[Federal Register Volume 79, Number 80 (Friday, April 25, 2014)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 23062-23099]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2014-08741]



[[Page 23061]]

Vol. 79

Friday,

No. 80

April 25, 2014

Part II





Department of Energy





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10 CFR Parts 429 and 430





 Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Residential Clothes 
Washers; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 79 , No. 80 / Friday, April 25, 2014 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 23062]]


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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY

10 CFR Parts 429 and 430

[Docket No. EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009]
RIN 1904-AC97


Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Residential 
Clothes Washers

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

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking.

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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) proposes to revise its 
test procedures for residential clothes washers established under the 
Energy Policy and Conservation Act. The proposed amendments would 
codify test procedure guidance that DOE has issued in response to 
frequently asked questions, clarify additional provisions within the 
test procedures, provide improved organization of each section, and 
correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test procedures.

DATES: DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
notice of proposed rulemaking (NOPR) no later than July 9, 2014. See 
section V, ``Public Participation,'' for details. DOE will hold a 
public meeting on this proposed test procedure if one is requested by 
May 12, 2014.

ADDRESSES: Any comments submitted must identify the NOPR for Test 
Procedures for Residential Clothes Washers and provide docket number 
EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009 and/or regulatory information number (RIN) number 
1904-AC97. Comments may be submitted using any of the following 
methods:
    1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: www.regulations.gov. Follow the 
instructions for submitting comments.
    2. Email: [email protected]. Include the docket 
number and/or RIN in the subject line of the message.
    3. Mail: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of Energy, Building 
Technologies Program, Mailstop EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., 
Washington, DC 20585-0121. If possible, please submit all items on a 
CD. It is not necessary to include printed copies.
    4. Hand Delivery/ Courier: Ms. Brenda Edwards, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Building Technologies Program, 950 L'Enfant Plaza SW., Suite 
600, Washington, DC 20024. Telephone: (202) 586-2945. If possible, 
please submit all items on a CD. It is not necessary to include printed 
copies.
    For detailed instructions on submitting comments and additional 
information on the rulemaking process, see section V of this document 
(Public Participation).
    Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices, public 
meeting attendee lists and transcripts, comments, and other supporting 
documents/ materials, is available for review at http://www.regulations.gov/#!docketDetail;D=EERE-2013-BT-TP-0009. All 
documents in the docket are listed in the regulations.gov index. 
However, some documents listed in the index, such as those containing 
information that is exempt from public disclosure, may not be publicly 
available.
    For further information on how to submit a comment or review other 
public comments and the docket, or to request a public meeting, contact 
Ms. Brenda Edwards at (202) 586-2945 or by email: 
[email protected].

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ashley Armstrong, U.S. Department of 
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building 
Technologies Program, EE-2J, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, 
DC 20585-0121. Telephone: (202) 586-6590. Email: [email protected].
Elizabeth Kohl, Esq., U.S. Department of Energy, Office of General 
Counsel, GC-71, 1000 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20585-
0121. Telephone: (202) 586-7796. Email: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

Table of Contents

I. Background
II. Summary of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
III. Discussion
    A. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement
    1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
    2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
    3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
    4. Plastic Sheet Material
    5. Shipping Bolts
    B. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions
    C. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure
    D. Test Cloth Loading Instructions
    E. Energy Test Cycle
    1. Warm Rinse Cycles
    2. Sanitization Cycles
    3. Default Cycle Settings
    4. Energy Test Cycle Definition and Flowcharts
    F. Wash Time Setting
    G. Standby and Off Mode Testing
    1. Testing Sequence
    2. Default Settings
    3. Multiple Possible Inactive Modes
    H. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems
    I. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions
    J. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures
    K. Determining Extra Hot Wash Temperature
    L. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy
    M. Out-of-Balance Loads
    N. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions
    O. Table 3.2 Edits
    P. Table 4.1.1 Edits
    Q. Table 2.8 Edits
    R. Replacing ``Consumer'' with ``User''
    S. Introductory Text
    T. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23
    U. Reporting and Verification Requirements
    1. Remaining Moisture Content
    2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
    3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review
    A. Review Under Executive Order 12866
    B. Review under the Regulatory Flexibility Act
    C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995
    D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
    E. Review Under Executive Order 13132
    F. Review Under Executive Order 12988
    G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995
    H. Review Under the Treasury and General Government 
Appropriations Act, 1999
    I. Review Under Executive Order 12630
    J. Review Under Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 2001
    K. Review Under Executive Order 13211
    L. Review Under Section 32 of the Federal Energy Administration 
Act of 1974
V. Public Participation
    A. Submission of Comments
    B. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment
VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

I. Background

    Title III of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act of 1975 (42 
U.S.C. 6291, et seq.; ``EPCA'') sets forth a variety of provisions 
designed to improve energy efficiency. (All references to EPCA refer to 
the statute as amended through the American Energy Manufacturing 
Technical Corrections Act (AEMTCA), Public Law 112-210 (Dec. 18, 
2012)). Part B of title III, which for editorial reasons was 
redesignated as Part A upon incorporation into the U.S. Code (42 U.S.C. 
6291-6309, as codified), establishes the ``Energy Conservation Program 
for Consumer Products Other Than Automobiles.'' These include 
residential clothes washers, the subject of today's notice. (42 U.S.C. 
6292(a)(7))
    Under EPCA, the energy conservation program consists essentially of 
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation 
standards,

[[Page 23063]]

and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. The testing 
requirements consist of test procedures that manufacturers of covered 
products must use as the basis for (1) certifying to DOE that their 
products comply with the applicable energy conservation standards 
adopted under EPCA, and (2) making representations about the efficiency 
of those products. Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to 
determine whether the products comply with any relevant standards 
promulgated under EPCA.

General Test Procedure Rulemaking Process

    Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures 
DOE must follow when prescribing or amending test procedures for 
covered products. EPCA provides in relevant part that any test 
procedures prescribed or amended under this section shall be reasonably 
designed to produce test results that measure energy efficiency, energy 
use, or estimated annual operating cost of a covered product during a 
representative average use cycle or period of use and shall not be 
unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C. 6293(b)(3))
    In addition, if DOE determines that a test procedure amendment is 
warranted, it must publish proposed test procedures and afford the 
public an opportunity to present oral and written comments on them. (42 
U.S.C. 6293(b)(2)) Finally, in any rulemaking to amend a test 
procedure, DOE must determine to what extent, if any, the proposed test 
procedure would alter the measured energy efficiency of any covered 
product as determined under the existing test procedure. (42 U.S.C. 
6293(e))
    DOE test procedures for clothes washers are codified at appendices 
J1 and J2 to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B (hereafter, ``appendix J1'' and 
``appendix J2''). DOE most recently amended the test procedures for 
clothes washers on March 7, 2012 (hereafter, the ``March 2012 final 
rule''). 77 FR 13888. The March 2012 final rule amended certain 
provisions in appendix J1 and also established the clothes washer test 
procedure codified in appendix J2.
    Manufacturers of residential clothes washers are required to make 
representations of energy efficiency using either appendix J1 or 
appendix J2, as revised by the March 2012 final rule. Manufacturers 
must use a single test procedure for all representations for a basic 
model and may not use appendix J1 for certain representations and 
appendix J2 for other representations. Compliance with DOE's amended 
standards for residential clothes washers, and the corresponding 
mandatory use of the test procedure at appendix J2 for all 
representations, is required as of March 7, 2015. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 
2012) and 77 FR 59719 (October 1, 2012).

II. Summary of the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking

    In this NOPR, DOE proposes clarifications and technical amendments 
to its test procedures for clothes washers at appendix J1 and appendix 
J2. In addition, DOE proposes amendments to the reporting and 
verification requirements for residential clothes washers. DOE has 
determined that today's proposed amendments, as described in section 
III, would not alter the measured efficiency of clothes washers. The 
proposed amendments either codify guidance interpreting DOE's existing 
regulations, provide further clarification of the relevant test 
procedure provisions, provide improved organization of each section, or 
correct formatting errors in DOE's clothes washer test procedures.

III. Discussion

A. Clothes Container Capacity Measurement

1. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J1
    Section 3.1 of appendix J1 contains procedures for measuring the 
clothes container capacity. The capacity measurement procedure involves 
filling the clothes container with water and determining the volume 
based on the weight of the added water divided by the water density. 
Section 3.1.4 specifies that the clothes container be filled manually 
with water to its ``uppermost edge.''
    DOE published guidance on July 6, 2010, clarifying the definition 
of the uppermost edge of the clothes container for the purpose of 
performing the capacity measurement. See DOE's guidance document at: 
http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswashers_faq1_2010-07-06.pdf.
    The guidance document provides detailed descriptions and 
illustrations of the boundary defining the uppermost edge of the 
clothes container for both top-loading and front-loading clothes 
washers. For top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers, DOE's guidance 
document defines the uppermost edge of the clothes container as the 
highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub cover. For front-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washers, the guidance document 
specifies filling the clothes container with water to the highest point 
of contact between the door and the door gasket. If any portion of the 
door or the door gasket would occupy the measured volume when the door 
is closed, that volume must be excluded from the measurement. DOE's 
guidance document also provides illustrations of the boundary defining 
the uppermost edge of the clothes container for both top-loading and 
front-loading clothes washers. The proposed amendments incorporate 
these clarifications into section 3.1.4 of appendix J1, including the 
illustrations.
    The proposal also further clarifies the appropriate water fill 
levels for front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with concave 
door shapes and top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washers. For front-
loading horizontal-axis clothes washers with concave door shapes, the 
capacity measurement would include any space above the plane defined by 
the highest point of contact between the door and the door gasket, if 
that area can be occupied by clothing during washer operation. 
Similarly, for top-loading hojjhrizontal-axis clothes washers, the 
water fill volume would include any space above the plane of the door 
hinge, if that area can be occupied by clothing during washer 
operation. This additional clarification is consistent with the 
illustrations for these clothes washer types provided in DOE's guidance 
document.
2. Capacity Measurement in Appendix J2
    Section 3.1.4 of appendix J2 specifies the maximum allowable water 
fill levels for determining the capacity of top-loading and front-
loading clothes washers. For front-loading horizontal-axis clothes 
washers, section 3.1.4 specifies filling the clothes container to the 
``uppermost edge that is in contact with the door seal.'' DOE intended 
this language to clarify the text in DOE's July 6, 2010 guidance 
document interpreting appendix J1, but did not intend for the measured 
capacity values to differ. Since publishing the March 2012 final rule, 
DOE has become aware of front-loading clothes washer door geometries 
with complex curvatures that may not have an easily discernible 
``uppermost edge'' in contact with the door seal. Therefore, DOE 
proposes to amend the description of the maximum fill volume for front-
loading clothes washers using the same language as the proposed 
amendments in appendix J1 and specified in the July 6, 2010 guidance, 
as described in the previous section. The proposed revision would 
provide additional clarity by referencing the ``highest point of 
contact'' rather than the ``uppermost edge,'' and will more

[[Page 23064]]

clearly identify the geometric boundary between the door and the door 
gasket. The proposal would more clearly define the uppermost fill level 
for a wider range of front-loading clothes washer geometries. As noted 
above, DOE intends for the measured capacity of a front-loading clothes 
washer using the proposed revised language to be equivalent to the 
measured capacity using the current front-loading capacity language in 
section 3.1.4 of appendix J2.
    The proposed amendments to appendix J2 also incorporate 
illustrations of the boundary defining the uppermost edge of the 
clothes container for top-loading vertical-axis clothes washers and the 
boundaries defining the fill volumes for horizontal-axis clothes 
washers.
3. Capacity Rounding Requirements
    In both appendix J1 and appendix J2, the capacity measurement is 
used to determine the test load sizes as defined in Table 5.1. The 
table provides test load sizes for capacity ranges in increments of 
0.10 cubic feet. The precision of the capacity ranges in Table 5.1 
implies that the capacity of the clothes container must be measured to 
the nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining load size. 
However, manufacturers typically report capacity to the nearest 0.1 
cubic foot in DOE certification reports and in retail advertisements.
    The proposed amendments clarify that, under appendix J1 and 
appendix J2, capacity must be measured to the nearest 0.01 cubic foot 
not only for the purpose of determining load size, but also for the 
purpose of calculating the values that manufacturers must report 
pursuant to 10 CFR 429.20(b). In both appendices, DOE proposes 
specifying this requirement in a new section 3.1.7 following the 
calculation of capacity in newly renumbered section 3.1.6.
    The proposed amendments would also specify in a new section at 10 
CFR 429.20(c) that capacity must be reported to the nearest 0.1 cubic 
foot (cu. ft.) for the purpose of DOE certification reports for 
residential clothes washers.
    Finally, DOE proposes to clarify in a new section at 10 CFR 
429.20(a)(3) that the certified capacity of any clothes washer basic 
model shall be the mean of the capacities of the units in the sample 
for the basic model. While DOE believes this is current practice 
because the existing test procedure and sampling plan require testing 
at least two units and measuring the drum capacity individually for 
each, DOE is proposing this amendment for clarity.
4. Plastic Sheet Material
    Section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 instructs the 
testing party to line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051mm) plastic sheet in preparation for performing the 
capacity measurement. DOE is aware that common industry practice is to 
use a large 2 mil plastic bag, rather than a plastic sheet, for lining 
the clothes container because the shape of the plastic bag more easily 
conforms to the geometry of the clothing container. DOE believes the 
measured capacity of the clothes washer would be the same regardless of 
whether a plastic sheet or plastic bag is used, provided that the 
thickness of either the plastic sheet or plastic bag is 2 mil. DOE 
therefore proposes to amend section 3.1.2 of both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 to allow the use of either a 2 mil thickness plastic sheet 
or plastic bag to line the inside of the clothes container.
5. Shipping Bolts
    Typically, front-loading clothes washers are designed with large 
bolts, inserted through the back of the clothes washer, that secure the 
wash drum to prevent movement of the drum during shipping. These 
``shipping bolts'' must be removed prior to operating the clothes 
washer. Alternatively, on some front-loading clothes washers, the drum 
is secured using other forms of bracing hardware that is intended to be 
removed prior to operating the clothes washer.
    Section 3.1.1 of appendix J2 currently specifies that the shipping 
bolts must remain in place during the capacity measurement procedure to 
support the wash drum and prevent it from sagging downward as the drum 
is filled with water. The proposed amendments would add a reference to 
``other forms of bracing hardware'' in section 3.1.1 of both appendix 
J1 and appendix J2.
    In addition, DOE has become aware of front-loading clothes washer 
designs that do not use shipping bolts or other forms of bracing 
hardware to support the wash drum during shipping. DOE proposes further 
amending section 3.1.1 of both appendix J1 and J2 to describe how a 
laboratory should measure the capacity of this type of clothes washer. 
The proposed amendments would allow a laboratory to support the wash 
drum by other means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any 
temporary bracing or support beams would be required to keep the wash 
drum in a fixed position, relative to the geometry of the door and door 
seal components, that is representative of the position of the wash 
drum during normal operation. The proposal would also require that the 
method used avoid damage to the unit that would affect the results of 
the energy and water testing. The proposed amendments further specify 
that the test report must fully document the method used to support the 
wash drum, and pursuant to 10 CFR 429.71, the manufacturer must retain 
such documentation as part of its test records.

B. Hot and Cold Water Supply Test Conditions

    Section 2.3.1 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 specifies that 
the temperature of the hot water supply must not exceed 135 [deg]F and 
the cold water supply must not exceed 60 [deg]F for clothes washers in 
which electrical energy or water energy consumption are affected by the 
inlet water temperature (for example, water heating clothes washers or 
clothes washers with thermostatically controlled water valves). This 
specification does not provide a lower bound for the hot and cold water 
supply temperatures. In contrast, section 2.3.2 of both test procedures 
specifies a hot water supply temperature of 135 [deg]F  5 
[deg]F and a cold water supply temperature of 60 [deg]F  5 
[deg]F for clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy 
consumption are not affected by the inlet water temperature.
    On clothes washers with thermostatically controlled mixing valves, 
the supply water temperatures directly affect the relative quantities 
of hot and cold water consumption during a wash cycle. DOE has observed 
that the large majority of residential clothes washers on the market 
now use thermostatically controlled mixing valves or other similar 
technologies for precisely controlling the wash water temperatures. 
DOE's engineering analysis during the most recent energy conservation 
standards rulemaking indicated that precise temperature control will be 
required to achieve the higher efficiency levels established by the May 
31, 2012 direct final rule. (77 FR 32308)
    To improve consistency and repeatability of test results, DOE 
proposes to establish a lower bound of 130 [deg]F for the hot water 
supply and 55 [deg]F for the cold water supply for clothes washers in 
which electrical energy or water energy consumption are affected by the 
inlet water temperature. This would provide an allowable range of five 
degrees on the hot and cold water supplies (i.e., 130-135 [deg]F and 
55-60 [deg]F, respectively). This amendment would apply to both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2 (with section 2.3.1 in appendix J2 
renumbered to 2.2.1).

[[Page 23065]]

    DOE notes that the proposed five-degree temperature tolerance is a 
tighter tolerance than is required for clothes washers in which 
electrical energy and water energy consumption are not affected by the 
inlet water temperature; however, DOE notes that the water supply 
temperature affects the outcome of the MEF results when testing clothes 
washers with thermostatically controlled water valves more 
significantly than for clothes washers without such valves. DOE 
requests comment on the potential test burden associated with 
maintaining a tolerance of five degrees on the hot and cold water 
supply temperature for clothes washers in which electrical energy and 
water energy consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature.

C. Test Cloth Standard Extractor RMC Test Procedure

    Sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 
contain the procedures for performing the standard extractor remaining 
moisture content (RMC) test to evaluate the moisture absorption and 
retention characteristics and to develop a unique correction curve for 
each new lot of test cloth. To improve the clarity and overall logical 
flow of the test procedure, DOE proposes moving the contents of 
sections 2.6.5 through 2.6.7 in both appendices to a new appendix J3 as 
a standalone test method for measuring the moisture absorption and 
retention characteristics of new energy test cloth lots.

