On May 20, 2022 the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) published in the Federal Register the final rule that amends the test procedure for direct heating equipment to incorporate by reference the most recent versions of the industry consensus test standards previously referenced in the Federal test procedure, while maintaining the existing oil pressure measurement error value.

The DOE also:

1. Updated definitions regarding unvented heaters, accounting for multiple operational modes.
2. Specified the input rate for conducting the cyclic condensate collection test.
3. Specified the use of manufacturer values for gas supply pressure in certain circumstances.
4. Specified the allowable range of regulator outlet pressure and specific gravity
5. Provided an option to use fewer thermocouples in the thermocouple grid for models with small-diameter flues
6. Clarified instructions for calculations regarding condensate mass measurements. and
7. Specified the methods to appropriately shield thermocouples from radiation.

The effective date is June 21, 2022 and will be mandatory for product testing starting November 16, 2022.

The final rule and the notice of proposed rulemaking and request for comment are identified by Docket Number EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003. The Docket Folder is available on Regulations.gov at https://www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2019-BT-TP-0003/document and provides access to primary and supporting documents as well as comments received. Documents are also accessible from Regulations.gov by searching the Docket Number.