Federal Government Withdraws Updated Test for Commercial Heating Systems
Official: Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Commercial Warm Air Furnaces
Reading: Withdrawal of a stricter efficiency test procedure in favor of a less stringent standard reduces the rigor of energy conservation requirements for commercial heating equipment.
The change takes effect December 7, 2026.
In clear language
The U.S. Department of Energy is canceling a newer, stricter test procedure for measuring how efficiently commercial heating systems work. Instead, commercial warm air furnaces will continue using an older test method. The change takes effect December 7, 2026.
How does this affect you?
Pick the type of resident or organization you most identify with — we'll generate a plain-language breakdown of what changes for you and what you can do about it.
Who does this affect?
- Manufacturers of commercial heating systems and warm air furnaces
- Building owners and managers who purchase commercial heating equipment
- Energy efficiency standards and performance comparisons for commercial buildings
What can you do?
- If you manage or own a commercial building, understand that efficiency ratings for new furnaces will use the older test method going forward
- Stay informed about what test procedure is used when comparing heating system options for your facility
Timeline
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- Effective: 2026-12-07
- 2026-10-07: Rule published
- 2026-12-07: Rule becomes effective
No New Jersey official has a verified action on this policy yet.
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