Title 24 · California Energy Code

What efficiency and certification requirements apply to space‑conditioning equipment (HVAC)?

Before installing HVAC equipment in California, the manufacturer must formally certify it meets the Energy Code’s efficiency and test‑method requirements shown in Tables 110.2‑A through 110.2‑L (and follow special rules, such as the K_adj adjustment for certain chillers).

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Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The California Energy Code requires that manufacturers certify any space‑conditioning equipment they supply as compliant before it may be installed. Equipment must meet the applicable efficiency requirements listed in Tables 110.2‑A through 110.2‑L and comply with any listed test methods or multiple standards that apply, per § 110.2. The section also contains specific adjustment rules and exceptions for some equipment types (for example, water‑cooled centrifugal chillers). § 110.2 sets the certification and efficiency rules and explains how to interpret the tables and test methods.

The single most important rule: equipment may only be installed if the manufacturer has certified it meets the efficiency and test‑method requirements set out in § 110.2 and the corresponding Tables 110.2‑A through 110.2‑L.

Requirements in detail

Core duties (plain)

  • Manufacturer certification: Any space‑conditioning equipment listed in the section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified to the Commission that the equipment complies with all applicable requirements. § 110.2 requires this certification.
  • Meet table values: Equipment must meet the efficiency metrics shown in Tables 110.2‑A through 110.2‑L; where multiple standards or test procedures are listed, the equipment must satisfy each listed standard/test. § 110.2(a).
  • Multi‑function equipment: Where equipment serves more than one function (for example, heating and cooling, or space heating and water heating), it must comply with the requirements for each function. § 110.2(a)3.
  • Capacity rating context: When a requirement is expressed at “maximum rated capacity” or “minimum rated capacity,” that rating is the capacity allowed by the controls during steady‑state operation (i.e., what the controls permit in normal operation). § 110.2(a)4.

Decision‑relevant summary table

Decision factor What matters for compliance Code Reference
Who must certify Manufacturer must certify equipment complies with Part 6 requirements before installation § 110.2
Where are numeric efficiency levels found In Tables 110.2‑A → 110.2‑L (unitary A/C, heat pumps, furnaces, chillers, boilers, DOAS, ERV/HRV, etc.) Tables 110.2‑A — 110.2‑L cited by § 110.2
Multiple standards/test methods If the table lists more than one standard or test method, equipment must meet each listed standard/test § 110.2(a)1–2
Equipment serving multiple functions Must meet efficiency rules for each function it performs § 110.2(a)3
Special adjustment for water‑cooled centrifugal chillers Use the K_adj polynomial adjustment and apply it to Table 110.2‑D values to derive adjusted full‑load kW/ton and adjusted NPLV Exception 1 to § 110.2(a)
Labeling / directory verification Certification status is confirmed by the Commission’s directory or approved label/application materials (see related administrative rules) § 110.1 and certification administrative rules
Reference test standards The tables reference AHRI/ANSI test standards (e.g., AHRI 340/360, 210/240, ANSI/AHRI 550/590, etc.) for calculating and verifying values Referenced standards listed in the code’s reference section

Notes:

  • The tables contain the specific numeric efficiency thresholds (EER, SEER, HSPF, AFUE, COP, kW/ton, IPLV/NPLV, fan efficacy, etc.). The code text in § 110.2 directs users to those tables for the numbers and to the referenced test standards for the test procedures.

Test procedure & verification points

  • If a table entry lists multiple test procedures, the unit must comply when tested by each listed method — compliance is not satisfied by only one of the listed tests. § 110.2(a)2.
  • Where a federal or other certification program already exists and provides verification and challenge provisions, the code expects reliance on such programs for verified ratings (see related verification guidance in the Mechanical Code/appendices).

