Title 24 · California Energy Code
When is manufacturer certification required for systems, equipment, appliances and building components?
If you’re putting equipment into new construction in California, the manufacturer must certify the product meets Part 6 rules (or, for many appliances, be listed in the Energy Commission’s certified appliances database). The plans examiner or inspector must confirm certification using one of the four code‑approved methods before letting the unit be installed.
Last reviewed: July 6, 2026
What the code requires — 2-4 sentences
In plain English: any system, equipment, appliance or building component covered by Part 6 may only be installed in new construction if the manufacturer has certified that the product complies with the applicable manufacturing provisions and the product is installed in conformance with the installation provisions. The controlling general rule is § 110.0; specific appliance rules are in § 110.1.
The single most important rule: a device required by Part 6 can’t be installed unless the manufacturer has certified it and you can confirm that certification by an Energy Commission directory, acceptance letter, approved directory confirmation, or a Commission-approved label.
Requirements in detail
Core rule (who must certify and when)
- Manufacturer certification required before installation of any system/equipment/appliance/component that Part 6 or its Reference Appendices require to be certified. The general statement is in § 110.0(a).
- For appliances that fall under the statewide Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20, § 1601 et seq.), the appliance must be certified to the Energy Commission by the manufacturer under Title 20 § 1606; installing an appliance without that certification is not allowed. This is restated in § 110.0(b)(1) and § 110.1(a).
- For other products required by Part 6 (but not covered by Title 20 § 1601), the manufacturer must provide a written certification (a declaration under penalty of perjury) that the information is true and that required testing (when applicable) used the test procedures specified in Part 6. See § 110.0(b)(2).
How certification is confirmed (what the inspector or designer must check)
The certification status may only be confirmed by one of the following four means listed in § 110.0(b)(3):
- A directory published/approved by the Energy Commission;
- A copy of the manufacturer’s application for certification plus the Commission staff’s letter of acceptance;
- Written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory that the device is certified; or
- A Commission‑approved label on the device.
Note: Part 6 does not require the designer, builder, owner or enforcing agency to independently test a certified device to verify the manufacturer’s claims.
Appliance-specific verification (when Title 20 applies)
- If an appliance is under Title 20 § 1601, conformance and eligibility to install are verified from the Energy Commission’s certified appliances database (or an equivalent federal or approved trade association directory), per § 110.1(b).
- If the required verification data are not available via the approved directories, or if field verification testing is required and no Commission-approved protocol exists, then alternate procedures (default to mandatory levels or Commission‑approved procedures) must be used as described in § 110.1(c). This subsection also covers site-modified appliances and DOE test‑procedure waivers.
Product‑group examples with certification language
(These are examples of sections that require manufacturer certification for specific product groups; the pattern is manufacturer certification to the Commission plus compliance with applicable Part 6 requirements.)
| Product / Decision factor | Is manufacturer certification required? | How must manufacturer certify / confirm | Code Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic Part 6 products (new construction) | Yes — manufacturer must certify | Declaration under penalty of perjury; tested with Part 6 test procedures when applicable | § 110.0(b)(2) |
| Appliances subject to Title 20 § 1601 | Yes — must be certified to CEC database | Certified to the Energy Commission per Title 20 § 1606; verify via Energy Commission database or approved directory | § 110.0(b)(1); § 110.1(a–b) |
| Space‑conditioning equipment | Yes — section requires manufacturer certification to Commission for equipment listed there | Manufacturer certification that equipment complies with § 110.2 requirements and applicable efficiency tables | § 110.2 |
| Pool & spa heaters / systems | Yes — manufacturer must certify efficiency and required features | Certification that equipment meets appliance efficiency rules and specific features (on‑off switch, instructions) | § 110.4(a) |
| Fenestration products (manufactured) | Yes — manufactured products must be certified (field‑fabricated excluded) | Manufacturer or approved independent certifier certifies compliance with U‑factor, air leakage, labeling | § 110.6(a) |
| Electrical power distribution equipment | Yes — equipment listed must be certified by the manufacturer to the Commission | Manufacturer certification that equipment complies with that section | § 110.11 |
| Demand response controls (OpenADR) | Yes — controls must be certified OpenADR VEN or Baseline Profile | Manufacturer (or product) must be certified to the OpenADR conformance clauses specified | § 110.12(a) |
What the manufacturer’s declaration must say
Per § 110.0(b)(2), the manufacturer’s declaration must include:
- A statement under penalty of perjury that information provided is true, complete, and accurate, and in compliance with Part 6; and
- If testing is applicable, that the product was tested using the test procedure specified in Part 6.
