Notice2021-14349
Energy Conservation Program: Notification of Petition for Waiver of GE Appliances, a Haier Company From the Department of Energy Miscellaneous Refrigeration Products Test Procedure and Notification of Denial of Interim Waiver
Primary source
Metadata and text below are from the Federal Register, a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the official published version before relying on it for any legal matter.
Published
July 7, 2021
Issuing agencies
Energy Department
Abstract
This notification announces receipt of and publishes a petition for waiver and interim waiver from GE Appliances, a Haier Company, which seeks a waiver for a specified miscellaneous refrigeration product basic model from the U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') test procedure used for determining the energy consumption of these products. This notice also announces that DOE is declining to grant the request for an interim waiver from the test procedure for the reasons described in this notification. DOE solicits comments, data, and information concerning the petition and its suggested alternate test procedure so as to inform DOE's final decision on the waiver request.
Full Text
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 127 (Wednesday, July 7, 2021)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 127 (Wednesday, July 7, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 35766-35773]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-14349]
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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
[Case Number 2021-004; EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009]
Energy Conservation Program: Notification of Petition for Waiver
of GE Appliances, a Haier Company From the Department of Energy
Miscellaneous Refrigeration Products Test Procedure and Notification of
Denial of Interim Waiver
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Notification of petition for waiver and denial of an interim
waiver; request for comments.
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SUMMARY: This notification announces receipt of and publishes a
petition for waiver and interim waiver from GE Appliances, a Haier
Company, which seeks a waiver for a specified miscellaneous
refrigeration product basic model from the U.S. Department of Energy
(``DOE'') test procedure used for determining the energy consumption of
these products. This notice also announces that DOE is declining to
grant the request for an interim waiver from the test procedure for the
reasons described in this notification. DOE solicits comments, data,
and information concerning the petition and its suggested alternate
test procedure so as to inform DOE's final decision on the waiver
request.
DATES: Written comments and information are requested and will be
accepted on or before August 6, 2021.
ADDRESSES: Interested persons are encouraged to submit comments using
the Federal eRulemaking Portal at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. Alternatively,
interested persons may submit comments, identified by docket number
EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009, by any of the following methods:
1. Federal eRulemaking Portal: <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. Follow the
instructions for submitting comments.
2. Email: To <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#c786949890a6aeb1a2b59895a2b6b2a2b4b3b487a2a2e9a3a8a2e9a0a8b1"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="db9a88848cbab2adbea98489beaaaebea8afa89bbebef5bfb4bef5bcb4ad">[email protected]</span></a>. Include docket number
EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009 in the subject line of the message.
No telefacsimiles (``faxes'') will be accepted. For detailed
instructions on submitting comments and additional information on this
process, see the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document.
Although DOE has routinely accepted public comment submissions
through a variety of mechanisms, including postal mail and hand
delivery/courier, the Department has found it necessary to make
temporary modifications to the comment submission process in light of
the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. DOE is currently suspending receipt of
public comments via postal mail and hand delivery/courier. If a
commenter finds that this change poses an undue hardship, please
contact Appliance Standards Program staff at (202) 586-1445 to discuss
the need for alternative arrangements. Once the COVID-19 pandemic
health emergency is resolved, DOE anticipates resuming all of its
regular options for public comment submission, including postal mail
and hand delivery/courier.
Docket: The docket, which includes Federal Register notices,
comments, and other supporting documents/materials, is available for
review at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. All documents in the docket are listed
in the <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> index. However, some documents listed in the
index, such as those containing information that is exempt from public
disclosure, may not be publicly available.
The docket web page can be found at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009">www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009</a>. The docket web page contains instruction on how
to access all documents, including public comments, in the docket. See
the SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section for information on how to submit
comments through <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Energy
Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building Technologies Office, Mailstop
EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20585-0121. Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#e1a0b2beb68088978493beb3849094849295a18484cf858e84cf868e97"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="c382909c94a2aab5a6b19c91a6b2b6a6b0b783a6a6eda7aca6eda4acb5">[email protected]</span></a>.
Mr. Michael Kido, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of the General
Counsel, Mail Stop GC-33, Forrestal Building, 1000 Independence Avenue
SW, Washington, DC 20585-0103. Telephone: (202) 586-8145. Email:
<a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#8ac7e3e9e2ebefe6a4c1e3eee5cae2fba4eee5efa4ede5fc"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="91dcf8f2f9f0f4fdbfdaf8f5fed1f9e0bff5fef4bff6fee7">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: DOE is publishing GEA's petition for waiver
in its entirety, pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(b)(1)(iv).\1\ DOE invites
all interested parties to submit in writing by August 6, 2021, comments
and information on all aspects of the petition, including the alternate
test procedure. Pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(d), any person submitting
written comments to DOE must also send a copy of such comments to the
petitioner. The contact information for the petitioner is:
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\1\ The petition did not identify any of the information
contained therein as confidential business information.
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Bill A. Brown, GE Appliances, A Haier Company, Appliance Park--AP5-
1S-86, Louisville, KY 40225. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#9dffb3ffeff2eaf3ddfaf8fcededf1f4fcf3fef8eeb3fef2f0"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="87e5a9e5f5e8f0e9c7e0e2e6f7f7ebeee6e9e4e2f4a9e4e8ea">[email protected]</span></a>.
Submitting comments via <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. The
<a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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. If this instruction is followed, persons
[[Page 35767]]
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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> cannot be claimed as CBI. Comments received
through the website 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a> 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 <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>
provides after you have successfully uploaded your comment.
Submitting comments via email. Comments and documents submitted via
email also will be posted to <a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>. 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. Faxes will not 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 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. DOE will make its own determination about the confidential
status of the information and treat it according to its determination.
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).