D. Test Cloth Loading Instructions

    Section 2.8.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 instruct the 
testing party to load the energy test cloths into the clothes washer by 
grasping them in the center, shaking them to hang loosely, and then 
``put them into the clothes container'' prior to activating the clothes 
washer. DOE proposes to provide additional specificity for the test 
cloth handling and loading instructions, which DOE believes will 
improve the overall clarity and consistency of test cloth loading 
procedures. The proposed amendments would apply to both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2 (section 2.8.3 would be renumbered to 2.9.2 in appendix J2 
per the proposed amendments).
    DOE proposes using a modified version of the loading instructions 
for towels and pillowcases provided in the Association of Home 
Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) HLW-1-2010 test method, Performance 
Evaluation Procedures for Household Appliances.\1\ Like DOE's current 
test cloth loading instructions, the AHAM procedure involves grasping 
the towel/pillowcase in the center and shaking it so that it hangs 
loosely. The AHAM procedure further describes placing the towels/
pillowcases into the drum with alternating orientations. It also 
provides sketches illustrating each step in the loading process. DOE's 
proposed amendments would adopt similar illustrations. The amendments 
would also specify following any additional manufacturing loading 
instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of clothing 
within the clothing container.
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    \1\ AHAM HLW-1-2010 is available at http://www.aham.org/ht/d/Store/name/MAJOR/pid/5132.
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E. Energy Test Cycle

1. Warm Rinse Cycles
    Section 1.7 of appendix J1 defines the energy test cycle as (A) the 
cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen 
clothes, including all wash/rinse temperature selections and water 
levels offered in that cycle, and (B) for each other wash/rinse 
temperature selection or water level available on that basic model, the 
portion(s) of other cycle(s) with that temperature selection or water 
level that, when tested pursuant to these test procedures, will 
contribute to an accurate representation of the energy consumption of 
the basic model as used by consumers.
    DOE published guidance on September 21, 2010, clarifying that the 
energy test cycle should include the warm rinse of the cycle most 
comparable to the cottons and linens cycle if warm rinse is not 
available on the cottons and linens cycle. See DOE's guidance document 
at: http://www1.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/pdfs/clotheswasher_faq_2010-09-21.pdf. The proposed amendments codify 
DOE's guidance by incorporating this clarification into section 1.7(B) 
of appendix J1 (redesignated as section 1.8(B) due to the proposed 
addition of a new entry in the list of definitions before the energy 
test cycle definition).
    As described in section III.E.4 of this NOPR, DOE is proposing a 
new methodology for determining the energy test cycle in appendix J2. 
Based on the proposed methodology, which is intended to improve clarity 
without altering the cycle selections that will be part of the energy 
test cycle, DOE has tentatively determined that a parallel 
clarification regarding a warm rinse cycle is unnecessary in appendix 
J2. The methodology for determining the warm wash/warm rinse 
temperature selection in appendix J2 requires including the warm rinse 
cycle if it is not available on the cycle recommended for washing 
cotton or linen clothes but is available on an alternative cycle 
selection.
2. Sanitization Cycles
    As described in the previous section, the energy test cycle in 
appendix J1 includes all temperature selections available on the cycle 
recommended by the manufacturer for washing cotton or linen clothing. 
The energy test cycle also includes other temperature selections 
available on other cycles that ``will contribute to an accurate 
representation of the energy consumption of the basic model as used by 
consumers.''
    Section 3.3 of appendix J1 defines the ``Extra Hot Wash'' as a 
cycle with a maximum wash temperature of greater than 135[emsp14][deg]F 
on water heating clothes washers. DOE is aware that on some clothes 
washers, an extra hot temperature selection is available only on a 
separate sanitization cycle. The proposed amendments to the energy test 
cycle definition in appendix J1 would clarify that for such clothes 
washers, the sanitization cycle should be included in the energy test 
cycle if the cycle is recommended by the manufacturer for washing 
clothing and if doing so would contribute to an accurate representation 
of the energy consumption as used by consumers. If the extra hot 
temperature selection is available only on a sanitization cycle not 
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing (e.g., a cycle 
intended only for sanitizing the wash drum), such a cycle would not be 
required for consideration as part of the energy test cycle.
    Based on DOE's proposed new methodology for determining the energy 
test cycle in appendix J2, DOE has tentatively determined that a 
specific clarification regarding a sanitization cycle is unnecessary in 
appendix J2 because the methodology for determining the extra hot wash 
temperature selection requires including the extra hot wash temperature 
setting if such a setting is available on the clothes washer and is 
recommended by the manufacturer for washing clothing.
3. Default Cycle Settings
    Testing a clothes washer according to appendix J1 or appendix J2 
requires selecting specific wash/rinse temperatures and wash water fill 
levels for the wash cycles used to determine energy and water 
consumption. In addition, specific spin speeds must be

[[Page 23066]]

selected for the wash cycle(s) used to determine the remaining moisture 
content. Other than these settings, the test procedure does not 
instruct the user to change any other optional settings during testing.
    The proposed amendments to appendix J1 would modify section 1.7(B) 
(redesignated as 1.8(B)) to clarify the requirement to use the 
manufacturer default settings for any cycle selections, except for (1) 
the temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining 
moisture content. Specifically, the manufacturer default settings must 
be used for wash conditions such as agitation/tumble operation, soil 
level, spin speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water 
consumption, wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water 
heating time for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash 
parameters or optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Any 
optional wash cycle feature (other than wash/rinse temperature, water 
fill level selection, or spin speed on cycle selections used to 
determine remaining moisture content) that is activated by default on 
the wash cycle under test must be included for testing unless the 
manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting this option for 
washing normally soiled cotton or linen clothes.
    The proposed amendments to appendix J2 would add a new section 
3.2.7 to address the use of default cycle settings in the same manner 
as the modification proposed for appendix J1. DOE believes the new 
section 3.2.7 is the most appropriate location for this amendment in 
appendix J2 in conjunction with the revised structure of the energy 
test cycle definition and flowcharts in appendix J2.
4. Energy Test Cycle Definition and Flowcharts
    DOE notes that appendix J1 uses the term ``energy test cycle'' in 
two different ways. In some instances, ``energy test cycle'' refers to 
the complete set of wash/rinse temperature selections required for 
testing. In other instances, ``energy test cycle'' refers to the single 
wash cycle under test. DOE does not propose changing its usage of the 
term ``energy test cycle'' in appendix J1. In each instance where the 
term ``energy test cycle'' is used, the specific meaning of the term 
can be determined through context.
    In appendix J2, however, DOE proposes to simplify the definition of 
the energy test cycle so that it means the complete set of wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing. The individual wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing would be determined using a 
new methodology as described below. The provisions within parts (D) and 
(E) of the current energy test cycle definition would be moved to 
sections 3.2.7 and 3.2.8, respectively, which is a more appropriate 
location within the test procedure. Additionally, throughout appendix 
J2, DOE proposes to provide greater consistency in its usage of the 
term ``energy test cycle,'' such that when used, it refers only to the 
entire set of wash/rinse temperature selections required for testing. 
In instances where the test procedure currently uses the term ``energy 
test cycle'' to refer to an individual wash cycle, DOE proposes to use 
the generic term ``wash cycle'' or other similar terminology as 
appropriate for each instance. DOE also proposes to improve overall 
clarity by providing the full wash/rinse temperature designation (e.g. 
``Cold wash/Cold rinse'') throughout the test procedure.
    In conjunction with the simplified energy test cycle definition, 
DOE proposes a new approach to determining the wash/rinse temperature 
selections required for testing in appendix J2. DOE proposes to 
translate the current methodology for determining the energy test cycle 
into a set of flowcharts that testing parties would use to determine 
each wash/rinse temperature selection to be used for testing. DOE 
believes that the binary nature of each decision box within the 
flowcharts would provide increased clarity and ease of use in 
determining which wash/rinse temperature settings to use for testing. 
DOE proposes to include these flowcharts within newly renumbered 
section 2.12 in appendix J2.
    Because the proposed flowcharts would incorporate more precise 
definitions of warm and cold rinse temperatures, DOE also proposes to 
clarify the definition of ``cold rinse'' in appendix J2 so that it 
means the coldest rinse temperature available on the machine, as 
indicated to the user on the clothes washer control panel. This would 
prevent the unintended consequence of a wash/rinse temperature 
designation being excluded from the energy test cycle if the rinse 
portion of the cycle included a small amount of hot water (thus raising 
the rinse temperature slightly higher than the coldest rinse available 
on the machine), but was indicated on the control panel as being a cold 
rinse paired with the selected wash temperature.
    In addition, DOE proposes adding a new definition in appendix J2 
for ``Normal cycle,'' which would be defined as: ``Normal cycle means 
the cycle selection recommended by the manufacturer as the most common 
consumer cycle for washing a full load of normally to heavily soiled 
cotton clothing. For machines where multiple cycle settings meet this 
description, then the Normal cycle is the cycle selection that results 
in the lowest IMEF or MEF value.'' ''. DOE first adopted a similar 
definition of ``Normal cycle'' for clothes washer testing in appendix 
J, which incorporated the general approach to calculating the energy 
consumption of automatic clothes washers contained in AHAM's standard 
HLW-2EC for clothes washers at the time. (42 FR 25329, 25330 (May 17, 
1977); 42 FR 49802 (September 28, 1977)) Over time, machine labeling 
and literature evolved to the point that the term ``normal'' as 
previously defined no longer captured all of the control settings most 
consumers would typically choose in operating the machine to wash their 
laundry. (See, e.g., 75 FR 57556, 57575) Further, the range of cycle 
options and terminology on the control panels have changed such that 
many machines no longer refer to a ``Normal'' cycle, instead relying 
upon other terms. This evolution may have resulted in inaccurate 
representations of the energy usage of these machines due to differing 
interpretations regarding the appropriate test cycle. In order to add 
clarity and ensure consistent selection of the appropriate cycle for 
energy testing, DOE is proposing to add the ``Normal cycle'' definition 
in newly designated section 1.25 and to reference the term in the new 
energy test cycle flowcharts, and DOE will consider manufacturer 
literature and markings on the machine when determining the normal 
cycle of any particular unit. DOE specifically seeks comment on this 
definition and whether it adequately covers the cycle setting most 
commonly chosen by users of washing machines.
    DOE also proposes to remove the definitions for ``warm rinse'' and 
``warm wash'' from section 1 of appendix J2 (Definitions and Symbols), 
since those terms would be defined in the proposed flowcharts instead.
    Finally, DOE proposes to move the current section 2.13 of appendix 
J2, Energy consumption for the purpose of certifying the cycle 
selection(s) to be included in Part (B) of the energy test cycle 
definition, to newly created section 3.10. Section 3 of appendix J2 
(Test Measurements), is a more appropriate location in the test 
procedure for these provisions.

[[Page 23067]]

    DOE intends for the cycle selections as determined using the new 
energy test cycle flowcharts to be the same as the cycle selections as 
determined using the current energy test cycle definition in appendix 
J2. DOE requests comment on whether discrepancies exist when 
determining the wash/rinse temperature selections using the proposed 
flowcharts compared to using the current energy test cycle definition. 
If discrepancies exist, DOE requests that interested parties provide 
specific examples of cycle setting configurations that would lead to 
the discrepancies. DOE also requests comment on whether the methodology 
presented in the flowcharts could result in an efficiency rating that 
is unrepresentative of how a particular clothes washer would be used by 
consumers.

F. Wash Time Setting

    DOE proposes moving the wash time setting provisions from section 
2.10 of appendix J2 to a subsection of newly revised section 3.2.5. The 
procedure for setting the wash time must be performed prior to each 
individual wash cycle during testing; therefore, the most appropriate 
location for this instruction is within the specific testing procedures 
provided in section 3.2.

G. Standby and Off Mode Testing

    DOE proposes clarifications to the standby and off mode power 
testing provisions in appendix J2. In addition to minor wording 
clarifications in sections 3.9 and 3.9.1 of appendix J2, the proposed 
clarifications are as follows:
1. Testing Sequence
    DOE proposes clarifying that combined low-power mode testing in 
section 3.9 of appendix J2 be performed after completion of an energy 
test cycle, after removing the test load, and without disconnecting the 
electrical energy supply to the clothes washer between completion of 
the energy test cycle and the start of combined low-power mode testing. 
This clarification would preclude performing combined low-power mode 
testing directly after connecting the clothes washer to the electrical 
energy supply. DOE testing suggests that testing a clothes washer's 
standby or off-mode power consumption directly after connecting the 
clothes washer to the electrical energy supply may not be 
representative of the standby or off-mode power consumption after its 
first use. DOE believes this clarification would ensure that the 
results of the combined low-power mode testing accurately represent the 
conditions most likely to be experienced in a residential setting.
2. Default Settings
    DOE proposes clarifying that combined low-power mode testing be 
performed without changing the control panel settings used for the 
energy test cycle completed prior to combined low-power mode testing. 
The test procedure requires using the manufacturer default settings for 
any wash cycle performed within the energy test cycle. The proposed 
clarification would preclude activating or deactivating any optional 
control panel displays or other features not activated by default on 
the clothes washer when it is not being used to perform an active mode 
wash cycle, during combined low-power mode testing. DOE believes this 
clarification would ensure that the results of the combined low-power 
mode testing accurately represent the conditions most likely to be 
experienced in a residential setting.
3. Multiple Possible Inactive Modes
    DOE testing indicates that some residential appliances, including 
clothes washers, may have multiple modes that meet the definition of 
inactive mode currently provided in section 1.15 of appendix J2 
(redesignated section 1.16). DOE proposes clarifying that inactive mode 
is the lowest-power standby mode that facilitates the activation of 
active mode by remote switch (including remote control), internal 
sensor, or timer, or that provides continuous status display. 
Specifying use of the lowest-power mode would clarify potential 
ambiguity regarding which inactive mode to use for testing if multiple 
inactive modes exist on a clothes washer.

H. Fixed Water Fill Control Systems

    The load sizes used for testing depend upon the type of water fill 
control system available on the clothes washer, as defined in section 
2.8 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2. For clothes washers with 
manual water fill control systems, the minimum and maximum load sizes 
are tested. For clothes washers with adaptive water fill control 
systems, the minimum, average, and maximum load sizes are tested.
    DOE has become aware of clothes washers that have fixed water 
levels for all load sizes and no water fill selector or water fill 
control settings available to the user. DOE notes that, as with 
adaptive water fill control systems, fixed water fill control systems 
do not require user action to determine the water fill level. 
Therefore, DOE proposes that a clothes washer with a fixed water fill 
control system be tested in the same manner as a clothes washer with an 
adaptive water fill control system; i.e., using the minimum, average, 
and maximum load sizes.
    The proposed amendments would (1) add a definition for ``fixed 
water fill control system,'' (2) add a definition for ``automatic water 
fill control system,'' which would include both fixed water fill 
control systems and adaptive water fill control systems, and (3) amend 
the definition of ``adaptive water fill control system'' to clarify 
that it is considered a type of automatic water fill control system. 
Additionally, where appropriate, instances of ``adaptive water fill 
control system'' throughout the test procedure would be replaced with 
``automatic water fill control system,'' to indicate that such testing 
provisions apply to both adaptive water fill control systems and fixed 
water fill control systems. These amendments would apply to both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2.

I. Deep Rinse and Spray Rinse Definitions

    Section 3.2.2 of appendix J2 states that total water consumption 
during the energy test cycle shall be measured, including hot and cold 
water consumption, during wash, deep rinse, and spray rinse. As 
proposed, the revised section 3.2.8 would specify including the entire 
active washing mode, and excluding any delay start or cycle finished 
modes, for each wash cycle tested. Active washing mode is defined in 
section 1.2 as including the main functions of washing, soaking, 
tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water from the clothing. 
DOE believes that the proposed revision to 3.2.8 provides better 
clarity and completeness, compared to the wording in 3.2.2, regarding 
the portions of the wash cycle to be included and measured for testing. 
Therefore, DOE proposes to delete section 3.2.2 from appendix J2 and to 
renumber the subsequent subsections accordingly.
    Furthermore, since section 3.2.2 is the only location within the 
test procedure where the terms ``deep rinse'' and ``spray rinse'' 
occur, DOE also proposes to remove those two definitions from the 
section 1 of appendix J2.

J. Uniformly Distributed Warm Wash Temperatures

    Section 1.17 of appendix J1 and section 1.32 of appendix J2 provide 
the definition of uniformly distributed warm wash temperature 
selections. A clothes washer has uniformly distributed warm wash 
temperature selections if (A) the warm wash temperatures have a linear 
relationship with all discrete warm wash selections

[[Page 23068]]

when the water temperatures are plotted against equally spaced 
consecutive warm wash selections between the hottest warm wash and the 
coldest warm wash, and the mean water temperature of the warmest and 
the coldest warm selections coincide with the mean of the hot wash and 
cold wash water temperatures within 3.8[emsp14][deg]F; or 
(B) on a clothes washer with only one warm wash temperature selection, 
the warm wash temperature selection has a water temperature that 
coincides with the mean of the hot wash and cold wash water 
temperatures within 3.8[emsp14][deg]F. For clothes washers 
with uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections, the 
reported values to be used for the warm wash setting are the arithmetic 
average of the measurements for the hot and cold wash selections. This 
is a ``shortcut'' calculation only; no testing is required.
    DOE notes that the criteria for determining whether the warm wash 
temperatures are uniformly distributed are based on water temperature 
only; total water consumption is not considered. On a clothes washer 
with electronic control systems, a clothes washer's warm wash cycles 
could be programmed to use larger quantities of water than the cold 
wash and hot wash cycles, yet the data to be used to represent the warm 
wash cycle would be the average of the cold and hot wash cycles, rather 
than actual data from testing. Since the warm wash temperature 
selection has the highest temperature use factor at 0.49, DOE proposes 
that the warm wash temperature selection(s) on such a clothes washer be 
tested. Therefore, DOE proposes to remove the definition of uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperature selections from both appendix J1 and 
appendix J2, and to remove any provisions within the test procedures 
pertaining to uniformly distributed warm wash temperature selections.
    DOE requests comment on any potential increase in test burden as 
result of its proposal to eliminate the separate testing provisions for 
clothes washers with uniformly distributed warm wash temperatures. DOE 
estimates that the resulting total testing time would be no greater 
than for clothes washers with the same number of warm wash temperature 
options, but with non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE 
observes constitutes the majority of the market.

K. Determining Extra Hot Wash Temperature

    Section 3.3 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines Extra Hot 
Wash as having a maximum wash temperature greater than 
135[emsp14][deg]F. Determining the maximum wash temperature requires 
measuring the water temperature during the wash cycle to determine the 
maximum wash temperature achieved. DOE understands that, in practice, 
measuring the wash water temperature can be difficult due to factors 
such as the geometry of front-loading tub design; the increasing use of 
door locks; and, in high-efficiency clothes washers, the lack of a 
standing pool of wash water from which to measure the temperature.
    DOE proposes adding a statement to section 3.3 of both appendix J1 
and appendix J2 to provide guidance on one possible method that testing 
parties could use to determine the maximum wash water temperature. In 
the proposed method, testing parties would adhere non-reversible 
temperature indicator labels to the inside of the clothing container to 
determine the maximum water temperature during an energy test cycle. If 
a testing party used the temperature indicator label method when 
testing a front-loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered 
along the inner circumference of the clothes container drum, midway 
between the front and the back of the clothes container. For a top-
loading clothes washer, the label would be adhered along the inner 
circumference of the clothes container drum, as close to the bottom of 
the container as possible.
    Manufacturers may be able to use alternate methods for determining 
the maximum wash temperature during an energy test cycle; however, DOE 
is unaware of any other direct measurement methods that could be safely 
used by a third-party laboratory without requiring partial disassembly 
of the clothes washer or without permanently altering the machine.

L. Gas-Heated and Oil-Heated Hot Water Energy

    Section 4.1.4 of both appendix J1 and appendix J2 provides 
equations for calculating per-cycle hot water energy consumption using 
gas-heated or oil-heated water. The result of this calculation is not 
used in any downstream calculations within the test procedure. The 
calculated result is referenced within 10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and 
(ii)(B); however, these values are not included as part of DOE's 
certification requirements for clothes washers in 10 CFR 429.20 and 
429.46, nor are they required for other DOE regulatory purposes. DOE is 
unaware of any other regulatory programs that require the calculation 
of per-cycle hot water energy using gas- or oil-heated water for 
clothes washers. Therefore, DOE proposes to remove section 4.1.4 from 
both appendix J1 and appendix J2, and to remove the related sections of 
10 CFR 430.23(j)(1)(i)(B) and (ii)(B), adjusting the subsequent section 
numberings accordingly.

M. Out-of-Balance Loads

    DOE has observed that some clothes washers may terminate the wash 
cycle prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected. Because 
the test procedure defines an energy test cycle as including the 
agitation/tumble operation, spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times 
applicable to each cycle, the data from a wash cycle that terminates 
prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected, and thus does 
not include these required elements, should be discarded. The proposed 
amendments provide this clarification to section 3.2 of appendix J1 and 
a new section 3.2.9 of appendix J2.

N. Reordering of Section 2, Testing Conditions

    DOE proposes to reorder the subsections within section 2 of 
appendix J2 (Testing Conditions) to improve the clarity and overall 
flow of the section. After reordering, the general progression of 
section 2 would be as follows:

 Laboratory infrastructure requirements
 Instrumentation requirements
 Test cloth requirements
 Test load composition and handling
 Clothes washer installation and preconditioning procedures
 Energy test cycle determination

O. Table 3.2 Edits

    Table 3.2 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 defines the sections 
within the test procedure that govern the tests of particular clothes 
washers, based on the number of wash/rinse temperature selections 
available on the model. DOE proposes to clarify one of the headings in 
Table 3.2 of appendix J1. The proposal would amend the current heading, 
``Number of wash temp. selections'' to ``Number of wash temp. 
selections in the energy test cycle.'' In addition, Table 3.2 in 
appendix J1 contains a typographical error in the second footnote: the 
word ``heating'' is misspelled. Today's proposal corrects this error.
    DOE proposes simplifying the overall structure of Table 3.2 in 
appendix J2 (renumbered 3.2.2) by using the clarified wash/rinse 
temperature nomenclature within the revised energy

[[Page 23069]]

test cycle definition and flowcharts. DOE does not intend for any of 
the required test sections to change as a result of the proposed 
revisions to the table.