Exceptions & special cases
- Appliances covered by Title 20 are handled through Title 20 procedures (Energy Commission database and Title 20 certification) rather than a separate Part 6 declaration — see § 110.0(b)(1) and § 110.1(a–b).
- Where Part 6 or Reference Appendices do not provide directory data, or where the Energy Commission has not approved a field verification test protocol, § 110.1(c) requires alternative proofs (default to mandatory efficiencies or Commission‑approved procedures). This also covers site‑modified appliances and DOE test waivers.
- Some product subsections list specific exceptions (for example transformer subtypes exempted from certain certification requirements under § 110.11(a) exceptions). Always check the specific Part 6 subsection that applies to the product.
- Field‑fabricated fenestration and field‑fabricated exterior doors are explicitly excluded from the manufactured product certification requirement in § 110.6(a) — only manufactured products require the manufacturer/approved certifier declaration.
If a particular product group or unusual scenario is not explicitly covered in the retrieved text for § 110.0 and § 110.1, or in the specific Part 6 subsection relevant to that product, you must consult the applicable subsection of Part 6 or the Energy Commission (Title 20) guidance for that product rather than assume general rules.
Common mistakes
- Assuming a manufacturer’s in‑house test report alone is enough: for Title 20 appliances you must see Energy Commission certification in the database or an approved directory — § 110.1(b).
- Installing a product based on a manufacturer’s unsigned or informal statement — the code requires a declaration executed under penalty of perjury for non‑Title 20 products (see § 110.0(b)(2)).
- Accepting third‑party labels or directories that are not Commission‑approved — confirmation must be from the Commission’s directory, acceptance letter, publisher confirmation of a Commission‑approved directory, or a Commission‑approved label (§ 110.0(b)(3)).
- Forgetting to check for special exceptions in the product’s Part 6 subsection (e.g., transformer exceptions under § 110.11).
- Treating site‑modified appliances the same as factory‑certified units — § 110.1(c) requires different verification when site modification affects performance.
Worked example — concrete scenario with numbers
Scenario: You are the plans examiner for a new pool installation that specifies a gas pool heater model X123.
Step 1 — Determine applicability
- Pool heaters are addressed in § 110.4 and may also be appliances under Title 20 if within that Appliance Efficiency scope. The general requirement that a manufacturer certify equipment for installation comes from § 110.0.
Step 2 — Check Title 20 appliance certification
- Look up model X123 in the Energy Commission certified appliances database (www.energy.ca.gov/appliances/database/) as required by § 110.1(b) and § 110.0(b)(1). If model X123 appears in the database as accepted, you can accept the appliance certification.
Step 3 — If not listed in the database
- If model X123 is not in the Energy Commission database and pool heaters are covered appliances, then per § 110.1(c) you must either default to the mandatory efficiency levels in Part 6 or follow Commission‑approved procedures for demonstrating conformance (or require manufacturer to provide a copy of the application + acceptance letter).
Step 4 — Check pool‑specific certification features
- § 110.4(a) requires the manufacturer to certify features such as an accessible on‑off switch and instruction plate, and that efficiency requirements are met per § 110.1 if appliance standards apply. Confirm those features are listed in the manufacturer’s declaration or product label and that the device is certified in a Commission‑approved directory or has a Commission‑approved label.
Step 5 — Final acceptance
- Accept the unit for installation only if one of the four confirmation methods in § 110.0(b)(3) verifies the certification (e.g., Energy Commission database entry or an acceptance letter). If the unit is certified and listed, no additional mandatory independent testing by the enforcing agency is required.
Numeric summary:
- If model X123 is in the Energy Commission database → accept (meets § 110.1(b))
- If model X123 is NOT listed and no approved field protocol exists → require manufacturer declaration or default to mandatory efficiencies per § 110.1(c) and § 110.0(b)(2).
Related provisions
- § 110.0 — Systems and equipment — general manufacturer certification and confirmation methods.
