Title 24 · California Energy Code

What directories or databases may be used to verify appliance efficiency?

Homeowners and contractors must verify appliance efficiency from the California Energy Commission’s certified‑appliance database when available; if not, a federal agency directory or a Commission‑approved trade association directory may be used — otherwise use the fallback methods in § 110.1(c).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Energy Code requires that any appliance subject to the Appliance Efficiency Regulations be shown to meet Part 6 efficiency requirements by using listed certification sources in § 110.1. Specifically, compliance must be verified from the Energy Commission’s database, an equivalent directory published by a federal agency, or an approved trade association directory — unless the limited exceptions in § 110.1(c) apply. The Energy Commission’s certified-appliance database is published at www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ as identified in § 110.1(b)(1) .

The single most important rule: verify appliance efficiency from the Energy Commission’s certified-appliance database, or (if not available) from an equivalent federal or Commission‑approved trade association directory — otherwise follow the fallback rules in § 110.1(c).

Requirements in detail

Allowed verification sources (plain-English)

  • The primary source is the Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances (URL above) — use it to confirm a model is certified to the Commission. § 110.1(b)(1) .
  • If the Energy Commission database does not contain the model, an equivalent directory published by a federal agency is acceptable. § 110.1(b)(2) .
  • A Commission‑approved trade association directory (as defined in Title 20 CCR § 1606(h)) is also acceptable. § 110.1(b)(3) .
  • If none of those sources provides verification, follow the fallback in § 110.1(c): either default to the Part 6 mandatory efficiency levels or follow Commission‑approved procedures (e.g., Section 10‑109 of Title 24, Part 1). § 110.1(c) .

What “verification” means here

  • The code directs that the conformance be “verified utilizing data from” the allowed directories listed in § 110.1(b); the certification status of a device can also be confirmed by a Commission‑published directory, a copy of the manufacturer’s certification application and the Commission acceptance letter, written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory, or a Commission‑approved label on the device (see related certification provisions in § 110.0 and the certification language in § 110.2(b)).

Decision table — which source to use

Decision dimension Allowed source When to use Code Reference
First check (preferred) Energy Commission’s database (www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/) Use whenever the model is listed there — primary verification source § 110.1(b)(1)
Alternate federal listing Equivalent federal agency directory Use if model not in the Commission database but listed in a federal directory § 110.1(b)(2)
Trade association listing Commission‑approved trade association directory Use when model is listed in an approved trade directory (see Title 20 §1606(h) for definition) § 110.1(b)(3)
No directory data Default or Commission procedures Default to Part 6 mandatory efficiency levels or follow Commission‑approved procedures (see § 110.1(c)) § 110.1(c)

Exceptions & special cases

  • If data to verify conformance is not available from the directories in § 110.1(b), the installer/owner must either default to the Part 6 mandatory efficiency levels or follow a Commission‑approved alternative procedure (e.g., approval under Section 10‑109 of Title 24, Part 1). § 110.1(c)(1) .
  • If field verification and diagnostic testing is required but the Energy Commission has not approved a field protocol applicable to the appliance, follow the fallback procedures in § 110.1(c)(2). § 110.1(c)(2) .
  • If the appliance was site‑modified in a way that affects performance, the fallback demonstration methods in § 110.1(c)(3) apply. § 110.1(c)(3) .
  • Where the U.S. DOE has granted a waiver from federal test procedures that does not specify an efficiency determination method, use the fallback in § 110.1(c)(4). § 110.1(c)(4) .

Common mistakes

  • Relying solely on the manufacturer’s marketing literature (brochures) rather than checking a permitted directory. The code requires verification from the specified directories unless an exception applies (§ 110.1(b)). .
  • Assuming ENERGY STAR or similar voluntary labels automatically satisfy § 110.1 — the code specifically names the Energy Commission database, federal directories, or Commission‑approved trade directories as the verification sources (§ 110.1(b)). If the voluntary label corresponds to a Commission‑approved directory listing, that listing (not the label alone) is the verification. § 110.1(b) .
  • Failing to document the verification source: the certification status must be confirmed by reference to a directory published/approved by the Commission or other allowed documentary proof (see § 110.0 and § 110.2(b)(3)).

Worked example — stepwise scenario (concrete with numbers)

Scenario: A contractor needs to verify efficiency compliance for 1 model of an electric water heater to be installed in a new building.