I. Background and Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\2\
authorizes the U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') to regulate the
energy efficiency of a number of consumer products and certain
industrial equipment. (42 U.S.C. 6291-6317) Title III, Part B \3\ of
EPCA, Public Law 94-163 (42 U.S.C. 6291-6309, as codified), established
the Energy Conservation Program for Consumer Products Other Than
Automobiles, which, in addition to identifying particular types of
consumer products and commercial equipment as covered under the
statute, permits the Secretary of Energy to classify additional types
of consumer products as covered products. (42 U.S.C. 6292(a)(20)) DOE
added miscellaneous refrigeration products (``MREFs'') as covered
products through a final determination of coverage published in the
Federal Register on July 18, 2016 (the ``July 2016 Final Rule''). 81 FR
46768 (July 18, 2016). Id.
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\2\ All references to EPCA in this document refer to the statute
as amended through the Energy Act of 2020, Public Law 116-260 (Dec.
27, 2020).
\3\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part B was redesignated as Part A.
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The energy conservation program under EPCA consists essentially of
four parts: (1) Testing, (2) labeling, (3) Federal energy conservation
standards, and (4) certification and enforcement procedures. Relevant
provisions of EPCA include definitions (42 U.S.C. 6291), test
procedures (42 U.S.C. 6293), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6294),
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6295), and the authority to
require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6296).
The Federal 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 pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C. 6295(s)),
and (2) making representations about the efficiency of that product (42
U.S.C. 6293(c)). Similarly, DOE must use these test procedures to
determine whether the covered product complies with relevant standards
promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6293, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE is required to follow when prescribing or amending test procedures
for covered products. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed
or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce
test results which reflect the energy efficiency, energy use or
estimated annual operating cost of a covered product during a
representative average use cycle or period of use and requires that
test procedures not be unduly burdensome to conduct. (42 U.S.C.
6293(b)(3))
MREFs are consumer refrigeration products other than refrigerators,
refrigerator-freezers, or freezers. These products include coolers and
combination cooler refrigeration products. 10 CFR 430.2. A ``cooler''
is a cabinet, used with one or more doors, that has a source of
refrigeration capable of operating on single-phase, alternating current
and is capable of maintaining compartment temperatures either: (1) No
lower than 39 [deg]F (3.9 [deg]C); or (2) in a range that extends no
lower than 37 [deg]F (2.8 [deg]C) but at least as high as 60 [deg]F
(15.6 [deg]C) as determined according to the applicable DOE test
procedure. The test procedure for MREFs is contained in the Code of
Federal Regulations (``CFR'') at 10 CFR part 430, appendix A to subpart
B of part 430--Uniform Test Method for Measuring the Energy Consumption
of Refrigerators, Refrigerator-Freezers, and Miscellaneous
Refrigeration Products (``Appendix A'').
Under 10 CFR 430.27, any interested person may submit a petition
for waiver from DOE's test procedure requirements. DOE will grant a
waiver from the test procedure requirements if DOE determines either
that the basic model for which the waiver was requested contains a
design characteristic that prevents testing of the basic model
according to the prescribed test procedures, or that the prescribed
test procedures evaluate the basic model
[[Page 35768]]
in a manner so unrepresentative of its true energy consumption
characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate comparative data.
10 CFR 430.27(f)(2). A petitioner must include in its petition any
alternate test procedures known to the petitioner to evaluate the
performance of the product type in a manner representative of the
energy consumption characteristics of the basic model. 10 CFR
430.27(b)(1)(iii). DOE may grant the waiver subject to conditions,
including adherence to alternate test procedures. 10 CFR 430.27(f)(2).
As soon as practicable after the granting of any waiver, DOE will
publish in the Federal Register a notice of proposed rulemaking to
amend its regulations so as to eliminate any need for the continuation
of such waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(l) As soon thereafter as practicable, DOE
will publish in the Federal Register a final rule to that effect. Id.
The waiver process also provides that DOE may grant an interim
waiver if it appears likely that the underlying petition for waiver
will be granted and/or if DOE determines that it would be desirable for
public policy reasons to grant immediate relief pending a determination
on the underlying petition for waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(2). Within one
year of issuance of an interim waiver, DOE will either: (i) Publish in
the Federal Register a determination on the petition for waiver; or
(ii) publish in the Federal Register a new or amended test procedure
that addresses the issues presented in the waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(h)(2).
If DOE ultimately denies the petition for waiver DOE will provide a
period of 180 days before the manufacturer is required to use the DOE
test procedure to make representations of energy efficiency. 10 CFR
430.27(i). When DOE amends the test procedure to address the issues
presented in a waiver, the waiver will automatically terminate on the
date on which use of that test procedure is required to demonstrate
compliance. 10 CFR 430.27(h)(3).
II. GEA's Petition for Waiver and Interim Waiver
On April 9, 2021, DOE received \4\ from GE Appliances, a Haier
Company (``GEA'') a petition for waiver and interim waiver from the
test procedure for MREFs set forth at appendix A to subpart B of 10 CFR
part 430. (GEA, No. 1 at p. 1) \5\ Pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(e)(i), DOE
posted the petition on the DOE website at: <a href="http://www.regulations.gov/document/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009-0001">www.regulations.gov/document/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009-0001</a>.\6\
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\4\ A petition submitted under 10 CFR 430.27 is considered
``received'' on the date it is received by DOE through DOE's
established email box for receipt of waiver petitions or, if
delivered by mail, on the date the waiver petition is stamped as
received by the DOE. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(1)(iii).
\5\ A notation in this form provides a reference for information
that is in the docket for this test procedure waiver (Docket No.
EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009) (available at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009">www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009</a>). This notation indicates that the statement
preceding the reference is document number 1 in the docket and
appears at page 1 of that document.
\6\ The petition did not identify any of the information
contained therein as confidential business information.