- § 110.1 — Mandatory requirements for appliances; verification via Energy Commission database and exceptions.
- § 110.2 — Manufacturer certification required for listed space‑conditioning equipment (efficiency tables and testing).
- § 110.4 — Pool and spa systems — manufacturer certification and required features like on‑off switch and instructions.
- § 110.6 — Fenestration products and exterior doors — manufactured products must be certified; field‑fabricated items excluded.
- § 110.11 — Electrical power distribution equipment — manufacturer certification required for equipment listed in that section.
- § 110.12 — Demand management / OpenADR certification requirements for demand response controls.
Code references
Grounded in the retrieved California Energy Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:
§ 100.1 High relevance — show source text
36 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS
FIGURE 100.1-A CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ZONES
Climate Zones for Residential and Nonresidential Occupancies
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 37
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
38 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
2 ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE
MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
SECTION 110.0—SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT—GENERAL
Sections 110.1 through 110.12 specify requirements for manufacturing, construction and installation of certain systems, equipment, appliances and building components that are installed in buildings within the scope of Section 100.0(a).
Note: The requirements of Sections 110.0 through 110.12 apply to newly constructed buildings. Sections 141.0 and 150.2 specify which requirements of Sections 110.1 through 110.12 also apply to additions and alterations to existing buildings.
(a) General Requirements. Systems, equipment, appliances and building components shall only be installed in a building within the scope of Section 100.0(a) regulated by Part 6 only if:
- The manufacturer has certified that the system, equipment, appliances or building component complies with the applicable manufacturing provisions of Sections 110.1 through 110.12; and
- The system, equipment, appliance or building component complies with all applicable installation provisions of Sections 110.1 through 110.12.
(b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.
- 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
- 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
- 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.
§ 25218.5 High relevance — show source text
(b) Certification Requirements for Manufactured Systems, Equipment, Appliances and Building Components.
- 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
- 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
- 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
, 25402.8, 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:
- 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
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- 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:
- 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
- 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
§ 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:
- 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
- An equivalent directory published by a federal agency; or
- 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:
- 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
- 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
- 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
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
- 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
, 25402.8, 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:
- 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
- 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
§ 110.10 High relevance — show source text
(d) Documentation. A copy of the construction documents or a comparable document indicating the information from Sections 110.10(b) through 110.10(c) shall be provided to the occupant.
(e) Main electrical service panel.
- The main electrical service panel shall have a minimum busbar rating of 200 amps.
- The main electrical service panel shall have a reserved space to allow for the installation of a double pole circuit breaker for a future solar electric installation. The reserved space shall be permanently marked as “For Future Solar Electric”.
Note: Authority: Sections 25213, 25218, 25218.5, 25402, 25402.1, and 25605, Public Resources Code. Reference: Sections 25007, 25008, 25218.5, 25310, 25402, 25402.1, 25402.4, 25402.8, 25605, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 110.11—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM
Certification by Manufacturers. Any electrical power distribution system equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacture has certified to the Commission that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.
62 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
(a) Low-voltage dry-type distribution transformer shall be certified by the Manufacturer as required by the Title 20 Appliance Efficiency Regulations.
EXCEPTION to Section 110.11(a):
autotransformer;
drive (isolation) transformer;
grounding transformer;
machine-tool (control) transformer;
nonventilated transformer;
rectifier transformer;
regulating transformer;
sealed transformer;
special-impedance transformer;
testing transformer;
transformer with tap range of 20 percent or more;
uninterruptible power supply transformer; or
welding transformer.
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, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 110.12 — MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR DEMAND MANAGEMENT
Buildings, other than healthcare facilities, that install or are required to install demand responsive controls shall comply with the applicable demand responsive control requirements of Sections 110.12(a) through 110.12(e). (a) Demand responsive controls.