  1. Step 1 — Query 1: Search the Energy Commission’s database (www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/).
    • Result A: Database returns 1 listing for the model → record the listing and certificate information. Because it is listed, the appliance is acceptable per § 110.1(b)(1).
  2. Step 2 — If Result A had been “no listing,” perform Query 2: check up to 2 alternate permitted sources in this order: (a) an equivalent federal directory, then (b) an approved trade association directory. If either directory lists the model, that listing satisfies § 110.1(b)(2) or § 110.1(b)(3) respectively.
    • Example counts: you checked 3 sources total (Energy Commission database + federal directory + trade directory). If only the federal directory returned a match (1 of 3), accept per § 110.1(b)(2).
  3. Step 3 — If none of the 3 sources has data, follow § 110.1(c): either default the installed unit to the mandatory Part 6 efficiency level or follow a Commission‑approved alternative procedure (submit documentation/request per Section 10‑109 of Title 24, Part 1). Record which fallback you used. § 110.1(c)

(Notes: the example counts — “1 listing,” “3 sources checked” — are workflow counts and compliance steps; the actual efficiency values are those in Part 6 or in the directory entry you record, per § 110.1.)

Related provisions

  • § 110.0 — Systems and equipment general rules on certification and confirmation methods (directories, Commission labels, application/acceptance letters) .
  • § 110.2 — Mandatory requirements and certification details for space‑conditioning equipment (certification and how to confirm status) .
  • § 110.3 — Service water‑heating systems: references Appliance Efficiency Regulations and certification requirements back to § 110.1 .
  • Title 20, Appliance Efficiency Regulations — § 1606 (database/certification reporting) and § 1606(h) (definition/approval of trade association directories) — referenced by § 110.1(b) for definitions of approved directories .
  • Section 10‑109, Title 24, Part 1 — Commission procedures for alternative demonstrations when directory data are not available (referenced in § 110.1(c)) .

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • § 110.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES

    (a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.

    (b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:

    1. The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
    2. An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
    3. An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).

    (c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:

    1. Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
    2. Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
    3. The appliance meets the requirements of Section 110.1(a) but has been site-modified in a way that affects its performance; or

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 39

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS

    1. The U.S. Department of Energy has approved a waiver from federal test procedures, pursuant to 10 CFR Section 430.27 or Section 431.401 and that waiver fails to specify how the efficiency of the system shall be determined.

    Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5 , 2 5402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.

    SECTION 110.2—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SPACE-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT

    Certification by manufacturers. Any space-conditioning equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the Commission that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.

    (a) Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable efficiency requirements in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, subject to the following:

    1. If more than one efficiency standard is listed for any equipment in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall meet all the applicable standards that are listed; and
    2. If more than one test method is listed in Tables 110.2-A through 110.2-L, the equipment shall comply with the applicable efficiency standard when tested with each listed test method; and
  • § 25218.5 High relevance — show source text

    (b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.

    1. Appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations shall only be installed if they have been certified to the Energy Commission by the manufacturer, pursuant to the provisions of Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1606; or
    2. Systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are required by Part 6 or the Reference Appendices to be certified to the Energy Commission, which are not appliances that are within the scope of Section 1601 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, shall only be installed if they are certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that: A. All the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable requirements of Part 6; and B. The equipment, product, or device was tested using the test procedure specified in Part 6 if applicable
    3. The certification status of any system, equipment, appliance or building component shall be confirmed only by reference to: A. A directory published or approved by the Commission; or B. A copy of the application for certification from the manufacturer and the letter of acceptance from the Commission staff; or C. Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission-approved directory that a device has been certified; or D. A Commission-approved label on the device.

    Note: Part 6 does not require a builder, designer, owner, operator, or enforcing agency to test any certified device to determine its compliance with minimum specifications or efficiencies adopted by the Commission.

    Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402 and 25402.1, Public Resources Code . Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.5 , 2 5402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.

    SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES

    (a) Any appliance regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, Title 20 California Code of Regulations, Section 1601 et seq., may be installed only if the appliance fully complies with Section 1608(a) of those regulations.

    (b) Except for those circumstances described in Section 110.1(c), conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be verified utilizing data from either:

    1. The Energy Commission’s database of certified appliances maintained pursuant to Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606, and which is available at: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ ; or
    2. An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
    3. An approved trade association directory as defined in Title 20 California Code of Regulations Section 1606(h).