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The specific basic model for which the petition applies is ``S-IHG-
R'', which was provided by GEA in its April 9, 2021 petition and is
described by GEA as an ``In-Home Grower''--a product with lighting,
temperature, humidity, and nutrient water control which allows the user
to grow plants within their home year-round. GEA stated that the
average compartment temperatures of the In-Home Grower exceed the 55
[deg]F standardized temperature required for testing under the existing
DOE test procedure (see section 3 of Appendix A) and, therefore, the
product cannot be tested using the existing test procedure. GEA also
noted characteristics of this basic model that GEA stated would prevent
the use of certain test setup, stabilization, temperature control, and
energy use determination requirements in Appendix A. (GEA, No. 1 at pp.
3-4)
In its April 9, 2021 petition, GEA submitted to DOE an alternate
test procedure to determine the energy consumption of its In-Home
Grower. (GEA, No. 1 at p. 6) GEA stated that its alternate test
procedure would allow for the measurement of the energy use of this
product where the requirements of the current DOE test procedure cannot
be met. DOE received a follow-up correspondence from GEA on April 26,
2021, which provided a revised alternate test procedure.\7\ DOE
reviewed the alternate test procedure included in the April 26, 2021
correspondence as the requested alternate test approach when making the
initial determinations discussed in this document. GEA also provided
additional correspondence on June 2, 2021, in which it clarified
certain aspects of the proposed alternate test procedure included in
the April 26, 2021 submission.\8\
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\7\ This document can be found in the docket for this test
procedure waiver under Document No. 002.
\8\ This document can be found in the docket for this test
procedure waiver under Document No. 003.
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GEA also requests an interim waiver from the existing DOE test
procedure. DOE must review the petition for interim waiver within 45
business days of receipt of the petition. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(1)(ii). If
DOE does not notify the applicant of the disposition of the petition
for interim waiver, in writing, within 45 business days of receipt of
the petition, the interim waiver is granted utilizing the alternate
test procedure requested in the petition.\9\ Id. DOE will grant an
interim waiver if it appears likely that the petition for waiver will
be granted, and/or if DOE determines that it would be desirable for
public policy reasons to grant immediate relief pending a determination
of the petition for waiver. 10 CFR 430.27(e)(2).
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\9\ The June 2, 2021 submission specified the energy use
intended to be measured under the alternate test procedure suggested
by GEA, thereby providing the information necessary for DOE to
evaluate the representativeness of the suggested procedure. DOE
considers June 2, 2021 to be the date on which GEA completed its
submission to DOE, and DOE calculated the 45-day period as beginning
on June 2, 2021.
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Based on GEA's description of the In-Home Grower, DOE has
determined that the basic model meets the definition of a cooler in 10
CFR 430.2 for the following reasons:
1. The product consists of a cabinet used with one or more glass
doors, as specified by GEA;
2. The product maintains compartment temperatures no lower than 39
[deg]F, as determined when tested in a 90 [deg]F ambient temperature,
as GEA specified that the compartment temperatures measured 79.90
[deg]F and 79.97 [deg]F under these conditions at the minimum
temperature setting.
The definition for cooler at 10 CFR 430.2 does not reference a
specific design intent (such as storage of food or beverages) and does
not require that the product be capable of maintaining a compartment
temperature of 55 [deg]F when tested in a 90 [deg]F ambient
temperature.
DOE understands, based upon GEA's petition, that absent an interim
waiver, GEA's In-Home Grower cannot be tested and rated for energy
consumption according to the MREF test procedure on a basis
representative of its true energy consumption characteristics. However,
as discussed in section III, DOE has tentatively determined that GEA's
proposed alternative test procedure (as revised on April 26, 2021)
would not result in a measurement of the energy use of this basic model
that is representative of an average use cycle or period of use.
Therefore, DOE has determined that GEA's waiver petition is unlikely to
be granted as submitted and that it is not desirable for public policy
reasons to grant GEA with the immediate relief it seeks. As a result,
[[Page 35769]]
DOE is declining to grant an GEA an interim waiver for the subject
basic model and is seeking additional information on the underlying
basis for GEA's suggested alternative test procedure for the purpose of
making a final determination on the underlying petition for waiver.
The following two sections discuss specific aspects of GEA's
petition for waiver and interim waiver.
A. Requirements Sought To Be Waived
GEA requested to waive the current test procedure, calculations,
and accompanying conditions for testing coolers as specified in section
6.2.2 of Appendix A. The primary assertion of the petition is that the
basic model for which the waiver was requested contains a design
characteristic that prevents testing of the basic model according to
the prescribed DOE MREF test procedure. GEA states that the In-Home
Grower, when tested at its coldest setting in a 90 [deg]F ambient
temperature, cannot achieve the 55 [deg]F standardized temperature
required for the DOE MREF test procedure (see section 3 of Appendix A).
GEA stated that its testing in a 90 [deg]F ambient condition resulted
in compartment temperatures of 79.90 [deg]F and 79.97 [deg]F.
The DOE test procedure at Appendix A simulates typical room
conditions (72 [deg]F) with door openings, by testing at 90 [deg]F
without door openings. 10 CFR 430.23(ff)(7). The test procedure
directly measures the energy consumed during steady-state operation and
defrosts, if applicable. Additionally, the DOE test procedure
incorporates usage adjustment factors to account for differences in
these user-related thermal loads for different types of consumer
refrigeration products (i.e., MREFs are typically used less frequently
than a primary refrigerator-freezer in a household and thus have an
adjustment factor of 0.55). See Appendix A, section 5.2.1.1.
GEA states that there is no need to elevate the ambient temperature
for the test to account for door openings and loads because the In-Home
Grower has a very low number of door openings and, after the initial
loading with plants, will typically not have additional loads
introduced.
As stated, the existing test procedure for MREFs contains a method
for addressing certain types of products for which less frequent door
openings occur. Specifically, the test procedure applies an adjustment
factor to account for the relatively fewer expected door openings. See
Appendix A, section 5.2.1.1. The adjustment factor does not address the
potential inability of an MREF to maintain a 55 [deg]F compartment
temperature at a 90 [deg]F ambient condition.
