Notice2021-14836
Energy Conservation Program: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver to Vinotemp International Corp. From the Department of Energy Walk-In Coolers and Walk-In Freezers Test Procedure
Primary source
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Published
July 13, 2021
Effective
July 13, 2021
Issuing agencies
Energy Department
Abstract
The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') gives notification of a Decision and Order (Case Number 2020-005) that grants to Vinotemp International Corp. (``Vinotemp'') a waiver from specified portions of the DOE test procedure for determining the energy efficiency of specified walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. Due to the design of the specific basic models of walk-in refrigeration systems subject to this Decision and Order, the current test procedure evaluates such models in a manner that is unrepresentative of their energy use. Under the Decision and Order, Vinotemp is required to test and rate the specified basic models of its walk-in cooler refrigeration systems in accordance with the alternate test procedure set forth in the Decision and Order.
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<title>Federal Register, Volume 86 Issue 131 (Tuesday, July 13, 2021)</title>
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[Federal Register Volume 86, Number 131 (Tuesday, July 13, 2021)]
[Notices]
[Pages 36732-36739]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [<a href="http://www.gpo.gov">www.gpo.gov</a>]
[FR Doc No: 2021-14836]
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DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY
[Case Number 2020-005; EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022]
Energy Conservation Program: Decision and Order Granting a Waiver
to Vinotemp International Corp. From the Department of Energy Walk-In
Coolers and Walk-In Freezers Test Procedure
AGENCY: Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Department of
Energy.
ACTION: Notification of decision and order.
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SUMMARY: The U.S. Department of Energy (``DOE'') gives notification of
a Decision and Order (Case Number 2020-005) that grants to Vinotemp
International Corp. (``Vinotemp'') a waiver from specified portions of
the DOE test procedure for determining the energy efficiency of
specified walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. Due to the design of
the specific basic models of walk-in refrigeration systems subject to
this Decision and Order, the current test procedure evaluates such
models in a manner that is unrepresentative of their energy use. Under
the Decision and Order, Vinotemp is required to test and rate the
specified basic models of its walk-in cooler refrigeration systems in
accordance with the alternate test procedure set forth in the Decision
and Order.
DATES: The Decision and Order is effective on July 13, 2021. The
Decision and Order will terminate upon the compliance date of any
future amendment to the test procedure for walk-in coolers and walk-in
freezers located at title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations
(``CFR''), part 431, subpart R, appendix C that addresses the issues
presented in this waiver. At such time, Vinotemp must use the relevant
test procedure for this equipment for any testing to demonstrate
compliance with the applicable standards, and any other representations
of energy use.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Ms. Lucy deButts, U.S. Department of
Energy, Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, Building
Technologies Office, EE-5B, 1000 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC
20585-0121. Email: <a href="/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#1b5a48444c7a726d7e6944497e6a6e7e686f685b7e7e357f747e357c746d"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="ebaab8b4bc8a829d8e99b4b98e9a9e8e989f98ab8e8ec58f848ec58c849d">[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#5d10343e353c383173163439321d352c73393238733a322b"><span class="__cf_email__" data-cfemail="bdf0d4ded5dcd8d193f6d4d9d2fdd5cc93d9d2d893dad2cb">[email protected]</span></a>.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: In accordance with Sec. 431.401(f)(2) of
title 10 of the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') (10 CFR
431.401(f)(2)), DOE gives notification of the issuance of its Decision
and Order as set forth below. The Decision and Order grants Vinotemp a
waiver from the applicable test procedure at 10 CFR part 431, subpart
R, appendix C for specified basic models of walk-in cooler
refrigeration systems, and provides that Vinotemp must test and rate
such walk-in cooler refrigeration systems using the alternate test
procedure specified in the Decision and Order. Vinotemp's
representations concerning the energy efficiency of the specified basic
models must be based on testing according to the provisions and
restrictions in the alternate test procedure set forth in the Decision
and Order, and the representations must fairly disclose the test
results. Distributors, retailers, and private labelers are held to the
same requirements when making representations regarding the energy
efficiency of these products. (42 U.S.C. 6314(d))
Manufacturers not currently distributing equipment in commerce in
the United States that employ a technology or characteristic that
results in the same need for a waiver from the applicable test
procedure must petition for and be granted a waiver prior to the
distribution in commerce of that equipment in the United States.
