Product Certification and Labeling
The WaterSense label makes it easy for consumers to recognize products
and programs that save water without sacrificing performance or
quality. Independent, third-party licensed certifying bodies will
certify that products meet EPA criteria for water efficiency and
performance by following testing and certification protocols specific
to each product category. Products that are certified to meet EPA
specifications are allowed to bear the WaterSense label. The WaterSense
label will help consumers identify water-efficient products
in the marketplace, while ensuring product performance and encouraging
innovation in manufacturing.
There are several key steps involved with using the WaterSense
label.
The first step toward obtaining the WaterSense label is for the
product manufacturer to enter into a WaterSense partnership agreement
with EPA. Manufacturers can sign a WaterSense partnership agreement
with EPA once a draft specification has been released for a product
they produce/carry or manufacture under a private label. Under the
partnership agreement, manufacturers will have 12 months to obtain
certification of a product that conforms to a relevant WaterSense
specification.
The second step is to have the product certified for conformance
to the WaterSense specification by a licensed certifying body either
accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) in
accordance with the WaterSense product certification system, or otherwise approved for that purpose by EPA. Manufacturers
apply directly to the licensed certifying body for certification.
WaterSense has posted a listing of licensed
certifying bodies currently accredited to certify plumbing products
that meet WaterSense criteria. The list is also obtainable from
the WaterSense Helpline at (866) WTR-SENS
(987-7367).
To learn more about the certification and labeling process, please
review the Product Certification
and Labeling Frequently Asked Questions. You can also contact
the WaterSense Helpline at (866) WTR-SENS
(987-7367) or e-mail us for additional
information.
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