DOE: Compliance 101 

The enforcement deadline for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) new Walk-In Coolers and Freezers (WICF) efficiency standards is quickly approaching, and beginning January 1, 2020, some equipment will be held to higher standards. Who is responsible for compliance? Do you need to replace existing systems? Which components are affected?

The new energy conservation standards for WICF refrigeration systems were issued on July 10, 2017. The new rules introduce efficiency standards commensurate with available technology. End-users will benefit from reduced energy bills and increased equipment efficiency.

Heatcraft has been paving the way, supporting our customer base to meet this regulatory deadline. Below, we have simplified the DOE’s new standards for WICFs to help you quickly assess your need for compliance and what role you play in the process.

Regulation Summary:

Up to 40% energy reductions in WICFs equipment manufactured on, or after, January 1, 2020 for:

• Medium-temperature condensing units
• Medium-temperature self-contained units

July 10, 2020 for:

• Low-temperature condensing units.
• Medium-temperature unit coolers.
• Low-temperature unit coolers.
• Low-temperature self-contained units.

The Basics

• Mandates energy efficiency requirements for walk-in coolers and freezers 3,000 sq. ft. and below
• Regulates air-cooled condensing units, unit coolers and package systems used with walk-in coolers and freezers and unit coolers used in supermarket walk-in cooler and freezers.
• Requires compliance for both new equipment installations and equipment replacement.
• Equipment manufactured prior to compliance date can be sold, installed and operated after compliance date. Compliance is based on date of manufacture of the individual equipment.
• All parties are responsible for compliance.
• Equipment unit size may have increased. Equipment functionality may have changed. If replacing existing equipment, confirm mounting/clearance requirements and any operational adjustments needed.