GEA seeks to waive the requirement for testing the In-Home Grower
at a 90 [deg]F ambient condition. See Appendix A section 2.1.1. GEA
instead requests to test the In-Home Grower in a 72 [deg]F ambient
condition, which it asserts better represents typical use of the
product. GEA further stated that testing at a 72 [deg]F ambient with
the product temperature set to 60 [deg]F (the minimum temperature set
point) yielded compartment temperatures between 59.15 and 61.41 [deg]F.
As the In-home Grower is not capable of maintaining the 55 [deg]F
standardized compartment temperature specified in Appendix A, GEA also
seeks to waive the requirement in section 6.2.2 of Appendix A that
performance be calculated at a standardized compartment temperature of
55 [deg]F. Instead, GEA requests that the model be tested in the 72
[deg]F ambient condition using default settings.
Additionally, GEA seeks to waive the existing DOE test procedure
requirement to measure the internal compartment temperatures of the
unit under test. See Appendix A, section 5.1. GEA claims that the
rotation of the compartments significantly increases the test burden of
temperature measurements, as the thermocouple wires would require a
customized testing setup to avoid tangling of the wires and movement of
the temperature masses. Under GEA's requested approach, compartment
temperature measurements would not be necessary because no
interpolation would be made to reflect performance at the standardized
55 [deg]F compartment temperature because the In-Home Grower cannot
achieve a 55 [deg]F compartment temperature at its lowest temperature
setting.
GEA also seeks to waive the stabilization and test period
requirements specified in sections 2.9 and 4 of Appendix A,
respectively. Specifically, GEA requests an 8-hour stabilization period
(the duration of each rotation) and 24-hour test period (the duration
of one full rotation) based on the rotation of the internal
compartments rather than based on compressor cycling as specified in
Appendix A.
B. Requested Alternate Test Procedure
GEA seeks to use an alternate test procedure to test and rate a
specific MREF basic model. GEA's requested alternate test procedure
addresses the test procedure requirements to be waived as discussed in
the previous section of this document. GEA's requested approach also
includes additional test instructions regarding isolating refrigeration
system energy use and additional setup and settings instructions.
GEA requests that two tests be conducted, one with the model
operating as normal and another with the refrigeration system disabled
to allow for identifying the cooling system's energy contribution. In
its April 26, 2021 submission, GEA stated that the main purpose of the
cooling system is to counteract the heat from the lighting and that the
proposed revised test procedure would be used to determine the energy
consumption of the cooling system only. In the June 2, 2021
correspondence, GEA further asserted that the existing MREF test
procedure does not anticipate or account for any product that has a
purpose other than chilling the contents below ambient temperature, so
there was no need for the existing test procedure to account for
products that have significant other functions and that consume energy
to provide those functions. GEA claimed that the In-Home Grower is
distinctly different from all other MREFs in that its intended purpose
(growing plants), its primary function (providing light and appropriate
water and humidity), and the purpose for its sealed system (removing
heat generated by those process, generally to ambient temperature) are
all distinct from all other MREFs (chilling items placed in the cabinet
to below ambient temperature). GEA stated that the revised proposed
alternate test procedure accounts for these differences while honoring
the intent of the existing test procedure (as it applies to all other
MREFs) to measure the energy used by the refrigeration system.
GEA further claimed that the exclusion of energy other than that
used by the refrigeration system is consistent with section 2.2 of the
Appendix A (which incorporates by reference portions of AHAM HRF-1-
2008). GEA stated that under this provision, product features not
required for normal operation of the refrigeration system are to be set
to their lowest energy setting during testing, and that this is what
allows, for instance, refrigerators with large-format touchscreen
computers integrated into the product to be tested with those computers
(and their large screens) turned off. GEA asserted that similar logic
applies to testing only the refrigeration portion of the In-Home
Grower.
Because the In-Home Grower supplies water and nutrients to plants
during
[[Page 35770]]
normal operation, GEA's suggested alternate test procedure also
provides instructions for filling nutrient tanks with water prior to
the start of the test. As requested, water at the proposed ambient
temperature would be supplied to the nutrient tanks.
The proposed alternate test approach also provides instructions for
product settings, as the suggested test procedure would not be based on
the product maintaining compartment temperature to the 55 [deg]F
standardized compartment temperature specified in Appendix A.
Specifically, GEA requests that the In-Home Grower be controlled via
use of an application on a connected device and that the product be
operated using default settings.
In summary, GEA's suggested alternate test procedure provides a
method for measuring the test cycle energy of the vapor compression
system only, as follows; \10\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\10\ The summary of the proposed alternate test procedure
printed in this section is consistent with that included in GEA's
April 26, 2021 message to DOE. The original proposed alternate test
procedure is appended to this notice, along with GEA's original
April 9, 2021 petition.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) two tests, one with the basic model operating as normal and one
with the basic model operating with the refrigeration system disabled,
and a calculation of daily energy consumption of the vapor compression
refrigeration system based on the difference between these two tests;
(2) directions for filling the nutrient water tanks with water at
ambient temperature;
(3) a specific stabilization period of 8 hours (in place of the
requirements of section 2.9 of Appendix A);
(4) a specific test period of 24 hours (in place of the test period
described in section 4.1 of Appendix A);
(5) an alternative ambient test condition of 72 [deg]F (in place of
the requirement in section 2.1.1 of Appendix A);
(6) that no compartment temperature measurements be taken during
the test (in place of the requirements in section 5.1 of Appendix A);
and
(7) that the product be controlled using an application from a
connected device and operated using default settings. (GEA, No. 2 at p.