- All demand responsive controls shall be either: A. A certified OpenADR 2.0a or OpenADR 2.0b Virtual End Node (VEN), as specified under Clause 11, Conformance, in the applicable OpenADR 2.0 Specification; or a certified Baseline Profile OpenADR 3.0 Virtual End Node; or
§ 25218.5 High relevance — show source text
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, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 110.4—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR POOL AND SPA SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT
(a) Certification by manufacturers. Any pool theater for a pool, spa, or a pool and spa combination shall be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the system or equipment has all of the following:
Efficiency. Equipment subject to State or federal appliance efficiency standards shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 110.1; and
On-off switch. A readily accessible on-off switch, mounted on the outside of the heater that allows shutting off the heater without adjusting the thermostat setting; and
Instructions. A permanent, easily readable and weatherproof plate or card that provides the energy efficiency rating and instruction for the energy efficient operation of the pool and/or spa heater; and
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 53
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
(b) Installation. Any pool and/or spa system or equipment shall meet the following requirements:
- Heating equipment. Equipment installed to heat water for pools and/or spas shall be selected from equipment meeting the standards shown in Table 110.4-A.
TABLE 110.4-A—HEATING EQUIPMENT STANDARDS Col2 HEATING ENERGY SOURCE STANDARD Electric Resistance UL 1261 Gas-fired ANSI Z21.56/CSA 4.7a Heat Pump AHRI 1160 and one of the following: CSA C22.2 No. 236, UL 1995, or UL/CSA 60335-2-40 Solar ICC/APSP 902/SRCC 400 for solar pool heaters, ICC 901/SRCC 100 for solar collectors - Piping. At least 18 inches of horizontal or vertical pipe shall be installed between the filter and the heater or dedicated suction and return lines, or built-in or built-up connections shall be installed to allow for the future addition of solar heating equipment;
- Covers. Outdoor pools and/or spa with electric or gas heating equipment shall be installed with a pool cover.
- Directional inlets and time switches for pools. If the system or equipment is for a pool: i. The pool shall have directional inlets that adequately mix the pool water; and ii. A time switch or similar control mechanism shall be permanently installed as part of a pool water circulation control system that will allow all pumps to be set or programmed to run only during off-peak electric demand period, and for the minimum time necessary to maintain the water in the condition required by applicable public health standards.
(c) Heating source sizing. Heating systems or equipment for pools and/or spas shall meet one of the sizing requirements 1 through 5 below: 1.
§ 430.27 High relevance — show source text
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
- 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
, 25402.8, 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:
- 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
- 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
- Where equipment serves more than one function, it shall comply with the efficiency standards applicable to each function; and
- 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. Exception 1 to Section 110.2(a): Water-cooled centrifugal water-chilling packages that are not designed for operation at ANSI/AHRI Standard 550/590 test conditions of 44°F leaving chilled water temperature and 85°F entering condenser water temperature with 3 gallons per minute per ton condenser water flow shall have a maximum full load kW/ton and NPLV ratings adjusted using the following equation: Adjusted maximum full-load kW/ton rating = (full- load kW/ton from Table 110.2-D)/ K adj Adjusted maximum NPLV rating = (IPLV from Table 110.2-D)/ K adj
Where:
K adj = (A) × (B) A = 0.00000014592 × (LIFT) [4] – 0.0000346496 × (LIFT) [3] + 0.00314196 × (LIFT) [2] – 0.147199 × (LIFT) + 3.9302
LIFT = L vg Cond – L vg Evap (°F) L vg Cond = Full-load leaving condenser fluid temperature (°F) L vg Evap = Full-load leaving evaporator fluid temperature (°F) B = (0.0015 × L vg Evap) + 0.934 The adjusted full-load and NPLV values are only applicable for centrifugal chillers meeting all of the following full-load design
§ 17A-19 Medium relevance — show source text
0 by this code._ 9. Emergency generators up to 25 kilowatts. 10. Equipment and components used for clinical trials only. 11. Elevator machines and governors. 12. Temporary and Interim equipment.
For Exceptions 5, 6 and 7:
Exempt subcomponents, which are an integral part of equipment that require special seismic certification, shall be tested attached to the equipment. Exempt subcomponents shall be permitted to be substituted without testing, provided that the substituted subcomponent relative to the certified subcomponent has: 1. Similar configuration with equivalent function. 2. Supports and attachments of similar configuration with equivalent strength and stiffness.
3. Same attachment location.
2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 17A-19
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
�
�
SPECIAL INSPECTIONS AND TESTS
4. Changes in dimensions, center of gravity and mass, of not more than 10 percent of the certified subcomponent and still meets Exception 5, 6 or 7. 5. Manufacturing process with ISO 9001 certification.