    (c) Conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards shall be demonstrated either by default to the mandatory efficiency levels specified in Part 6 or by following procedures approved by the Commission pursuant to Section 10-109 of Title 24, Part 1, when:

    1. Data to verify conformance with efficiency levels required to comply with Part 6 mandatory, prescriptive and performance standards is not available pursuant to subdivision (b); or
    2. Field verification and diagnostic testing is required for compliance with Part 6 and the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification and diagnostic test protocol that is applicable to the appliance; or
  • § 805.14.1.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    APPENDIX E

    (1) The DES/DXAC runs in direct cooling mode. E 805.14.1.3 Calibrating Controls. Set the proper time and date in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions for approved installers. E 805.14.2 Acceptance Criteria. Distributed energy storage DXAC system acceptance criteria shall be as follows:

    (1) Verify night time ice making operation.

    (2) Verify that tank discharges during on-peak cooling periods.

    (3) Verify that the compressor does not run and the tank does not discharge where there is no cooling demand during on-peak periods.

    (4) Verify that the system does not operate during a morning shoulder period where there is no cooling demand.

    (5) Verify that the system operates in direct mode (with compressor running) during the morning shoulder time period. E 805.15 Thermal Energy Storage (TES) System (Form MECH-15A). The purpose of this test is to verify the proper operation of thermal energy storage (TES) systems. TES systems reduce energy consumption during peak demand periods by shifting energy consumption to nighttime. Operation of the thermal energy storage compressor during the night produces cooling energy which is stored in the form of cooled fluid or ice in tanks. During peak cooling hours the thermal storage is used for cooling to prevent the need for chiller operation. This section is limited to the following types of TES systems:

    (1) Chilled water storage

    (2) Ice-on-coil

    (3) Ice harvester

    (4) Brine

    (5) Ice-slurry

    (6) Eutectic salt

    (7) Clathrate hydrate slurry (CHS)

    E 805.15.1 Test Procedure. The procedure for performing a functional test for thermal energy storage (TES) system shall be in accordance with Section E 805.15.1.1 and Section E 805.15.1.2.

    E 805.15.1.1 Construction Inspection. Prior to functional testing, verify and document the following for the chiller and storage tank:

    (1) Chiller:

    (a) Brand and Model

    (b) Type (centrifugal, reciprocating, other)

    (c) Capacity (tons) (SIZE)

    (d) Starting efficiency (kW/ton) at beginning of ice production (COMP - kW/TON START)

    (e) Ending efficiency (kW/ton) at end of ice production (COMP - kW/TON/END)

    (f) Capacity reduction (percent/°F) (PER – COMP - REDUCT/F)

    (g) Verify that the efficiency of the chiller meets or exceeds the requirements of Section E 501.0.

    (2) Storage Tank:

    (a) Storage type (TES-TYPE)

    (b) Number of tanks (SIZE)

    (c) Storage capacity per tank (ton-hours) (SIZE)

    (d) Storage rate (tons) (COOL – STORE RATE)

    (e) Discharge rate (tons) (COOL – SUPPLY RATE)

    (f) Auxiliary power (watts) (PUMPS + AUX kW)

    (g) Tank area (CTANK – LOSS - COEFF)

    (h) Tank insulation (R-Value) (CTANK – LOSS – COEFF)

    (3) TES System:

    (a) The TES system is one of the above eligible systems.

    (b) Initial charge rate of the storage tanks (tons).

    (c) Final charge rate of the storage tank (tons).

    (d) Initial discharge rate of the storage tanks (tons).

  • § 320.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Humidifiers shall be_ located within air handling systems or ductwork to avoid moisture accumulation in downstream components, including filters and insulation. 320.1.2 Heating systems shall be designed based on the “Heating DB 99.6%” column of the Climatic Design Data in ASHRAE Handbook-Fundamentals. The systems shall be thermostatically controlled with appropriate zoning to achieve the above conditions. 320.1.3 Cooling systems shall be designed based on the 0.4% columns of the four Annual Design Conditions titled Cooling, Evaporation, Dehumidification, and Enthalpy shown by the Climate Design Data in ASHRAE Handbook-Fundamentals. The systems shall be thermo- statically controlled with appropriate zoning to achieve the above conditions.