Exceptions & special cases

  • Water‑cooled centrifugal chillers not designed for ANSI/AHRI Standard 550/590 rating conditions (44°F LWT / 85°F entering condenser water / 3 gpm/ton) may use an adjusted maximum full‑load kW/ton and adjusted NPLV computed with a K_adj factor. The code supplies the polynomial for K_adj and the formulas for adjusted ratings in Exception 1 to § 110.2(a).
  • Some equipment types are covered by other administrative certification regimes (for appliances, see Title 20 appliance certification requirements) — when appliance regs apply, the manufacturer must certify to the Energy Commission under the Title 20 appliance program. § 110.1 cross‑references these certification routes.
  • If a product is covered by a federal test procedure waiver that does not specify an alternative, the code flags that situation and provides direction for determining compliance; consult the specific waiver and the Energy Commission for guidance. § 110.2 notes this situation.

Common mistakes

  • Relying on a single test result when the table lists multiple test methods — the code requires compliance under each listed method (§ 110.2(a)2).
  • Installing equipment before the manufacturer’s certification is accepted/recorded by the Commission or listed in the Commission‑approved directory — installation is limited to certified devices only. § 110.2 and § 110.1 administrative rules.
  • Treating nameplate “maximum capacity” as the required rating when controls limit steady‑state capacity — the code ties “maximum/minimum rated capacity” to what is provided/allowed by controls during steady‑state operation (§ 110.2(a)4).
  • Forgetting that multi‑function equipment must meet each applicable table entry (e.g., a heat pump providing water heating and space heating must meet both sets of requirements). § 110.2(a)3.

Worked example — water‑cooled centrifugal chiller adjustment

Situation: The applicable numeric values in Table 110.2‑D give a full‑load rating of 0.5600 kW/ton and an IPLV of 0.5000 kW/ton at standard (AHRI) test conditions. The chiller is not designed for the AHRI 550/590 rating conditions, so Exception 1 to § 110.2(a) requires adjusting the Table 110.2‑D values using K_adj.

Steps:

  1. Compute LIFT = L_vg_Cond − L_vg_Evap (°F) and plug into the polynomial A = 0.00000014592×(LIFT)^4 − 0.0000346496×(LIFT)^3 + 0.00314196×(LIFT)^2 − 0.147199×(LIFT) + 3.9302. Then B = (0.0015 × L_vg_Evap) + 0.934. K_adj = A × B. (This formula is given in Exception 1 to § 110.2(a).)
  2. Apply K_adj to the table values:
    • Adjusted maximum full‑load kW/ton = (full‑load kW/ton from Table 110.2‑D) ÷ K_adj.
    • Adjusted maximum NPLV = (IPLV from Table 110.2‑D) ÷ K_adj. (Exception 1 to § 110.2(a)).
  3. Example numeric result (from a worked illustration in the code commentary): if K_adj calculates to 1.02024, then:
    • Adjusted full‑load kW/ton = 0.5600 ÷ 1.02024 = 0.5489 kW/ton.
    • Adjusted IPLV = 0.5000 ÷ 1.02024 = 0.4901 kW/ton. These example results appear in the code’s example material.

(Use the actual Table 110.2‑D numeric entries for your equipment and compute LIFT from your design temperatures to reproduce the adjustment.)

Related provisions

  • § 110.1 — Appliance certification, verification sources, and when Title 20 appliance regs apply.
  • § 100.1 — Definitions and rules of construction that affect interpretation of capacity and other terms used in Part 6.
  • Section 140.4 — System‑level prescriptive/performance requirements (fan power, DOAS, VAV/heat pump system types) that interact with equipment selection.
  • Mechanical Code / Appendix verification guidance (verification, labeling, and third‑party certification expectations). See the Mechanical Code appendix references for verification and labeling approaches.
  • Appliance Efficiency Regulations (Title 20) — for appliances and certain equipment covered by Title 20 certification programs.

Code references

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

  • § 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

    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
    3. Where equipment serves more than one function, it shall comply with the efficiency standards 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. 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

  • § 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

    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

    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
  • § 207.1 High relevance — show source text

    Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure.|1. Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure.|1. Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure.|

    SECTION A6.207 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—HVAC DESIGN, EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION

    A6.207.1 Space-conditioning equipment certification by manufacturers. Any space-conditioning equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.