Manufacturers may also submit a request for interim waiver pursuant to
the requirements of 10 CFR 431.401. (10 CFR 431.401(j))
Case # 2020-005
Decision and Order
I. Background and Authority
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (``EPCA''),\1\
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 C \2\ of
EPCA established the Energy Conservation Program for Certain Industrial
Equipment, which sets forth a variety of provisions designed to improve
the energy efficiency for certain types of industrial equipment. This
equipment includes walk-in coolers and walk-in freezers (collectively,
``walk-ins''), the focus of this document. (42 U.S.C. 6311(1)(G))
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\1\ 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).
\2\ For editorial reasons, upon codification in the U.S. Code,
Part C was redesignated as Part A-1.
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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. 6311), test
procedures (42 U.S.C. 6314), labeling provisions (42 U.S.C. 6315),
energy conservation standards (42 U.S.C. 6313), and the authority to
require information and reports from manufacturers (42 U.S.C. 6316; 42
U.S.C. 6299).
The Federal testing requirements consist of test procedures that
manufacturers of covered equipment must use as the basis for: (1)
Certifying to DOE that their equipment complies with the applicable
energy conservation standards adopted pursuant to EPCA (42 U.S.C.
6316(a); 42 U.S.C. 6295(s)), and (2) making representations about the
efficiency of that equipment (42 U.S.C. 6314(d)). Similarly, DOE must
use these test procedures to determine whether the equipment complies
with relevant standards promulgated under EPCA. (42 U.S.C. 6316(a); 42
U.S.C. 6295(s))
Under 42 U.S.C. 6314, EPCA sets forth the criteria and procedures
DOE is required to follow when prescribing or amending test procedures
for covered walk-ins. EPCA requires that any test procedures prescribed
or amended under this section must be reasonably designed to produce
test results which reflect energy efficiency, energy use or estimated
annual operating cost of walk-ins during a representative average use
cycle and requires that test procedures not be unduly burdensome to
conduct. (42 U.S.C.6314(a)(2)) The test procedure for walk-ins is set
forth in the Code of Federal Regulations (``CFR'') at 10 CFR part 431,
subpart R, appendix C, Uniform Test Method for the Measurement of Net
Capacity and AWEF of Walk-in Cooler and Walk-in Freezer Refrigeration
Systems (``Appendix C'').
Any interested person may submit a petition for waiver from DOE's
test procedure requirements. 10 CFR 431.401(a)(1). 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
[[Page 36733]]
characteristic that prevents testing of the basic model according to
the prescribed test procedures, or that the prescribed test procedures
evaluate the basic model in a manner so unrepresentative of its true
energy consumption characteristics as to provide materially inaccurate
comparative data. 10 CFR 431.401(f)(2). DOE may grant the waiver
subject to conditions, including adherence to alternate test
procedures. Id.
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 431.401(l). As soon thereafter as practicable,
DOE will publish in the Federal Register a final rule to that effect.
Id. 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 431.401(h)(3).
