature
of less than 2,500K, or greater than
4,600K, where correlated temperature is
computed according to the Journal of
Optical Society of America, Vol. 58,
pages 1528-1595 (1986).
(31)(A) The term ``water use'' means the quantity of
water flowing through a showerhead, faucet, water
closet, or urinal at point of use, determined in
accordance with test procedures under section 323.
(B) The term ``ASME'' means the American Society of
Mechanical Engineers.
(C) The term ``ANSI'' means the American National
Standards Institute.
[(D) The term ``showerhead'' means any showerhead
(including a handheld showerhead), except a safety
shower showerhead.]
(D) The term ``showerhead'' has the meaning given
such term in ASME A112.18.1-2024, except such term does
not include safety shower showerheads.
(E) The term ``faucet'' means a lavatory faucet,
kitchen faucet, metering faucet, or replacement aerator
for a lavatory or kitchen faucet.
(F) The term ``water closet'' has the meaning given
such term in ASME A112.19.2M-1990, except such term
does not include fixtures designed for installation in
prisons.
(G) The term ``urinal'' has the meaning given such
term in ASME A112.19.2M-1990, except such term does not
include fixtures designed for installation in prisons.
(H) The terms ``blowout'', ``flushometer tank'',
``low consumption'', and ``flushometer valve'' have the
meaning given such terms in ASME A112.19.2M-1990.
(32) The term ``battery charger'' means a device that
charges batteries for consumer products, including
battery chargers embedded in other consumer products.
(33)(A) The term ``commercial prerinse spray valve''
means a handheld device designed and marketed for use
with commercial dishwashing and ware washing equipment
that sprays water on dishes, flatware, and other food
service items for the purpose of removing food residue
before cleaning the items.
(B) The Secretary may modify the definition of
``commercial prerinse spray valve'' by rule--
(i) to include products--
(I) that are extensively used in
conjunction with commercial dishwashing
and ware washing equipment;
(II) the application of standards to
which would result in significant
energy savings; and
(III) the application of standards to
which would meet the criteria specified
in section 325(o)(4); and
(ii) to exclude products--
(I) that are used for special food
service applications;
(II) that are unlikely to be widely
used in conjunction with commercial
dishwashing and ware washing equipment;
and
(III) the application of standards to
which would not result in significant
energy savings.
(34) The term ``dehumidifier'' means a self-
contained, electrically operated, and mechanically
encased assembly consisting of--
(A) a refrigerated surface (evaporator) that
condenses moisture from the atmosphere;
(B) a refrigerating system, including an
electric motor;
(C) an air-circulating fan; and
(D) means for collecting or disposing of the
condensate.
(35)(A) The term ``distribution transformer'' means a
transformer that--
(i) has an input voltage of 34.5 kilovolts or
less;
(ii) has an output voltage of 600 volts or
less; and
(iii) is rated for operation at a frequency
of 60 Hertz.
(B) The term ``distribution transformer'' does not
include--
(i) a transformer with multiple voltage taps,
the highest of which equals at least 20 percent
more than the lowest;
(ii) a transformer that is designed to be
used in a special purpose application and is
unlikely to be used in general purpose
applications, such as a drive transformer,
rectifier transformer, auto-transformer,
Uninterruptible Power System transformer,
impedance transformer, regulating transformer,
sealed and nonventilating transformer, machine
tool transformer, welding transformer,
grounding transformer, or testing transformer;
or
(iii) any transformer not listed in clause
(ii) that is excluded by the Secretary by rule
because--
(I) the transformer is designed for a
special application;
(II) the transformer is unlikely to
be used in general purpose
applications; and
(III) the application of standards to
the transformer would not result in
significant energy savings.
(36) External power supply.--
(A) External power supply.--
(i) In general.--The term ``external
power supply'' means an external power
supply circuit that is used to convert
household electric current into DC
current or lower-voltage AC current to
operate a consumer product.
(ii) Exclusion.--The term ``external
power supply'' does not include a power
supply circuit, driver, or device that
is designed exclusively to be connected
to, and power--
(I) light-emitting diodes
providing illumination;
(II) organic light-emitting
diodes providing illumination;
or
(III) ceiling fans using
direct current motors.
(B) Active mode.--The term ``active mode''
means the mode of operation when an external
power supply is connected to the main
electricity supply and the output is connected
to a load.
(C) Class a external power supply.--
(i) In general.--The term ``class A
external power supply'' means a device
that--
(I) is designed to convert
line voltage AC input into
lower voltage AC or DC output;
(II) is able to convert to
only 1 AC or DC output voltage
at a time;
(III) is sold with, or
intended to be used with, a
separate end-use product that
constitutes the primary load;
(IV) is contained in a
separate physical enclosure
from the end-use product;
(V) is connected to the end-
use product via a removable or
hard-wired male/female
electrical connection, cable,
cord, or other wiring; and
(VI) has nameplate output
power that is less than or
equal to 250 watts.