    A6.207.1.1 Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, subject to the following:

    1. If more than one standard is listed for any equipment in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, the equipment shall meet all the applicable standards that are listed; and
    2. If more than one test method is listed in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, 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.

    Exception: Water-cooled centrifugal water-chilling packages that are not designed for operation at ARI Standard 550 test conditions of 44°F leaving chilled water temperature and 85°F entering condenser water temperature shall have a minimum full load COP rating as shown in Tables A6.207.1-H, A6.207.1-I and A6.207.1-J and a minimum NPLV rating as shown in Tables A6.207.1-K, A6.207.1-L and A6.207.1-M. The table values are only applicable over the following full load design ranges:

    Leaving Chiller Water Temperature 40 to 48°F Entering Condenser Water Temperature 75 to 85°F Condensing Water Temperature Rise 5 to 15°F

    APPENDIX A6.1-8 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]

    TABLE A6.207.1-A— ELECTRICALLY OPERATED UNITARY AIR CONDITIONERS AND CONDENSING UNITS—MINIMUM EFFICIENCY
    REQUIREMENTS    		 Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5
    EQUIPMENT TYPE SIZE CATEGORY EFFICIENCY1 EFFICIENCY1 TEST PROCEDURE
    EQUIPMENT TYPE SIZE CATEGORY Before 1/1/2010 After 1/1/2010 After 1/1/2010
    Air conditioners,
    Air cooled    		 ≥ 65,000 Btu/h and
    < 135,000 Btu/h
    		 10.3 EER2 11.2 EER2 ARI 340/360
    Air conditioners,
  • § 205.3.9.4.2 High relevance — show source text

    A6.205.3.9.4.2 Meet the minimum performance requirements listed in Table A6.205.3-B or the minimum performance requirements of ASTM C836, D3468, D6083 or D6694, whichever are appropriate to the coating material.

    Exceptions:

    1. Aluminum-pigmented asphalt roof coatings shall meet the requirements of ASTM D2824 or ASTM D6848 and be installed as specified by ASTM D3805.
    2. Cement-based roof coatings shall contain a minimum of 20 percent cement and shall meet the requirements of ASTM C1583, ASTM D822 and ASTM D5870.
    TABLE A6.205.3-B—MINIMUM PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR LIQUID APPLIED ROOF COATINGS Col2 Col3
    PHYSICAL PROPERTY ASTM TEST PROCEDURE REQUIREMENT
    Initial percent elongation (break) D2370 Minimum 200 percent 73ºF (23ºC)
    Initial percent elongation (break)
    OR
    Initial flexibility    		 D2370
    D522, Test B    		 Minimum 60 percent 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Minimum pass 1″ mandrel 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Initial tensile strength (maximum stress) D2370 Minimum 100 psi (1.38 Mpa) 73ºF (23ºC)
    Initial tensile strength (maximum stress)
    OR
    Initial flexibility    		 D2370
    D522, Test B    		 Minimum 200 psi (2.76 Mpa) 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Minimum pass 1″ mandrel 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Final percent elongation (break) after accelerated weathering 1000 h D2370 Minimum 100 percent 73ºF (23ºC)
    Final percent elongation (break) after accelerated weathering 1000 h
    OR
    Flexibility after accelerated weathering 1000 h    		 D2370 Minimum 40 percent 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Minimum pass 1″ mandrel 0ºF (-18ºC)
    Permeance D1653 Maximum 50 perms
    Accelerated weathering 1000 h D4798 No cracking or checking1
    1. Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure. 1. Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure. 1. Any cracking or checking visible to the eye fails the test procedure.

    SECTION A6.207 [OSHPD 1, 2 & 4]—HVAC DESIGN, EQUIPMENT AND INSTALLATION

    A6.207.1 Space-conditioning equipment certification by manufacturers. Any space-conditioning equipment listed in this section may be installed only if the manufacturer has certified that the equipment complies with all the applicable requirements of this section.

