FTC Approves Updated Energy Efficiency Descriptors for Central Air Conditioning Units

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a Federal Register notice (FRN) announcing final amendments to the agency’s Energy Labeling Rule (Rule). The amendments update the comparability ranges and sample labels for central air conditioning (AC) units.

The Rule, issued in 1979 under the Energy Policy and Conservation Act, requires energy labeling for major home appliances and other consumer products to help consumers compare the energy usage and costs of competing models. The Rule requires manufacturers to attach yellow EnergyGuide labels to many of the products it covers and prohibits retailers from removing or altering these labels.

The Commission vote authorizing publication of the Federal Register notice announcing the updated comparability ranges and sample labels for central AC units was 4-1, with Commissioner Christine S. Wilson voting no and issuing a separate statement.