(ii) Exclusions.--The term ``class A
external power supply'' does not
include any device that--
(I) requires Federal Food and
Drug Administration listing and
approval as a medical device in
accordance with section 513 of
the Federal Food, Drug, and
Cosmetic Act (21 U.S.C. 360c);
or
(II) powers the charger of a
detachable battery pack or
charges the battery of a
product that is fully or
primarily motor operated.
(D) No-load mode.--The term ``no-load mode''
means the mode of operation when an external
power supply is connected to the main
electricity supply and the output is not
connected to a load.
(37) The term ``illuminated exit sign'' means a sign
that--
(A) is designed to be permanently fixed in
place to identify an exit; and
(B) consists of an electrically powered
integral light source that--
(i) illuminates the legend ``EXIT''
and any directional indicators; and
(ii) provides contrast between the
legend, any directional indicators, and
the background.
(38) The term ``low-voltage dry-type distribution
transformer'' means a distribution transformer that--
(A) has an input voltage of 600 volts or
less;
(B) is air-cooled; and
(C) does not use oil as a coolant.
(39) The term ``pedestrian module'' means a light
signal used to convey movement information to
pedestrians.
(40) The term ``refrigerated bottled or canned
beverage vending machine'' means a commercial
refrigerator that cools bottled or canned beverages and
dispenses the bottled or canned beverages on payment.
(41) The term ``standby mode'' means the lowest power
consumption mode, as established on an individual
product basis by the Secretary, that--
(A) cannot be switched off or influenced by
the user; and
(B) may persist for an indefinite time when
an appliance is--
(i) connected to the main electricity
supply; and
(ii) used in accordance with the
instructions of the manufacturer.
(42) The term ``torchiere'' means a portable electric
lamp with a reflector bowl that directs light upward to
give indirect illumination.
(43) The term ``traffic signal module'' means a
standard 8-inch (200mm) or 12-inch (300mm) traffic
signal indication that--
(A) consists of a light source, a lens, and
all other parts necessary for operation; and
(B) communicates movement messages to drivers
through red, amber, and green colors.
(44) The term ``transformer'' means a device
consisting of 2 or more coils of insulated wire that
transfers alternating current by electromagnetic
induction from 1 coil to another to change the original
voltage or current value.
(45)(A) The term ``unit heater'' means a self-
contained fan-type heater designed to be installed
within the heated space.
(B) The term ``unit heater'' does not include a warm
air furnace.
(46) High intensity discharge lamp.--
(A) In general.--The term ``high intensity
discharge lamp'' means an electric-discharge
lamp in which--
(i) the light-producing arc is
stabilized by the arc tube wall
temperature; and
(ii) the arc tube wall loading is in
excess of 3 Watts/cm.
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``high intensity
discharge lamp'' includes mercury vapor, metal
halide, and high-pressure sodium lamps
described in subparagraph (A).
(47) Mercury vapor lamp.--
(A) In general.--The term ``mercury vapor
lamp'' means a high intensity discharge lamp in
which the major portion of the light is
produced by radiation from mercury typically
operating at a partial vapor pressure in excess
of 100,000 Pa (approximately 1 atm).
(B) Inclusions.--The term ``mercury vapor
lamp'' includes clear, phosphor-coated, and
self-ballasted screw base lamps described in
subparagraph (A).
(48) Mercury vapor lamp ballast.--The term ``mercury
vapor lamp ballast'' means a device that is designed
and marketed to start and operate mercury vapor lamps
intended for general illumination by providing the
necessary voltage and current.
(49) The term ``ceiling fan'' means a nonportable
device that is suspended from a ceiling for circulating
air via the rotation of fan blades.
(50) The term ``ceiling fan light kit'' means
equipment designed to provide light from a ceiling fan
that can be--
(A) integral, such that the equipment is
attached to the ceiling fan prior to the time
of retail sale; or
(B) attachable, such that at the time of
retail sale the equipment is not physically
attached to the ceiling fan, but may be
included inside the ceiling fan at the time of
sale or sold separately for subsequent
attachment to the fan.
(51) The term ``medium screw base'' means an Edison
screw base identified with the prefix E-26 in the
``American National Standard for Electric Lamp Bases'',
ANSI/IEC C81.61-2003, published by the American
National Standards Institute.
(52) Detachable battery.--The term ``detachable
battery'' means a battery that is--
(A) contained in a separate enclosure from
the product; and
(B) intended to be removed or disconnected
from the product for recharging.