    A6.207.1.1 Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, subject to the following:

    1. If more than one standard is listed for any equipment in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, the equipment shall meet all the applicable standards that are listed; and
    2. If more than one test method is listed in Tables A6.207.1-A through A6.207.1-M, the equipment shall comply with the applicable standard when tested with each test method; and
  • § 1-19 High relevance — show source text

    The leakage rate shall be confirmed through field verification and diagnostic testing, in accordance with procedures set forth in the Reference Nonresidential Appendix NA1 of the California Energy Commission 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Stan- dards for Residential and Nonresidential Buildings.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A6.1-19

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

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

    A6.207.2.6 Variable air volume control for single zone systems. Effective January 1, 2012, all unitary air conditioning equipment and air-handling units with mechanical cooling capacity at ARI conditions greater than or equal to 110,000 Btu/hr that serve single zones shall be designed for variable supply air volume with their supply fans controlled by two-speed motors, variable speed drives or equipment that has been demonstrated to the Executive Director to use no more energy. The supply fan controls shall modulate down to a minimum of [2] / 3 of the full fan speed or lower at low cooling demand.

    A6.207.3 Service water-heating systems and equipment.

    A6.207.3.1 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.

    A6.207.3.1.1 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 2, Chapter 9 of the ASHRAE Handbook, HVAC Applications Volume.

    A6.207.3.2 Efficiency. Equipment shall meet the applicable requirements of the Appliance Efficiency Regulations as required by Section A6.210.1, 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.

    A6.207.3.3 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.

    A6.207.3.3.1 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.

    A6.207.3.3.2 Temperature controls for public lavatories. The controls shall limit the outlet temperature to 110°F.

  • § 1.02024 High relevance — show source text

    Kadj = A x B = 1.02024 FLajd = 0.5600/1.02024 = 0.5489 kW/ton PLVadj = 0.5000/1.02024 = 0.4901 kW/ton

    [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.2.1]

    For SI units: 1 metric ton = 1000 kg, 1000 British thermal units per

    hour = 0.293 kW, 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, °C = (°F-32)/1.8

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 421

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

    APPENDIX E

    E 503.4.1.1 Positive Displacement (air- and water-cooled) Chilling Packages. Equipment with an evaporator leaving fluid temperature higher than 32.00°F (0.00°C) and water-cooled positive displacement chilling packages with a condenser leaving fluid temperature below 115.00°F (46.11°C) shall show compliance with Table E 503.7.1(3) when tested or certified with water at standard rating conditions, in accordance with the referenced test procedure. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.2.2]

    E 503.4.2 Equipment not Listed. Equipment not listed in the tables referenced in Section E 503.4 and Section E 503.4.1 shall be permitted to be used. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.4]

    E 503.4.3 Verification of Equipment Efficiencies. Equipment efficiency information supplied by manufacturers shall be verified in accordance with one of the following:

    (1) Equipment covered under EPACT shall be in accordance with U.S. Department of Energy certification requirements.

    (2) Where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, then the product shall be listed in the certification program.

    (3) Where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, but the product is not listed in the existing certification program, the ratings shall be verified by an independent laboratory test report.

    (4) Where no certification program exists for a covered product, the equipment efficiency ratings shall be supported by data furnished by the manufacturer.

    (5) Where components such as indoor or outdoor coils from different manufacturers are used, the system designer shall specify component efficiencies whose combined efficiency is in accordance with the minimum equipment efficiency requirements in Section E 503.4 through Section E 503.4.4.1. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.5]

    E 503.4.4 Mechanical Equipment Labeling. Mechanical equipment that is not covered by the U.S. National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA) of 1987 shall carry a permanent label installed by the manufacturer stating that the equipment is in accordance with the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.6.1]