P. Table 4.1.1 Edits

    Table 4.1.1 in appendix J2 provides the temperature use factors. 
DOE proposes improving the clarity of the overall structure of Table 
4.1.1 in appendix J2 by reorganizing the columns in the table to more 
closely match the wash/rinse temperature nomenclature within the 
revised energy test cycle definition and flowcharts. DOE does not 
intend for any of the temperature use factors to change as a result of 
the proposed revisions to the table.

Q. Table 2.8 Edits

    In the March 2012 final rule, Table 2.8 in appendix J2 (``Test Load 
Sizes and Water Fill Settings Required'') contained a formatting error 
that combined the average and minimum test load sizes into a single row 
for clothes washers with an adaptive water fill control system. DOE did 
not intend to amend the test load sizes required for clothes washers 
with an adaptive water fill control system. Today's proposal amends the 
layout of Table 2.8 in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to improve its 
overall clarity. As described above, DOE has also proposed changing the 
heading of the relevant column to ``automatic water fill control 
system'' rather than ``adaptive water fill control system''.

R. Replacing ``Consumer'' With ``User''

    Both appendix J1 and appendix J2 refer to the ``consumer'' in 
various parts of the test procedures. In each instance, the word 
``consumer'' refers to the individual using the clothes washer. DOE 
notes that the word ``consumer'' may be misconstrued as the original 
purchaser or owner of the clothes washer. In some cases, particularly 
coin-operated laundries and multi-family housing common laundry rooms, 
the purchaser or owner of the clothes washer is not the end user of the 
clothes washer.
    The distinction between the owner and the end user may be relevant 
to the test procedure if certain settings, such as water fill levels, 
may be customized by the owner of the clothes washer but are not 
adjustable by the end user. To prevent any possible ambiguity implied 
by the word ``consumer,'' DOE proposes to replace the word ``consumer'' 
with ``user'' or ``end user'' throughout the test procedure in all 
instances where the word ``consumer'' is currently used.

S. Introductory Text

    DOE proposes revising the introductory text after the appendix 
headings in both appendix J1 and appendix J2 to clarify the proper use 
of appendices J1 and J2 for making representations of energy 
efficiency, including certifying compliance with DOE energy 
conservation standards.
    DOE test procedures for clothes washers are set forth in appendices 
J1 and J2 in 10 CFR Part 430 subpart B. This proposal describes 
amendments to both appendices. Pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 6293(c), 
manufacturers must make representations of energy efficiency using any 
amendments DOE adopts in a final test procedure rule beginning 180 days 
after the effective date of such rule. Therefore, beginning 180 days 
after the effective date of any final amendments based on today's 
proposals, manufacturers must make representations of energy efficiency 
pursuant to appendix J1 or appendix J2 as modified through such 
amendments.
    In addition, as of March 7, 2015, manufacturers of residential 
clothes washers will no longer be authorized to use appendix J1. 
Residential clothes washer manufacturers must use appendix J2, as 
modified though any amendments that DOE may adopt based on today's 
proposal, to demonstrate compliance with the standards and make any 
representations of energy efficiency as of March 7, 2015. March 7, 2015 
is the compliance date of the amended energy conservation standards 
that address standby and off mode energy consumption for residential 
clothes washers. 77 FR 32308 (May 31, 2012) and 77 FR 59719 (October 1, 
2012).

T. Test Procedure Provisions in 10 CFR 430.23

    DOE proposes revising section 430.23(j)(3) to contain only the 
provisions for calculating annual water consumption when using either 
appendix J1 or appendix J2. The proposed amendments would add a new 
section 430.23(j)(4), which would contain the provisions for 
determining water factor and integrated water factor.
    The proposed amendments would also create a new section 
430.23(j)(5) that would contain the following statement: ``Other useful 
measures of energy consumption for automatic or semi-automatic clothes 
washers shall be those measures of energy consumption that the 
Secretary determines are likely to assist consumers in making 
purchasing decisions and that are derived from the application of 
appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.'' This statement is 
currently contained in section 430.23(j)(3). Moving the statement to a 
dedicated subsection would maintain consistency with DOE's test 
procedure provisions for other products within 10 CFR Part 430. DOE 
notes that the measurement or reporting of any additional measures of 
energy or water consumption would be adopted through the rulemaking 
process.
    Finally, to eliminate any potential ambiguity, the proposed 
amendments would replace the phrase ``can be determined'' with ``must 
be determined'' throughout the text of 10 CFR 430.23(j)(3) through 
(j)(5).

U. Reporting and Verification Requirements

1. Remaining Moisture Content
    DOE has observed the potential for significant variation in the RMC 
measurement at the maximum spin speed setting on some clothes washer 
models. During testing of front-loading clothes washer models, DOE 
observed that the maximum target spin speed may not be achieved during 
the final spin portion of the cycle if the load size is not evenly 
distributed around the circumference of the wash drum. DOE believes 
that in such cases, the spin speed may be automatically reduced as a 
safety precaution and to prevent damage to the clothes washer caused by 
the asymmetric rotation of the unbalanced load within the wash basket.
    Figure III.1 shows an example of RMC test data obtained from one 
front-loading residential clothes washer model. DOE performed the RMC 
measurement using the cold wash cycle at the maximum available spin 
speed setting. The RMC measurement was performed a total of twelve 
times using three different test cloth lots. The corrected RMC 
measurement \2\ varied between 32.3 percent and 46.2 percent, with an 
average of 37.0 percent. DOE has observed similar variations of this 
magnitude on multiple front-loading clothes washer models.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \2\ Corrected RMC measurements are obtained using the test cloth 
correction factors developed for each test cloth lot, as applied in 
section 2.6.7 of appendix J1 and appendix J2. DOE publishes a list 
of the test cloth correction factors developed for test cloth Lots 5 
through 20 at http://www2.eere.energy.gov/buildings/appliance_standards/residential/clothes_washer_test_cloth_correction.html.

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[[Page 23070]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.014

    The RMC measurement is used to determine the per-cycle energy 
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load; i.e., the 
``drying energy'' portion of the MEF and Integrated Modified Energy 
Factor (IMEF) calculations. The drying energy represents between 59 and 
87 percent of a clothes washer's total energy consumption; \3\ hence, 
the RMC measurement significantly impacts the overall MEF and IMEF 
calculations. For example, the level of RMC variation shown in Figure 
III.1 would lead to a 25 percent variation in the overall MEF 
calculation.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \3\ Percentages derived from Table 7.2.1 and 7.2.2 in the May 
31, 2012 direct final rule technical support document for the 
residential clothes washer energy conservations standards 
rulemaking, available at http://www.regulations.gov/#!documentDetail;D=EERE-2008-BT-STD-0019-0047.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    In today's rule, DOE proposes adding a new section 3.8.5 in both 
appendix J1 and appendix J2 to specify that manufacturers may perform 
up to two additional replications of the RMC measurement, for a total 
of three independent RMC measurements for the tested unit, and use the 
average of the three measurements as the basis for the calculation of 
per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from the test 
load.
    DOE also proposes to add the RMC measurement to the list of public 
product-specific information contained in the certification reports for 
residential clothes washers, as described in 10 CFR 429.20(b)(2)(i) and 
(ii). DOE also proposes in newly created 10 CFR 429.20(a)(4) that the 
certified RMC value of any clothes washer basic model shall be the mean 
of the final RMC value measured for all tested units of the basic 
model.
    Finally, DOE proposes to add provisions in newly created section 10 
CFR 429.134(c)(1) specifying that during assessment or enforcement 
testing, the measured RMC value of a tested unit will be considered the 
tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value is within two 
RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the basic model 
(expressed as a percentage), or if the measured RMC value is lower than 
the certified RMC value. DOE proposes a threshold of two RMC percentage 
points because such a variation would limit the variation in the 
overall MEF or IMEF calculation to roughly five percent.
    If the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more than two RMC 
percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of the basic 
model, DOE will perform two additional replications of the RMC 
measurement, each pursuant to the provisions of newly added section 
3.8.5 of appendix J1 and appendix J2, for a total of three independent 
RMC measurements of the tested unit. The average of the three RMC 
measurements will be considered the tested unit's final RMC value and 
will be used as the basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy 
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load for that unit.
2. Rounding Requirements for All Reported Values
    DOE proposes adding a new section at 10 CFR 429.20(c) to specify 
the rounding requirements of all reported values for residential 
clothes washers as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the 
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the 
nearest 0.1 cu ft.
3. Energy Test Cycle Selections
    As amended by the March 2012 final rule, 10 CFR 429.20(b)(3) 
requires certification reports based on testing conducted in accordance 
with appendix J2 to include a list of all cycle selections comprising 
the complete energy test cycle for each basic model. DOE believes that 
this reporting requirement should also pertain when appendix J1 is 
used, particularly due to the difference in wording of the energy test 
cycle definition in appendix J1. Therefore, DOE proposes to amend 10 
CFR 429.20(b)(3) to require a list of all cycle selections comprising 
the complete energy test cycle for each basic model, regardless of 
whether the certification is based on testing conducted in accordance 
with appendix J1 or appendix J2.

IV. Procedural Issues and Regulatory Review

A. Review Under Executive Order 12866

    The Office of Management and Budget has determined that test 
procedure

[[Page 23071]]

rulemakings do not constitute ``significant regulatory actions'' under 
section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866, Regulatory Planning and Review, 
58 FR 51735 (Oct. 4, 1993). Accordingly, this action was not subject to 
review under the Executive Order by the Office of Information and 
Regulatory Affairs (OIRA) in the Office of Management and Budget (OMB).

B. Review Under the Regulatory Flexibility Act

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act (5 U.S.C. 601 et seq.) requires 
preparation of a regulatory flexibility analysis (IFRA) for any rule 
that by law must be proposed for public comment, unless the agency 
certifies that the rule, if promulgated, will not have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. As required 
by Executive Order 13272, ``Proper Consideration of Small Entities in 
Agency Rulemaking,'' 67 FR 53461 (August 16, 2002), DOE published 
procedures and policies on February 19, 2003, to ensure that the 
potential impacts of its rules on small entities are properly 
considered during the DOE rulemaking process. 68 FR 7990. DOE has made 
its procedures and policies available on the Office of the General 
Counsel's Web site: http://energy.gov/gc/office-general-counsel.
    DOE reviewed today's proposed rule under the provisions of the 
Regulatory Flexibility Act and the procedures and policies published on 
February 19, 2003. Today's NOPR would amend DOE's test procedure by 
codifying guidance interpreting DOE's existing regulations, providing 
further clarifying interpretation of the relevant test procedure 
provisions, correcting formatting errors, providing improved overall 
organization, and removing certain testing provisions within the 
current test procedures. DOE has concluded that the rule would not have 
a significant impact on a substantial number of small entities. The 
factual basis for this certification is as follows:
    The Small Business Administration (SBA) considers a business entity 
to be a small business, if, together with its affiliates, it employs 
less than a threshold number of workers specified in 13 CFR Part 121. 
These size standards and codes are established by the 2007 North 
American Industry Classification System (NAICS). The threshold number 
for NAICS classification code 335224, which applies to household 
laundry equipment manufacturers and includes residential clothes washer 
manufacturers, is 1,000 employees. Searches of the SBA Web site \4\ to 
identify clothes washer manufacturers within this NAICS code identified 
one small business. This small business manufactures laundry 
appliances, including residential clothes washers.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    \4\ A searchable database of certified small businesses is 
available online at: http://dsbs.sba.gov/dsbs/search/dsp_dsbs.cfm.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------

    DOE estimates that the clarified description of the capacity 
measurement would take the same amount of time to conduct as the 
capacity measurement analyzed in the March 2012 final rule. DOE 
believes that use of an alternate bracing method for front-loading 
clothes washers that do not contain shipping bolts or other bracing 
hardware is already current practice among manufacturers of such 
clothes washers. Additionally, DOE notes that the identified small 
business produces only a single platform of top-loading clothes 
washers, for which the proposed alternate bracing method would not be 
applicable.
    Regarding the potential increased testing burden associated with 
maintaining a five degree tolerance on supply water temperatures for 
clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption or water energy 
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature. One method for 
achieving this temperature tolerance would be to use electronically 
controlled water mixing valves on both the cold and hot water supply 
lines. DOE estimates a capital cost of approximately $2,500 for 
installing electronically controlled water mixing valves on a single 
test stand. DOE notes that the identified small business currently does 
not manufacturer this type of clothes washer; therefore, DOE does not 
expect this proposed amendment to require any changes to the testing 
hardware currently used by the small business.
    DOE does not expect any of the clarifications to the energy test 
cycle definition or the standby and off mode measurements to affect the 
total length of testing time. Regarding any potential increase in test 
burden as a result of its proposal to eliminate the separate testing 
provisions for clothes washers with uniformly distributed warm wash 
temperatures. DOE notes that the total testing time would be no greater 
than for clothes washers with the same number of warm wash temperature 
options, but with non-uniformly distributed temperatures, which DOE 
observes constitutes the majority of the market. DOE also notes that 
the clothes washers manufactured by the identified small business do 
not contain uniformly distributed warm wash temperatures, and thus the 
small business will not be affected by the proposed amendment.
    Finally, the remaining proposed changes in today's NOPR are 
intended to clarify the existing test methods without adding any 
additional requirements and therefore would not result in additional 
burden.
    For the reasons stated above, DOE certifies that the proposed test 
procedure amendments would not have a significant impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. DOE will submit a certification 
and supporting statement of factual basis to the Chief Counsel for 
Advocacy of the SBA for review under 5 U.S.C. 605(b).

C. Review Under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995

    Manufacturers of residential clothes washers must certify to DOE 
that their products comply with any applicable energy conservation 
standards. In certifying compliance, manufacturers must test their 
products according to the DOE test procedures for clothes washers, 
including any amendments adopted for those test procedures. DOE has 
established regulations for the certification and recordkeeping 
requirements for all covered consumer products and commercial 
equipment, including residential clothes washers. (76 FR 12422 (March 
7, 2011). The collection-of-information requirement for the 
certification and recordkeeping is subject to review and approval by 
OMB under the Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA). This requirement has been 
approved by OMB under OMB control number 1910-1400. Public reporting 
burden for the certification is estimated to average 20 hours per 
response, including the time for reviewing instructions, searching 
existing data sources, gathering and maintaining the data needed, and 
completing and reviewing the collection of information.
    Notwithstanding any other provision of the law, no person is 
required to respond to, nor shall any person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with, a collection of information subject to the 
requirements of the PRA, unless that collection of information displays 
a currently valid OMB Control Number.

D. Review Under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969

    In this proposed rule, DOE proposes test procedure amendments that 
it expects will be used to develop and implement future energy 
conservation standards for residential clothes washers. DOE has 
determined that this rule falls into a class of actions that are 
categorically excluded from review

[[Page 23072]]

under the National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321 et 
seq.) and DOE's implementing regulations at 10 CFR Part 1021. 
Specifically, this proposed rule would amend the existing test 
procedures without affecting the amount, quality or distribution of 
energy usage, and, therefore, would not result in any environmental 
impacts. Thus, this rulemaking is covered by Categorical Exclusion A5 
under 10 CFR Part 1021, subpart D, which applies to any rulemaking that 
interprets or amends an existing rule without changing the 
environmental effect of that rule. Accordingly, neither an 
environmental assessment nor an environmental impact statement is 
required.

E. Review Under Executive Order 13132

    Executive Order 13132, ``Federalism,'' 64 FR 43255 (August 4, 1999) 
imposes certain requirements on agencies formulating and implementing 
policies or regulations that preempt State law or that have Federalism 
implications. The Executive Order requires agencies to examine the 
constitutional and statutory authority supporting any action that would 
limit the policymaking discretion of the States and to carefully assess 
the necessity for such actions. The Executive Order also requires 
agencies to have an accountable process to ensure meaningful and timely 
input by State and local officials in the development of regulatory 
policies that have Federalism implications. On March 14, 2000, DOE 
published a statement of policy describing the intergovernmental 
consultation process it will follow in the development of such 
regulations. 65 FR 13735. DOE examined this proposed rule and 
determined that it will not have a substantial direct effect on the 
States, on the relationship between the national government and the 
States, or on the distribution of power and responsibilities among the 
various levels of government. EPCA governs and prescribes Federal 
preemption of State regulations as to energy conservation for the 
products that are the subject of today's proposed rule. States can 
petition DOE for exemption from such preemption to the extent, and 
based on criteria, set forth in EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6297(d)) No further 
action is required by Executive Order 13132.

F. Review Under Executive Order 12988

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

G. Review Under the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995

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

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

    Section 654 of the Treasury and General Government Appropriations 
Act, 1999 (Pub. L. 105-277) requires Federal agencies to issue a Family 
Policymaking Assessment for any rule that may affect family well-being. 
This rule would not have any impact on the autonomy or integrity of the 
family as an institution. Accordingly, DOE has concluded that it is not 
necessary to prepare a Family Policymaking Assessment.

I. Review Under Executive Order 12630

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

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

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

K. Review Under Executive Order 13211

    Executive Order 13211, ``Actions Concerning Regulations That 
Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or Use,'' 66 FR 28355 
(May 22, 2001), requires Federal agencies to prepare and submit to OMB, 
a Statement of Energy Effects for any proposed significant energy 
action. A ``significant energy action'' is defined as

[[Page 23073]]

any action by an agency that promulgated or is expected to lead to 
promulgation of a final rule, and that: (1) Is a significant regulatory 
action under Executive Order 12866, or any successor order; and (2) is 
likely to have a significant adverse effect on the supply, 
distribution, or use of energy; or (3) is designated by the 
Administrator of OIRA as a significant energy action. For any proposed 
significant energy action, the agency must give a detailed statement of 
any adverse effects on energy supply, distribution, or use should the 
proposal be implemented, and of reasonable alternatives to the action 
and their expected benefits on energy supply, distribution, and use.
    Today's regulatory action to amend the test procedure for measuring 
the energy efficiency of residential clothes washers is not a 
significant regulatory action under Executive Order 12866. Moreover, it 
would not have a significant adverse effect on the supply, 
distribution, or use of energy, nor has it been designated as a 
significant energy action by the Administrator of OIRA. Therefore, it 
is not a significant energy action, and, accordingly, DOE has not 
prepared a Statement of Energy Effects.

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

    Under section 301 of the Department of Energy Organization Act 
(Pub. L. 95-91; 42 U.S.C. 7101), DOE must comply with section 32 of the 
Federal Energy Administration Act of 1974, as amended by the Federal 
Energy Administration Authorization Act of 1977. (15 U.S.C. 788; FEAA) 
Section 32 essentially provides in relevant part that, where a proposed 
rule authorizes or requires use of commercial standards, the notice of 
proposed rulemaking must inform the public of the use and background of 
such standards. In addition, section 32(c) requires DOE to consult with 
the Attorney General and the Chairman of the Federal Trade Commission 
(FTC) concerning the impact of the commercial or industry standards on 
competition. DOE is not requiring the use of any new commercial 
standards in this rulemaking, so these requirements do not apply.