    320.2 Requirements for Skilled Nursing, Intermedi- ate Care Facilities and Basic Services Provided in Correctional Treatment Centers. [OSHPD 2 & 4]

    320.2.1 Systems shall accommodate the provisions of Sections 320.1.2 through 320.1.3.

    320.2.2 Where air conditioning is provided, the system shall be thermostatically controlled in one or more zones. 320.3 Requirements for Outpatient Facilities and Licensed Clinics. [OSHPD 3]

    320.3.1 The system shall be designed to provide the tem- perature and humidities for sensitive areas for rooms shown in Table 4-A.

    320.4 Telephone and Technology Equipment Centers.

    [OSHPD 1 & 4] Where telecommunications service entrance rooms, technology equipment centers, or technology distribu- tion rooms are provided in accordance with Section 1224.5 of the California Building Code, the following requirements shall apply: 320.4.1 Power for HVAC systems serving the room(s) shall be supplied by the Equipment Branch pursuant to the California Electrical Code. Where redundant systems are provided, only one shall be required to be supplied by the Equipment Branch. 320.4.2 Mechanical equipment or fixtures that are not directly related to the support of the room shall not be installed in or pass through the room. Exception: Unrelated ductwork may be installed and shall be not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the finished floor. 320.4.3 HVAC systems shall be provided to maintain environmental conditions recommended in ASHRAE’s Thermal Guidelines for Data Processing Environment and the requirements of the specific equipment installed. 320.4.4 Technology equipment centers shall have redun- dant cooling systems each of sufficient capacity to pro- vide required cooling during periods of breakdown or maintenance of either system. One system shall be non- hydronic and on essential power. 320.5 Psychiatric Services. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 4 & 5] For projects associated with provision of psychiatric services in acute psychiatric hospitals, general acute-care hospitals, and special treatment program service units in skilled nursing facilities, psychiatric, seclusion, and holding-patient rooms shall be designed with security diffusers, grilles, and registers.

  • § 805.15.1.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    (f) Charge test time (hrs).

    (g) Discharge test time (hrs).

    (h) Tank storage capacity after charge (tonhrs).

    (i) Tank storage capacity after discharge (tonhrs).

    (j) Tank standby storage losses (UA).

    (k) Initial chiller efficiency (kW/ton) during charging.

    (l) Final chiller efficiency (kW/ton) during charging.

    E 805.15.1.2 Functional Testing. The functional testing shall be in accordance with the following steps:

    Step 1: Verify that the TES system and the chilled water plant is controlled and monitored by an energy management system (EMS).

    Step 2: Force the time to be between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m., and simulate a partial or no charge of the tank. Simulate no cooling load by setting the indoor temperature setpoint(s) higher than the ambient temperature.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 491

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    APPENDIX E

    Where the tank is full or nearly full of ice, it shall be permitted to adjust the control settings for this test. In some cases, the control system will not permit the chiller to start the ice-making process unless a portion of the ice has been melted. The controls designer shall be permitted to use an inventory meter (a 4-20 mA sensor that indicates water level) to determine whether or not ice-making can commence (e.g., not allow ice-making unless the inventory meter signal is less than 17 mA). Where this is the case, this limit can be reset to 20 mA during testing to allow ice making to occur.

    Verify that the TES system starts charging (storing energy). This shall be checked by verifying flow and inlet and outlet temperatures of the storage tank, or directly by reading an inventory meter where the system has one.

    Step 3: Force the time to be between 6:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m., and simulate a partial charge on the tank. Simulate a cooling load by setting the indoor temperature setpoint lower than the ambient temperature. Verify that the TES system starts discharging. This shall be checked by observing tank inlet and outlet temperatures and system flow, or directly by reading an inventory meter where the system has one. Where the system has no charge, verify that the system will still attempt to meet the load through storage.

    Step 4: Force the time to be between noon and 6:00 p.m., and simulate a cooling load by lowering the indoor air temperature setpoint below the ambient temperature. Verify that the tank starts discharging and the compressor is off.

    Step 5: Force the time to be between 9:00 a.m. to noon, and simulate a cooling load by lowering the indoor air temperature setpoint below the ambient temperature. Verify that the tank does not discharge and the cooling load is met by the compressor.

