Energy Conservation Program: Definition of Showerhead

In this final rule, the U.S. Department of Energy ("DOE") adopts a revised definition for "showerhead" and definitions for "body spray" and "safety shower showerhead". The revised regulatory definition for "showerhead" is consistent with the most recent standard developed by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers ("ASME") in 2018, such that each showerhead in a product containing multiple showerheads would be considered separately for purposes of determining standards compliance. DOE has determined that the definition is consistent with EPCA and, unlike the current definition, compliant with the National Technology Transfer and Advancement Act and Office of Management and Budget ("OMB") Circular A-119. In addition, the definition is consistent with DOE's treatment of other products, such as body sprays. DOE is also defining the terms "body spray" and "safety shower showerhead" to clarify which products are not subject to the current energy conservation standard. With regard to the showerhead test procedure, DOE emphasizes in this final rule that the existing test procedure remains applicable for purposes of measuring the water use of a showerhead as defined in this final rule. DOE is not finalizing any test procedure amendments in this final rule.