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The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is considering revising its definition of showerhead in its test procedure regulations consistent with the most recent standard developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in 2018.

Statement of Need:

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) is considering revising its definition of showerheads in its test procedure consistent with the most recent standard developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in 2018. The revision would harmonize DOE's definition of "showerhead" with that of ASME, consistent with the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act of 1995 and OMB Circular A-119.  DOE is also considering definitions of the terms "body spray" and "safety showerhead" to make clear what products are excluded from the definition of showerhead.  DOE is also considering updates to the test procedure to clarify the test method that would be used as a result of such a revision. This action may also result in greater consumers' choice allowing consumers to purchase showerheads that meet their needs.

Anticipated Costs and Benefits:

This rule would not establish any energy conservation standards for showerheads. Because this rule only seeks to revise the definition of showerhead in its test procedure to be consistent with the most recent standard developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) in 2018, DOE has determined that the definitional change proposed in this rule, and the minor change to the test method proposed as a result of the definitional change, are not expected to change the test burden, and this rule is not expected to have a material impact on costs.