    Step 6: Force the time to be between 9:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. and simulate a full tank charge. This can be done in a couple of ways:

    (1) By changing the inventory sensor limit that indicates tank capacity to the energy management system so that it indicates a full tank.

    (2) By resetting the coolant temperature that indicates a full charge to a higher temperature than the current tank leaving temperature. Verify that the tank charging is stopped.

  • § 209.1 Medium relevance — show source text
    1. Certifies that automatic daylighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.3.2.4.
    2. Certifies that when a multilevel astronomical time switch is used to meet Exception 3 to Section A6.209.2.3.2.2 all general lighting in the skylit area is controlled by a multilevel astronomical time switch that meets the applicable requirements of Section A6.209.1 and that has an override switch that meets the requirements of Section A209.2.4.2.
    3. Certifies that lighting controls meet the requirements of Sections A6.209.2.1 through A6.209.2.3 and Title 24, Part 6, Sections 131(e) and (f) and 146(a)2, as applicable.
    4. Certifies that automatic lighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.4.
    5. Certifies that occupant-sensors meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.2.4.
    6. Certified that outdoor lighting controls meet the applicable requirements of Sections A6.209.1 and A6.209.3.

    SECTION A6.210 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—APPLIANCES

    A6.210.1 Appliances regulated by the Appliance Efficiency Regulations. Any appliance for which there is a California standard established in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the Commission, as specified in those regulations, that the appliance complies with the applicable standard for that appliance.

    Note: For certified appliances, go to www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/.

    DIVISION A6.4 – MATERIAL CONSERVATION AND RESOURCE EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A6.401—GENERAL

    A6.401.1 Scope. The provisions of this chapter shall outline means of achieving material conservation and resource efficiency through reuse of existing building stock and materials; use of recycled, regional, rapidly renewable and certified wood materials; and employment of techniques to reduce pollution through recycling of materials.

    SECTION A6.407 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—WATER RESISTANCE AND MOISTURE MANAGEMENT

    A6.407.3 Weather protection. Provide a weather-resistant exterior wall and foundation envelope as required by California Building Code Section 1403.2 and California Energy Code Section 150, manufacturer’s installation instructions or local ordinance, whichever is more stringent.

    A6.407.4 Moisture control. Employ moisture control measures by the following methods.

    A6.407.4.1 Sprinklers. Design and maintain landscape irrigation systems to prevent spray on structures.

    A6.407.4.2 Entries and openings. Design exterior entries and/or openings subject to foot traffic or wind-driven rain to prevent water intrusion into buildings.

    Notes:

    1. Use features such as overhangs and recesses and flashings integrated with a drainage plane.

    APPENDIX A6.1-32 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

  • § 150.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    B. Kitchen local mechanical exhaust—vented range hoods . Vented range hoods installed to comply with local mechanical exhaust requirements specified in Section 150.0(o)1G shall be field verified in accordance with the procedures in Reference Residential Appendix RA3.7.4.3 to confirm the model is rated by HVI or AHAM to comply with the following requirements: i. The minimum ventilation airflow rate as specified by Section 150.0(o)1G, or alternatively the minimum capture efficiency as specified by Section 150.0(o)1G. ii The maximum sound rating as specified in Section 150.0(o)1Gvi. C. Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) and energy recovery ventilation (ERV) system fan efficacy. Systems with heat or energy recovery serving a single dwelling unit shall have a fan efficacy of ≤1.0 W/cfm as confirmed by field verification in accordance with Reference Appendix RA3.7.4.4.

    (p) Pool systems and equipment installation. Pool system or equipment shall comply with the applicable requirements of Section 110.4, as well as the requirements listed in this section.

    1. Pump sizing and flow rate for single-family buildings. A. Dedicated-purpose pool pumps and replacement dedicated-purpose pump motors subject to State or federal appliance standards shall be listed in the Commission’s directory of certified equipment. Dedicated-purpose pool pumps shall meet the applicable standards set forth in 20 CCR §1605.1(g)(7) of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations. Replacement dedicated-purpose pool pump motors shall meet the applicable standards set forth in 20 CCR §1605.3 of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations; B. All pump flow rates shall be calculated using the following system equation: H = C × F [2]

    where:

    H - is the total system head in feet of water. F - is the flow rate in gallons per minute (gpm). C - is a coefficient based on the volume of the pool:

    0.0167 for pools less than or equal to 17,000 gallons.

