Earlier this year, the Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA) announced updates to significant regulation in the U.S. market for commercial and industrial fans and blowers.
To provide insight into these developments, Cincinnati Fan released a report that outlines these important updates to commercial and industrial fan regulations as set by the California Energy Commission (CEC) and the US Department of Energy (DOE), focusing on compliance, efficiency standards, and the role of the Air Movement and Control Association (AMCA). The following are key points from the report:
The Role of the AMCA
AMCA has been instrumental in developing the Fan Energy Index (FEI) metric and its associated test procedure, AMCA 214-21, to support energy reduction efforts. Cincinnati Fan is a member of AMCA and participated in developing these standards.
Fan Energy Index (FEI)
The Fan Energy Index (FEI) is a ratio used to measure fan efficiency:
FEI = Reference Fan Electrical Input Power / Actual Fan Electrical Input Power
An FEI ≥ 1.0 is required for compliance, indicating more efficient fan selection.
DOE Regulation
The DOE regulation is divided into two parts:
- Test Procedure: Effective April 29, 2024, covering definitions, scope, method, sampling, calculation, and penalties for noncompliance.
- Energy Standard: To be implemented around 2029, detailing scope, performance requirements, labeling, certification, surveillance, and penalties for noncompliance.
CEC Title 20
CEC Title 20 has been revised to align with DOE regulations, effective April 29, 2024. This includes:
- Adoption of DOE test procedures and exemptions.
- Requirement for all models to be submitted to the MAEDbS database.
- A minimum FEI of 1.0 for compliant fans.
- CEC-compliant labeling for non-exempt fans.
Compliance Requirements
- Submit all fan models to the California appliance database.
- Ensure selected fans meet minimum FEI requirements.
- Adhere compliant labels to all non-exempt fans sold or used in California.
Tools and Information
Cincinnati Fan has integrated FEI calculations into their selection program, highlighting more efficient options. Features include sorting by FEI and visual indicators for FEI ≥ 1.0.
Exemptions
The CEC has adopted DOE exemptions and added exemptions for embedded and circulating fans. Exemptions include certain radial, safety, induced flow, jet, cross-flow fans, and fans operating under specific conditions.
Air Systems and Cincinnati Fan Are Prepared for Improving Energy Efficiency
Cincinnati Fan is prepared for the CEC Title 20 regulations effective April 29, 2024, and will continue to engage with upcoming DOE regulations set for 2029. Non-compliant fans will be labeled accordingly, and further updates will be provided as necessary. As energy efficiency becomes more of a priority across the country, Air Systems and Cincinnati Fan are ready to meet the need for compliant and effective solutions.
Contact us to learn more about how you can increase the energy efficiency of your air systems.