V. Public Participation

A. Submission of Comments

    DOE will accept comments, data, and information regarding this 
proposed rule no later than the date provided in the DATES section at 
the beginning of this proposed rule. Interested parties may submit 
comments using any of the methods described in the ADDRESSES section at 
the beginning of this NOPR.
    Submitting comments via regulations.gov. The regulations.gov Web 
page will require you to provide your name and contact information. 
Your contact information will be viewable to DOE Building Technologies 
staff only. Your contact information will not be publicly viewable 
except for your first and last names, organization name (if any), and 
submitter representative name (if any). If your comment is not 
processed properly because of technical difficulties, DOE will use this 
information to contact you. If DOE cannot read your comment due to 
technical difficulties and cannot contact you for clarification, DOE 
may not be able to consider your comment.
    However, your contact information will be publicly viewable if you 
include it in the comment or in any documents attached to your comment. 
Any information that you do not want to be publicly viewable should not 
be included in your comment, nor in any document attached to your 
comment. Persons viewing comments will see only first and last names, 
organization names, correspondence containing comments, and any 
documents submitted with the comments.
    Do not submit to regulations.gov information for which disclosure 
is restricted by statute, such as trade secrets and commercial or 
financial information (hereinafter referred to as Confidential Business 
Information (CBI)). Comments submitted through regulations.gov cannot 
be claimed as CBI. Parties who submit comments through the Web site 
will waive any CBI claims for the information submitted. For 
information on submitting CBI, see the Confidential Business 
Information section.
    DOE processes submissions made through regulations.gov before 
posting. Normally, comments will be posted within a few days of being 
submitted. However, if large volumes of comments are being processed 
simultaneously, your comment may not be viewable for up to several 
weeks. Please keep the comment tracking number that regulations.gov 
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
    Submitting comments via email, hand delivery, or mail. Comments and 
documents submitted via email, hand delivery, or mail also will be 
posted to regulations.gov. If you do not want your personal contact 
information to be publicly viewable, do not include it in your comment 
or any accompanying documents. Instead, provide your contact 
information on a cover letter. Include your first and last names, email 
address, telephone number, and optional mailing address. The cover 
letter will not be publicly viewable as long as it does not include any 
comments.
    Include contact information each time you submit comments, data, 
documents, and other information to DOE. If you submit via mail or hand 
delivery, please provide all items on a CD, if feasible. It is not 
necessary to submit printed copies. No facsimiles (faxes) will be 
accepted.
    Comments, data, and other information submitted to DOE 
electronically should be provided in PDF (preferred), Microsoft Word or 
Excel, WordPerfect, or text (ASCII) file format. Provide documents that 
are not secured, written in English and free of any defects or viruses. 
Documents should not contain special characters or any form of 
encryption and, if possible, they should carry the electronic signature 
of the author.
    Campaign form letters. Please submit campaign form letters by the 
originating organization in batches of between 50 to 500 form letters 
per PDF or as one form letter with a list of supporters' names compiled 
into one or more PDFs. This reduces comment processing and posting 
time.
    Confidential Business Information. According to 10 CFR 1004.11, any 
person submitting information that he or she believes to be 
confidential and exempt by law from public disclosure should submit via 
email, postal mail, or hand delivery two well-marked copies: one copy 
of the document marked confidential including all the information 
believed to be confidential, and one copy of the document marked non-
confidential with the information believed to be confidential deleted. 
Submit these documents via email or on a CD, if feasible. DOE will make 
its own determination about the confidential status of the information 
and treat it according to its determination.
    Factors of interest to DOE when evaluating requests to treat 
submitted information as confidential include: (1) A description of the 
items; (2) whether and why such items are customarily treated as 
confidential within the industry; (3) whether the information is 
generally known by or available from other sources; (4) whether the 
information has previously been made available to others without 
obligation concerning its confidentiality; (5) an explanation of the 
competitive injury to the submitting person that would result from 
public disclosure; (6) when such information might lose its 
confidential character due to the passage of time; and

[[Page 23074]]

(7) why disclosure of the information would be contrary to the public 
interest.
    It is DOE's policy that all comments may be included in the public 
docket, without change and as received, including any personal 
information provided in the comments (except information deemed to be 
exempt from public disclosure).

B. Issues on Which DOE Seeks Comment

    Although DOE welcomes comments on any aspect of this proposal, DOE 
is particularly interested in receiving comments and views of 
interested parties concerning the following issues:
    (1) The normal cycle definition and whether it adequately covers 
the cycle setting most commonly chosen by users of washing machines;
    (2) The potential test burden associated with maintaining a 
tolerance of five degrees on the hot and cold water supply temperature 
ranges for clothes washers in which electrical energy and water energy 
consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature;
    (3) The potential increase in test burden associated with removing 
the separate testing provisions for clothes washers with uniformly 
distributed warm wash temperatures.
    (4) Whether any discrepancies exist when determining the wash/rinse 
temperature selections comprising the energy test cycle in appendix J2 
using the proposed flowcharts compared to using the current energy test 
cycle definition (and, if so, specific examples of cycle setting 
configurations that would lead to the discrepancies); and
    (5) Whether the methodology presented in the energy test cycle 
flowcharts in appendix J2 could result in an efficiency rating 
unrepresentative of how a particular clothes washer would be used by 
consumers.

VI. Approval of the Office of the Secretary

    The Secretary of Energy has approved publication of this proposed 
rule.

List of Subjects

10 CFR Part 429

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

10 CFR Part 430

    Administrative practice and procedure, Energy conservation, 
Household appliances.

    Issued in Washington, DC, on April 11, 2014.
Kathleen B. Hogan,
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency, Energy Efficiency and 
Renewable Energy.

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

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

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

    Authority:  42 U.S.C. 6291-6317.

0
2. Section 429.20 is amended by:
0
a. Adding paragraphs (a)(3), (a)(4), and (c); and
0
b. Revising paragraphs (b)(2)(i), (b)(2)(ii), and (b)(3).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:


Sec.  429.20  Residential clothes washers.

    (a) * * *
    (3) The capacity of a basic model reported in accordance with 
paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean of the measured 
clothes container capacity, C, of all tested units of the basic model.
    (4) The remaining moisture content (RMC) of a basic model reported 
in accordance with paragraph (b)(2) of this section shall be the mean 
of the final RMC value measured for all tested units of the basic 
model.
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with 
Appendix J1: The modified energy factor (MEF) in cubic feet per 
kilowatt hour per cycle (cu ft/kWh/cycle), the capacity in cubic feet 
(cu ft), and the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC) expressed 
as a percentage. For standard-size residential clothes washers, a water 
factor (WF) in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (gal/cycle/cu ft).
    (ii) For residential clothes washers tested in accordance with 
Appendix J2: The integrated modified energy factor (IMEF) in cu ft/kWh/
cycle, the integrated water factor (IWF) in gal/cycle/cu ft, the 
capacity in cu ft, the corrected remaining moisture content (RMC) 
expressed as a percentage, and the type of loading (top-loading or 
front-loading).
    (3) Pursuant to Sec.  429.12(b)(13), a certification report shall 
include the following additional product-specific information: a list 
of all cycle selections comprising the complete energy test cycle for 
each basic model.
    (c) Reported values. Values reported pursuant to this subsection 
must be rounded as follows: MEF and IMEF to the nearest 0.01 cu ft/kWh/
cycle, WF and IWF to the nearest 0.1 gal/cycle/cu ft, RMC to the 
nearest 0.1 percentage point, and clothes container capacity to the 
nearest 0.1 cu ft.
0
3. Section 429.134 is added to read as follows:


Sec.  429.134  Product-specific enforcement provisions.

    (a) General. The following provisions apply to assessment and 
enforcement testing of the relevant products.
    (b) Reserved.
    (c) Clothes washers. (1) Determination of Remaining Moisture 
Content. The procedure for determining remaining moisture content (RMC) 
will be performed once in its entirety, pursuant to the test 
requirements of section 3.8 of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B 
of part 430, for each unit tested.
    (i) The measured RMC value of a tested unit will be considered the 
tested unit's final RMC value if the measured RMC value is within two 
RMC percentage points of the certified RMC value of the basic model 
(expressed as a percentage), or is lower than the certified RMC value.
    (ii) If the measured RMC value of a tested unit is more than two 
RMC percentage points higher than the certified RMC value of the basic 
model, DOE will perform two additional replications of the RMC 
measurement procedure, each pursuant to the provisions of section 3.8.5 
of appendix J1 and appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430, for a total of 
three independent RMC measurements of the tested unit. The average of 
the three RMC measurements will be the tested unit's final RMC value 
and will be used as the basis for the calculation of per-cycle energy 
consumption for removal of moisture from the test load for that unit.
    (2) Reserved.

PART 430--ENERGY CONSERVATION PROGRAM FOR CONSUMER PRODUCTS

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

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

0
5. Section 430.23 is amended by:
0
a. Revising paragraphs (j)(1)(i) and (ii);
0
b. Revising paragraph (j)(3); and
0
c. Adding paragraphs (j)(4) through (j)(5).
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

[[Page 23075]]

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

* * * * *
    (j) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (i) When using appendix J1 (see the note at the beginning of 
appendix J1),

(N1 x ETE1 x CKWH)

Where,

N1 = the representative average residential clothes 
washer use of 392 cycles per year according to appendix J1,
ETE1 = the total per-cycle energy consumption when 
electrically heated water is used, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
determined according to section 4.1.7 of appendix J1, and
CKWH = the representative average unit cost, in dollars 
per kilowatt-hour, as provided by the Secretary.

(ii) When using appendix J2,
(N2 x (ETE2 + ETSO) x CKWH)

Where,
N2 = the representative average residential clothes 
washer use of 295 cycles per year according to appendix J2,
ETE2 = the total per-cycle energy consumption when 
electrically heated water is used, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
determined according to section 4.1.6 of appendix J2,
ETSO = the per-cycle combined low-power mode energy 
consumption, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, determined according to 
section 4.4 of appendix J2, and
CKWH = the representative average unit cost, in dollars 
per kilowatt-hour, as provided by the Secretary.
* * * * *
    (3) The annual water consumption of a clothes washer must be 
determined as:
    (i) When using appendix J1, the product of the representative 
average-use of 392 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle 
water consumption in gallons per cycle determined according to section 
4.2.2 of appendix J1.
    (ii) When using appendix J2, the product of the representative 
average-use of 295 cycles per year and the total weighted per-cycle 
water consumption for all wash cycles, in gallons per cycle, determined 
according to section 4.2.11 of appendix J2.
    (4)(i) The water factor must be determined according to section 
4.2.3 of appendix J1 (when using appendix J1) or section 4.2.12 of 
appendix J2 (when using appendix J2), with the result rounded off to 
the nearest 0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
    (ii) The integrated water factor must be determined according to 
section 4.2.13 of appendix J2, with the result rounded off to the 
nearest 0.1 gallons per cycle per cubic foot.
    (5) Other useful measures of energy consumption for automatic or 
semi-automatic clothes washers shall be those measures of energy 
consumption that the Secretary determines are likely to assist 
consumers in making purchasing decisions and that are derived from the 
application of appendix J1 or appendix J2, as appropriate.
* * * * *

Appendix J1--[Amended]

0
6. Appendix J1 to subpart B of part 430 is amended by:
0
a. Revising the introductory text after the heading, and sections 1.1 
and 1.2;
0
b. Removing section 1.17;
0
c. Redesignating sections 1.3 to 1.7, 1.8 to 1.16, and 1.18 to 1.23 as 
sections 1.4 to 1.8, 1.10 to 1.18, and 1.19 to 1.24, respectively.d. 
Revising newly redesignated sections 1.8, 1.11, and 1.12;
0
e. Adding sections 1.3, and 1.9;
0
f. Revising sections 2.3.1, 2.6.4.6, 2.6.5, 2.6.5.1, 2.6.5.2, 2.8, 
Table 2.8, and 2.8.3;
0
g. Removing sections 2.6.4.6.1, 2.6.4.6.2, 2.6.6, and 2.6.7;
0
h. Revising sections 3.1.1, 3.1.2, 3.1.4, and 3.1.5;
0
i. Adding sections 3.1.6 and 3.1.7;
0
j. Revising sections 3.2, 3.2.3, 3.2.3.1, 3.2.3.2, and 3.2.3.2.2;
0
k. Removing section 3.2.1.3;
0
l. Revising Table 3.2, sections 3.3, 3.3.3, 3.4.3, 3.5, 3.5.1, 3.5.2, 
3.5.3, and 3.6.3;
0
m. Adding section 3.5.3;
0
n. Adding section 3.8.5; and
0
o. Revising Table 4.1.3 and section 4.1.4.
    The revisions and additions read as follows:

Appendix J1 to Subpart B of Part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers

    Note: Any representation related to the energy or water 
consumption of clothes washers made after [insert date 180 days 
after date of publication of any test procedure final rule in the 
Federal Register] must be made based upon results generated using 
this appendix or Appendix J2. Any representation related to the 
energy or water consumption of clothes washers made between [insert 
date 30 days after date of publication of any test procedure final 
rule in the Federal Register] and [insert date 180 days after date 
of publication of any test procedure final rule in the Federal 
Register] must be based upon results generated either under this 
Appendix J1 or Appendix J2, or upon the test procedures in Appendix 
J1 or Appendix J2 as they appeared at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, 
Appendix J1 or J2, in the 10 CFR parts 200 to 499 edition revised as 
of January 1, 2013. Manufacturers must use a single appendix for all 
representations, including certifications of compliance. Compliance 
with DOE's amended standards for residential clothes washers, and 
corresponding use of the test procedures at Appendix J2 for all 
representations by residential clothes washer manufacturers, 
including certifications of compliance, is required as of March 7, 
2015.
* * * * *
    1.1. Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control 
system, other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is 
capable of automatically adjusting washer operation or washing 
conditions based on characteristics of the clothes load placed in 
the clothes container, without allowing or requiring user 
intervention or actions. The automatic adjustments may, for example, 
include automatic selection, modification, or control of any of the 
following: wash water temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, 
number of rinse cycles, and spin speed. The characteristics of the 
clothes load, which could trigger such adjustments, could, for 
example, consist of or be indicated by the presence of either soil, 
soap, suds, or any other additive laundering substitute or 
complementary product.
    1.2 Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically 
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the 
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
    1.3 Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that does not require user intervention or 
action, and includes adaptive water fill control systems and fixed 
water fill control systems.
* * * * *
    1.8 Energy test cycle for a basic model includes:
    (A) All wash/rinse temperature selections and water levels 
offered in the cycle recommended by the manufacturer for washing 
cotton or linen clothes, and
    (B) For each other wash/rinse temperature selection or water 
level available on that basic model, the portion(s) of other 
cycle(s) with that temperature selection or water level that, when 
tested pursuant to these test procedures, will contribute to an 
accurate representation of the energy consumption of the basic model 
as used by end users.
    If a warm rinse temperature selection is available on the 
clothes washer but is not available in the cycle recommended for 
washing cottons or linens, the energy test cycle shall include the 
warm rinse temperature selection in the cycle most comparable to the 
cycle recommended for washing cottons or linens.
    If an extra hot temperature selection is only available on a 
sanitization cycle, the sanitization cycle should be included in the 
energy test cycle if the cycle is recommended by the manufacturer 
for washing clothing, and if doing so would contribute to an 
accurate representation of the energy consumption as used by 
consumers.
    For any cycle under (A) or (B) of this section, use the 
manufacturer default settings, except for (1) the temperature 
selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if necessary, the 
spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine remaining moisture 
content. This includes wash conditions such as agitation/tumble 
operation, soil level, spin

[[Page 23076]]

speed on wash cycles used to determine energy and water consumption, 
wash times, rinse times, optional rinse settings, water heating time 
for water-heating clothes washers, and all other wash parameters or 
optional features applicable to that wash cycle. Include any 
optional wash cycle feature for testing (other than wash/rinse 
temperature, water fill level selection, or spin speed on wash 
cycles used to determine remaining moisture content) that is 
activated by default on the wash cycle under test unless the 
manufacturer instructions recommend not selecting this option for 
washing normally soiled cotton or linen clothes.
    1.9 Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that does not adjust the water 
fill level based on the size or weight of the clothes load placed in 
the clothes container.
* * * * *
    1.11 Manual control system means a clothes washer control system 
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer 
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse 
temperature selections, and wash time before starting the cycle.
    1.12 Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that requires the user to determine or 
select the water fill level.
* * * * *
    2.3.1 Clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption or 
water energy consumption are affected by the inlet water temperature 
(including water heating clothes washers or clothes washers with 
thermostatically controlled water valves). The temperature of the 
hot water supply at the water inlets shall be maintained between 
130[emsp14][deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and 135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C) 
and the cold water supply at the water inlets shall be maintained 
between 55[emsp14][deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and 60[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 
[deg]C). A water meter shall be installed in both the hot and cold 
water lines to measure water consumption.
* * * * *
    2.6.4.6 The moisture absorption and retention shall be evaluated 
for each new lot of test cloth by the standard extractor Remaining 
Moisture Content (RMC) test specified in appendix J3 to 10 CFR part 
430 subpart B.
    2.6.5. Application of RMC correction curve.
    2.6.5.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in appendix J3 
to 10 CFR part 430 subpart B:

RMCcorr = A x RMC + B

    2.6.5.2 Substitute RMCcorr values in calculations in 
section 3.8 of this appendix.
* * * * *
    2.8 Use of Test Loads. Use the test load sizes and corresponding 
water fill settings defined in Table 2.8 when measuring water and 
energy consumptions. Automatic water fill control system and manual 
water fill control system are defined in section 1 of this appendix:

                           Table 2.8--Required Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Water fill control system type                    Test load size                   Water fill setting
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control system.........  Max....................................  Max.
                                           Min....................................  Min.
Automatic water fill control system......  Max....................................  As determined by the clothes
                                           Avg....................................   washer.
                                           Min....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

* * * * *
    2.8.3 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping 
them in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as 
illustrated in Figure 2.8.3.1 of this appendix.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.015

    To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes washer, 
arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of rotation of 
the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise orientations for 
adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer across its 
horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding a new 
layer. Figure 2.8.3.2 of this appendix illustrates the correct 
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.
    To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes 
washer, arrange the cloths lengthwise, from front to back, using 
alternating orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Load the 
cloths evenly across the width of the clothes container. Complete 
each cloth layer across its horizontal plane within the clothes 
container before adding a

[[Page 23077]]

new layer. Figure 2.8.3.3 of this appendix illustrates the correct 
loading technique for a horizontal-axis clothes washer.
    For all clothes washers, follow any additional manufacturer 
loading instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of 
clothing within the clothing container.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.016

BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
* * * * *
    3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the 
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled 
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of 
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity 
measurement.
    If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include 
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the 
wash drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by 
other means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any 
temporary bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a 
fixed position, relative to the geometry of the door and door seal 
components, that is representative of the position of the wash drum 
during normal operation. The method used must avoid damage to the 
unit that would affect the results of the energy and water testing. 
The test report must document the method used to support the wash 
drum, and pursuant to Sec.  429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer 
must retain such documentation as part of its test records.
    3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic sheet or plastic bag. All clothes 
washer components that occupy space within the clothes container and 
that are recommended for use during a wash cycle must be in place 
and must be lined with a 2 mil thickness (0.051 mm) plastic sheet or 
plastic bag to prevent water from entering any void space.
* * * * *

[[Page 23078]]

    3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F 
 5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) or 100 
[deg]F  10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  5.5 [deg]C) 
water to its uppermost edge. For a top-loading, vertical-axis 
clothes washer, the uppermost edge of the clothes container is 
defined as the highest point of the innermost diameter of the tub 
cover. Figure 3.1.4.1 illustrates the maximum fill level for top-
loading vertical-axis clothes washers. Figure 3.1.4.2 shows the 
location of the maximum fill level for a variety of example tub 
cover designs.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.017


[[Page 23079]]


[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.018

    For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the 
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door 
and the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would 
occupy the measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude 
the volume that the door or gasket portion would occupy from the 
measurement. For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer with 
a concave door shape, include any additional volume above the plane 
defined by the highest point of contact between the door and the 
door gasket, if that area can be occupied by clothing during washer 
operation. For a top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, include 
any additional volume above the plane of the door hinge that 
clothing could occupy during washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.3 
illustrates the maximum fill volumes for all horizontal-axis clothes 
washer types.

