DOE Minimum Efficiency Standards
The Department of Energy (DOE) sets national minimum energy efficiency standards for commercial and consumer (residential) water heater and A. O. Smith is committed to leading our industry in compliance.
Achieving the goal of net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions means appliance manufacturers like A. O. Smith must continuously innovate to meet and exceed the Department of Energy's new efficiency standards for commercial and residential (consumer) water heaters.
All commercial water heater manufacturers will be required to meet new minimum efficiency standards on October 6, 2026.
All water heater manufacturers will be required to meet new minimum efficiency standards for residential applications by May 2029.
Why Are Regulations Changing?
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (“EPCA”), prescribes energy conservation standards for various consumer products and certain commercial and industrial equipment, including consumer water heaters. EPCA also requires the U.S. Department of Energy (“DOE” or “the Department”) to periodically determine whether more stringent standards would be technologically feasible and economically justified, and would result in significant energy savings.
In this final rule, DOE is adopting amended energy conservation standards for consumer water heaters. It has determined that the new and amended energy conservation standards for these products would result in significant conservation of energy, and are technologically feasible and economically justified.
The Energy Policy and Conservation Act, as amended (‘‘EPCA’’), prescribes energy conservation standards for various consumer products and certain commercial and industrial equipment, including Commercial Water Heating (‘‘CWH’’) equipment. EPCA also requires the U.S. Department of Energy (‘‘DOE’’) to periodically review standards. In this final rule, DOE is adopting amended energy conservation standards for CWH equipment.
Why A. O. Smith?
A. O. Smith is a leading manufacturer of both residential and commercial water heating technologies, including the #1 most specified commercial water heater.
For more than 145 years, we’ve developed state-of-the art products that push new boundaries and improve the lives of our customers.
We combine cutting-edge technology with committed people who take pride in providing the very best support for our customers.
Our products are put through rigorous quality and endurance testing so now matter where hot water is needed, A. O. Smith can provide a solution you can count on.