1705 A .14.4 Seismic isolation and damping systems. Seismic isolation and damping systems in structures assigned to Seismic Design Category D, E or F shall be tested in accordance with Section 17.8 and 18.6 of ASCE 7.
Prototype and production testing and associated acceptance criteria for isolator units and damping devices shall be subject to preapproval by the building official. Testing exemption for similar units shall require approval by the building official.
[BF] 1705 A .15 Sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM). Special inspections and tests of sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM) applied to floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members shall be performed in accordance with Sections 1705 A .15.1 through 1705 A .15.6. Special inspections shall be based on the fire-resistance design as designated in the approved construction documents. The tests set forth in this section shall be based on samplings from specific floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members. Special inspections and tests shall be performed during construction with an additional visual inspection after the rough installation of electrical, automatic sprinkler systems, mechanical and plumbing systems and suspension systems for ceilings, and before concealment where applicable. The required sample size shall not exceed 110 percent of that specified by the referenced standards in Sections 1705 A .15.4.1 through 1705 A .15.4.9.
[BF] 1705 A .15.1 Physical and visual tests. The special inspections and tests shall include the following to demonstrate compliance with the listing and the fire-resistance rating:
Condition of substrates.
Thickness of application.
Density in pounds per cubic foot (kg/m [3] ).
Bond strength adhesion/cohesion.
Condition of finished application.
[BF] 1705 A .15.2 Structural member surface conditions. The surfaces shall be prepared in accordance with the approved fireresistance design and the written instructions of approved manufacturers. The prepared surface of structural members to be sprayed shall be inspected by the special inspector before the application of the SFRM.
§ 2308.10 Medium relevance — show source text
walls 2308.10 Calculated fire resistance 722.6 Ceiling framing 2308.11 Connectors and fasteners 2304.10,
2308.5
Contacting concrete, masonry or earth 2304.12.1.3, 2304.12.1.4, 2304.12.2.1, 2304.12.2.2, 2304.12.2.6 Cross-laminated timber 2301.2, 2303.1, 2303.1.4, 2304.11.2.1, 2304.11.3.1, 2304.11.4.1 Cutting, notching and boring of dimensional wood framing 2308.6 Decay, protection against 2304.12 Diaphragms 2305.1, 2305.2, 2306.2 Dimensions 2301.2 Draftstopping 718.3, 718.4 End-jointed lumber 2303.1.1.2 Fiberboard 2303.1.6, Table 2306.3(2) Fireblocking 718.2 Fire-retardant treated 2303.2 Floor and roof framing (see Floor Construction, Wood) 2304.4 Floor sheathing 2304.8 Foundation 1807.1.4, 2304.10.6.2, 2304.12.1.2, 2308.10.8.1, 2308.7 Grade, lumber 2303.1.1
INDEX-22 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
INDEX
Hardboard 2303.1.7 Heavy timber construction 602.4, 2304.11
Hurricane shutters 1609.2
I-joist 2303.1.2 Inspection, special 1705.12.1, 1705.13.2, 1705.5 Lateral force-resisting systems 2305 Light-frame construction, conventional 2308 Load and resistance factor design 2307
Moisture content 2303.1.9.2, 2303.2.9, 2303.7, 2304.9.5.1, Table 2305.2(1), Table 2305.2(2) Nails and staples 2303.6 Plywood, hardwood 2303.3 Preservative treated 1402.6, 1402.9,
2303.1.9 Roof framing (see Roof Construction, Wood)
2304.4 Roof sheathing 2304.8 Seismic provisions 2305, 2306, 2308.10.10, 2308.10.6, 2308.10.8 Shear walls 2305, 2306.3 Standards and quality, minimum 2303 Structural panels 2303.1.5 Supporting concrete or masonry 2304.13 Termite, protection against 2304.12 Trusses 2303.4
Veneer Chapter 14 Wall framing (see Wall, Wood Construction)
2304.3 Wall sheathing, exterior 2304.6 Wood Frame Construction Manual
§ 1705.14.3.1 Medium relevance — show source text
1705.14.3.1 Special seismic certification. [OSHPD 1R, 2 & 5] Special seismic certification shall be required in accordance with Section 1705A.14.3. for all of the following: 1. Life-safety components, such as emergency and standby power systems, mechanical smoke removal systems and fire sprinkler/fire protection systems. 2. Medical, mechanical and electrical equipment and components required for life support for patients. 3. On-site power resources (PVs, batteries, fuel cells, etc.) provided to replace, in whole or in part, the public or private elec- tric utility service. 4. [OSHPD 2] Alternate power systems including:
a. Generators.
