Appliance Labeling FAQs Frequently Asked Questions from Manufacturers The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) staff has prepared this list of questions and answers to help manufacturers comply with the Appliance Labeling Rule. The Rule requires manufacturers of certain home appliances to disclose specific energy consumption or efficiency information, derived from Department of Energy (DOE) test procedures, on “EnergyGuide” labels. Additional information about the FTC’s appliance labeling requirements can be found at the FTC’s Web site, at www.ftc.gov/energy. If you have questions about DOE test procedures and conservation standards, please contact that agency at 202-586-9127. What appliances are covered by the FTC’s Appliance Labeling Rule (16 CFR Part 305)? The Rule requires EnergyGuide labels for clothes washers, refrigerators, freezers, water heaters, dishwashers, window air conditioners, central air conditioners, furnaces, boilers, heat pumps and pool heaters. (The Rule also has labeling requirements for certain light bulbs, plumbing products, and ceiling fans.) What are the reporting requirements under the FTC’s Appliance Labeling Rule? There are two reporting requirements under the Rule (see 16 CFR § 305.8):
How do I report appliance data to the FTC? The Appliance Labeling Rule does not require a specific reporting format. The FTC staff, however, encourages manufacturers to use the following spreadsheet files, or templates, for reporting purposes. The completed reports should be emailed to: appliancedata@ftc.gov. Reporting templates:
Do I need to get my labels approved by the FTC before I put them on my appliances? No. The Appliance Labeling Rule does not require a manufacturer to obtain FTC “approval” before labeling and selling its products. Manufacturers, however, must meet the FTC reporting requirements before covered appliances are distributed. In addition, the manufacturer must comply with DOE testing and certification requirements (see http://www.eere.energy.gov/EE/buildings_appliances.html). How do I label my product if its energy consumption or efficiency falls outside of the applicable range in the Appliance Labeling Rule? When the estimated annual operating cost or energy efficiency rating of a covered product falls outside the current range for that product (which could result from the introduction of a new or changed model), the manufacturer must:
Appendix L of the Appliance Labeling Rule contains a sample label illustrating how to comply with this provision. Where can I get a copy of the EnergyGuide label? A sample of the EnergyGuide label can be found at http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/edcams/eande/popups/elabel_highres.jpg. Appendix L of the Rule also contains a series of sample EnergyGuide labels. The FTC does not provide copies or templates of the labels. Manufacturers are responsible for producing their own labels for their products in accordance to the specific requirements in the Appliance Labeling Rule. What national average energy cost figure do I use when calculating operating cost on the EnergyGuide label? When calculating operating costs on the EnergyGuide label, manufacturers should use the national average cost figures specified in the Rule at 16 CFR Part 305, Appendix K. |