[[Page 23080]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.019

    For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be 
occupied by the clothing load during operation.
    3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds.
    3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:

C = W/d

Where:

C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).
W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100[emsp14][deg]F (993 kg/
m\3\ for 37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60[emsp14][deg]F (998 
kg/m\3\ for 15.6 [deg]C)).
    3.1.7 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the 
nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load 
sizes per Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent 
calculations in this appendix that include the clothes container 
capacity.
* * * * *
    3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values 
on all automatic and semi-automatic washers. All energy consumption 
tests shall be performed under the energy test cycle(s), unless 
otherwise specified. Table 3.2 indicates the sections below that 
govern tests of particular clothes washers, based on the number of 
wash/rinse temperature selections available on the model and also, 
in some instances, method of water heating. The procedures 
prescribed are applicable regardless of a clothes washer's washing 
capacity, loading port location, primary axis of rotation of the 
clothes container, and type of control system. Data from a wash 
cycle that terminates prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is 
detected, and thus does not include the agitation/tumble operation, 
spin speed(s), wash times, and rinse times applicable to the wash 
cycle under test, shall be discarded.
* * * * *
    3.2.3. Clothes washers with automatic water fill/manual water 
fill control systems.
    3.2.3.1 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system 
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of 
manual controls as an alternative, then both manual and automatic 
modes shall be tested and, for each mode, the energy consumption 
(HET, MET, and DE) and water 
consumption (QT) values shall be calculated as set forth 
in section 4. Then the average of the two values (one from each 
mode, automatic and manual) for each variable shall be used in 
section 4 for the clothes washer.
    3.2.3.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control 
system.
* * * * *
    3.2.3.2.2 User-adjustable. Four tests shall be conducted on 
clothes washers with user-adjustable automatic water fill controls 
that affect the relative wash water levels. The first test shall be 
conducted using the maximum test load and with the automatic water 
fill control system set in the setting that will give the most 
energy intensive result. The second test shall be conducted with the 
minimum test load and with the automatic water fill control system 
set in the setting that will give the least energy intensive result. 
The third test shall be conducted with the average test load and 
with the automatic water fill control system set in the setting that 
will give the most energy intensive result for the given test load. 
The fourth test shall be conducted with the average test load and 
with the automatic water fill control system set in the setting that 
will give the least energy intensive result for the given test load. 
The energy and water consumption for the average test load and water 
level shall be the average of the third and fourth tests.
* * * * *

                                        Table 3.2--Test Section Reference
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Max. wash temp. available                  <= 135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)          > 135 [deg]F (57.2
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------        [deg]C) \2\
 Number of wash temp. selections in the energy                                         -------------------------
                   test cycle                         1            2           > 2           3           > 3
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Test Sections Required to be Followed..........  ...........  ...........  ...........          3.3          3.3
                                                 ...........          3.4          3.4  ...........          3.4
                                                 ...........  ...........          3.5          3.5          3.5
                                                         3.6          3.6          3.6          3.6          3.6
                                                     \1\ 3.7      \1\ 3.7      \1\ 3.7      \1\ 3.7      \1\ 3.7
                                                         3.8          3.8          3.8          3.8          3.8
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Only applicable to machines with warm rinse in any cycle.
\2\ This only applies to water heating clothes washers on which the maximum wash temperature available exceeds
  135 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C).

    3.3 ``Extra Hot Wash'' (Max Wash Temp  
135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) for water heating clothes washers 
only. Water and electrical energy consumption shall be measured for 
each water fill level and/or test load size as specified in 3.3.1 
through 3.3.3 for the hottest wash setting available. Testing 
parties may use non-reversible temperature indicator labels, adhered 
to the inside of the clothes container, to determine the maximum 
water temperature during the wash cycle. If using a temperature 
indicator label to test a front-loading clothes washer, adhere the 
label along the inner circumference of the clothes container drum, 
midway between the front and the back of the clothes container. If 
using a temperature indicator label to test a top-loading clothes 
washer, adhere the label along the inner circumference of the 
clothes

[[Page 23081]]

container drum, as close to the bottom of the container as possible.
* * * * *
    3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hma), cold water consumption 
(Cma), and electrical energy consumption (Ema) 
for an extra-hot wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average 
test load size as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.4.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hha), cold water consumption 
(Cha), and electrical energy consumption (Eha) 
for a hot wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test 
load size as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.5 ``Warm Wash.'' Water and electrical energy consumption shall 
be determined for each water fill level and/or test load size as 
specified in 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 for the applicable warm water wash 
temperature(s). For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete 
warm wash selections, test all warm wash temperature selections. For 
a clothes washer that offers four or more warm wash selections, test 
at all discrete selections, or test at 25 percent, 50 percent, and 
75 percent positions of the temperature selection device between the 
hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C)) wash and the coldest 
cold wash. If a selection is not available at the 25, 50 or 75 
percent position, in place of each such unavailable selection use 
the next warmer setting. Each reportable value to be used for the 
warm water wash setting shall be the arithmetic average of all tests 
conducted pursuant to this section.
    3.5.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption 
(Hwx), cold water consumption (Cwx), and electrical energy 
consumption (Ewx) shall be measured with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. The maximum test load size is to be used 
and shall be determined per Table 5.1.
    3.5.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Hot water consumption 
(Hwn), cold water consumption (Cwn), and electrical energy 
consumption (Ewn) shall be measured with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. The minimum test load size is to be used 
and shall be determined per Table 5.1.
    3.5.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption (Cwa), and 
electrical energy consumption (Ewa) with an average test load size 
as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For clothes washers with 
an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for hot 
water consumption (Hca), cold water consumption 
(Cca), and electrical energy consumption (Eca) 
for a cold wash/cold rinse energy test cycle, with an average test 
load size as determined per Table 5.1.
* * * * *
    3.8.5 The procedure for calculating RMC as defined in section 
3.8.2.5, 3.8.3.3., or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be replicated twice 
in its entirety, for a total of three independent RMC measurements. 
If three replications of the RMC measurement are performed, use the 
average of the three RMC measurements as the final RMC in section 
4.3 of this appendix.
* * * * *

                     Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Water fill control
                                                         system
              Load usage  factor               -------------------------
                                                   Manual     Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =........................................     \1\ 0.72     \2\ 0.12
Favg =........................................  ...........     \2\ 0.74
Fmin =........................................     \1\ 0.28     \2\ 0.14
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Reference 3.2.3.3.
\2\ Reference 3.2.3.2.

    4.1.4 Removed.
* * * * *
0
7. Appendix J2 to subpart B of part 430 is revised to read as follows:

Appendix J2 to Subpart B of Part 430-Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Energy Consumption of Automatic and Semi-automatic Clothes Washers

    Note: Any representation related to the energy or water 
consumption of clothes washers made after [Date 180 days after date 
of publication of any test procedure final rule in the Federal 
Register] must be made based upon results generated using this 
appendix or appendix J1. Any representation related to the energy or 
water consumption of clothes washers made between [Date 30 days 
after date of publication of any test procedure final rule in the 
Federal Register] and [Date 180 days after date of publication of 
any test procedure final rule in the Federal Register] must be based 
upon results generated either under this Appendix J2 or Appendix J1, 
or upon the test procedures in Appendix J2 or Appendix J1 as they 
appeared at 10 CFR part 430, subpart B, Appendix J2 or Appendix J1, 
in the 10 CFR parts 200 to 499 edition revised as of January 1, 
2013. Manufacturers must use a single appendix for all 
representations, including certifications of compliance. Compliance 
with DOE's amended standards for residential clothes washers, and 
corresponding use of the test procedures at this appendix for all 
representations by residential clothes washer manufacturers, 
including certifications of compliance, is required as of March 7, 
2015.

1. Definitions and Symbols

    1.1 Active mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source, has been activated, and is 
performing one or more of the main functions of washing, soaking, 
tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing water from the 
clothing, or is involved in functions necessary for these main 
functions, such as admitting water into the washer or pumping water 
out of the washer. Active mode also includes delay start and cycle 
finished modes.
    1.2 Active washing mode means a mode in which the clothes washer 
is performing any of the operations included in a complete cycle 
intended for washing a clothing load, including the main functions 
of washing, soaking, tumbling, agitating, rinsing, and/or removing 
water from the clothing.
    1.3 Adaptive control system means a clothes washer control 
system, other than an adaptive water fill control system, that is 
capable of automatically adjusting washer operation or washing 
conditions based on characteristics of the clothes load placed in 
the clothes container, without allowing or requiring user 
intervention or actions. The automatic adjustments may, for example, 
include automatic selection, modification, or control of any of the 
following: wash water temperature, agitation or tumble cycle time, 
number of rinse cycles, and spin speed. The characteristics of the 
clothes load, which could trigger such adjustments, could, for 
example, consist of or be indicated by the presence of either soil, 
soap, suds, or any other additive laundering substitute or 
complementary product.
    1.4 Adaptive water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that is capable of automatically 
adjusting the water fill level based on the size or weight of the 
clothes load placed in the clothes container.
    1.5 Automatic water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that does not require user intervention or 
action, and includes adaptive water fill control systems and fixed 
water fill control systems.
    1.6 Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has 
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10 
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again 
for 10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1 
percent or less.
    1.7 Clothes container means the compartment within the clothes 
washer that holds the clothes during the operation of the machine.
    1.8 Cold rinse means the coldest rinse temperature available on 
the machine, as indicated to the user on the clothes washer control 
panel.
    1.9 Combined low-power mode means the aggregate of available 
modes other than active washing mode, including inactive mode, off 
mode, delay start mode, and cycle finished mode.
    1.10 Compact means a clothes washer that has a clothes container 
capacity of less than 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L).
    1.11 Cycle finished mode means an active mode that provides 
continuous status display, intermittent tumbling, or air circulation 
following operation in active washing mode.
    1.12 Delay start mode means an active mode in which activation 
of active washing mode is facilitated by a timer.
    1.13 Energy test cycle means the complete set of wash/rinse 
temperature selections required for testing, as determined according 
to section 2.12. Within the energy test cycle, the following 
definitions apply:
    (A) Cold wash/Cold rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.1 of this 
appendix.
    (B) Hot wash/Cold rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by

[[Page 23082]]

evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.2 of this appendix.
    (C) Warm wash/Cold rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.3 of this 
appendix.
    (D) Warm wash/Warm rinse is the wash/rinse temperature selection 
determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.4 of this 
appendix.
    (E) Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse is the wash/rinse temperature 
selection determined by evaluating the flowchart in Figure 2.12.5 of 
this appendix.
    1.14 Fixed water fill control system means a clothes washer 
automatic water fill control system that does not adjust the water 
fill level based on the size or weight of the clothes load placed in 
the clothes container.
    1.15 IEC 62301 means the test standard published by the 
International Electrotechnical Commission, entitled ``Household 
electrical appliances-Measurement of standby power,'' Publication 
62301, Edition 2.0 2011-01 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3).
    1.16 Inactive mode means the lowest-power standby mode that 
facilitates the activation of active mode by remote switch 
(including remote control), internal sensor, or timer, or that 
provides continuous status display.
    1.17 Integrated modified energy factor means the quotient of the 
cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by 
the total clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such 
energy consumption expressed as the sum of:
    (a) The machine electrical energy consumption;
    (b) The hot water energy consumption;
    (c) The energy required for removal of the remaining moisture in 
the wash load; and
    (d) The combined low-power mode energy consumption.
    1.18 Integrated water factor means the quotient of the total 
weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash cycles in gallons 
divided by the cubic foot (or liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
    1.19 Load usage factor means the percentage of the total number 
of wash loads that a user would wash a particular size (weight) 
load.
    1.20 Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured 
with the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous 
process.
    1.21 Manual control system means a clothes washer control system 
that requires that the user make the choices that determine washer 
operation or washing conditions, such as, for example, wash/rinse 
temperature selections and wash time, before starting the cycle.
    1.22 Manual water fill control system means a clothes washer 
water fill control system that requires the user to determine or 
select the water fill level.
    1.23 Modified energy factor means the quotient of the cubic foot 
(or liter) capacity of the clothes container divided by the total 
clothes washer energy consumption per cycle, with such energy 
consumption expressed as the sum of the machine electrical energy 
consumption, the hot water energy consumption, and the energy 
required for removal of the remaining moisture in the wash load.
    1.24 Non-water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer 
that does not have an internal water heating device to generate hot 
water.
    1.25 Normal cycle means the cycle selection recommended by the 
manufacturer as the most common consumer cycle for washing a full 
load of normally to heavily soiled cotton clothing. For machines 
where multiple cycle settings meet this description, then the Normal 
cycle is the cycle selection that results in the lowest IMEF or MEF 
value.
    1.26 Off mode means a mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source and is not providing any active or 
standby mode function, and where the mode may persist for an 
indefinite time. An indicator that only shows the user that the 
product is in the off position is included within the classification 
of an off mode.
    1.27 Roll means a subset of a lot.
    1.28 Standard means a clothes washer that has a clothes 
container capacity of 1.6 ft\3\ (45 L) or greater.
    1.29 Standby mode means any mode in which the clothes washer is 
connected to a mains power source and offers one or more of the 
following user oriented or protective functions that may persist for 
an indefinite time:
    (a) To facilitate the activation of other modes (including 
activation or deactivation of active mode) by remote switch 
(including remote control), internal sensor, or timer;
    (b) Continuous functions, including information or status 
displays (including clocks) or sensor-based functions.
    A timer is a continuous clock function (which may or may not be 
associated with a display) that provides regular scheduled tasks 
(e.g., switching) and that operates on a continuous basis.
    1.30 Symbol usage. The following identity relationships are 
provided to help clarify the symbology used throughout this 
procedure.

C--Capacity
C (with subscripts)--Cold Water Consumption
D--Energy Consumption for Removal of Moisture from Test Load
E--Electrical Energy Consumption
F--Load Usage Factor
H--Hot Water Consumption
HE--Hot Water Energy Consumption
ME--Machine Electrical Energy Consumption
P--Power
Q--Water Consumption
RMC--Remaining Moisture Content
S--Annual Hours
TUF--Temperature Use Factor
V--Temperature-Weighted Hot Water Consumption
W--Mass of Water
WC--Weight of Test Load After Extraction
WI--Initial Weight of Dry Test Load

    Subscripts:

a or avg--Average Test Load
c--Cold Wash (minimum wash temp.)
corr--Corrected (RMC values)
h--Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. <=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C))
ia--Inactive Mode
LP--Combined Low-Power Mode
m--Extra Hot Wash (maximum wash temp. >135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 
[deg]C))
n--Minimum Test Load
o--Off Mode
oi--Combined Off and Inactive Modes
T--Total
w--Warm Wash
ww--Warm Wash/Warm Rinse
x--Maximum Test Load
    The following examples are provided to show how the above 
symbols can be used to define variables:

Emx = ``Electrical Energy Consumption'' for an ``Extra 
Hot Wash'' and ``Maximum Test Load''
HEmin = ``Hot Water Energy Consumption'' for the 
``Minimum Test Load''
Pia = ``Power'' in ``Inactive Mode''
Qhmin = ``Water Consumption'' for a ``Hot Wash'' and 
``Minimum Test Load''
TUFm = ``Temperature Use Factor'' for an ``Extra Hot 
Wash''

    1.31 Temperature use factor means, for a particular wash/rinse 
temperature setting, the percentage of the total number of wash 
loads that an average user would wash with that setting.
    1.32 Thermostatically controlled water valves means clothes 
washer controls that have the ability to sense and adjust the hot 
and cold supply water.
    1.33 Water factor means the quotient of the total weighted per-
cycle water consumption for cold wash divided by the cubic foot (or 
liter) capacity of the clothes washer.
    1.34 Water-heating clothes washer means a clothes washer where 
some or all of the hot water for clothes washing is generated by a 
water heating device internal to the clothes washer.

2. Testing Conditions

    2.1 Electrical energy supply.
    2.1.1 Supply voltage and frequency. Maintain the electrical 
supply at the clothes washer terminal block within 2 percent of 120, 
120/240, or 120/208Y volts as applicable to the particular terminal 
block wiring system and within 2 percent of the nameplate frequency 
as specified by the manufacturer. If the clothes washer has a dual 
voltage conversion capability, conduct test at the highest voltage 
specified by the manufacturer.
    2.1.2 Supply voltage waveform. For the combined low-power mode 
testing, maintain the electrical supply voltage waveform indicated 
in Section 4, Paragraph 4.3.2 of IEC 62301. If the power measuring 
instrument used for testing is unable to measure and record the 
total harmonic content during the test measurement period, total 
harmonic content may be measured and recorded immediately before and 
after the test measurement period.
    2.2 Supply water.
    2.2.1 Clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption or 
water energy consumption are affected by the inlet water 
temperature. (For example, water heating clothes washers or clothes 
washers with thermostatically controlled water valves). Maintain the 
temperature of the hot water

[[Page 23083]]

supply at the water inlets between 130 [deg]F (54.4 [deg]C) and 135 
[deg]F (57.2 [deg]C). Maintain the temperature of the cold water 
supply at the water inlets between 55 [deg]F (12.8 [deg]C) and 60 
[deg]F (15.6 [deg]C).
    2.2.2 Clothes washers in which electrical energy consumption and 
water energy consumption are not affected by the inlet water 
temperature. Maintain the temperature of the hot water supply at the 
water inlets at 135 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (57.2 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C). Maintain the temperature of the cold water 
supply at the water inlets at 60 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (15.6 
[deg]C  2.8 [deg]C).
    2.3 Water pressure. Maintain the static water pressure at the 
hot and cold water inlet connection of the clothes washer at 35 
pounds per square inch gauge (psig)  2.5 psig (241.3 kPa 
 17.2 kPa) when the water is flowing.
    2.4 Test room temperature. For all clothes washers, maintain the 
test room ambient air temperature at 75  5 [deg]F (23.9 
 2.8[deg]C) for active mode testing and combined low-
power mode testing. Do not use the test room ambient air temperature 
conditions specified in Section 4, Paragraph 4.2 of IEC 62301 for 
combined low-power mode testing.
    2.5 Instrumentation. Perform all test measurements using the 
following instruments, as appropriate:
    2.5.1 Weighing scales.
    2.5.1.1 Weighing scale for test cloth. The scale used for 
weighing test cloth must have a resolution of no larger than 0.2 oz 
(5.7 g) and a maximum error no greater than 0.3 percent of the 
measured value.
    2.5.1.2 Weighing scale for clothes container capacity 
measurement. The scale used for performing the clothes container 
capacity measurement must have a resolution no larger than 0.50 lbs 
(0.23 kg) and a maximum error no greater than 0.5 percent of the 
measured value.
    2.5.2 Watt-hour meter. The watt-hour meter used to measure 
electrical energy consumption must have a resolution no larger than 
1 Wh (3.6 kJ) and a maximum error no greater than 2 percent of the 
measured value for any demand greater than 50 Wh (180.0 kJ).
    2.5.3 Watt meter. The watt meter used to measure combined low-
power mode power consumption must comply with the requirements 
specified in Section 4, Paragraph 4.4 of IEC 62301. If the power 
measuring instrument used for testing is unable to measure and 
record the crest factor, power factor, or maximum current ratio 
during the test measurement period, the crest factor, power factor, 
and maximum current ratio may be measured and recorded immediately 
before and after the test measurement period.
    2.5.4 Water and air temperature measuring devices. The 
temperature devices used to measure water and air temperature must 
have an error no greater than 1 [deg]F (0.6 
[deg]C) over the range being measured.
    2.5.5 Water meter. A water meter must be installed in both the 
hot and cold water lines to measure water flow and/or water 
consumption. The water meters must have a resolution no larger than 
0.1 gallons (0.4 liters) and a maximum error no greater than 2 
percent for the water flow rates being measured.
    2.5.6 Water pressure gauge. A water pressure gauge must be 
installed in both the hot and cold water lines to measure water 
pressure. The water pressure gauges must have a resolution of 1 
pound per square inch gauge (psig) (6.9 kPa) and a maximum error no 
greater than 5 percent of any measured value.
    2.6 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must 
heat the test cloth load above 210 [deg]F (99 [deg]C).
    2.7 Test cloths.
    2.7.1 Energy test cloth. The energy test cloth must be made from 
energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.6.4 of this 
Appendix, that is 24  1/2 inches by 36  1/2 
inches (61.0  1.3 cm by 91.4  1.3 cm) and 
has been hemmed to 22  1/2 inches by 34  1/2 
inches (55.9  1.3 cm by 86.4  1.3 cm) before 
washing. The energy test cloth must be clean and must not be used 
for more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as specified in 
2.6.3 of this appendix). All energy test cloth must be permanently 
marked identifying the lot number of the material. Mixed lots of 
material must not be used for testing a clothes washer.
    2.7.2 Energy stuffer cloth. The energy stuffer cloth must be 
made from energy test cloth material, as specified in section 2.6.4 
of this Appendix, that is 12  1/4 inches by 12  1/4 inches (30.5  0.6 cm by 30.5  0.6 
cm) and has been hemmed to 10  1/4 inches by 10  1/4 inches (25.4  0.6 cm by 25.4  0.6 
cm) before washing. The energy stuffer cloth must be clean and must 
not be used for more than 60 test runs (after preconditioning as 
specified in section 2.6.3 of this Appendix). All energy stuffer 
cloth must be permanently marked identifying the lot number of the 
material. Mixed lots of material must not be used for testing a 
clothes washer.
    2.7.3 Preconditioning of test cloths. The new test cloths, 
including energy test cloths and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-
conditioned in a clothes washer in the following manner:
    Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with 
current AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3 and the last three without 
detergent. Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the 
maximum water level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 
ppm hardness or less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of 
cloth load of AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash 
temperature is to be controlled to 135 [deg]F  5 [deg]F 
(57.2 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) and the rinse temperature is 
to be controlled to 60 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 
 2.8 [deg]C). Repeat the cycle with detergent and then 
repeat the cycle three additional times without detergent, bone 
drying the load between cycles (for a total of five complete wash-
rinse-spin cycles).
    2.7.4 Energy test cloth material. The energy test cloths and 
energy stuffer cloths must be made from fabric meeting the following 
specifications:
    2.7.4.1 The test cloth material should come from a roll of 
material with a width of approximately 63 inches and approximately 
500 yards per roll. However, other sizes may be used if the test 
cloth material meets the specifications listed in sections 2.7.4.2 
through 2.7.4.7.
    2.7.4.2 Nominal fabric type. Pure finished bleached cloth made 
with a momie or granite weave, which is nominally 50 percent cotton 
and 50 percent polyester.
    2.7.4.3 Fabric weight. 5.60  0.25 ounces per square 
yard (190.0  8.4 g/m\2\).
    2.7.4.4 Thread count. 65 x 57 per inch (warp x fill),  2 percent.
    2.7.4.5 Fiber content of warp and filling yarn. 50 percent 
 4 percent cotton, with the balance being polyester, 
open end spun, 15/1  5 percent cotton count blended 
yarn.
    2.7.4.6 Water repellent finishes, such as fluoropolymer stain 
resistant finishes, must not be applied to the test cloth. Verify 
the absence of such finishes using the following:
    2.7.4.6.1 AATCC Test Method 118-2007, (incorporated by 
reference; see Sec.  430.3), for each new lot of test cloth (when 
purchased from the mill) to confirm the absence of 
ScotchguardTM or other water repellent finish (required 
scores of ``D'' across the board).
    2.7.4.6.2 AATCC Test Method 79-2010, (incorporated by reference; 
see Sec.  430.3), for each new lot of test cloth (when purchased 
from the mill) to confirm the absence of ScotchguardTM or 
other water repellent finish (time to absorb one drop should be on 
the order of 1 second).
    2.7.4.7 The maximum shrinkage after preconditioning must not be 
more than 5 percent of the length and width. Measure per AATCC Test 
Method 135-2010, (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3).
    2.7.5 The moisture absorption and retention must be evaluated 
for each new lot of test cloth using the standard extractor 
Remaining Moisture Content (RMC) procedure specified in appendix J3 
to 10 CFR 430 subpart B.
    2.8 Test load sizes. Use Table 5.1 of this appendix to determine 
the maximum, minimum, and, when required, average test load sizes 
based on the clothes container capacity as measured in section 3.1 
of this appendix. Test loads must consist of energy test cloths and 
no more than five energy stuffer clothes per load to achieve the 
proper weight.
    Use the test load sizes and corresponding water fill settings 
defined in Table 2.8 of this appendix when measuring water and 
energy consumption. Use only the maximum test load size when 
measuring RMC.