b. UPS and batteries.
c. Renewable electrical generation and control equipment. d. Panelboards as defined in the California Electrical Code (CEC) Article 100.
e. Manual and automatic transfer switches.
f. Switchgear and switchboards.
1705.14.4 Seismic isolation systems. Seismic isolation systems in seismically isolated structures assigned to Seismic Design Category B, C, D, E or F shall be tested in accordance with Section 17.8 of ASCE 7.
[BF] 1705.15 Sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM). Special inspections and tests of sprayed fire-resistive materials (SFRM) applied to floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members shall be performed in accordance with Sections 1705.15.1 through 1705.15.6. Special inspections shall be based on the fire-resistance design as designated in the approved construction documents. The tests set forth in this section shall be based on samplings from specific floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members. Special inspections and tests shall be performed during construction with an additional visual inspection after the rough installation of electrical, automatic sprinkler systems, mechanical and plumbing systems and suspension systems for ceilings, and before concealment where applicable. The required sample size shall not exceed 110 percent of that specified by the referenced standards in Sections 1705.15.4.1 through 1705.15.4.9.
[BF] 1705.15.1 Physical and visual tests. The special inspections and tests shall include the following to demonstrate compliance with the listing and the fire-resistance rating:
Condition of substrates.
Thickness of application.
Density in pounds per cubic foot (kg/m [3] ).
Bond strength adhesion/cohesion.
Condition of finished application.
[BF] 1705.15.2 Structural member surface conditions. The surfaces shall be prepared in accordance with the approved fireresistance design and the written instructions of approved manufacturers. The prepared surface of structural members to be sprayed shall be inspected by the special inspector before the application of the SFRM.
[BF] 1705.15.3 Application. The substrate shall have a minimum ambient temperature before and after application as specified in the written instructions of approved manufacturers. The area for application shall be ventilated during and after application as required by the written instructions of approved manufacturers.
[BF] 1705.15.4 Thickness. Not more than 10 percent of the thickness measurements of the SFRM applied to floor, roof and wall assemblies and structural members shall be less than the thickness required by the approved fire-resistance design, and none shall be less than the minimum allowable thickness required by Section 1705.15.4.1.
§ 110.3 Medium relevance — show source text
For HPWH installations with ducts, the following requirements shall be met: a. The space joined to the installation space via ducts shall meet the minimum volume of Section 110.3(c)7B2 above, minus the volume of the HPWH installation space; and b. All duct connections and building penetrations shall be sealed; and c. Exhaust air ducts and all ducts which cross pressure boundaries shall be insulated to minimum of R-6; and
d. Where only the HPWH inlet or outlet is ducted, installation space shall include permanent openings that consist of a single layer of fixed flat slat louvers or grilles in the bottom half of the room, and/or a door undercut. With a ducted inlet, the minimum NFA shall be equal to the cross-sectional area of the duct. With a ducted exhaust, the minimum NFA shall be the larger of 20 square inches or the minimum NFA provided by the manufacturer for this method; and e. Where the inlet and outlet ducts both terminate within the same pressure boundary, airflow from the termination points shall be diverted away from each other. Note: Ducting only the inlet or the exhaust across the pressure boundary could interfere with balanced ventilation systems. This should be considered when specifying HPWH location and ventilation method.
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, 25402.8, and 25943, Public Resources Code.