  • § 140.4 High relevance — show source text

    Indoor fans shall meet the requirements of Section 140.4(a)3D. The DOAS shall comply with Section 140.4(a)3E. ii. The space-conditioning system shall be four-pipe fan coil (FPFC) terminal units with a DOAS providing ventilation to all zones served by the space-conditioning system. The FPFC hot water coils shall be supplied by an airto-water heat pump (AWHP) space-heating hot water loop that complies with Section 140.4(a)3C. Indoor fans shall meet the requirements of Section 140.4(a)3D. The DOAS shall comply with Section 140.4(a)3E. iii. For office buildings in all climate zones and school buildings in Climate Zones 2, 4 and 8 through 16, the spaceconditioning system shall be a variable air volume (VAV) system that utilizes heating supplied through a hot water loop served by an AWHP that complies with Section 140.4(a)3C and the following: a. For office buildings: I. The portion of perimeter zone terminal unit heating capacity utilizing parallel fan-powered boxes complying with Section 140.4(a)3E shall be:

    1. One hundred percent in Climate Zones 1 through 6 and 16.
    2. Twenty-five percent in Climate Zones 7 through 15. II. Ventilation systems in Climate Zones 1, 3, and 5 shall be equipped with a heat recovery system in compliance with Section 140.4(q). III. The maximum allowed fan power in Climate Zones 3 and 5 shall be 15 percent lower than specified by Section 140.4(c)1. b. For school buildings: I. All perimeter zone terminal units shall be parallel fan-powered boxes complying with Section 140.4(a)3E.

    II. Ventilation systems in Climate Zones 2, 4, and 11 through 16 shall be equipped with a heat recovery system in compliance with Section 140.4(q). III. The maximum allowed fan power in Climate Zone 2 shall be 15 percent lower than specified by Section 140.4(c)1. IV. The design leaving water temperature of the heating loop shall be no greater than 120°F in Climate Zone 2.

    iv. The space-conditioning system shall be a dual fan, dual duct (DFDD) system with hot and cold decks each served by separate fan systems, and: a. When required by Section 140.4(e), economizers shall be located on the cold deck, b. The hot deck shall supply 100 percent return air, except outdoor air may be supplied as required to supplement the cold deck to maintain the design minimum outdoor air rate, c. The hot deck heating source shall be a heat pump, and

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 115

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    d. The DFDD and DFDD terminal unit control sequence shall comply with ASHRAE Guideline 36. v. A space-conditioning system determined by the Executive Director to use no more energy than the systems specified in Section 140.4(a)3.

    B. Reserved.

    C. **AWHP space-heating hot water loop.

  • § 503.4.3 High relevance — show source text

    E 503.4.3 Verification of Equipment Efficiencies. Equipment efficiency information supplied by manufacturers shall be verified in accordance with one of the following:

    (1) Equipment covered under EPACT shall be in accordance with U.S. Department of Energy certification requirements.

    (2) Where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, then the product shall be listed in the certification program.

    (3) Where a certification program exists for a covered product, and it includes provisions for verification and challenge of equipment efficiency ratings, but the product is not listed in the existing certification program, the ratings shall be verified by an independent laboratory test report.

    (4) Where no certification program exists for a covered product, the equipment efficiency ratings shall be supported by data furnished by the manufacturer.

    (5) Where components such as indoor or outdoor coils from different manufacturers are used, the system designer shall specify component efficiencies whose combined efficiency is in accordance with the minimum equipment efficiency requirements in Section E 503.4 through Section E 503.4.4.1. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.5]

    E 503.4.4 Mechanical Equipment Labeling. Mechanical equipment that is not covered by the U.S. National Appliance Energy Conservation Act (NAECA) of 1987 shall carry a permanent label installed by the manufacturer stating that the equipment is in accordance with the requirements of ASHRAE 90.1. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.6.1]

    E 503.4.4.1 Packaged Terminal Air Condi- tioners. Nonstandard-size packaged terminal air conditioners and heat pumps with existing sleeves having an external wall opening of less than 16 inches (406 mm) high or less than 42 inches (1067 mm) wide and having a cross-sectional area less than 670 square inches (0.432 m [2] ) shall be factory labeled as follows:

    Manufactured for nonstandard-size applications only: Not to be installed in new construction projects. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.1.6.2]

    E 503.4.5 Load Calculations. Heating and cooling system design loads for the purpose of sizing systems and equipment shall be determined in accordance with ASHRAE/ACCA 183. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.2.1]

    E 503.4.5.1 Pump Head. Pump differential pressure (head) for the purpose of sizing pumps shall be determined in accordance with generally accepted engineering standards and handbooks acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. The pressure drop through each device and pipe segment in the critical circuit at design conditions shall be calculated.