6)
III. Denial of Interim Waiver and Request for Comments
DOE has reviewed GEA's petition for an interim waiver and the
alternate test procedure requested by GEA. Based on this review, DOE is
denying GEA's April 26, 2021 petition for an interim waiver, which
incorporates elements from GEA's April 9, 2021 submission. In its April
9, 2021 submission, GEA stated that its petition for waiver is likely
to be granted, as the suggested alternate test procedure accurately
measures the energy consumed by the subject basic model based on its
design and intended use, which GEA stated is consistent with the goals
of the DOE appliance standards program and the test procedure
requirements this application seeks to waive.
DOE has tentatively determined that the requested alternate test
procedure would not result in measured energy use of the basic model
that is representative of actual energy used during representative
average use. Specifically, DOE has determined that the requested test
approach to isolate the refrigeration system energy consumption does
not provide a representative measurement of energy use for this basic
model during an average use cycle or period of use. Therefore, DOE is
denying GEA's petition for an interim waiver.
As discussed, GEA stated that the In-Home Grower's primary function
is to provide light and appropriate water and humidity for plant
growing, and that the purpose of its sealed system is to remove heat
generated by those process. (GEA, No. 3 at p. 1) However, the requested
alternate test procedure would determine the energy consumption of only
the cooling function of the product without accounting for the energy
consumption of the primary function of the product. During average use,
the energy consumed by the subject basic model would include the
refrigeration system energy use plus the energy consumed by any other
components active during normal operation (e.g., lighting, fans,
controls, etc.).
In contrast to GEA's assertion, DOE's test procedure is not
intended to measure only the cooling function of consumer refrigeration
products. The test procedure measures the electrical energy consumption
of the overall product, including any components not included in the
refrigeration system. For example, DOE stated in an April 21, 2014
final rule that the DOE test procedures for refrigeration products
measure the energy use of these products during extended time periods
that include periods when the compressor and other key components are
cycled off and that the energy use of these products during the
compressor off cycle is included in the measurements. 79 FR 22320,
22345 (April 21, 2014).
As stated by GEA, Appendix A, by referencing AHAM HRF-1-2008
section 5.5.2(g), provides instructions for test settings. GEA stated
that its proposed test approach to exclude energy other than that used
by the refrigeration system is consistent with the AHAM HRF-1-2008
requirements. However, section 5.5.2(g) of AHAM HRF-1-2008 specifies
that customer accessible features not required for normal operation,
which are electrically-powered, manually-initiated, and manually-
terminated, shall be set at their lowest energy usage positions when
adjustment is provided. This provision does not isolate refrigeration
system energy use, but rather limits (or excludes) energy consumption
of customer accessible features not required for normal operation of
the refrigeration product. What is considered ``normal operation'' is
not defined in HRF-1-2008 or in Appendix A. In the case of the GEA In-
Home Grower, GEA stated that the model's intended purpose is growing
plants, its primary function is providing light and appropriate water
and humidity, and the purpose for its sealed system is to remove heat
generated by those process, generally to ambient temperature. (GEA, No.
3 at p. 1) Therefore, DOE has tentatively determined that ``normal
operation'' for this basic model includes functions beyond operation of
the refrigeration system, and that testing should account for the
energy consumed by such functions.
Because GEA's proposed alternate test procedure would not account
for lighting energy use (a primary function of the basic model), or the
energy use of other components required for normal operation (e.g., the
motor rotating the internal tower and product controls), DOE has
tentatively determined that the requested alternate test procedure
would not provide a representative measure of energy use of the In-Home
Grower during an average use cycle or period of use. Therefore, DOE is
denying GEA's petition for an interim waiver.
While DOE declines to approve the use of GEA's suggested alternate
test procedure in an interim waiver at this time, DOE may consider
including this alternate procedure, or a modified version of this
alternate procedure, in a subsequent Decision and Order. DOE solicits
comments from interested parties on all aspects of the petition,
including the suggested alternate test procedure and calculation
methodology.
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on June 29,
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
and Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency
[[Page 35771]]
and Renewable Energy, pursuant to delegated authority from the
Secretary of Energy. That document with the original signature and date
is maintained by DOE. For administrative purposes only, and in
compliance with requirements of the Office of the Federal Register, the
undersigned DOE Federal Register Liaison Officer has been authorized to
sign and submit the document in electronic format for publication, as
an official document of the Department of Energy. This administrative
process in no way alters the legal effect of this document upon
publication in the Federal Register.
Signed in Washington, DC, on June 30, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
Appendix 1--Petition for Waiver & Application for Interim Waiver
Regarding Test Procedure for Measuring the Energy Consumption of
Refrigerators, Refrigerator-Freezers, and Miscellaneous Refrigeration
Products
GE Appliances, a Haier company (GEA) respectfully submits this
Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver from the
Department of Energy (DOE) test procedure for Miscellaneous
Refrigeration Products in 10 CFR 430 Subpart B, Appendix A. GEA's
request is for a new product that allows users to grow plants within
their home the entire year. The product is designed to be used in am
[sic] indoor, temperature-controlled environment with room
temperatures from 60 [deg]F to 80 [deg]F. The appliance provides the
lighting, temperature and humidity control, and nutrient water to
grow an array of plants. The average compartment temperatures of the
appliance exceed the 55 [deg]F standardized temperature for the
existing DOE miscellaneous refrigeration products test procedures.
The product, therefore, cannot be tested using the existing test
procedure.
1. About GE Appliances
GEA is a leading US manufacturer of home appliances. GEA offers
a full suite of major appliances across seven brands as well as
portable appliances. GEA has been a participant in and contributor
to the DOE's home appliance energy conservation program since its
founding more than 40 years ago. Indeed, GEA supports the goal of
the appliance efficiency program: Maximizing energy savings
improvements that offer consumers real economic benefits and that do
not diminish product performance. GEA devotes substantial resources
to the development of new technologies to increase energy efficiency
where they are feasible and engineering products to meet the
demanding DOE energy efficiency requirements. GEA manufactures a
substantial portion of its refrigerator products at its
manufacturing facilities in Louisville, KY, Decatur, AL, and Selmer,
TN. The products covered by this waiver request will be manufactured
in the United States.