(53) Specialty application mercury vapor lamp
ballast.--The term ``specialty application mercury
vapor lamp ballast'' means a mercury vapor lamp ballast
that--
(A) is designed and marketed for operation of
mercury vapor lamps used in quality inspection,
industrial processing, or scientific use,
including fluorescent microscopy and
ultraviolet curing; and
(B) in the case of a specialty application
mercury vapor lamp ballast, the label of
which--
(i) provides that the specialty
application mercury vapor lamp ballast
is ``For specialty applications only,
not for general illumination''; and
(ii) specifies the specific
applications for which the ballast is
designed.
(54) BPAR incandescent reflector lamp.--The term
``BPAR incandescent reflector lamp'' means a reflector
lamp as shown in figure C78.21-278 on page 32 of ANSI
C78.21-2003.
(55) BR incandescent reflector lamp; br30; br40.--
(A) BR incandescent reflector lamp.--The term
``BR incandescent reflector lamp'' means a
reflector lamp that has--
(i) a bulged section below the major
diameter of the bulb and above the
approximate baseline of the bulb, as
shown in figure 1 (RB) on page 7 of
ANSI C79.1-1994, incorporated by
reference in section 430.22 of title
10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in
effect on the date of enactment of this
paragraph); and
(ii) a finished size and shape shown
in ANSI C78.21-1989, including the
referenced reflective characteristics
in part 7 of ANSI C78.21-1989,
incorporated by reference in section
430.22 of title 10, Code of Federal
Regulations (as in effect on the date
of enactment of this paragraph).
(B) BR30.--The term ``BR30'' means a BR
incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of
30/8ths of an inch.
(C) BR40.--The term ``BR40'' means a BR
incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of
40/8ths of an inch.
(56) ER incandescent reflector lamp; er30; er40.--
(A) ER incandescent reflector lamp.--The term
``ER incandescent reflector lamp'' means a
reflector lamp that has--
(i) an elliptical section below the
major diameter of the bulb and above
the approximate baseline of the bulb,
as shown in figure 1 (RE) on page 7 of
ANSI C79.1-1994, incorporated by
reference in section 430.22 of title
10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in
effect on the date of enactment of this
paragraph); and
(ii) a finished size and shape shown
in ANSI C78.21-1989, incorporated by
reference in section 430.22 of title
10, Code of Federal Regulations (as in
effect on the date of enactment of this
paragraph).
(B) ER30.--The term ``ER30'' means an ER
incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of
30/8ths of an inch.
(C) ER40.--The term ``ER40'' means an ER
incandescent reflector lamp with a diameter of
40/8ths of an inch.
(57) R20 incandescent reflector lamp.--The term ``R20
incandescent reflector lamp'' means a reflector lamp
that has a face diameter of approximately 2.5 inches,
as shown in figure 1(R) on page 7 of ANSI C79.1-1994.
(58) Ballast.--The term ``ballast'' means a device
used with an electric discharge lamp to obtain
necessary circuit conditions (voltage, current, and
waveform) for starting and operating.
(59) Ballast efficiency.--
(A) In general.--The term ``ballast
efficiency'' means, in the case of a high
intensity discharge fixture, the efficiency of
a lamp and ballast combination, expressed as a
percentage, and calculated in accordance with
the following formula: Efficiency =
Pout/Pin.
(B) Efficiency formula.--For the purpose of
subparagraph (A)--
(i) Poutshall equal the
measured operating lamp wattage;
(ii) Pin shall equal the
measured operating input wattage;
(iii) the lamp, and the capacitor
when the capacitor is provided, shall
constitute a nominal system in
accordance with the ANSI Standard
C78.43-2004;
(iv) for ballasts with a frequency of
60 Hz, Pin and
Pout shall be measured after
lamps have been stabilized according to
section 4.4 of ANSI Standard C82.6-2005
using a wattmeter with accuracy
specified in section 4.5 of ANSI
Standard C82.6-2005; and
(v) for ballasts with a frequency
greater than 60 Hz, Pin and
Pout shall have a basic
accuracy of 0.5 percent at
the higher of--
(I) 3 times the output
operating frequency of the
ballast; or
(II) 2 kHz for ballast with a
frequency greater than 60 Hz.
(C) Modification.--The Secretary may, by
rule, modify the definition of ``ballast
efficiency'' if the Secretary determines that
the modification is necessary or appropriate to
carry out the purposes of this Act.
(60) Electronic ballast.--The term ``electronic
ballast'' means a device that uses semiconductors as
the primary means to control lamp starting and
operation.
(61) General lighting application.--The term
``general lighting application'' means lighting that
provides an interior or exterior area with overall
illumination.
(62) Metal halide ballast.--The term ``metal halide
ballast'' means a ballast used to start and operate
metal halide lamps.
(63) Metal halide lamp.--The term ``metal halide
lamp'' means a high intensity discharge lamp in which
the major portion of the light is produced by radiation
of metal halides and their products of dissociation,
possibly in combination with metallic vapors.
