Plumbing Products Rulemaking
This page describes rulemaking activities and regulations regarding water efficiency for plumbing products (faucets, showerheads, water closets [toilets], and urinals).
Statutory Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act (EPCA) (42 U.S.C. 6291, et seq.) established the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other than Automobiles, covering major household appliances including plumbing products. The Energy Policy Act of 1992 subsequently amended EPCA by requiring updated energy conservation standards for plumbing products if American Society of Mechanical Engineers/American National Standards Institute Standard A112.18.1M-1989 or A1129.6-1990 is updated. (42 U.S.C. 6295(j)(3);(k)(3))
Notices and Rules
- Request for Information, Federal Register, 76 FR 52644, August 23, 2011
- Waiver of the Federal Preemtion: Final Rule
, Federal Register, 75 FR 80289, December 22, 2010
Showerhead Enforcement Guidance
The Department has withdrawn as unwarranted the draft interpretative rule setting out the Department's views on the definition of a "showerhead" for purposes of the water conservation standard enacted by Congress in 1992. To provide certainty going forward, however, the Department today provides a brief enforcement guidance, which balances the Department's obligation to enforce the congressional standard with its determination to avoid needless economic dislocation. The guidance explains how the Department intends to enforce the 1992 law and provides manufacturers a two-year grace period before certain enforcement action will be taken.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Examples of Calculations Using Sample Statistics
- FAQ on Showerhead Enforcement Guidance, April 29, 2011
Past Rulemakings
- Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures and Certification and Enforcement Requirements for Plumbing Products; and Certification and Enforcement Requirements for Residential Appliances Final Rule, Federal Register, March 18, 1998
- Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products: Test Procedures and Certification and Enforcement Requirements for Plumbing Products; and Certification and Enforcement Requirements for Residential Appliances Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, Federal Register, February 20, 1997
Contact Information
Lucas Adin
Project Manager
(202) 287-1317