II. Vinotemp's Petition for Waiver: Assertions and Determinations
DOE received correspondence from Vinotemp, docketed on June 29,
2020, seeking an interim waiver from the DOE test procedure applicable
to walk-ins set forth in Appendix C for certain basic models Vinotemp
characterized as ``wine cellar'' systems. (Vinotemp, No. 1 \3\) By
letter docketed on December 10, 2020, Vinotemp submitted a petition for
waiver for certain basic models of walk-in cooler refrigeration systems
to supplement its original interim waiver request (Vinotemp, No. 3).\4\
The December 10, 2020 submission also explicitly stated that none of
the basic models could operate below 45 [deg]F and provided external
static pressure (``ESP'') values for the subject basic models.\5\
Vinotemp included additional basic models and clarified the specified
external static pressure values as maximum values (rather than tested
values) for the specified basic models in an updated petition for
interim waiver, received on March 11, 2021 (Vinotemp, No. 10). Vinotemp
stated that the specified basic models of walk-in cooler refrigeration
systems operate at a temperature range of 45 [deg]F to 65 [deg]F and 50
to 70 percent relative humidity (``RH''), rather than the 35 [deg]F
with less than 50 percent RH test conditions prescribed by the test
procedure for walk-in cooler applications. Vinotemp stated that the
units operate at temperature and relative humidity ranges optimized for
long-term storage of wine, reflecting conditions in natural caves, and
that they are usually located in air-conditioned spaces. Vinotemp
asserted that the specified units cannot operate at 35 [deg]F.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\3\ A notation in the form ``Vinotemp, No. 1'' identifies a
written submission: (1) Made by Vinotemp; and (2) recorded in
document number 1 that is filed in the docket of this petition for
waiver (Docket No. EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022) and available at
<a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>.
\4\ The waiver process under 10 CFR 431.401 requires that a
petition for interim waiver must reference the related petition for
waiver. (10 CFR 431.401(b)(2))
\5\ The December 10, 2020 update was consistent with a letter
from the Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute
(``AHRI'') recommending that a 45 [deg]F minimum temperature be used
for testing wine cellar cooling systems, and that testing be
conducted at an external static pressure (``ESP'') value equal to 50
percent of the maximum ESP to be specified by manufacturers for each
basic model. The AHRI letter is available at Docket No. EERE-2020-
BT-WAV-0022-0002.
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On May 4, 2021, DOE published a notification announcing its receipt
of the petition for waiver and granted Vinotemp an interim waiver. 86
FR 23692 (``Notification of Petition for Waiver''). In the Notification
of Petition for Waiver, DOE noted that the ``Self-contained'' and
``Self-packaged'' basic models of walk-in refrigeration systems
identified by Vinotemp in its petition are self-contained, single-
package systems. Although not specifically addressed in Vinotemp's
request for waiver, DOE notes that operating a wine cellar at the 35
[deg]F condition would adversely mechanically alter the intended
performance of the system, which would include icing of the evaporator
coil that could potentially damage the compressor, and would not result
in an accurate representation of the performance of the cooling unit.
86 FR 23692, 23695. Additionally, although not explicitly identified by
Vinotemp, DOE recognized that because of their single-package design,
these basic models have insufficient space within the units and
insufficient lengths of liquid line and evaporator outlet line for the
dual mass flow meters (i.e., two independent meters) and the dual
temperature and pressure measurements (i.e., two independent sets of
measuring equipment) required by the test procedure's refrigerant
enthalpy method. Id. AHRI 1250-2009 (``Standard for Performance Rating
of Walk-in Coolers and Freezers'' \6\)--the industry testing standard
on which DOE's test procedure is based--does not include specific
provisions for testing single-package systems, and testing these basic
models using the refrigerant enthalpy method as required by Appendix C
would require extensive additional piping to route the pipes out of the
system--where the components could be installed--and then back in. This
additional piping would impact unit performance, would likely be
inconsistent between test labs, and would result in unrepresentative
test values for the unit under test. AHRI has published a revised
version of the test standard that provides provisions for single-
package systems without requiring extensive additional piping (AHRI
1250-2020, 2020 Standard for Performance Rating of Walk-in Coolers and
Freezers).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\6\ This also includes the related Errata sheet published by
AHRI, dated December 2015.
