Utilities, energy efficiency organizations and market partners developed the Northern Climate Specification seven years ago to advance higher performing heat pump water heaters. An updated version of the specification has been released, and is renamed the Advanced Water Heater Specification.
Why change the name?
The new name emphasizes that, while the specification is rooted in ensuring performance in cooler northern climates, its applicability and benefits extend well beyond the Northwest. The updated specification also enhances the end goal of NEEA's HPWH program - to influence the passage of a 2025 federal standard requiring HPWHs for all electric storage tanks greater than 45 gallons in size.
Highlights of the Advanced Water Heater Specification include additional tiers for improved efficiency levels, and clarification of terms and a performance challenge process. Other additions include:
* Clarified test procedure so manufacturers can better design products
* Open testing to other certified labs
* Inclusion of Demand Response language
* Warranty requirement enhancements
Finally, in order to qualify for Tier 3, products must ship in Tier 3 mode and return to Tier 3 72 hours after a mode change.
Get more information on the updated specification at http://neea.org/advancedwaterheaterspec.