When it comes to refrigerator energy efficiency, consumers want to make sure their purchase meets the energy efficiency requirements. Many consumer refrigerators come with user control panels and displays on the front. These advanced features allow additional functions such as Internet access and TV viewing. Other features can be provided by proximity sensors or by connecting the product to a TV.
The proposed rule also requires a vertical ambient temperature gradient of less than 0.5 degF per foot or 0.9 degC per meter. In addition, products must include test data demonstrating compliance with these new standards. The data must be collected from temperature sensors at three locations: 10 inches away from the bottom of the unit and at two inches above the floor.
The DOE recently published a proposal to modify the existing standards. The proposed change includes errors and clarifications on Figure 5-2. The DOE is also seeking comments on the proposed changes. The Department of the Environment is seeking comments on the proposal to ensure that the regulations are reasonable and representative of energy use.
The DOE also recognizes international standards for consumer refrigeration. These include AS/NZS 4474.1:2007 and Standard 62552:2007. The international standards differ from the DOE standards in many ways. For example, international standards are designed to address the same issues but require different ambient and compartment temperatures. In addition, they require different test periods.