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In the Notification of Petition for Waiver, DOE established an
alternate test procedure that was a modified version of the alternate
test procedure suggested by Vinotemp. 86 FR 23692, 23698-23700. The
alternate test procedure prescribed in the Notification of Petition for
Waiver is the same as the alternate test procedure established in other
waivers and interim waivers granted by DOE for similarly situated
equipment.\7\ Specifically, the required alternate test procedure
establishes unit cooler air inlet conditions of 55 [deg]F and 55
percent RH, specifies primary and secondary capacity measurement
methods for single-package systems, requires testing at 50 percent of
maximum external static pressure for ducted units, and defines wine
cellar box load and evaporator cycle periods for calculation of Annual
Walk-in Energy Factor (``AWEF'') for the specified basic models of
walk-in cooler refrigeration systems. Id. DOE solicited comments from
interested parties on all aspects of the petition and the modified
alternate test procedure. Id.
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\7\ See Notice of Decision and Order granting a waiver to
Vinotheque (Case No. 2019-011; 86 FR 26504 (May 14, 2021); Notice of
Decision and Order granting a waiver to CellarPro (Case No. 2019-
009; 86 FR 26496 (May 14, 2021); and Notice of Decision and Order
granting a waiver to Air Innovations (Case No. 2019-010; 86 FR 23702
(May 4, 2021).
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DOE received one comment, which was submitted by the Pacific Gas
and Electric Company, San Diego Gas and Electric, and Southern
California Edison (collectively, ``the CA IOUs'').\8\ The CA IOUs
stated their agreement with DOE that since the subject basic models are
unable to operate below 45 [deg]F, there is limited opportunity for
market confusion from labeling the products tested according to the
test procedure waivers as walk-in coolers. (CA IOUs, No. 12)
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\8\ Comment available in Docket No. EERE-2020-BT-WAV-0022 at
<a href="http://www.regulations.gov">www.regulations.gov</a>.
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For the reasons explained here and in the Notification of Petition
for Waiver, absent a waiver the basic models identified by Vinotemp in
its petition
[[Page 36734]]
cannot be tested and rated for energy consumption on a basis
representative of their true energy consumption characteristics. As
noted previously, the alternate test procedure prescribed in the
Interim Waiver modified Vinotemp's suggested alternate test procedure
by including ESP provisions for certain systems that can be installed
with (1) ducted evaporator air, (2) with or without ducted evaporator
air, (3) ducted condenser air, or (4) with or without ducted condenser
air. For such systems, testing is conducted at 50 percent of the
maximum ESP specified by the manufacturer, subject to a tolerance of -
0.00/+0.05 inches of water column (``in. wc.''). (Vinotemp, No. 2)
Selection of a representative ESP equal to half the maximum ESP is
based on the expectation that most installations will require less than
the maximum allowable duct length. In the absence of field data, DOE
expects that a range of duct lengths from the minimal length to the
maximum allowable length would be used; thus, half of the maximum ESP
would be representative of most installations.
If the basic model provides multiple condenser or unit cooler fan
speed settings, the speed setting used is as instructed in the unit's
installation instructions. However, if the installation instructions do
not specify a fan speed setting for ducted installation, systems that
can be installed with ducts would be tested with the highest available
fan speed. The ESP is set for testing either by symmetrically
restricting the outlet duct or, if using the indoor air enthalpy
method, by adjusting the airflow measurement apparatus blower.
The alternate test procedure also specifies the requirements for
measuring ESP consistent with the provisions provided in AHRI 1250-2020
when using the indoor air enthalpy method with unit coolers.
Additionally, the alternate test procedure requires that specified
basic models that are split systems must be tested as matched pairs.
According to Vinotemp's petition, the walk-in refrigeration system
basic models that are split-systems are sold as full systems (i.e.,
matched pairs) rather than as individual unit cooler and condensing
unit components. This Order provides no direction regarding refrigerant
line connection operating conditions, and as such is inapplicable to
testing the basic models as individual components. Consequently, this
Order addresses only matched-pair testing of the specified basic models
that are split-systems.
Contrary to Vinotemp's request, the Order does not modify the
condenser air entering dry bulb temperature for outdoor condensers. 86
FR 23692, 23697. Vinotemp had suggested a 90 [deg]F condenser air
entering dry bulb temperature in its waiver request; however, the
company did not provide technical justification for this request, and
DOE has determined that outdoor wine cellar refrigeration units must be
tested at 95 [deg]F, 59 [deg]F, and 35 [deg]F, consistent with the
current DOE test procedure.
