The U.S. Department of Energy has proposed new energy-efficiency standards for clothes washers and refrigerators, in a move aimed at lowering household energy costs and reducing pollution.
It should be noted that the products covered by the proposed rules include residential washers (not commercial-grade models), as well as refrigerators, refrigerator-freezers, and stand-alone freezers.
The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers argues that the Energy Department’s washing machine regulations “would have a disproportionate, negative impact on low-income households” by eliminating cheaper appliances from the market.
Moreover, the Energy Department estimates manufacturers will incur nearly $700 million in conversion costs to transition to the new machines.
The DOE last set energy standards for washers in 2012. These new standards would go into effect as soon as 2027, under the DOE’s proposed timeline.