[[Page 23084]]



                           Table 2.8--Required Test Load Sizes and Water Fill Settings
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      Water fill control system type                    Test load size                   Water fill setting
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manual water fill control system.........  Max....................................  Max.
                                           Min....................................  Min.
Automatic water fill control system......  Max....................................  As determined by the clothes
                                           Avg....................................   washer.
                                           Min....................................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    2.9 Use of test loads. 2.9.1 Test loads for energy and water 
consumption measurements must be bone dry prior to the first cycle 
of the test, and dried to a maximum of 104 percent of bone dry 
weight for subsequent testing.
    2.9.2 Prepare the energy test cloths for loading by grasping 
them in the center, lifting, and shaking them to hang loosely, as 
illustrated in Figure 2.9.2.1 of this appendix.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.020

    To load the energy test cloths in a top-loading clothes washer, 
arrange the cloths circumferentially around the axis of rotation of 
the clothes container, using alternating lengthwise orientations for 
adjacent pieces of cloth. Complete each cloth layer across its 
horizontal plane within the clothes container before adding a new 
layer. Figure 2.9.2.2 of this appendix illustrates the correct 
loading technique for a vertical-axis clothes washer.
    To load the energy test cloths in a front-loading clothes 
washer, arrange the cloths lengthwise, from front to back, using 
alternating orientations for adjacent pieces of cloth. Load the 
cloths evenly across the width of the clothes container. Complete 
each cloth layer across its horizontal plane within the clothes 
container before adding a new layer. Figure 2.9.2.3 of this appendix 
illustrates the correct loading technique for a horizontal-axis 
clothes washer.
    For all clothes washers, follow any additional manufacturer 
loading instructions provided to the user regarding the placement of 
clothing within the clothing container.

[[Page 23085]]

[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.021

    2.10 Clothes washer installation. Install the clothes washer in 
accordance with manufacturer's instructions. For combined low-power 
mode testing, install the clothes washer in accordance with Section 
5, Paragraph 5.2 of IEC 62301 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.  
430.3), disregarding the provisions regarding batteries and the 
determination, classification, and testing of relevant modes.
    2.11 Clothes washer pre-conditioning.
    2.11.1 Non-water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer 
has not been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, pre-
condition it by running it through a cold rinse cycle and then 
draining it to ensure that the hose, pump, and sump are filled with 
water.
    2.11.2 Water-heating clothes washer. If the clothes washer has 
not been filled with water in the preceding 96 hours, or if it has 
not been in the test room at the specified ambient conditions for 8 
hours, pre-condition it by running it through a cold rinse cycle and 
then draining it to ensure that the hose, pump, and sump are filled 
with water.
    2.12 Determining the energy test cycle. To determine the energy 
test cycle, evaluate the wash/rinse temperature selection flowcharts 
in the order in which they are presented in this section. The energy 
test cycle does not include any cycle, if available, that is 
recommended by the manufacturer exclusively for cleaning, 
deodorizing, or sanitizing the clothes washer.
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P

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BILLING CODE 6450-01-C

3. Test Measurements

    3.1 Clothes container capacity. Measure the entire volume that a 
clothes load could occupy within the clothes container during active 
mode washer operation according to the following procedures:

[[Page 23091]]

    3.1.1 Place the clothes washer in such a position that the 
uppermost edge of the clothes container opening is leveled 
horizontally, so that the container will hold the maximum amount of 
water. For front-loading clothes washers, the door seal and shipping 
bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the wash drum 
during shipping must remain in place during the capacity 
measurement.
    If the design of a front-loading clothes washer does not include 
shipping bolts or other forms of bracing hardware to support the 
wash drum during shipping, a laboratory may support the wash drum by 
other means, including temporary bracing or support beams. Any 
temporary bracing or support beams must keep the wash drum in a 
fixed position, relative to the geometry of the door and door seal 
components, that is representative of the position of the wash drum 
during normal operation. The method used must avoid damage to the 
unit that would affect the results of the energy and water testing. 
The laboratory must fully document the method used to support the 
wash drum, include such documentation in the final test report, and 
pursuant to Sec.  429.71 of this chapter, the manufacturer must 
retain such documentation as part its test records.
    3.1.2 Line the inside of the clothes container with a 2 mil 
thickness (0.051 mm) plastic sheet or plastic bag. All clothes 
washer components that occupy space within the clothes container and 
that are recommended for use during a wash cycle must be in place 
and must be lined with a 2 mil thickness (0.051 mm) plastic sheet or 
plastic bag to prevent water from entering any void space.
    3.1.3 Record the total weight of the machine before adding 
water.
    3.1.4 Fill the clothes container manually with either 60 [deg]F 
 5 [deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) or 100 
[deg]F  10 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  5.5 [deg]C) 
water, with the door open. For a top-loading vertical-axis clothes 
washer, fill the clothes container to the uppermost edge of the 
rotating portion, including any balance ring. Figure 3.1.4.1 of this 
appendix illustrates the maximum fill level for top-loading clothes 
washers.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.027

    For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, fill the 
clothes container to the highest point of contact between the door 
and the door gasket. If any portion of the door or gasket would 
occupy the measured volume space when the door is closed, exclude 
from the measurement the volume that the door or gasket portion 
would occupy. For a front-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer 
with a concave door shape, include any additional volume above the 
plane defined by the highest point of contact between the door and 
the door gasket, if that area can be occupied by clothing during 
washer operation. For a top-loading horizontal-axis clothes washer, 
include any additional volume above the plane of the door hinge that 
clothing could occupy during washer operation. Figure 3.1.4.2 of 
this appendix illustrates the maximum fill volumes for all 
horizontal-axis clothes washer types.
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TP25AP14.028


[[Page 23092]]


    For all clothes washers, exclude any volume that cannot be 
occupied by the clothing load during operation.
    3.1.5 Measure and record the weight of water, W, in pounds.
    3.1.6 Calculate the clothes container capacity as follows:

C = W/d

Where:

C = Capacity in cubic feet (liters).
W = Mass of water in pounds (kilograms).
d = Density of water (62.0 lbs/ft\3\ for 100[emsp14][deg]F (993 kg/
m\3\ for 37.8 [deg]C) or 62.3 lbs/ft\3\ for 60[emsp14][deg]F (998 
kg/m\3\ for 15.6 [deg]C)).

    3.1.7 Calculate the clothes container capacity, C, to the 
nearest 0.01 cubic foot for the purpose of determining test load 
sizes per Table 5.1 of this appendix and for all subsequent 
calculations that include the clothes container capacity.
    3.2 Procedure for measuring water and energy consumption values 
on all automatic and semi-automatic washers.
    3.2.1 Perform all energy consumption tests under the energy test 
cycle.
    3.2.2 Perform the test sections listed in Table 3.2.2 in 
accordance with the wash/rinse temperature selections available in 
the energy test cycle.

                   Table 3.2.2--Test Section Reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                          Corresponding
  Wash/rinse temperature selections available in the      test section
                   energy test cycle                        reference
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra Hot/Cold........................................               3.3
Hot/Cold..............................................               3.4
Warm/Cold.............................................               3.5
Warm/Warm.............................................               3.6
Cold/Cold.............................................               3.7
------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Test Sections Applicable to all Clothes Washers
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Remaining Moisture Content............................               3.8
Combined Low-Power Mode Power.........................               3.9
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.2.3 Hot and cold water faucets.
    3.2.3.1 For automatic clothes washers, open both the hot and 
cold water faucets.
    3.2.3.2 For semi-automatic washers:
    (1) For hot inlet water temperature, open the hot water faucet 
completely and close the cold water faucet;
    (2) For warm inlet water temperature, open both hot and cold 
water faucets completely;
    (3) For cold inlet water temperature, close the hot water faucet 
and open the cold water faucet completely.
    3.2.4 Wash/rinse temperature selection. Set the wash/rinse 
temperature selection control to obtain the desired wash/rinse 
temperature selection within the energy test cycle.
    3.2.5 Wash time setting. If one wash time is prescribed for the 
wash cycle under test, that shall be the wash time setting; 
otherwise, the wash time setting shall be the higher of either the 
minimum or 70 percent of the maximum wash time available for the 
wash cycle under test, regardless of the labeling of suggested dial 
locations. If the clothes washer is equipped with an 
electromechanical dial controlling wash time, reset the dial to the 
minimum wash time and then turn it in the direction of increasing 
wash time to reach the appropriate setting. If the appropriate 
setting is passed, return the dial to the minimum wash time and then 
turn in the direction of increasing wash time until the appropriate 
setting is reached.
    3.2.6 Water fill levels.
    3.2.6.1 Clothes washers with manual water fill control system. 
Set the water fill selector to the maximum water level available for 
the maximum test load size and the minimum water level available for 
the minimum test load size.
    3.2.6.2 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control 
system.
    3.2.6.2.1 Not user adjustable. The maximum, minimum, and average 
water levels as described in the following sections refer to the 
amount of water fill that is automatically selected by the control 
system when the respective test loads are used.
    3.2.6.2.2 User adjustable. Conduct four tests on clothes washers 
with user adjustable automatic water fill controls that affect the 
relative wash water levels. Conduct the first test using the maximum 
test load and with the automatic water fill control system set in 
the setting that will give the most energy intensive result. Conduct 
the second test using the minimum test load and with the automatic 
water fill control system set in the setting that will give the 
least energy intensive result. Conduct the third test using the 
average test load and with the automatic water fill control system 
set in the setting that will give the most energy intensive result 
for the given test load. Conduct the fourth test using the average 
test load and with the automatic water fill control system set in 
the setting that will give the least energy intensive result for the 
given test load. Average the results of the third and fourth tests 
to obtain the energy and water consumption values for the average 
test load size.
    3.2.6.3 Clothes washers with automatic water fill control system 
and alternate manual water fill control system. If a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system allows user selection of 
manual controls as an alternative, test both manual and automatic 
modes and, for each mode, calculate the energy consumption 
(HET, MET, and DE) and water 
consumption (QT) values as set forth in section 4 of this 
appendix. Then, calculate the average of the two values (one from 
each mode, automatic and manual) for each variable (HET, 
MET, DE, and QT) and use the 
average value for each variable in the final calculations in section 
4 of this appendix.
    3.2.7 Manufacturer default settings. For all wash cycles tested, 
use the manufacturer default settings, except for (1) the 
temperature selection, (2) the wash water fill levels, or (3) if 
necessary, the spin speeds on wash cycles used to determine 
remaining moisture content. This includes wash conditions such as 
agitation/tumble operation, soil level, spin speed on wash cycles 
used to determine energy and water consumption, wash times, rinse 
times, optional rinse settings, water heating time for water heating 
clothes washers, and all other wash parameters or optional features 
applicable to that wash cycle. Include any optional wash cycle 
feature for testing (other than wash/rinse temperature, water fill 
level selection, or spin speed on wash cycles used to determine 
remaining moisture content) that is activated by default on the wash 
cycle under test unless the manufacturer instructions recommend not 
selecting this option for washing normally soiled cotton or linen 
clothes.
    3.2.8 For each wash cycle tested, include the entire active 
washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle finished modes.
    3.2.9 Discard the data from a wash cycle that terminates 
prematurely if an out-of-balance condition is detected, and thus 
does not include the agitation/tumble operation, spin speed(s), wash 
times, and rinse times applicable to the wash cycle under test.
    3.3 Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse. Measure the water and electrical 
energy consumption for each water fill level and test load size as 
specified in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix for the 
Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse as defined within the energy test cycle.
    Testing parties may use non-reversible temperature indicator 
labels, adhered to the inside of the clothes container, to determine 
the maximum water temperature during the wash cycle. If using a 
temperature indicator label to test a front-loading clothes washer, 
adhere the label along the inner circumference of the clothes 
container drum, midway between the front and the back of the clothes 
container. If using a temperature indicator label to test a top-
loading clothes washer, adhere the label along the inner 
circumference of the clothes container drum, as close to the bottom 
of the container as possible.
    3.3.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hmx), cold water consumption 
(Cmx), and electrical energy consumption (Emx) 
for an Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for 
the maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.3.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hmn), cold water consumption 
(Cmn), and electrical energy consumption (Emn) 
for an Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for 
the minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.3.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hma), cold water consumption 
(Cma), and electrical energy consumption (Ema) 
for an Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle. Use the average test load 
size as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4 Hot wash/Cold rinse. Measure the water and electrical energy 
consumption for each water fill level and test load size as 
specified in sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix for the 
Hot wash/Cold rinse temperature selection, as defined within the 
energy test cycle.
    3.4.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water

[[Page 23093]]

consumption (Hhx), cold water consumption 
(Chx), and electrical energy consumption (Ehx) 
for a Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hhn), cold water consumption 
(Chn), and electrical energy consumption (Ehn) 
for a Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.4.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hha), cold water consumption 
(Cha), and electrical energy consumption (Eha) 
for a Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.5 Warm wash/Cold rinse. Measure the water and electrical 
energy consumption for each water fill level and test load size as 
specified in 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix for the applicable 
Warm wash/Cold rinse temperature selection(s), as defined within the 
energy test cycle.
    For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm wash/
Cold rinse temperature selections, test all Warm wash/Cold rinse 
selections. For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm wash/
Cold rinse selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at 
25 percent, 50 percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature 
selection device between the hottest hot (<= 135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 
[deg]C)) wash and the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not 
available at the 25, 50 or 75 percent position, in place of each 
such unavailable selection, use the next warmer setting. For each 
reportable value to be used for the Warm wash/Cold rinse temperature 
selection, calculate the average of all Warm wash/Cold rinse 
temperature selections tested pursuant to this section.
    3.5.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwx), cold water consumption 
(Cwx), and electrical energy consumption (Ewx) 
for the Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.5.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwn), cold water consumption 
(Cwn), and electrical energy consumption (Ewn) 
for the Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.5.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwa), cold water consumption 
(Cwa), and electrical energy consumption (Ewa) 
for a Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6 Warm wash/Warm rinse. Measure the water and electrical 
energy consumption for each water fill level and/or test load size 
as specified in 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix for the 
applicable Warm wash/Warm rinse temperature selection(s), as defined 
within the energy test cycle.
    For a clothes washer with fewer than four discrete Warm wash/
Warm rinse temperature selections, test all Warm wash/Warm rinse 
selections. For a clothes washer that offers four or more Warm wash/
Warm rinse selections, test at all discrete selections, or test at 
25 percent, 50 percent, and 75 percent positions of the temperature 
selection device between the hottest hot (<=135[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 
[deg]C)) wash and the coldest cold wash. If a selection is not 
available at the 25, 50 or 75 percent position, in place of each 
such unavailable selection use the next warmer setting. For each 
reportable value to be used for the Warm wash/Warm rinse temperature 
selection, calculate the arithmetic average of all Warm wash/Warm 
rinse temperature selections tested pursuant to this section.
    3.6.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwwx), cold water consumption 
(Cwwx), and electrical energy consumption 
(Ewwx) for the Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle, with the 
controls set for the maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test 
load size as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwwn), cold water consumption 
(Cwwn), and electrical energy consumption 
(Ewwn) for the Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle, with the 
controls set for the minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test 
load size as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.6.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hwwa), cold water consumption 
(Cwwa), and electrical energy consumption 
(Ewwa) for the Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle. Use the 
average test load size as specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7 Cold wash/Cold rinse. Measure the water and electrical 
energy consumption for each water fill level and test load size as 
specified in sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix for the 
applicable Cold wash/Cold rinse temperature selection, as defined 
within the energy test cycle.
    3.7.1 Maximum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hcx), cold water consumption 
(Ccx), and electrical energy consumption (Ecx) 
for a cold wash/cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
maximum water fill level. Use the maximum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7.2 Minimum test load and water fill. Measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hcn), cold water consumption 
(Ccn), and electrical energy consumption (Ecn) 
for a cold wash/cold rinse cycle, with the controls set for the 
minimum water fill level. Use the minimum test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.7.3 Average test load and water fill. For a clothes washer 
with an automatic water fill control system, measure the values for 
hot water consumption (Hca), cold water consumption 
(Cca), and electrical energy consumption (Eca) 
for a cold wash/cold rinse cycle. Use the average test load size as 
specified in Table 5.1 of this appendix.
    3.8 Remaining moisture content (RMC).
    3.8.1 The wash temperature must be the same as the rinse 
temperature for all testing. Use the maximum test load as defined in 
Table 5.1 of this appendix for testing.
    3.8.2 Clothes washers with cold rinse only.
    3.8.2.1 Record the actual ``bone dry'' weight of the test load 
(WIx), then place the test load in the clothes washer.
    3.8.2.2 Set the water level controls to maximum fill.
    3.8.2.3 Run the Cold wash/Cold rinse cycle.
    3.8.2.4 Record the weight of the test load immediately after 
completion of the wash cycle (WCx).
    3.8.2.5 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the maximum 
test load, RMCx, defined as:

RMCx = (WCx-WIx)/WIx

    3.8.2.6 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 
of this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture 
content, RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage as follows:
RMCcorr = (A x RMCx + B) x 100%
Where:

A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined 
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.