For the reasons explained in the Notification of Petition for
Waiver, the Order does not include a 0.55 correction factor in the
alternate test procedure as suggested by Vinotemp. 86 FR 23692, 23697-
23698. The company had observed that the test procedure in appendix A
to subpart B of 10 CFR part 430 (``Appendix A''), which applies to
miscellaneous refrigeration products, includes such a factor to adjust
for average use, and sought to include such a factor as part of its
petition. As explained in the Notice of Petition for Waiver, the
closed-door conditions on which the miscellaneous refrigeration
correction factor is based are not present in the test procedure for
walk-in cooler refrigeration systems, and the referenced AHRI 1250-2009
provisions assume a load factor of 50 percent, consistent with Appendix
C. Id. As a result, applying the 0.55 correction factor as suggested by
Vinotemp is not appropriate for the specified basic models.
DOE is requiring that Vinotemp test and rate specified wine cellar
walk-in refrigeration system basic models according to the alternate
test procedure specified in this Decision and Order. This alternate
procedure is a modified version of the one suggested by Vinotemp. The
alternate test procedure required under this Order is the same
alternate test procedure prescribed in the Interim Waiver Order.
This Decision and Order applies only to the basic models listed and
does not extend to any other basic models. DOE evaluates and grants
waivers for only those basic models specifically set out in the
petition, not future models that may be manufactured by the petitioner.
Vinotemp may request that DOE extend the scope of this waiver to
include additional basic models that employ the same technology as
those listed in this waiver. 10 CFR 431.401(g). Vinotemp may also
submit another petition for waiver from the test procedure for
additional basic models that employ a different technology and meet the
criteria for test procedure waivers. 10 CFR 431.401(a)(1).
DOE notes that it may modify or rescind the waiver at any time upon
DOE's determination that the factual basis underlying the petition for
waiver is incorrect, or upon a determination that the results from the
alternate test procedure are unrepresentative of the basic models' true
energy consumption characteristics. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(1). Likewise,
Vinotemp may request that DOE rescind or modify the waiver if the
company discovers an error in the information provided to DOE as part
of its petition, determines that the waiver is no longer needed, or for
other appropriate reasons. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2).
As set forth previously, the test procedure specified in this
Decision and Order is not the same as the test procedure suggested by
Vinotemp. If Vinotemp believes that the alternate test method it
suggested provides representative results and is less burdensome than
the test method required by this Decision and Order, Vinotemp may
submit a request for modification under 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2) that
addresses the concerns that DOE has specified with that procedure.
Vinotemp may also submit another less burdensome alternative test
procedure not expressly considered in this notification under the same
provision.
III. Order
After careful consideration of all the material that was submitted
by Vinotemp, the various public-facing materials (e.g., marketing
materials, product specification sheets, and installation manuals) for
the units identified in the petition, information provided by Vinotemp
and other wine cellar walk-in refrigeration system manufacturers in
meetings with DOE, and the comment received, in this matter, it is
ordered that:
(1) Vinotemp must, as of the date of publication of this Order in
the Federal Register, test and rate the following Wine Mate-branded
wine cellar walk-in cooler refrigeration system basic models with the
alternate test procedure as set forth in paragraph (2):
[[Page 36735]]
Vinotemp Basic Models
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brand name Configuration Basic model No.
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Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-2500HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-4500HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-6500HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-8500HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-4510HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-6510HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-8510HZD.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-4500DS.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-6500DS.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-8500DS.
Wine Mate..................... Single-Packaged.. WM-12030DS.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSA.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSD.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSH.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSL.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSI.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSO.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSR.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSV.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-2500SSW.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSA.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSD.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSH.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSL.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSI.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSO.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSR.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSS.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSV.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-4500SSW.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSA.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSD.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSH.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSL.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSR.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-6500SSV.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-8500SSA.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-8500SSD.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-8500SSH.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-8500SSL.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-8500SSS.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-12000SSA.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-12000SSD.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-12000SSH.
