Energy Conservation Program: Definition of Showerhead

In this notice of proposed rulemaking (“NOPR”), the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE”) proposes to revise the current definition of “showerhead” adopted in the December 16, 2020 final rule (“December 2020 Final Rule”) by reinstating the prior definition of “showerhead.” This reinstatement of the prior definition is consistent with the purposes of the Energy Policy and Conservation Act (“EPCA”). Further, DOE has tentatively determined that, in reinstating the prior definition of “showerhead,” all showerheads within a product containing multiple showerheads will be considered part of a single showerhead for determining compliance with the 2.5 gallons per minute (“gpm”) standard. In addition, DOE proposes to remove the current definition of “body spray” adopted in the December 2020 Final Rule. Finally, DOE does not propose any changes to the definition of “safety shower showerhead” adopted in the December 2020 Final Rule. DOE invites comment on all aspects of this proposal, including data and information to assist in evaluating whether the definition of “showerhead” from the October 2013 Final Rule should be reinstated, and announces a webinar to collect comments and data on its proposal.