SECTION 110.4—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR POOL AND SPA SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT
(a) Certification by manufacturers. Any pool theater for a pool, spa, or a pool and spa combination shall be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the system or equipment has all of the following:
Efficiency. Equipment subject to State or federal appliance efficiency standards shall comply with the applicable provisions of Section 110.1; and
On-off switch. A readily accessible on-off switch, mounted on the outside of the heater that allows shutting off the heater without adjusting the thermostat setting; and
Instructions. A permanent, easily readable and weatherproof plate or card that provides the energy efficiency rating and instruction for the energy efficient operation of the pool and/or spa heater; and
2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 53
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
ALL OCCUPANCIES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE MANUFACTURE, CONSTRUCTION AND INSTALLATION OF SYSTEMS, EQUIPMENT AND BUILDING COMPONENTS
(b) Installation. Any pool and/or spa system or equipment shall meet the following requirements:
- Heating equipment. Equipment installed to heat water for pools and/or spas shall be selected from equipment meeting the standards shown in Table 110.4-A.
§ 31F-9 Medium relevance — show source text
on 3_
bands
Measurement:
Remaining
diameter|Every 50 LF
Visual:
Removal of
marine
growth in 1 SF
areas|10%
Visual:
Removal of
marine
growth in 3
bands|As necessary| |III|Sample
Size:
Method:|5%
Remaining
thickness
measurement;
electrical
potential
measurement;
corrosion
profiling as
necessary|Every 200 LF
Remaining
thickness
measurement;
electrical
potential
measurement;
corrosion
profiling as
necessary|0%
N/A|0%
N/A|5%
Internal marine
borer
infestation
evaluation|Every 100 LF
Internal
marine borer
infestation
evaluation|0%|Sonar
imaging as
necessary| |1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|1.
The minimum inspection sampling size for small structures shall include at least two components.
LF = Linear Feet; SF = Square Feet; N/A = Not Applicable|2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE 31F-9
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
MARINE OIL TERMINALS
3102F.3.5.2 Special inspection considerations.
§ 5.2.3.4 Medium relevance — show source text
5.2.3.4_|||X||||X|||||||||||||||||| |907.5.2.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.5.2.5|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.1||||X|X|||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4.1.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.4.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.6|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |907.6.6.4|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |908.2|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.5.3|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.5.3.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.12.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.13.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.16|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.16.1|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.18.9|||X|||||||||||||||||||||| |909.20|||X||||||||||||||||||||||
9-4 2025 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE
on Jul 18, 2025 11:14 AM (CDT) THEREUNDER.
CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
CHAPTER 9 – FIRE PROTECTION AND LIFE SAFETY SYSTEMS—continued
Frequently asked questions
When does a manufacturer declaration have to be under penalty of perjury?
For systems/equipment not covered by Title 20 § 1601 but required to be certified by Part 6, the manufacturer’s certification must be a declaration executed under penalty of perjury per § 110.0(b)(2).
Can an inspector rely on a manufacturer’s label alone?
Yes — but only if the label is a Commission‑approved label or one of the other allowed confirmation methods listed in § 110.0(b)(3) is used (database, acceptance letter, or publisher confirmation).
If an appliance is not in the CEC database, can it still be installed?
Possibly — if one of the alternative procedures in § 110.1(c) is followed (default to mandatory levels, Commission‑approved procedures, or approved field verification protocol). Otherwise, the appliance must not be installed until certification is shown.
Do builders have to retest certified devices?
No. Part 6 explicitly states that builders, designers, owners, operators, or enforcing agencies are not required to test certified devices to determine compliance with minimum specifications adopted by the Commission (see § 110.0 note).
Are field‑fabricated windows required to have manufacturer certification?
No. Field‑fabricated fenestration products and field‑fabricated exterior doors are excluded from the manufactured product certification requirements in § 110.6(a).
More in California Energy Code
- Compliance paths, energy budgets, performance modeling and forms/software requirements
- Controls, commissioning, demand-response, sensors, and field verification/diagnostic testing
- Domestic hot water systems, efficiency, controls and installation requirements
- Electrical infrastructure, EV charging readiness, load management and demand controls
- Envelope construction, insulation, fenestration and thermal performance
- HVAC systems, ventilation rates, ducting, controls and testing
- Interior and exterior lighting power, controls and daylighting requirements
- Mandatory measures, appliance efficiency and certification requirements
- Photovoltaic requirements, BESS (battery energy storage) sizing and SARA procedures
- Reference appendices, test procedures, product certification and labeling requirements
- Scope, applicability, definitions and administrative requirements
Ask about the California Energy Code
Get cited, plain-English answers on the California Energy Code for your project — any code section, any scenario.
Start Free Trial