Wine Mate..................... Matched.......... WM-12000SSS.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
(2) The alternate test procedure for the Vinotemp basic models
listed in paragraph (1) of this Order is the test procedure for Walk-in
Cooler Refrigeration Systems prescribed by DOE at 10 CFR part 431,
subpart R, appendix C, (``Appendix C to Subpart R'') with the
modifications provided below. All other requirements of Appendix C and
DOE's other relevant regulations remain applicable.
In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.1.1 (which specifies
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009 (incorporated by reference; see Sec.
431.303)) to read:
3.1.1. In Table 1, Instrumentation Accuracy, refrigerant
temperature measurements shall have an accuracy of <plus-minus>0.5
[deg]F for unit cooler in/out. Measurements used to determine
temperature or water vapor content of the air (i.e., wet bulb or dew
point) shall be accurate to within <plus-minus>0.25 [deg]F; all
other temperature measurements shall be accurate to within <plus-
minus>1.0 [deg]F.
In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.1.4 (which specifies
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009) and add modifications of AHRI 1250-
2009 Tables 3 and 4 to read:
3.1.4. In Tables 3 and 4 of AHRI 1250-2009, Section 5, the
Condenser Air Entering Wet-Bulb Temperature requirement applies only
to single-packaged dedicated systems. Tables 3 and 4 shall be
modified to read:
[[Page 36736]]
Table 3--Fixed Capacity Matched Refrigerator System and Single-Packaged Dedicated System, Condensing Unit Located Indoor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit cooler
Unit cooler air entering Condenser air Maximum
Test description air entering relative entering dry- condenser air Compressor status Test objective
dry-bulb, humidity, % 1 bulb, [deg]F entering wet-
[deg]F bulb, [deg]F
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evaporator Fan Power............... 55 55 .............. .............. ........................... Measure fan input
wattage \2\.
Refrigeration Capacity............. 55 55 90 \3\ 65 Compressor On.............. Determine Net
Refrigeration
Capacity of Unit
Cooler, input power,
and EER at Rating
Condition.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The test condition tolerance (maximum permissible variation of the average value of the measurement from the specified test condition) for relative
humidity is 3%.
\2\ Measure fan input wattage either by measuring total system power when the compressor and condenser are turned off or by separately submetering the
evaporator fan.
\3\ Maximum allowable value for Single-Packaged Systems that do not use evaporative Dedicated Condensing Units, where all or part of the equipment is
located in the outdoor room.
Table 4--Fixed Capacity Matched Refrigerator System and Single-Packaged Dedicated System, Condensing Unit Located Outdoor
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unit cooler
Unit cooler air entering Condenser air Maximum
Test description air entering relative entering dry- condenser air Compressor status Test objective
dry-bulb, humidity, % bulb, [deg]F entering wet-
[deg]F \1\ bulb, [deg]F
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Evaporator Fan Power............... 55 55 .............. .............. ........................... Measure fan input
wattage \2\.
Refrigeration Capacity A........... 55 55 95 \3\ 68 Compressor On.............. Determine Net
Refrigeration
Capacity of Unit
Cooler, input power,
and EER at Rating
Condition.
Refrigeration Capacity B........... 55 55 59 \3\ 46 Compressor On.............. Determine Net
Refrigeration
Capacity of Unit
Cooler and system
input power at
moderate condition.
Refrigeration Capacity C........... 55 55 35 \3\ 29 Compressor On.............. Determine Net
Refrigeration
Capacity of Unit
Cooler and system
input power at cold
condition.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
\1\ The test condition tolerance (maximum permissible variation of the average value of the measurement from the specified test condition) for relative
humidity is 3%.
\2\ Measure fan input wattage either by measuring total system power when the compressor and condenser are turned off or by separately submetering the
evaporator fan.
\3\ Maximum allowable value for Single-Packaged Dedicated Systems that do not use evaporative Dedicated Condensing Units, where all or part of the
equipment is located in the outdoor room.