    0.0082 for pools greater than 17,000 gallons. C. Filtration pumps shall be sized, or if programmable shall be programmed, so that the filtration flow rate is not greater than the rate needed to turn over the pool water volume in 6 hours or 36 gpm, whichever is greater; and D. Dedicated-purpose pool pumps with more than one speed shall have controls which default to the filtration flow rate when no auxiliary pool loads are operating; and E. For dedicated-purpose pool pumps with more than one speed, the controls shall default to the filtration flow rate setting within 24 hours and shall have an override capability for servicing. 2. System piping. A. A length of straight pipe that is greater than or equal to at least 4 pipe diameters shall be installed before the pump; and

    B. Pool piping shall be sized so that the velocity of the water at maximum flow for auxiliary pool loads does not exceed 8 feet per second in the return line and 6 feet per second in the suction line; and C. All elbows shall be sweep elbows or of an elbow- type that has a pressure drop of less than the pressure drop of straight pipe with a length of 30 pipe diameters.

    174 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS— MANDATORY FEATURES AND DEVICES

  • § 13.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    CERTIFIED TO THE ENERGY COMMISSION means, when used in association with appliances, certified under Section 1606 of Title 20 of the California Code of Regulations; and otherwise means certified by the manufacturer in a declaration, executed under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that all the information provided pursuant to the certification is true, complete, accurate and in compliance with all applicable provisions of Part 6; and if applicable that the equipment, product or device was tested under the applicable test method specified in Part 6.

    CERTIFYING ORGANIZATION is an independent organization recognized by the Commission to certify manufactured devices for performance values in accordance with procedures adopted by the Commission.

    CIE 13.3 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Method of Measuring and Specifying Colour Rendering Properties of Light Sources,” 1995 (CIE 13.3-1995).

    CIE 15 is the International Commission on Illumination (Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage) document titled “Technical Report: Colorimetry,” 2018 (CIE 15:2018).

    CIRCULATING FAN means a fan that is not a ceiling fan, but that is used to move air within a space that has no provision for connection to ducting or separation of the fan inlet from its outlet, and designed to be used for the general circulation of air.

    CLIMATE ZONES are the 16 geographic areas of California for which the commission has established typical weather data, prescriptive packages and energy budgets. Climate zones are defined by ZIP code and listed in Reference Joint Appendix JA2. FIGURE 100.1-A is an approximate map of the 16 climate zones.

    CLOSED-CIRCUIT COOLING TOWER is a cooling tower that utilizes indirect contact between a heated fluid, typically water or glycol, and the cooling atmosphere to transfer the source heat load through sensible heat, latent heat and mass transfer indirectly to the air, essentially combining a heat exchanger and cooling tower into an integrated and relatively compact device.

    CODES, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE is the California Historical Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8 and Part 2 (Chapter 34).

    CODES, CBC is the 2025 California Building Code.

    CODES, CEC is the 2025 California Electrical Code.

    CODES, CFC is the 2025 California Fire Code.

    CODES, CMC is the 2025 California Mechanical Code.

    CODES, CPC is the 2025 California Plumbing Code.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), COOLING is the ratio of the rate of net heat removal to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEATING is the ratio of the rate of net heat output to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEAT PUMP is the ratio of the rate of useful heat output delivered by the complete heat pump unit (exclusive of supplementary heating) to the corresponding rate of energy input, in consistent units and as determined using the applicable test method in Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

  • § 110.2. Medium relevance — show source text

    CODES, CALIFORNIA HISTORICAL BUILDING CODE is the California Historical Building Code, California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 8 and Part 2 (Chapter 34).

    CODES, CBC is the 2025 California Building Code.

    CODES, CEC is the 2025 California Electrical Code.

    CODES, CFC is the 2025 California Fire Code.

    CODES, CMC is the 2025 California Mechanical Code.

    CODES, CPC is the 2025 California Plumbing Code.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), COOLING is the ratio of the rate of net heat removal to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEATING is the ratio of the rate of net heat output to the rate of total energy input, calculated under designated operating conditions and expressed in consistent units, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COEFFICIENT OF PERFORMANCE (COP), HEAT PUMP is the ratio of the rate of useful heat output delivered by the complete heat pump unit (exclusive of supplementary heating) to the corresponding rate of energy input, in consistent units and as determined using the applicable test method in Appliance Efficiency Regulations or Section 110.2.

