Is the Department of Energy Hitting Pause on Recent Energy Standards?

This artice was composed by Jobe Leonard.  He is passionate about energy codes, the Department of Energy, and helping those who need more in depth about Reschecks and Rescheck reporting on a daily basis.

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Here at the Reschexpert blog we monitor recent news with the Department of Energy very closely so that we can relay that information to architects, homeowners, and other Rescheck creation services.  We feel that some very recent developments seek to allow the people and not the government to choose appliances based price, quality, availability, and personal preference.  We will explain those recent devlopments below.  Thank you for reading the Reschexpert blog.

The Department of Energy (DOE) has recently made a significant announcement that’s causing waves throughout the Rescheck industry: a temporary halt to some recently introduced energy efficiency standards. This move, echoing the a recent focus on deregulation and cost reduction, provides both relief and uncertainty for contractors who’ve been navigating the complexities of evolving regulations.

IECC 2024 Rescheck Launch

What Energy Efficiency Standards Are Being Postponed?

For those involved in Rescheck creation and related services, the following standards are being put on hold:

• Central air conditioners: This impacts a fundamental component of residential and commercial HVAC systems.
• Gas instantaneous water heaters: A key area for energy savings, now seeing a regulatory delay.
• Walk-in coolers and freezers: Essential for commercial refrigeration, these standards are now postponed.
• Commercial refrigeration equipment: Broadening the impact on commercial operations.
• Air compressors: Another significant industrial and commercial component.
• Tankless Water Heater Category: The DOE is also creating a new energy efficiency category for tankless water heaters. This effectively shields these units from stricter regulations implemented in the past four years, granting contractors and homeowners continued access to these efficient options.

IECC 2024 Rescheck Example

Key Benefits for HVACR Contractors:

• Greater Equipment Flexibility: Contractors can continue to offer a wider range of equipment at various price points, providing more choices to customers.
• Reduced Compliance Burden: The postponement alleviates the immediate pressure to adapt to new regulations, paperwork, and certification requirements. This grants contractors valuable breathing room.
• Delayed Implementation: Although many Rescheck creators were preparing for these standards, the delay provides more time before needing to adjust operations.

Uncertainty and Future Outlook:

While the DOE’s decision offers immediate relief, the duration of the postponement remains unspecified. This lack of clarity introduces uncertainty for long-term planning within the industry.

However, it’s important to note that Congress is actively exploring legislation that could provide more permanent solutions. The Congressional Review Act, for instance, is being considered to address tankless water heaters and other advanced energy-efficient technologies.  We will follow this legislation on a day by day basis and you can check for updates on the Reschexpert blog to find any and all updates.

IECC 2024 Rescheck vs IECC 2021 Rescheck

Rescheck.info’s Commitment:

At Rescheck.info, we understand the dynamic nature of the Rescheck industry and the challenges posed by regulatory changes. We are committed to:

• Closely Monitoring Developments: We will continue to track regulatory changes and provide timely updates to our members.
• Supporting Contractors: We recognize the opportunities and challenges these changes present and will provide support and resources to Rescheck professionals.
• Prioritizing Information: Keeping our members informed is our top priority.

Thank you for reading the Reschexpert blog.  As codes, building officials, policies, and appliances chage one thing remains the same.  Rescheck.info can handle your Rescheck for $79 in about 4-6 hours.  If you need a Rescheck email PDF plans, jobsite address, and square footage to service@rescheck.info and we will get you taken care of.