In Appendix C to Subpart R, following section 3.2.5 (instructions
regarding modifications to AHRI 1250-2009), add sections 3.2.6 and
3.2.7 to read:
3.2.6 The purpose in section C1 of appendix C is modified by
extending it to include Single-Packaged Dedicated Systems.
3.2.7 For general test conditions and data recording (appendix
C, section C7), the test acceptance criteria in Table 2 and the data
to be recorded in Table C2 apply to the Dual Instrumentation and
Calibrated Box methods of test.
In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.3 to read:
3.3. Matched systems, single-packaged dedicated systems, and
unit coolers tested alone: Test any split system wine cellar walk-in
refrigeration system as a matched pair. Any condensing unit or unit
cooler component must be matched with a corresponding counterpart
for testing. Use the test method in AHRI 1250-2009 (incorporated by
reference; see Sec. 431.303), appendix C as the method of test for
matched refrigeration systems, single-packaged dedicated systems, or
unit coolers tested alone, with the following modifications:
* * * * *
In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise sections 3.3.3 through 3.3.3.2
to read:
3.3.3 Evaporator fan power.
3.3.3.1 The unit cooler fan power consumption shall be measured
in accordance with the requirements in Section C3.5 of AHRI 1250-
2009. This measurement shall be made with the fan operating at full
speed, either measuring unit cooler or total system power input upon
the completion of the steady state test when the compressors and
condenser fan of the walk-in system is turned off, or by submetered
measurement of the evaporator fan power during the steady state
test.
[[Page 36737]]
Section C3.5 of AHRI 1250-2009 is revised to read:
Unit Cooler Fan Power Measurement. The following shall be
measured and recorded during a fan power test.
EFcomp,on Total electrical power input to fan motor(s) of Unit
Cooler, W
FS Fan speed (s), rpm
N Number of motors
P<INF>b</INF> Barometric pressure, in. Hg
T<INF>db</INF> Dry-bulb temperature of air at inlet, [deg]F
T<INF>wb</INF> Wet-bulb temperature of air at inlet, [deg]F
V Voltage of each phase, V
For a given motor winding configuration, the total power input
shall be measured at the highest nameplated voltage. For three-phase
power, voltage imbalance shall be no more than 2%.
3.3.3.2 Evaporator fan power for the off-cycle is equal to the
on-cycle evaporator fan power with a run time of ten percent of the
off-cycle time.
EFcomp,off = 0.1 x EFcomp,on
In Appendix C to Subpart R, following section 3.3.7.2, add new
sections 3.3.8, 3.3.9, and 3.3.10 to read:
3.3.8. Measure power and capacity of single-packaged dedicated
systems as described in sections C4.1.2 and C9 of AHRI 1250-2020.
The third and fourth sentences of Section C9.1.1.1 of AHRI 1250-2020
(``Entering air is to be sufficiently dry as to not produce frost on
the Unit Cooler coil. Therefore, only sensible capacity measured by
dry bulb change shall be used to calculate capacity.'') shall not
apply.
3.3.9. For systems with ducted evaporator air, or that can be
installed with or without ducted evaporator air: Connect ductwork on
both the inlet and outlet connections and determine external static
pressure as described in ASHRAE 37-2009, sections 6.4 and 6.5. Use
pressure measurement instrumentation as described in ASHRAE 37-2009
section 5.3.2. Test at the fan speed specified in manufacturer
installation instructions--if there is more than one fan speed
setting and the installation instructions do not specify which speed
to use, test at the highest speed. Conduct tests with the external
static pressure equal to 50 percent of the maximum external static
pressure allowed by the manufacturer for system installation within
a tolerance of -0.00/+0.05 in. wc. If testing with the indoor air
enthalpy method, adjust the airflow measurement apparatus fan to set
the external static pressure--otherwise, set the external static
pressure by symmetrically restricting the outlet of the test duct.