2. Basic Models for Which a Waiver Is Requested
This Petition for Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver
covers the ``In-Home Grower''. There is no existing Product Class
for this type of appliance. The Basic Model is S-IHG-R. The basic
model will be distributed in commerce under the brand name
``Profile''.
The In-Home Grower allows the user to grow plants within their
home year-round. The appliance provides the lighting, temperature
and humidity control and nutrient water needed to grow an array of
plants. The product is designed to be in a controlled environment
with room temperature from 60 to 80 [deg]F.
The appliance has a circular grow tower that is in the center of
the product. The tower is divided into three equal-sized vertical
sections, each comprising \1/3\rd of a circular cross section (see
Figure 1 below).\11\
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\11\ Product images provided with petition may be found at
Docket No. EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009 at <a href="http://www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009">www.regulations.gov/docket/EERE-2021-BT-WAV-0009</a>.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
On each of the three sides of the tower are gardens. In addition
to the three sections of the tower, there are three chambers within
the product cabinet. The dividers of the three chambers meet up with
the walls of the three cabinet sections to create three distinct and
individually controlled compartments within the product. There are
seals on the center tower walls to ensure that the environment in
each chamber remains separate. This tower rotates every eight hours.
Each time the tower rotates, a section of the tower enters a new
chamber.
The front chamber is called the display chamber. This is the
side of the garden the customer will see through the front glass
doors. In the display chamber, there is no grow lighting,
temperature controls, or humidity controls.
The back right and back left chambers are individually
controlled for grow lighting, temperature, and humidity.
3. Design Characteristic Constituting Grounds for the Petition
a. The appliance, at its coldest setting in a 90 [deg]F ambient,
cannot achieve the 55 [deg]F reference temperature necessary for the
DOE MREF test procedure. The procedure therefore cannot be used for
this appliance.
b. There is no need to test at an elevated ambient to account
for door openings and loading as is the case with the current DOE
miscellaneous refrigeration products test procedures. This is true
for the following reasons.
i. The basic model listed operates at an ambient between 60
[deg]F and 80 [deg]F.
ii. Once loaded with plants, there are a minimal amount of door
openings as the product is intended to grow the plants until they
are grown and ready for use.
iii. Since the internal temperatures are closer to the ambient
temperature, any door openings that did occur would only result in
minimal heat addition to the interior.
iv. The chambers that have the temperature and humidity control
are not accessible by the door and are sealed to prevent any air
exchange with the front display chamber.
v. The appliance has rotating compartments which make taking
internal temperature measurements burdensome if not impossible.
Thermocouple wires for refrigeration tests run from inside the unit
under test to a panel box affixed to a wall. The internal
compartments of the In-Home Grower rotate during operation. Unique
fixtures and test setup would be required in order to avoid tangling
of the wires, movement of the thermocouple, or pulling the wires out
of the panel box.
c. At the product's coldest setting in a 90 [deg]F ambient, the
internal compartment temperature does not reach the reference
temperature of 55 [deg]F for a miscellaneous refrigeration product.
Per Table 1 in 10 CFR 430 Subpart B, Appendix A, 3.2.1.3, ``No
Energy Use Rating can be established under the existing test
procedure''. Therefore, interpolation to 55 [deg]F is not possible,
and the existing DOE interpolation method cannot be used to
establish a test result.
4. Requirements Sought To Be Waived
GEA seeks to replace the current test procedure in Appendix A
for Coolers, 6.2.2, with the accompanying test conditions specified
in Exhibit A, below, for the In-Home Grower appliance.
Instead of a 90 [deg]F ambient, GEA has specified a 70 [deg]F
ambient for the testing. This is representative of customer usage as
the product is designed to be placed in an indoor, conditioned space
with an ambient between 60 and 80 [deg]F. Also, as stated above,
there is no need to elevate the ambient for the test to account for
door openings and loads as the appliance has a very low number of
door openings and, after the initial loading with plants, will
typically not have additional loads introduced.
The proposed test procedure does not have temperature
measurements. Based on internal testing in a 90 F environment, the
internal temperatures of the two controlled compartment [sic], at
its coldest setting were 79.90 [deg]F and 79.97 [deg]F, well above
the 55 [deg]F reference temperature of the DOE MREF test procedure.
Also, the rotation of the compartments significantly increases the
test burden of temperature measurements as the thermocouple wires
would have to have a setup to avoid tangling of the wires and
movement of the temperature masses.
This appliance has no defrosting capabilities and can be tested
similarly to a non-automatic defrost. In order to capture a complete
cycling of the growing chambers, GEA is proposing a test that has an
8-hour stabilization period followed by a 24-hour test period. The
growing chambers rotate 120[deg] every 8 hours. This comprises one
rotation for stability and three rotations for the test period.
5. Manufacturers of All Other Basic Models With Similar Design
Characteristics
To GEA's knowledge, there are no products of this type in the
marketplace.
[[Page 35772]]
6. The Application for Interim Waiver Should Be Granted
a. The Petition for Waiver Will Likely be Successful
This Petition for Waiver is likely to be granted as the proposed
alternative test procedure accurately measures the energy consumed
by this novel product based on its design and intended use, all of
which is consistent with the goals of the DOE appliance standards
program and the test procedure requirements this application seeks
to waive.
b. Failure To Provide an Interim Waiver Will Cause Economic
Hardship and Competitive Disadvantage
If DOE does not promptly grant an interim waiver, GEA will
likely be unable to test and certify this model within a
commercially reasonable time. Such delay will prevent GEA from
offering the product in a manner most likely to lead to its
commercial success and will prevent or delay GEA from expanding its
US manufacturing workforce.