RMCx = As defined in section 3.8.2.5 of this appendix.

    3.8.2.7 Use RMCcorr as the final corrected RMC in 
section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.8.3 Clothes washers with both cold and warm rinse options.
    3.8.3.1 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this 
appendix for a Cold wash/Cold rinse cycle. Calculate the remaining 
moisture content of the maximum test load for Cold wash/Cold rinse, 
RMCCOLD, defined as:

RMCCOLD = (WCx-WIx)/WIx

    3.8.3.2 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 
of this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture 
content for Cold wash/Cold rinse, RMCCOLD,corr, expressed 
as a percentage, as follows:

RMCCOLD,corr = (A x RMCCOLD + B) x 100%
Where:

    A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as 
defined in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCCOLD = As defined in section 3.8.3.1 of this appendix.
    3.8.3.3 Complete sections 3.8.2.1 through 3.8.2.4 of this 
appendix using a Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle instead. Calculate the 
remaining moisture content of the maximum test load for Warm wash/
Warm rinse, RMCWARM, defined as:

RMCWARM = (WCx-WIx)/WIx

    3.8.3.4 Apply the RMC correction curve described in section 6.3 
of this appendix to calculate the corrected remaining moisture 
content for Warm wash/Warm rinse, RMCWARM,corr, expressed 
as a percentage, as follows:

RMCWARM,corr = (A x RMCWARM + B) x 100%

Where:


[[Page 23094]]


A and B are the coefficients of the RMC correction curve as defined 
in section 6.2.1 of this appendix.
RMCWARM = As defined in section 3.8.3.3 of this appendix.

    3.8.3.5 Calculate the corrected remaining moisture content of 
the maximum test load, RMCcorr, expressed as a percentage 
as follows:

RMCcorr = RMCCOLD,corr x (1-TUFww) 
+ RMCWARM,corr x (TUFww)

Where:

RMCCOLD,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.2 of this 
Appendix.
RMCWARM,corr = As defined in section 3.8.3.4 of this 
Appendix.
TUFww is the temperature use factor for Warm wash/Warm 
rinse as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.

    3.8.3.6 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.3.5 
as the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.

    3.8.4 Clothes washers that have options such as multiple 
selections of spin speeds or spin times that result in different RMC 
values, and that are available within the energy test cycle.
    3.8.4.1 Complete sections 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as 
applicable, using the maximum and minimum extremes of the available 
spin options, excluding any ``no spin'' (zero spin speed) settings. 
Combine the calculated values RMCcorr,max extraction and 
RMCcorr,min extraction at the maximum and minimum 
settings, respectively, as follows:

RMCcorr = 0.75 x RMCcorr,max extraction + 0.25 
x RMCcorr,min extraction

Where:

RMCcorr,max extraction is the corrected remaining 
moisture content using the maximum spin setting, calculated 
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.
RMCcorr,min extraction is the corrected remaining 
moisture content using the minimum spin setting, calculated 
according to section 3.8.2 or 3.8.3 of this appendix, as applicable.

    3.8.4.2 Use RMCcorr as calculated in section 3.8.4.1 
as the final corrected RMC used in section 4.3 of this appendix.
    3.8.5 The procedure for calculating the corrected RMC as 
described in section 3.8.2, 3.8.3, or 3.8.4 of this appendix may be 
replicated twice in its entirety, for a total of three independent 
corrected RMC measurements. If three replications of the RMC 
measurement are performed, use the average of the three corrected 
RMC measurements as the final corrected RMC in section 4.3 of this 
appendix.
    3.9 Combined low-power mode power. Connect the clothes washer to 
a watt meter as specified in section 2.5.3 of this appendix. 
Establish the testing conditions set forth in sections 2.1, 2.4, and 
2.10 of this appendix. Perform combined low-power mode testing after 
completion of an active mode wash cycle included as part of the 
energy test cycle; after removing the test load; without changing 
the control panel settings used for the active mode wash cycle; and 
without disconnecting the electrical energy supply to the clothes 
washer between completion of the active mode wash cycle and the 
start of combined low-power mode testing. For a clothes washer that 
takes some time to enter a stable state from a higher power state as 
discussed in Section 5, Paragraph 5.1, note 1 of IEC 62301 
(incorporated by reference; see Sec.  430.3), allow sufficient time 
for the clothes washer to reach the lower power state before 
proceeding with the test measurement. Follow the test procedure for 
the sampling method specified in Section 5, Paragraph 5.3.2 of IEC 
62301 for testing in either inactive mode, off mode, or both, as 
described in sections 3.9.1 and 3.9.2 of this appendix.
    3.9.1. If a clothes washer has an inactive mode as defined in 
section 1.16 of this appendix, measure and record the average 
inactive mode power of the clothes washer, Pia, in Watts, 
for that mode.
    3.9.2. If a clothes washer has an off mode as defined in section 
1.26 of this appendix, measure and record its average off mode 
power, Po, in watts, for that mode.
    3.10 Energy consumption for the purpose of determining the cycle 
selection(s) to be included in the energy test cycle. This section 
is implemented only in cases where the energy test cycle flowcharts 
in section 2.12 require the determination of the wash/rinse 
temperature selection with the highest energy consumption.
    3.10.1 For the wash/rinse temperature selection being considered 
under this section, establish the testing conditions set forth in 
section 2 of this appendix. Select the applicable cycle selection 
and wash/rinse temperature selection. For all wash/rinse temperature 
selections, the manufacturer default settings shall be used as 
described in section 3.2.7 of this appendix.
    3.10.2 Use the clothes washer's maximum test load size, 
determined from Table 5.1 of this appendix, for testing under this 
section.
    3.10.3 For clothes washers with a manual fill control system, 
user-adjustable automatic water fill control system, or automatic 
water fill control system with alternate manual water fill control 
system, use the water fill selector setting resulting in the maximum 
water level available for each cycle selection for testing under 
this section.
    3.10.3 Each wash cycle tested under this section shall include 
the entire active washing mode and exclude any delay start or cycle 
finished modes.
    3.10.4 Measure each wash cycle's electrical energy consumption 
(EX) and hot water consumption (HX). Calculate 
the total energy consumption for each cycle selection 
(ETX), as follows:

ETX = EX + (HX x T x K)
Where:

EX is the electrical energy consumption, expressed in 
kilowatt-hours per cycle.
HX is the hot water consumption, expressed in gallons per 
cycle.
T = nominal temperature rise = 75[emsp14][deg]F (41.7 [deg]C)
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F = 
0.00240 kWh/gal-[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C)

4. Calculation of Derived Results From Test Measurements

    4.1 Hot water and machine electrical energy consumption of 
clothes washers.
    4.1.1 Per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption for 
all maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels tested. 
Calculate the per-cycle temperature-weighted hot water consumption 
for the maximum water fill level, Vhx, the average water 
fill level, Vha, and the minimum water fill level, 
Vhn, expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) 
and defined as:

(a) Vhx = [lsqb]Hmx x TUFm[rsqb] + 
[lsqb]Hhx x TUFh[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwx 
x TUFw[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwwx x 
TUFww[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hcx x 
TUFc[rsqb]
(b) Vha = [lsqb] Hma x TUFm[rsqb] + 
[lsqb]Hha x TUFh[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwa 
x TUFw[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwwa x 
TUFww[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hca x 
TUFc[rsqb]
(c) Vhn = [lsqb]Hmn x TUFm[rsqb] + 
[lsqb]Hhn x TUFh[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwn 
x TUFw[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hwwn x 
TUFww[rsqb] + [lsqb]Hcn x 
TUFc[rsqb]

Where:

Hmx, Hma, and Hmn, are reported hot 
water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured 
in sections 3.3.1 through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
Hhx, Hha, and Hhn, are reported hot 
water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.4.1 through 3.4.3 of this appendix.
Hwx, Hwa, and Hwn, are reported hot 
water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.5.1 through 3.5.3 of this appendix.
Hwwx, Hwwa, and Hwwn, are reported 
hot water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.6.1 through 3.6.3 of this appendix.
Hcx, Hca, and Hcn, are reported hot 
water consumption values, in gallons per-cycle (or liters per 
cycle), at maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels, 
respectively, for the Cold wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in 
sections 3.7.1 through 3.7.3 of this appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, TUFww, 
and TUFc are temperature use factors for Extra Hot wash/
Cold rinse, Hot wash/Cold rinse, Warm wash/Cold rinse, Warm wash/
Warm rinse, and Cold wash/Cold rinse temperature selections, 
respectively, as defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.

[[Page 23095]]



                                                          Table 4.1.1--Temperature Use Factors
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          Clothes washers with cold  rinse only           Clothes washers with both cold
                                                                 -------------------------------------------------------          and warm rinse
 Wash/Rinse temperature selections available in the energy test                                                         --------------------------------
                              cycle                                                      H/C  W/C  XH/C  H/C  XH/C  H/C                        XH/C  H/C
                                                                     C/C      H/C  C/C     C/C         C/C     W/C  C/C   H/C  W/C  XH/C  H/C   W/C  W/W
                                                                                                                          W/W  C/C   W/W  C/C      C/C
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TUFm (Extra Hot/Cold)...........................................  .........  .........  .........       0.14       0.05  .........       0.14       0.05
TUFh (Hot/Cold).................................................  .........       0.63       0.14     * 0.49       0.09       0.14     * 0.22       0.09
TUFw (Warm/Cold)................................................  .........  .........       0.49  .........       0.49       0.22  .........       0.22
TUFww (Warm/Warm)...............................................  .........  .........  .........  .........  .........       0.27       0.27       0.27
TUFc (Cold/Cold)................................................       1.00       0.37       0.37       0.37       0.37       0.37       0.37       0.37
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* On clothes washers with only two wash temperature selections <=135 [deg]F, the higher of the two wash temperatures is classified as a Hot wash/Cold
  rinse, in accordance with the wash/rinse temperature definitions within the energy test cycle.

    4.1.2 Total per-cycle hot water energy consumption for all 
maximum, average, and minimum water fill levels tested. Calculate 
the total per-cycle hot water energy consumption for the maximum 
water fill level, HEmax, the average water fill level, 
HEavg, and the minimum water fill level, 
HEmin, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined 
as:
    (a) HEmax = [lsqb]Vhx x T x K[rsqb] = 
Total energy when a maximum load is tested.
    (b) HEavg = [lsqb]Vha x T x K[rsqb] = 
Total energy when an average load is tested.
    (c) HEmin = [lsqb]Vhn x T x K[rsqb] = 
Total energy when a minimum load is tested.

Where:

Vhx, Vha, and Vhn are defined in 
section 4.1.1 of this appendix.
T = Temperature rise = 75 [deg]F (41.7 [deg]C).
K = Water specific heat in kilowatt-hours per gallon per degree F = 
0.00240 kWh/gal-[deg]F (0.00114 kWh/L-[deg]C).

    4.1.3 Total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption. 
Calculate the total weighted per-cycle hot water energy consumption, 
HET, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined 
as:

HET = [lsqb]HEmax x Fmax[rsqb] + 
[lsqb]HEavg x Favg[rsqb] + HEmin x 
Fmin[rsqb]
Where:

HEmax, HEavg, and HEmin are defined 
in section 4.1.2 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are the load 
usage factors for the maximum, average, and minimum test loads based 
on the size and type of the control system on the washer being 
tested, as defined in Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

                     Table 4.1.3--Load Usage Factors
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                   Water fill control
                                                         system
               Load usage factor               -------------------------
                                                   Manual     Automatic
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fmax =........................................         0.72         0.12
Favg =........................................  ...........         0.74
Fmin =........................................         0.28         0.14
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    4.1.4 Per-cycle machine electrical energy consumption for all 
maximum, average, and minimum test load sizes. Calculate the total 
per-cycle machine electrical energy consumption for the maximum 
water fill level, MEmax, the average water fill level, 
MEavg, and the minimum water fill level, 
MEmin, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined 
as:

(a) MEmax = [Emx x TUFm] + 
[Ehx x TUFh] + [Ewx x 
TUFw] + [Ewwx x TUFww] + 
[Ecx x TUFc]
(b) MEavg = [Ema x TUFm] + 
[Eha x TUFh] + [Ewa x 
TUFw] + [Ewwa x TUFww] + 
[Eca x TUFc]
(c) MEmin = [Emn x TUFm] + 
[Ehn x TUFh] + [Ewn x 
TUFw] + [Ewwn x TUFww] + 
[Ecn x TUFc]

Where:

Emx, Ema, and Emn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.3.1 
through 3.3.3 of this appendix.
Ehx, Eha, and Ehn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.4.1 through 
3.4.3 of this appendix.
Ewx, Ewa, and Ewn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.5.1 through 
3.5.3 of this appendix.
Ewwx, Ewwa, and Ewwn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.6.1 through 
3.6.3 of this appendix.
Ecx, Eca, and Ecn, are reported 
electrical energy consumption values, in kilowatt-hours per cycle, 
at maximum, average, and minimum test loads, respectively, for the 
Cold wash/Cold rinse cycle, as measured in sections 3.7.1 through 
3.7.3 of this appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, TUFww, 
and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.

    4.1.5 Total weighted per-cycle machine electrical energy 
consumption. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle machine 
electrical energy consumption, MET, expressed in 
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:
MET = [MEmax x Fmax] + 
[MEavg x Favg] + [MEmin x 
Fmin]

Where:

MEmax, MEavg, and MEmin are defined 
in section 4.1.4 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.1.6 Total per-cycle energy consumption when electrically 
heated water is used. Calculate the total per-cycle energy 
consumption, ETE, using electrically heated water, 
expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:

ETE = HET + MET

Where:

MET = As defined in section 4.1.5 of this appendix.
HET = As defined in section 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2 Water consumption of clothes washers.
    4.2.1 Per-cycle water consumption for Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Extra 
Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle and defined as:

Qmmax = [Hmx + Cmx]
Qmavg = [Hma + Cma]
Qmmin = [Hmn + Cmn]

Where:

Hmx, Cmx, Hma, Cma, 
Hmn, and Cmn are defined in section 3.3 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.2 Per-cycle water consumption for Hot wash/Cold rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Hot 
wash/Cold rinse cycle and defined as:

Qhmax = [Hhx + Chx]
Qhavg = [Hha + Cha]
Qhmin = [Hhn + Chn]

Where:

Hhx, Chx, Hha, Cha, 
Hhn, and Chn are defined in section 3.4 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.3 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm wash/Cold rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm 
wash/Cold rinse cycle and defined as:

Qwmax = [Hwx + Cwx]
Qwavg = [Hwa + Cwa]

[[Page 23096]]

Qwmin = [Hwn + Cwn]

Where:

Hwx, Cwx, Hwa, Cwa, 
Hwn, and Cwn are defined in section 3.5 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.4 Per-cycle water consumption for Warm wash/Warm rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Warm 
wash/Warm rinse cycle and defined as:

Qwwmax = [Hwwx + Cwwx]
Qwwavg = [Hwwa + Cwwa]
Qwwmin = [Hwwn + Cwwn]

Where:

Hwwx, Cwwx, Hwwa, Cwwa, 
Hwwn, and Cwwn are defined in section 3.7 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.5 Per-cycle water consumption for Cold wash/Cold rinse. 
Calculate the maximum, average, and minimum total water consumption, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle), for the Cold 
wash/Cold rinse cycle and defined as:

Qcmax = [Hcx + Ccx]
Qcavg = [Hca + Cca]
Qcmin = [Hcn + Ccn]


Where:

Hcx, Ccx, Hca, Cca, 
Hcn, and Ccn are defined in section 3.6 of 
this appendix.

    4.2.6 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Extra Hot 
wash/Cold rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water 
consumption for the Extra Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, QmT, 
expressed in gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QmT = [Qmmax x Fmax] + 
[Qmavg x Favg] + [Qmmin x 
Fmin]

Where:

Qmmax, Qmavg, Qmmin are defined in 
section 4.2.1 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.7 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Hot wash/
Cold rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption 
for the Hot wash/Cold rinse cycle, QhT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QhT = [Qhmax x Fmax] + 
[Qhavg x Favg] + [Qhmin x 
Fmin]

Where:

Qhmax, Qhavg, Qhmin are defined in 
section 4.2.2 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.8 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm wash/
Cold rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption 
for the Warm wash/Cold rinse cycle, QwT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QwT = [Qwmax x Fmax] + 
[Qwavg x Favg] + [Qwmin x 
Fmin]

Where:
Qwmax, Qwavg, Qwmin are defined in 
section 4.2.3 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.9 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Warm wash/
Warm rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption 
for the Warm wash/Warm rinse cycle, QwwT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QwwT = [Qwwmax x Fmax] + 
[Qwwavg x Favg] + [Qwwmin x 
Fmin]

Where:

Qwwmax, Qwwavg, Qwwmin are defined 
in section 4.2.4 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.10 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for Cold wash/
Cold rinse. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption 
for the Cold wash/Cold rinse cycle, QcT, expressed in 
gallons per cycle (or liters per cycle) and defined as:

QcT = [Qcmax x Fmax] + 
[Qcavg x Favg] + [Qcmin x 
Fmin]

Where:

Qcmax, Qcavg, Qcmin are defined in 
section 4.2.5 of this appendix.
Fmax, Favg, Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix.

    4.2.11 Total weighted per-cycle water consumption for all wash 
cycles. Calculate the total weighted per-cycle water consumption for 
all wash cycles, QT, expressed in gallons per cycle (or 
liters per cycle) and defined as:

QT = [QmT x TUFm] + [QhT 
x TUFh] + [QwT x TUFw] + 
[QwwT x TUFww] + [QcT x T 
UFc]

Where:

QmT, QhT, QwT, QwwT, and 
QcT are defined in sections 4.2.6 through 4.2.10 of this 
appendix.
TUFm, TUFh, TUFw, TUFww, 
and TUFc are defined in Table 4.1.1 of this appendix.

    4.2.12 Water factor. Calculate the water factor, WF, expressed 
in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liters per cycle per liter), 
as:

WF = QcT/C

Where:

QcT = As defined in section 4.2.10 of this appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.

    4.2.13 Integrated water factor. Calculate the integrated water 
factor, IWF, expressed in gallons per cycle per cubic foot (or liter 
per cycle per liter), as:

IWF = QT/C

Where:

QT = As defined in section 4.2.11 of this Appendix.
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.

    4.3 Per-cycle energy consumption for removal of moisture from 
test load. Calculate the per-cycle energy required to remove the 
remaining moisture of the test load, DE, expressed in 
kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined as:

DE = [(Fmax x Maximum test load weight) + 
(Favg x Average test load weight) + (Fmin x 
Minimum test load weight)] x (RMCcorr-4%) x (DEF) x (DUF)

Where:

Fmax, Favg, and Fmin are defined in 
Table 4.1.3 of this appendix

    Maximum, average, and minimum test load weights are defined in 
Table 5.1 of this appendix.

RMCcorr = As defined in section 3.8.2.6, 3.8.3.5, or 
3.8.4.1 of this Appendix.
DEF = Nominal energy required for a clothes dryer to remove moisture 
from clothes = 0.5 kWh/lb (1.1 kWh/kg).
DUF = Dryer usage factor, percentage of washer loads dried in a 
clothes dryer = 0.91.
    4.4 Per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption. 
Calculate the per-cycle combined low-power mode energy consumption, 
ETLP, expressed in kilowatt-hours per cycle and defined 
as:

ETLP = [(Pia x Sia) + 
(Po x So)] x Kp/295

Where:

Pia = Washer inactive mode power, in watts, as defined in 
section 3.9.1 of this appendix for clothes washers capable of 
operating in inactive mode; otherwise, Pia = 0.
Po = Washer off mode power, in watts, as defined in 
section 3.9.2 of this appendix for clothes washers capable of 
operating in off mode; otherwise, Po = 0.
Sia = Annual hours in inactive mode, defined as 
Soi if no off mode is possible; [Soi/2] if 
both inactive mode and off mode are possible; and 0 if no inactive 
mode is possible.
So = Annual hours in off mode, defined as Soi 
if no inactive mode is possible; [Soi/2] if both inactive 
mode and off mode are possible; and 0 if no off mode is possible.
Soi = Combined annual hours for off and inactive mode = 
8,465.
Kp = Conversion factor of watt-hours to kilowatt-hours = 
0.001.
295 = Representative average number of clothes washer cycles in a 
year.