In case of conflict, these requirements for setting evaporator
airflow take precedence over airflow values specified in
manufacturer installation instructions or product literature.
3.3.10. For systems with ducted condenser air, or that can be
installed with or without ducted condenser air: Connect ductwork on
both the inlet and outlet connections and determine external static
pressure as described in ASHRAE 37-2009, sections 6.4 and 6.5. Use
pressure measurement instrumentation as described in ASHRAE 37-2009
section 5.3.2. Test at the fan speed specified in manufacturer
installation instructions--if there is more than one fan speed
setting and the installation instructions do not specify which speed
to use, test at the highest speed. Conduct tests with the external
static pressure equal to 50 percent of the maximum external static
pressure allowed by the manufacturer for system installation within
a tolerance of -0.00/+0.05 in. wc. If testing with the outdoor
enthalpy method, adjust the airflow measurement apparatus fan to set
the external static pressure--otherwise, set the external static
pressure by symmetrically restricting the outlet of the test duct.
In case of conflict, these requirements for setting condenser
airflow take precedence over airflow values specified in
manufacturer installation instructions or product literature. If
testing using the outdoor air enthalpy method, the requirements of
section 8.6 of ASHRAE 37-2009 are not applicable.
In Appendix C to Subpart R, revise section 3.3.6 (which specifies
modifications to AHRI 1250-2009) to read:
3.3.6. AWEF is calculated on the basis that walk-in box load is
equal to half of the system net capacity, without variation
according to high and low load periods and without variation with
outdoor air temperature for outdoor refrigeration systems, and the
test must be done as a matched or single-package refrigeration
system, as follows:
BILLING CODE 6450-01-P
[[Page 36738]]
[GRAPHIC] [TIFF OMITTED] TN13JY21.005
Where:
BL is the non-equipment-related box load
LF is the load factor
And other symbols are as defined in AHRI 1250-2009.
(3) Representations. Vinotemp may not make representations about
the efficiency of a basic model listed in paragraph (1) of this Order
for compliance, marketing, or other purposes unless the basic model has
been tested in accordance with the provisions set forth above and such
representations fairly disclose the results of such testing.
(4) This waiver shall remain in effect according to the provisions
of 10 CFR 431.401.
(5) This Order is issued on the condition that the statements,
representations, and information provided by Vinotemp are valid. If
Vinotemp makes any modifications to the controls or configurations of a
basic model subject to this Order, such modifications will render the
waiver invalid with respect to that basic model, and Vinotemp will
either be required to use the current Federal test method or submit a
new application for a test procedure waiver. DOE may rescind or modify
this waiver at any time if it determines the factual basis underlying
the petition for waiver is incorrect, or the results from the alternate
test procedure are unrepresentative of a basic model's true energy
consumption characteristics. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(1). Likewise, Vinotemp
may request that DOE rescind or modify the waiver if Vinotemp discovers
an error in the information provided to DOE as part of its petition,
determines that the waiver is no longer needed, or for other
appropriate reasons. 10 CFR 431.401(k)(2).
(6) Vinotemp remains obligated to fulfill any applicable
requirements set forth at 10 CFR part 429.
DOE makes decisions on waivers and interim waivers for only those
basic models specifically set out in the petition, not future models
that may be manufactured by the petitioner. Vinotemp may submit a new
or amended petition for waiver and request for grant of interim waiver,
as appropriate, for additional basic models of walk-in cooler
refrigeration systems. Alternatively, if appropriate, Vinotemp may
request that DOE extend the scope of a waiver or an interim waiver to
include additional basic models employing the same technology as the
basic model(s) set forth in the original petition consistent with 10
CFR 431.401(g).
Signing Authority
This document of the Department of Energy was signed on July 7,
2021, by Kelly Speakes-Backman, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary
and Acting Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency 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
[[Page 36739]]
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 July 8, 2021.
Treena V. Garrett,
Federal Register Liaison Officer, U.S. Department of Energy.
[FR Doc. 2021-14836 Filed 7-12-21; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 6450-01-C
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