7. Notice to Other Manufacturers
Pursuant to 10 CFR 430.27(c), upon publication of a grant of
interim waiver, GEA will notify in writing all known manufacturers
of domestically marketed basic models of the same product class (as
specified in 10 CFR 430.32) and of other product classes known to
the petitioner to use the technology or have the characteristic at
issue in the waiver. The notice will include a statement that DOE
has published the interim waiver and petition for waiver in the
Federal Register and the date the petition for waiver was published.
The notice will also include a statement that DOE will receive and
consider timely written comments on the petition for waiver. Within
five working days of publication of the grant of interim waiver, GEA
will file with DOE a statement certifying the names and addresses of
each person to whom a notice of the petition for waiver was sent.
8. Conclusion
GEA respectfully requests that DOE grant this Petition for
Waiver and Application for Interim Waiver from the current test
procedure for the specified basic models.
Very truly yours,
Signed by: /s/Bill A. Brown, P.E.
[Date: April 8, 2021]
Attachments:
Exhibit A--Alternate Test Procedure
Exhibit A: Alternate Test Procedure for In-Home Grower Miscellaneous
Refrigeration Product
Energy Consumption is Determined by the Formula: E = EP * 1440/T
where:
<bullet> E is the test cycle energy (kWh/day)
<bullet> 1440 = number of minutes in a day
<bullet> EP is the energy expended during three full rotations of
the growing chambers (kWh)
<bullet> T is the length of time for EP (minutes)
Water in Tanks: Fill nutrient tanks with water (70.0 <plus-
minus> 5.0 [deg]F) prior to start of the stabilization period.
Stabilization: The test shall start after a minimum 8 hours
stabilization run for each temperature control setting. This
constitutes one rotation of the growing chambers.
Ambient Temperature: Measure and record the ambient temperature
at points located 3 feet (91.5 cm) above the floor and 10 inches
(25.4 cm) from the center of the two sides of the unit under test.
The ambient temperature shall be 70.0 <plus-minus> 1 [deg]F (21.1
<plus-minus> 0.6 [deg]C) during the stabilization period and the
test period.
Temperature Measurements: No compartment temperature
measurements are taken during the test.
Test Procedure: Run the test using the SmartHQ App
1. Download the SmartHQ app on a connected device
2. Select ``Connect Appliance'' and then ``In Home Grower''
3. Follow the procedures per the SmartHQ app to set up the
appliance.
4. Fill the nutrient tanks with 70.0 <plus-minus> 5.0 [deg]F water.
5. Select ``Let's Start Planting'' from the main screen.
6. Select Garden 1 from the ``Select Garden'' screen
a. Select the ``Default'' growing region.
b. Select ``Next'' at the bottom of the screen
7. At the screen titled ``What do you want to plant in Garden x?'',
select ``Choose Later''
8. Repeat this process for Garden 2 and Garden 3.
9. Select ``Start the Growing Cycle''
10. The first rotation (8 hours) is the stabilization period.
11. The next three rotations (24 hours) is the period where EP and T
data are taken.
Appendix 2--April 26, 2021: Response to DOE Questions for GEA Petition
for Waiver
GE Appliances, a Haier company (GEA) respectfully submits the
below answers to the DOE's questions contined [sic] in your email of
April 16, 2021. Additionally, GEA has modified the proposed test
procedure to address the comments and questions raised by DOE and to
account for only the sealed system energy use, which is consistent
with the provisions of 10 CFR 430.23 (ff) and 10 CFR 430 Subpart B,
Appendix A. The revised procedure is found in Exhibit A of this
document, which is submitted as a substitution for Exhibit A in the
initial submission.
1. Model Description
a. What is the cooling system employed (i.e., vapor compression,
thermoelectric, evaporative, or something else)?
GEA Response: Vapor compression.
b. Is there a way the rotation function can be disabled via
user-accessible settings/controls?
GEA Response: No.
c. Does the unit connect using peer-to-peer wireless technology
(e.g., WiFi Direct or Bluetooth) or does it require a LAN?
GEA Response: WiFi. The product connects to a router in the
user's home.
2. Test Method
a. Is the 70 [deg]F ambient condition most representative of
actual use? DOE's cooler test procedure is intended to simulate
typical room conditions (72 [deg]F (22.2 [deg]C)) with door
openings, by testing at 90 [deg]F (32.2 [deg]C) without door
openings. 430.23(ff)(7). Recommend a 72 [deg]F test condition for
consistency with the intent of DOE's test procedure.
GEA Response: Testing at a 72 [deg]F ambient is acceptable. A
revised test procedure making this change is included in Exhibit A.
b. Can the model maintain 55 [deg]F compartment temperature when
operated in a 72 [deg]F ambient condition?
GEA Response: No. There are temperature sensors in the two
compartments that maintain the user-selected set points. The product
allows the user to select between 60 [deg]F and 80 [deg]F for the
compartment temperatures. Temperatures below 60 [deg]F are not
conducive for growing plants. GEA's testing at a 72 [deg]F ambient
with the product temperature set to 60 [deg]F yielded compartment
temperatures between 59.15 and 61.41 [deg]F.
c. If the rotation is disabled, can thermocouples be placed
inside the refrigerated space while it operates, and would the
refrigerated compartments achieve temperatures lower than during
operation with the rotation active?
GEA Response: Disabling rotation is not an intended operation of
the unit and is not an available option to the user. Disabling
rotation of the unit is not capable of being implemented by a test
lab without physical modification of the unit. Temperatures in the
compartments will stabilize at the user-selected set point
regardless whether the chambers are rotating, but the unit will use
less energy than it would if the units are rotating as the front
chamber is not conditioned.
Can thermocouples be placed in the corners of the refrigerated
compartments and avoid any rotating components?
GEA Response: Thermocouples cannot be placed in the corners of
the temperature-controlled compartments and avoid rotating
components. The back corners are not in the controlled space. They
are used for wire and tubing routing and circuit board placements.