    4.5 Modified energy factor. Calculate the modified energy 
factor, MEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-hour per cycle (or 
liters per kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined as:

MEF = C/(ETE + DE)

Where:
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
ETE = As defined in section 4.1.6 of this appendix.
DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.
    4.6 Integrated modified energy factor. Calculate the integrated 
modified energy factor, IMEF, expressed in cubic feet per kilowatt-
hour per cycle (or liters per kilowatt-hour per cycle) and defined 
as:

IMEF = C/(ETE + DE + ETLP)

Where:
C = As defined in section 3.1.6 of this appendix.
ETE = As defined in section 4.1.6 of this appendix.
DE = As defined in section 4.3 of this appendix.
ETLP = As defined in section 4.4 of this appendix.

5. Test Loads

[[Page 23097]]



                                           Table 5.1--Test Load Sizes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
               Container volume                     Minimum load          Maximum load          Average load
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             cu. ft.                  liter
-----------------------------------------------     lb         kg         lb         kg         lb         kg
               >= <                    >= <
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
0.00-0.80........................    0.00-22.7       3.00       1.36       3.00       1.36       3.00       1.36
0.80-0.90........................    22.7-25.5       3.00       1.36       3.50       1.59       3.25       1.47
0.90-1.00........................    25.5-28.3       3.00       1.36       3.90       1.77       3.45       1.56
1.00-1.10........................    28.3-31.1       3.00       1.36       4.30       1.95       3.65       1.66
1.10-1.20........................    31.1-34.0       3.00       1.36       4.70       2.13       3.85       1.75
1.20-1.30........................    34.0-36.8       3.00       1.36       5.10       2.31       4.05       1.84
1.30-1.40........................    36.8-39.6       3.00       1.36       5.50       2.49       4.25       1.93
1.40-1.50........................    39.6-42.5       3.00       1.36       5.90       2.68       4.45       2.02
1.50-1.60........................    42.5-45.3       3.00       1.36       6.40       2.90       4.70       2.13
1.60-1.70........................    45.3-48.1       3.00       1.36       6.80       3.08       4.90       2.22
1.70-1.80........................    48.1-51.0       3.00       1.36       7.20       3.27       5.10       2.31
1.80-1.90........................    51.0-53.8       3.00       1.36       7.60       3.45       5.30       2.40
1.90-2.00........................    53.8-56.6       3.00       1.36       8.00       3.63       5.50       2.49
2.00-2.10........................    56.6-59.5       3.00       1.36       8.40       3.81       5.70       2.59
2.10-2.20........................    59.5-62.3       3.00       1.36       8.80       3.99       5.90       2.68
2.20-2.30........................    62.3-65.1       3.00       1.36       9.20       4.17       6.10       2.77
2.30-2.40........................    65.1-68.0       3.00       1.36       9.60       4.35       6.30       2.86
2.40-2.50........................    68.0-70.8       3.00       1.36      10.00       4.54       6.50       2.95
2.50-2.60........................    70.8-73.6       3.00       1.36      10.50       4.76       6.75       3.06
2.60-2.70........................    73.6-76.5       3.00       1.36      10.90       4.94       6.95       3.15
2.70-2.80........................    76.5-79.3       3.00       1.36      11.30       5.13       7.15       3.24
2.80-2.90........................    79.3-82.1       3.00       1.36      11.70       5.31       7.35       3.33
2.90-3.00........................    82.1-85.0       3.00       1.36      12.10       5.49       7.55       3.42
3.00-3.10........................    85.0-87.8       3.00       1.36      12.50       5.67       7.75       3.52
3.10-3.20........................    87.8-90.6       3.00       1.36      12.90       5.85       7.95       3.61
3.20-3.30........................    90.6-93.4       3.00       1.36      13.30       6.03       8.15       3.70
3.30-3.40........................    93.4-96.3       3.00       1.36      13.70       6.21       8.35       3.79
3.40-3.50........................    96.3-99.1       3.00       1.36      14.10       6.40       8.55       3.88
3.50-3.60........................   99.1-101.9       3.00       1.36      14.60       6.62       8.80       3.99
3.60-3.70........................  101.9-104.8       3.00       1.36      15.00       6.80       9.00       4.08
3.70-3.80........................  104.8-107.6       3.00       1.36      15.40       6.99       9.20       4.17
3.80-3.90........................  107.6-110.4       3.00       1.36      15.80       7.16       9.40       4.26
3.90-4.00........................  110.4-113.3       3.00       1.36      16.20       7.34       9.60       4.35
4.00-4.10........................  113.3-116.1       3.00       1.36      16.60       7.53       9.80       4.45
4.10-4.20........................  116.1-118.9       3.00       1.36      17.00       7.72      10.00       4.54
4.20-4.30........................  118.9-121.8       3.00       1.36      17.40       7.90      10.20       4.63
4.30-4.40........................  121.8-124.6       3.00       1.36      17.80       8.09      10.40       4.72
4.40-4.50........................  124.6-127.4       3.00       1.36      18.20       8.27      10.60       4.82
4.50-4.60........................  127.4-130.3       3.00       1.36      18.70       8.46      10.85       4.91
4.60-4.70........................  130.3-133.1       3.00       1.36      19.10       8.65      11.05       5.00
4.70-4.80........................  133.1-135.9       3.00       1.36      19.50       8.83      11.25       5.10
4.80-4.90........................  135.9-138.8       3.00       1.36      19.90       9.02      11.45       5.19
4.90-5.00........................  138.8-141.6       3.00       1.36      20.30       9.20      11.65       5.28
5.00-5.10........................  141.6-144.4       3.00       1.36      20.70       9.39      11.85       5.38
5.10-5.20........................  144.4-147.2       3.00       1.36      21.10       9.58      12.05       5.47
5.20-5.30........................  147.2-150.1       3.00       1.36      21.50       9.76      12.25       5.56
5.30-5.40........................  150.1-152.9       3.00       1.36      21.90       9.95      12.45       5.65
5.40-5.50........................  152.9-155.7       3.00       1.36      22.30      10.13      12.65       5.75
5.50-5.60........................  155.7-158.6       3.00       1.36      22.80      10.32      12.90       5.84
5.60-5.70........................  158.6-161.4       3.00       1.36      23.20      10.51      13.10       5.93
5.70-5.80........................  161.4-164.2       3.00       1.36      23.60      10.69      13.30       6.03
5.80-5.90........................  164.2-167.1       3.00       1.36      24.00      10.88      13.50       6.12
5.90-6.00........................  167.1-169.9       3.00       1.36      24.40      11.06      13.70       6.21
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes: (1) All test load weights are bone dry weights.
(2) Allowable tolerance on the test load weights is 0.10 lbs (0.05 kg).

6. Waivers and Field Testing

    6.1 Waivers and Field Testing for Nonconventional Clothes 
Washers. Manufacturers of nonconventional clothes washers, such as 
clothes washers with adaptive control systems, must submit a 
petition for waiver pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27 to establish an 
acceptable test procedure for that clothes washer if the washer 
cannot be tested pursuant to the DOE test procedure or the DOE test 
procedure yields results that are so unrepresentative of the clothes 
washer's true energy consumption characteristics as to provide 
materially inaccurate comparative data. In such cases, field testing 
may be appropriate for establishing an acceptable test procedure. 
The following are guidelines for field testing that may be used by 
manufacturers in support of petitions for waiver. These guidelines 
are not mandatory and the Department may determine that they do not 
apply to a particular model. Depending upon a manufacturer's 
approach for conducting field testing, additional data may be 
required. Manufacturers are encouraged to communicate with the 
Department prior to the commencement of field tests that may be used 
to support a petition for waiver. Section 6.3 of this appendix 
provides an example of

[[Page 23098]]

field testing for a clothes washer with an adaptive water fill 
control system. Other features, such as the use of various spin 
speed selections, could be the subject of field tests.
    6.2 Nonconventional Wash System Energy Consumption Test. The 
field test may consist of a minimum of 10 of the nonconventional 
clothes washers (``test clothes washers'') and 10 clothes washers 
already being distributed in commerce (``base clothes washers''). 
The tests should include a minimum of 50 wash cycles per clothes 
washer. The test clothes washers and base clothes washers should be 
identical in construction except for the controls or systems being 
tested. Equal numbers of both the test clothes washer and the base 
clothes washer should be tested simultaneously in comparable 
settings to minimize seasonal or end-user laundering conditions or 
variations. The clothes washers should be monitored in such a way as 
to accurately record the average total energy and water consumption 
per cycle, including water heating energy when electrically heated 
water is used, and the energy required to remove the remaining 
moisture of the test load. Standby and off mode energy consumption 
should be measured according to section 4.4 of this test procedure. 
The field test results should be used to determine the best method 
to correlate the rating of the test clothes washer to the rating of 
the base clothes washer.
    6.3 Adaptive water fill control system field test. (1) Section 
3.2.6.3 of this appendix defines the test method for measuring 
energy consumption for clothes washers that incorporate both 
adaptive (automatic) and alternate manual water fill control 
systems. Energy consumption calculated by the method defined in 
section 3.2.6.3 of this appendix assumes the adaptive cycle will be 
used 50 percent of the time. This section can be used to develop 
field test data in support of a petition for waiver when it is 
believed that the adaptive cycle will be used more than 50 percent 
of the time. The field test sample size should be a minimum of 10 
test clothes washers. The test clothes washers should be 
representative of the design, construction, and control system that 
will be placed in commerce. The duration of field testing in the 
user's house should be a minimum of 50 wash cycles, for each unit. 
No special instructions as to cycle selection or product usage 
should be given to the field test participants, other than inclusion 
of the product literature pack that would be shipped with all units, 
and instructions regarding filling out data collection forms, use of 
data collection equipment, or basic procedural methods. Prior to the 
test clothes washers being installed in the field test locations, 
baseline data should be developed for all field test units by 
conducting laboratory tests as defined by section 1 through section 
5 of this appendix to determine the energy consumption, water 
consumption, and remaining moisture content values. The following 
data should be measured and recorded for each wash load during the 
test period: wash cycle selected, the mode of the clothes washer 
(adaptive or manual), clothes load dry weight (measured after the 
clothes washer and clothes dryer cycles are completed) in pounds, 
and type of articles in the clothes load (e.g., cottons, linens, 
permanent press). The wash cycles used in calculating the in-home 
percentage split between adaptive and manual cycle usage should be 
only those wash cycles that conform to the definition of the energy 
test cycle.
    Calculate:

T = The total number of wash cycles run during the field test.
Ta = The total number of adaptive control wash cycles.
Tm = The total number of manual control wash cycles.
    The percentage weighting factors:

Pa = (Ta/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting 
for adaptive control selection)
Pm = (Tm/T) x 100% (the percentage weighting 
for manual control selection)

    (2) Energy consumption (HET, MET, and 
DE) and water consumption (QT) values 
calculated in section 4 of this appendix for the manual and adaptive 
modes should be combined using Pa and Pm as 
the weighting factors.

0
8. Add a new Appendix J3 to subpart B of part 430 to read as follows:

Appendix J3 to Subpart B of Part 430-Uniform Test Method for Measuring 
the Moisture Absorption and Retention Characteristics of New Energy 
Test Cloth Lots

    Note: DOE maintains an historical record of the standard 
extractor test data and final correctio5tn curve coefficients for 
each approved lot of energy test cloth. These can be accessed 
through DOE's Web page for standards and test procedures for 
residential clothes washers at DOE's Building Technologies Office 
Appliance and Equipment Standards Web site.

1. Objective

    The following procedure is used to evaluate the moisture 
absorption and retention characteristics of a new lot of test cloth 
by measuring the remaining moisture content (RMC) in a standard 
extractor at a specified set of conditions. The results are used to 
develop a set of coefficients that correlate the measured RMC values 
of the new test cloth lot with a set of standard RMC values 
established as an historical reference point. These correction 
coefficients are applied to the RMC measurements performed during 
testing according to appendix J1 or appendix J2 to 10 CFR 430 
subpart B, ensuring that the final corrected RMC measurement for a 
clothes washer remains independent of the test cloth lot used for 
testing.

2. Definitions

    2.1 AHAM means the Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers.
    2.2 Bone-dry means a condition of a load of test cloth that has 
been dried in a dryer at maximum temperature for a minimum of 10 
minutes, removed and weighed before cool down, and then dried again 
for 10 minute periods until the final weight change of the load is 1 
percent or less.
    2.3 Lot means a quantity of cloth that has been manufactured 
with the same batches of cotton and polyester during one continuous 
process.

3. Testing Conditions

    3.1 Table 3.1 of this appendix provides the matrix of test 
conditions. In the table, ``g Force'' represents units of 
gravitational acceleration. When this matrix is repeated 3 times, a 
total of 60 extractor RMC test runs are required. For the purpose of 
the extractor RMC test, the test cloths may be used for up to 60 
test runs (after preconditioning as specified in appendix J1 or 
appendix J2).

                               Table 3.1--Matrix of Extractor RMC Test Conditions
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                    Warm soak                             Cold soak
             ``g Force''             ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         15 min. spin       4 min. spin        15 min. spin       4 min. spin
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.................................  .................  .................  .................  .................
200.................................  .................  .................  .................  .................
350.................................  .................  .................  .................  .................
500.................................  .................  .................  .................  .................
650.................................  .................  .................  .................  .................
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.2 Perform the standard extractor RMC tests using a North Star 
Engineered Products Inc. (formerly Bock) Model 215 extractor (having 
a basket diameter of 20 inches, height of 11.5 inches, and volume of 
2.09 ft\3\), with a variable speed drive (North Star Engineered 
Products, P.O. Box 5127, Toledo, OH 43611) or an equivalent 
extractor with same basket design (i.e. diameter, height, volume, 
and hole configuration) and variable speed drive. Table 3.2 shows 
the extractor spin speed, in revolutions per minute (RPM), that must 
be used to attain each required g-force level.

[[Page 23099]]



        Table 3.2--Extractor Spin Speeds for Each Test Condition
------------------------------------------------------------------------
            ``g Force''                              RPM
------------------------------------------------------------------------
100                                  594  1
200                                  840  1
350                                  1111  1
500                                  1328  1
650                                  1514  1
------------------------------------------------------------------------

    3.3 Bone dryer temperature. The dryer used for bone drying must 
heat the test cloth and energy stuffer cloths above 210 [deg]F (99 
[deg]C).

4. Test Loads

    4.1 Preconditioning. New test cloths, including energy test 
cloths and energy stuffer cloths, must be pre-conditioned in a 
clothes washer in the following manner:
    Perform five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles, the first two with 
current AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3 and the last three without 
detergent. Place the test cloth in a clothes washer set at the 
maximum water level. Wash the load for ten minutes in soft water (17 
ppm hardness or less) using 27.0 grams + 4.0 grams per pound of 
cloth load of AHAM Standard detergent Formula 3. The wash 
temperature is to be controlled to 135[emsp14][deg]F 5[emsp14][deg]F (57.2 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C) and the 
rinse temperature is to be controlled to 60[emsp14][deg]F 5[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 [deg]C 2.8 [deg]C). Repeat 
the cycle with detergent and then repeat the cycle three additional 
times without detergent, bone drying the load between cycles (for a 
total of five complete wash-rinse-spin cycles).
    4.2 Test load composition. Test loads must be comprised of 
randomly selected cloth at the beginning, middle and end of a lot.
    4.3 Test load size. Use a test load size of 8.4 lbs. Two test 
loads may be used for standard extractor RMC tests, with each load 
used for half of the total number of required tests.

5. Test Measurements

    5.1 Dry the test cloth until it is ``bone-dry'' according to the 
definition in section 2.2 of this appendix. Record the bone-dry 
weight of the test load (WI).
    5.2 Prepare the test load for soak by grouping four test cloths 
into loose bundles. Create the bundles by hanging four cloths 
vertically from one corner and loosely wrapping the test cloth onto 
itself to form the bundle. Bundles should be wrapped loosely to 
ensure consistency of water extraction. Then place the bundles into 
the water to soak. Eight to nine bundles will be formed depending on 
the test load. The ninth bundle may not equal four cloths but can 
incorporate energy stuffer cloths to help offset the size 
difference.
    5.3 Soak the test load for 20 minutes in 10 gallons of soft (<17 
ppm) water. The entire test load must be submerged. Maintain a water 
temperature of 100 [deg]F  5 [deg]F (37.8 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C) at all times between the start and end of the 
soak.
    5.4 Remove the test load and allow each of the test cloth 
bundles to drain over the water bath for a maximum of 5 seconds.
    5.5 Manually place the test cloth bundles in the basket of the 
extractor, distributing them evenly by eye. The draining and loading 
process must take no longer than 1 minute. Spin the load at a fixed 
speed corresponding to the intended centripetal acceleration level 
(measured in units of the acceleration of gravity, g)  
1g for the intended time period  5 seconds. Begin the 
timer when the extractor meets the required spin speed for each 
test.
    5.6 Record the weight of the test load immediately after the 
completion of the extractor spin cycle (WC).
    5.7 Calculate the remaining moisture content of the test load as 
(WC-WI)/WI.
    5.8 Draining the soak tub is not necessary if the water bath is 
corrected for water level and temperature before the next 
extraction.
    5.9 Drying the test load in between extraction runs is not 
necessary. However, the bone dry weight must be checked after every 
12 extraction runs to make sure the bone dry weight is within 
tolerance (8.4  0.1 lb).
    5.10 The test load must be soaked and extracted once following 
bone drying, before continuing with the remaining extraction runs. 
Perform this extraction at the same spin speed used for the 
extraction run prior to bone drying, for a time period of 4 minutes. 
Either warm or cold soak temperature may be used.
    5.11 Measure the remaining moisture content of the test load at 
five g levels: 100 g, 200 g, 350 g, 500 g, and 650 g, using two 
different spin times at each g level: 4 minutes and 15 minutes.
    5.12 Repeat sections 5.1 through 5.11 of this appendix using 
soft (<17 ppm) water at 60[emsp14][deg]F  
5[emsp14][deg]F (15.6 [deg]C  2.8 [deg]C).

6. Calculation of RMC Correction Curve

    6.1 Average the values of 3 test runs, and fill in Table 3.1 of 
this appendix. Perform a linear least-squares fit to determine 
coefficients A and B such that the standard RMC values shown in 
Table 6.1 of this appendix (RMCstandard) are linearly 
related to the RMC values measured in section 5 of this appendix 
(RMCcloth):

RMCstandard ~ A * RMCcloth + B

    Where A and B are coefficients of the linear least-squares fit.

                                  Table 6.1--Standard RMC Values (RMCstandard)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                      RMC percentage
                                         -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                       Warm soak                           Cold soak
               ``g Force''               -----------------------------------------------------------------------
                                            15 min. spin       4 min. spin      15 min. spin       4 min. spin
                                              (percent)         (percent)         (percent)         (percent)
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
100.....................................              45.9              49.9              49.7              52.8
200.....................................              35.7              40.4              37.9              43.1
350.....................................              29.6              33.1              30.7              35.8
500.....................................              24.2              28.7              25.5              30.0
650.....................................              23.0              26.4              24.1              28.0
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    6.2 Perform an analysis of variance with replication test using 
two factors, spin speed and lot, to check the interaction of speed 
and lot. Use the values from Table 3.1 and Table 6.1 of this 
appendix in the calculation. The ``P'' value of the F-statistic for 
interaction between spin speed and lot in the variance analysis must 
be greater than or equal to 0.1. If the ``P'' value is less than 
0.1, the test cloth is unacceptable. ``P'' is a theoretically based 
measure of interaction based on an analysis of variance.

7. Application of the RMC Correction Curve

    7.1 Using the coefficients A and B calculated in section 6.1 of 
this appendix:

RMCcorr = A x RMC + B

    7.2 Apply this RMC correction curve to measured RMC values in 
appendix J1 and appendix J2.

[FR Doc. 2014-08741 Filed 4-24-14; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P