    COMBINED ENERGY EFFICIENCY RATIO (CEER) is the ratio of net cooling capacity (in Btu/hr) to total rate of electrical energy input (in watts) of a cooling system under designated operating conditions, including standby mode, as determined using the applicable test method in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations.

    COMBUSTION AIR POSITIVE SHUT-OFF is a means of restricting air flow through a boiler combustion chamber during standby periods, used to reduce standby heat loss. A flue damper and a vent damper are two examples of combustion air positive shut-off devices.

    COMBUSTION EFFICIENCY is a measure of the percentage of heat from the combustion of gas or oil that is transferred to the medium being heated or lost as jacket loss.

    COMMERCIAL BOILER is a type of boiler with a capacity (rated maximum input) of 300,000 Btus per hour (Btu/h) or more and serving a space heating or water heating load in a commercial building.

    COMMISSION is the California State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission, which is also referred to as the California Energy Commission.

    COMPARTMENTALIZATION is when a dwelling unit enclosure area, including walls, ceilings, and floors shared with exterior spaces or adjacent spaces in the building, including but not limited to neighboring units, corridors, and elevator shafts, is constructed to prevent air leakage.

    10 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

  • § 1-1 Medium relevance — show source text

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-1

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1-2 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    A6 VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    DIVISION A6.1 – SITE PLANNING AND DESIGN

    SECTION A6.106—SITE DEVELOPMENT

    A6.106.9 Building orientation. Locate and orient the building as follows:

    1. When site and location permit, orient the building with the long sides facing north and south.
    2. Protect the building from thermal loss, drafts and degradation of the building envelope caused by wind and wind-driven materials such as dust, sand, snow and leaves, with building orientation and landscape features. Note: For information on sun angles and shading, visit: http://www2.aud.ucla.edu/energy-design-tools/.

    Calculations may be made using the Solar-2 tool.

    DIVISION A6.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A6.202—DEFINITIONS

    A6.202.1 Definitions. The following words and terms shall, for the purposes of this chapter and as used elsewhere in this code, have the meanings shown herein.

    ENERGY STAR. A joint program of the US Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy. ENERGY STAR is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.

    SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

    A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.

    A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

    A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.

    A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.

    The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR).

  • § 203.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION A6.203—PERFORMANCE APPROACH

    A6.203.2 Energy performance. It is the intent of this code to encourage green buildings to achieve exemplary performance in the area of energy efficiency.

    A6.203.2.1 CALGreen Tier 1. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen [Tier 1, buildings must comply with the latest edition of “Savings By](http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf) Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” found online at http://www.energysoft.com/ep/ 2007SBDHProcedures.pdf.

    A6.203.2.2 CALGreen Tier 2. [OSHPD 1] To achieve CALGreen Tier 2, buildings must exceed the latest edition of “Savings By Design, Healthcare Modeling Procedures” by a minimum of 15 percent.

    SECTION A6.204—PRESCRIPTIVE APPROACH

    A6.204.1 ENERGY STAR equipment and appliances. All equipment and appliances provided by the builder shall be ENERGY STAR labeled if ENERGY STAR is applicable to that equipment or appliance.

    A6.204.4 Commissioning. [OSHPD 1 & 4] Building commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the building project to verify that the building’s energy related systems are installed, calibrated and perform according to the owner’s project requirements, basis of design and construction documents.

    The owner and designer shall designate an individual as the Commissioning Authority (CxA) to lead, review and oversee the completion of the commissioning process activities. The owner shall document the Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The design team shall develop the Basis of Design (BOD). The CxA shall review these documents for clarity and completeness. The owner and design team shall be responsible for updates to their respective documents, develop and incorporate commissioning requirements into the construction documents and develop and implement a commissioning plan. The CxA shall verify the installation and performance of the systems to be commissioned, verify that training and operation and maintenance documentation have been provided to the owner’s operations staff and complete a commissioning report.

    Commissioning process activities shall be completed for the following energy-related systems, at a minimum:

    1. Heating, ventilating, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC&R) systems (mechanical and passive) and associated controls.
    2. Lighting and daylighting controls.
    3. Domestic hot water systems.
    4. Renewable energy systems (wind, solar, etc.).
    5. Building envelope systems.