(64) Metal halide lamp fixture.--The term ``metal
halide lamp fixture'' means a light fixture for general
lighting application designed to be operated with a
metal halide lamp and a ballast for a metal halide
lamp.
(65) Probe-start metal halide ballast.--The term
``probe-start metal halide ballast'' means a ballast
that--
(A) starts a probe-start metal halide lamp
that contains a third starting electrode
(probe) in the arc tube; and
(B) does not generally contain an igniter but
instead starts lamps with high ballast open
circuit voltage.
(66) Pulse-start metal halide ballast.--
(A) In general.--The term ``pulse-start metal
halide ballast'' means an electronic or
electromagnetic ballast that starts a pulse-
start metal halide lamp with high voltage
pulses.
(B) Starting process.--For the purpose of
subparagraph (A)--
(i) lamps shall be started by first
providing a high voltage pulse for
ionization of the gas to produce a glow
discharge; and
(ii) to complete the starting
process, power shall be provided by the
ballast to sustain the discharge
through the glow-to-arc transition.
* * * * * * *
MINORITY VIEWS
H.R. 4593, the Saving Homeowners from Overregulation With
Exceptional Rinsing Act, amends the definition of a showerhead
under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) by
inserting the 2024 American Society of Mechanical Engineers
definition. This change in definition opens the door for the
Trump Administration to weaken water efficiency standards for
showerheads.
The Energy Policy Act of 1992 amended EPCA to include a
definition of ``showerhead'' and set a maximum water flow rate
of 2.5 gallons per minute (GPM). However, in response to
confusion and uncertainty over how the EPCA definition of
``showerhead'' applied to a showerhead product with multiple
nozzles, the Department of Energy (DOE) issued a regulatory
definition in 2013. The definition clarified that a showerhead
must meet the 2.5 GPM statutory standard regardless of how many
individual nozzles the showerhead system included.\1\
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\1\Department of Energy, Energy Conservation Program: Definition of
Showerhead, 86 Fed. Reg. 71797 (Dec. 20, 2021) (final rule); Appliance
Standards Awareness Project, Myths and Facts: Showerhead Standards
(Apr. 2025).
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In 2020, the Trump Administration amended the definition of
``showerhead'' to allow showerheads with multiple nozzles to
sidestep the statutory water efficiency standard. More
specifically, in 2020, DOE interpreted the updated definition
of showerhead to mean that each showerhead with multiple
nozzles would be considered separate in terms of compliance
with the 2.5 GPM standard.\2\ This change would increase water
and energy use, thereby increasing consumers' utility bills.\3\
In response, the Biden Administration reversed this action in
2021, asserting that a showerhead with multiple nozzles must
comply with the 2.5 GPM standard.\4\
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\2\Department of Energy, Energy Conservation Program: Definition of
Showerhead, 85 Fed. Reg. 81359 (Dec. 16, 2020) (final rule).
\3\Alliance for Water Efficiency, DOE Proposal would Reverse
Weakened Showerhead Standard, Aligns with AWE Lawsuit (July 16, 2021)
(press release).
\4\Appliance Standards Awareness Project, Myths and Facts:
Showerhead Standards (Apr. 2025).
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In April 2025, instead of ensuring regulatory certainty and
preserving consumer cost savings, the Trump Administration
continued the back-and-forth by signing an executive order
directing DOE to rescind and revise the 2021 Biden
Administration definition of a showerhead to ``end the Obama-
Biden war on water pressure.''\5\ However, the water efficiency
standards for showerheads set by Congress in 1992 do not
regulate water pressure. Importantly, the standards concern
water flow. Water pressure is determined by engineering
decisions in the manufacturing process, and several other
factors can interact to impact water pressure and flow, like
clogs, leaks, and sediment build-up. In testing showerheads,
Consumer Reports found that water flow does not predict the
performance of a showerhead.\6\
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\5\The White House, Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Makes
America's Showers Great Again (Apr. 9, 2025) (https://
www.whitehouse.gov/fact-sheets/2025/04/fact-sheet-president-
donald-j-trump-makes-americas-showers-great-again/).
\6\Consumer Reports, Best Showerheads of 2025 (Jan. 1, 2025)
(https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/showerheads/best-
showerheads-of-the-year-
a7580523069/).
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H.R. 4593 attempts to codify an ambiguous and unclear
definition of a showerhead, which will only open the door for
further regulatory confusion and uncertainty. The definition
change proposed in the bill lends support to the Trump
Administration's misguided efforts to weaken standards for
showerheads, allowing for increased water and energy usage,
which, in turn, will raise consumer utility bills.
For the reasons stated above, we dissent from the views
contained in the Committee's report.
Frank Pallone, Jr.,
Ranking Member.
[all]