See the top view picture below. The grow tower comes very close to
the circular liners, similar to the operation of a revolving door.
There is not enough of a gap to allow TCs to be placed and not cause
an interference.
[Product Image Included]
d. Is the SmartHQ app the only method of controlling the unit?
Are there any digital controls on the unit itself?
GEA Response: There are limited controls on the unit (see
attached picture). The In-Home Grower will not function without
being connected to Wifi.
[Control Panel Image Included]
<bullet> The ``Rotate'' buttons on the User Interface (UI) allow
the user to rotate the tower 120 degrees either clockwise or
counterclockwise.
<bullet> ``Control Lock'' prevents the buttons on the UI from
being used.
<bullet> ``WiFi Connect'' is used for connecting the unit to the
user's wireless network.
Are control settings available (either on the unit or through
the SmartHQ app) to adjust operating temperature, lighting, and
humidity?
GEA Response: There are two modes the user can operate the unit:
[[Page 35773]]
Mode 1: The user can select a growing region (based on the types
of seeds they want to plant). In this mode, lighting, temperature,
and humidity settings are controlled by the product. The user cannot
modify any settings. They can only change the growing region.
Mode 2: The user can select ``Advanced Mode''. In this mode, the
user has full control over the all settings within limited ranges
set by the product (e.g., temperature can only be selected within
the 60 [deg]F to 80 [deg]F range). The user can choose to turn
lighting completely off. In both modes, the settings can be
specified for each of the three gardens (each garden can have its
own settings).
e. Does the lighting contribute to a significant thermal load
for the cooling system to counteract?
GEA Response: Yes. The main purpose of the cooling system is to
counteract the heat from the lighting.
Do any additional control settings needed to be specified for
testing (e.g., lighting, humidity controls)?
GEA Response. The proposed, revised test procedure is used to
determine the energy consumption of the cooling portion of the
product. There are two portions to the test: One with lighting and
cooling active, and the second with the lighting active and cooling
disabled. This allows for a direct measurement of the cooling
system's energy contribution.
f. Is the intent for the test be conducted using a single test
at the lowest control temperature setting? Exhibit A refers to
``each temperature control setting'' in the stabilization section.
GEA Response: The proposed test procedure has been modified to
state that the test is only at one control setting, the default
setting of the product. The original language was extraneous as the
test is run using only one control setting.
If conducting multiple temperature setting tests, how would the
interpolation to 55F occur with no compartment temperature
measurements?
GEA Response. The energy result from the test will be derived
from two tests at the default setting, as described previously.
Interpolation to 55 [deg]F is not possible with this product as it
does not achieve temperatures below 55 [deg]F at its coldest
setting.
Very truly yours,
Signed by: /s/Bill A. Brown, P.E.
[Date: April 26, 2021]
Technical Director
GE Appliances, a Haier company
Attachments: Exhibit A--Revised Alternate Test Procedure
Exhibit A (Revised 4/26/2021)
Alternate Test Procedure for In-Home Grower Miscellaneous Refrigeration
Product
Energy Consumption is Determined by the Formula: E = E1--E2.
<bullet> E is the test cycle energy of the vapor compression system
(kWh/day)
<bullet> E1 is the test cycle energy of the appliance with the
lights and vapor compression system active (kWh/day)
[cir] E1 = (1440 * EP1)/T1
[cir] 1440 = number of minutes in a day
[cir] EP1 is the energy expended during three full rotations of
the growing chambers (kWh) with the lights and vapor compression
system active.
[cir] T1 is the length of time for the EP1 measurement (minutes)
<bullet> E2 is the test cycle energy of the appliance with the
lights active and vapor compression system inactive (kWh/day)
[cir] E2 = (1440 * EP2)/T2
[cir] 1440 = number of minutes in a day
[cir] EP2 is the energy expended during three full rotations of
the growing chambers (kWh) with the lights active and the vapor
compression system inactive.
[cir] T2 is the length of time for the EP2 measurement (minutes)
Water in Tanks: Fill nutrient tanks with water (72.0 <plus-
minus> 5.0 [deg]F) prior to start of the stabilization period.
Stabilization: The test shall start after a minimum 8 hours
stabilization run for the default setting of the appliance. This
constitutes one rotation of the growing chambers.
Ambient Temperature: Measure and record the ambient temperature
at points located 3 feet (91.5 cm) above the floor and 10 inches
(25.4 cm) from the center of the two sides of the unit under test.
The ambient temperature shall be 72.0 <plus-minus> 1 [deg]F (22.2
<plus-minus> 0.6 [deg]C) during the stabilization period and the
test period.
Temperature Measurements: No compartment temperature
measurements are taken during the test.
Test Procedure: Run the test using the SmartHQ App
1. Download the SmartHQ app on a connected device
2. Select ``Connect Appliance'' and then ``In Home Grower''
3. Follow the procedures per the SmartHQ app to set up the
appliance.
4. Fill the nutrient tanks with 72.0 <plus-minus> 5.0 [deg]F (22.2.
<plus-minus> 2.8 [deg]C) water.
5. Select ``Let's Start Planting'' from the main screen.
6. Select Garden 1 from the ``Select Garden'' screen
a. Select the ``Default'' growing region.
b. Select ``Next'' at the bottom of the screen
7. At the screen titled ``What do you want to plant in Garden x?'',
select ``Choose Later''
8. Repeat this process for Garden 2 and Garden 3.
9. Select ``Start the Growing Cycle''
10. The first rotation (8 hours) is the stabilization period.
11. The next three rotations (24 hours) is the period where EP1 and
T1 data are taken.
12. Disconnect the compressor harness. Instructions to be provided
when product is tested by a third-party.
13. The first rotation (8 hours) is the stabilization period
14. The next three rotations (24 hours) is the period where EP2 and
T2 data are taken.
[FR Doc. 2021-14349 Filed 7-6-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
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