    A6.204.4.1 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The expectations and requirements of the building shall be documented by the owner and the designer before the design phase of the project begins. This shall be reviewed by the CxA. At a minimum, this documentation shall include the following:

    1. Environmental and sustainability goals.
    2. Energy efficiency goals.
    3. Indoor environmental quality requirements.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-3

    on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.

    APPENDIX A6.1 — VOLUNTARY STANDARDS FOR HEALTH FACILITIES [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]

    1. Equipment and systems expectations.
    2. Building occupant and O&M personnel expectations.
  • § 110.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    SECTION 110.3—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SERVICE WATER-HEATING SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT

    (a) Certification by manufacturers. Any service water- heating system or equipment may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the system or equipment complies with all of the requirements of this subsection for that system or equipment.

    1. Temperature controls for service water-heating systems. Service water-heating systems shall be equipped with automatic temperature controls capable of adjustment from the lowest to the highest acceptable temperature settings for the intended use as listed in Table 3, Chapter 50 of the ASHRAE Handbook, HVAC Applications Volume or Table 613.1 of the Cali- fornia Plumbing Code for healthcare facilities. Exception to Section 110.3(a)1: Residential occupancies.

    (b) Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations as required by Section 110.1, subject to the following:

    1. If more than one standard is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall meet all the standards listed; and

    2. If more than one test method is listed in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, the equipment shall comply with the applicable standard when tested with each test method; and

    3. Where equipment can serve more than one function, such as both heating and cooling, or both space heating and water heating, it shall comply with all the requirements applicable to each function; and

    4. Where a requirement is for equipment rated at its “maximum rated capacity” or “minimum rated capacity,” the capacity shall be as provided for and allowed by the controls, during steady-state operation.

    (c) Installation. Any service water-heating system or equipment may be installed only if the system or equipment complies with all of the applicable requirements of this subsection for the system or equipment.

    1. Outlet temperature controls. On systems that have a total capacity greater than 167,000 Btu/hr, outlets that require higher than service water temperatures as listed in the ASHRAE Handbook, Applications Volume, shall have separate remote heaters, heat exchangers or boosters to supply the outlet with the higher temperature. Exception to Section 110.3(c)1: Systems covered by California Plumbing Code Section 613.0 shall instead follow the requirements of that section.
    2. Controls for hot water distribution systems. Service hot water systems with circulating pumps or with electrical heat trace systems shall be capable of automatically turning off the system. Exception to Section 110.3(c)2: Systems serving healthcare facilities.
    3. Insulation. Unfired service water heater storage tanks and backup tanks for solar water-heating systems shall have: A. External insulation with an installed R -value of at least R-3.5; or

    B. Internal and external insulation with a combined R -value of at least R-16; or

    C. The heat loss of the tank surface based on an 80°F water-air temperature difference shall be less than 6.5 Btu per hour per square foot. 4. Water heating recirculation loops serving multiple dwelling units, high-rise residential, hotel/motel, and nonresiden- tial occupancies. A water heating recirculation loop is a type of hot water distribution system that reduces the time needed to deliver hot water to fixtures that are distant from the water heater, boiler or other water heating equipment. The recirculation loop is comprised of a supply portion, connected to branches that serve multiple dwelling units, guest rooms, or fixtures and a return portion that completes the loop back to the water heating equipment.

Frequently asked questions

How do I find the Energy Commission’s certified‑appliance database?

Use the official URL: www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/ — this is the primary verification source required by § 110.1(b)(1).

Can an ENERGY STAR label alone be used to verify compliance?

No. § 110.1 requires verification from the Energy Commission database, an equivalent federal directory, or an approved trade association directory. A voluntary label alone is not one of those named sources unless the product is also listed in an approved directory.

If a model is not listed anywhere, what must I do?

If none of the directories in § 110.1(b) lists the model, you must either default to the Part 6 mandatory efficiency levels or follow Commission‑approved alternative procedures per § 110.1(c).

Is a manufacturer’s signed declaration ever sufficient?

A manufacturer certification is required for many devices, but the certification status must be confirmed by a Commission‑published or approved directory, an application/acceptance letter, written confirmation from a directory publisher, or a Commission‑approved label, as described in § 110.0 and § 110.2(b)(3).

Where are the rules that define “approved trade association directory”?

That definition appears in the Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20) — see the cross‑reference to Title 20 § 1606(h) in § 110.1(b)(3).

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