Contractors, efficiency programs, and others
are welcome to use these statements about
the 2015 NAECA water heater standards.
Contact: George Chapman
Consortium for Energy Efficiency
gchapman@cee1.org (617) 337-9262
Topic
What has Changed?
Summary Quote
Most water heaters have changed slightly to improve insulation and save
energy, but certain sizes now incorporate more advanced high efficiency
technology.
Product Line
Changes
Water heater manufacturers are responding to new federal standards by
developing new technologies, updating their product lines and, in some
cases, discontinuing certain models.
Benefits
The new federal standards ensure water heaters use less energy and save
customers money on monthly utility bills.
Models Affected
The new standards apply to all residential storage and tankless water
heaters that use gas, oil, or electricity as a heat source, but different styles
are more affected than others.
Commercial Models
Commercial units, including light-duty commercial models occasionally
installed in homes, are not affected by the higher standards.
Product Changes:
Moving Units
Contractors should know that more insulation will mean slightly larger,
heavier units that are harder to move and might not fit into existing tight
spaces.
Product Changes:
Size
In most homes, water heaters that are one to three inches wider will mean a
tighter squeeze through doors. Where utility closets lack extra space for
wider or taller units, installers may need to select a different model for
replacement, such as choosing a tall- or short-style unit or selecting a
smaller tank size.
Product Changes:
Larger Gas Models
Some gas models with storage tanks larger than 55 gallons will use
condensing technology that requires condensate drainage and special
venting.
Product Changes:
Larger Storage
Models
Water heaters with storage tanks larger than 55 gallons will use electric heat
pumps or gas condensing technology to heat water more efficiently.
Space for Heat
Pumps
Heat pumps make hot water by concentrating heat from the surrounding air
in the hot water tank. This typically requires an open-air connection to a
700–1,000 cubic foot space, such as a 10’ by 10’ room with 10’ ceilings.
Larger Electric
Models
Electric models that store more than 55 gallons include heat pump
technology that makes each unit five to seven feet tall.
Installation
These standards apply to manufacturers beginning April 16, 2015, but
distributors and contractors are can still sell and install all existing stock.
These new products will begin hitting shelves soon after the standards take
effect.
Customer Costs
Most customers will see a modest increase in price that is more than offset
by energy savings over the life of the unit. Costs for customers installing
larger storage units will depend on where their water heater is located, and
whether the location is suitable for a new high efficiency model.
Tankless Models
Nearly all tankless models already meet the higher standards so no changes
are expected.
Energy Factor
Energy Factor is a measurement of how much energy is used to make hot
water. The rating considers how each model heats and stores hot water,
with higher numbers indicating better efficiency and less energy waste.
New Ratings
During 2015, EF ratings will be replaced by a new Uniform Energy Factor
(UEF) that will better reflect water heater efficiency. Higher ratings will still
indicate better energy efficiency.
Installers: Impacts
Contractors should be ready to explain these changes to their customers,
and how a new high efficiency model can result in years of savings on
energy bills.
Installers: Benefits
New technology such as heat pumps and condensing models will result in
fewer DIY installations, and will lead to more opportunities for contractors
who know how to properly install these units.
Installers: Benefits
The increase in high efficiency models, especially for products over 55
gallons, will lead to more high-margin installations.
ENERGY STAR
ENERGY STAR® qualified water heaters will continue to offer superior
energy savings and reliability.
ENERGY STAR:
New Levels
New ENERGY STAR® qualifications took effect at the same time as the new
standard levels.
ENERGY STAR:
Recognition Criteria
Gas, electric, and solar water heaters must meet strict performance criteria
to earn ENERGY STAR® recognition.