Expansion on Energy Guide labeling requirements

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is seeking public comment on a proposed expansion of Energy Guide labeling requirements. 

The extension would apply to new product categories, and a requirement to include repair information in consumer product labeling. 

Manufacturers may soon be required to provide energy efficiency labels and repair instructions for a wide range of new household appliances. Specifically, the FTC is considering amending its energy labeling rule to include Energy Guide labels on some new consumer products and additional lamp categories. Furthermore, instructions for repairing defective appliances must be included. 

In addition, manufacturers must place labels on household appliances and other products that indicate the appliance’s estimated annual operating cost and a “comparison range” that indicates the highest and lowest energy consumption or efficiency of all similar models.  

The FTC also proposes to expand Energy Guide labeling to products like clothes dryers; Air cleaners/purifiers; residential ice makers; decorative hearths and outdoor heaters; miscellaneous refrigerator products (e.g., coolers) and cooking tops (e.g., kitchen ranges). 

The texts of the Regulation can be consulted HERE.