    [ASHRAE 90.1:6.4.2.2]

    E 503.4.6 Zone Thermostatic Controls. The supply of heating and cooling energy to each zone shall be individually controlled by thermostatic controls responding to temperature within the zone. For the purposes of Section E 503.4.6, a dwelling unit shall be permitted to be considered a single zone.

    Exceptions: Independent perimeter systems that are designed to offset only building envelope loads shall be permitted to serve one or more zones also served by an interior system, provided that:

  • § 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
  • § 608.0 High relevance — show source text

    (3) Heating and cooling equipment in accordance with ACCA Manual S or other equivalent methods.

    E 608.0 Low VOC Solvent Cement and Primer.

    E 608.1 General. Primers and solvent cements used to join plastic pipe, and fittings shall be in accordance with Section E 608.1.1 and Section E 608.1.2.

    E 608.1.1 Solvent Cement. Solvent cement, including one-step solvent cement, shall have a volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than or equal to 65 ounces per gallon (oz/gal) (487 g/L) for CPVC cement, 68 oz/gal (509 g/L) for PVC cement, and 43 oz/gal (322 g/L) for ABS cement, as determined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement Samples, Method 316A. E 608.1.2 Primer. Primer shall have a volatile organic compound (VOC) content of less than or equal to 73 oz/gal (546 g/L), as determined by the South Coast Air Quality Management District’s Laboratory Methods of Analysis for Enforcement Samples, Method 316A.

    E 701.0 Installer Qualifications.

    E 701.1 Scope. The provisions of this section address minimum qualifications of installers of mechanical systems covered within the scope of this appendix.

    E 702.0 Qualifications.

    E 702.1 General. Where permits are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require contractors, installers, or service technicians to demonstrate competency. Where determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.

    Part I

    E 801.0 Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning Systems Commissioning. E 801.1 Applicability. The provisions of this section apply to the commissioning of commercial and institutional HVAC systems.

    E 802.0 Commissioning. E 802.1 Commissioning Requirements. HVAC commissioning shall be included in the design and construction processes of the project to verify that the HVAC systems and components meet the owner’s project requirements and in accordance with this appendix. Commissioning shall be performed in accordance with this appendix by personnel trained and certified in commissioning by a nationally recognized organization. Commissioning requirements shall include the following:

    (1) Owner’s project requirements

    (2) Basis of design

    (3) Commissioning measures shown in the construction doc uments

    (4) Commissioning plan

    (5) Functional performance

    (6) Testing

    (7) Post construction documentation and training

    (8) Commissioning report

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 479

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

    APPENDIX E

    HVAC systems and components covered by this appendix as well as process equipment and controls, and renewable energy systems shall be included in the scope of the commissioning requirements. E 802.2 Owner’s Project Requirements (OPR). The performance goals and requirements of the HVAC system shall be documented before the design phase of the project begins. This documentation shall include not less than the following:

    (1) Environmental and sustainability goals

    (2) Energy efficiency goals

    (3) Indoor environmental quality requirements

    (4) Equipment and systems performance goals

  • § 0.45 High relevance — show source text

    a. 0.45 W/cfm for gas furnace air-handling units; or b. 0.58 W/cfm for air-handling units that are not gas furnaces. iv. Balanced ventilation systems with heat/energy recovery in Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16. A balanced ventilation system with heat or energy recovery shall be used to meet Section 160.2(b)2Aivb1, and shall meet the applicable requirements of Item a or b below: a. In Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16, balanced ventilation systems serving individual dwelling units shall:

    1. Be an energy recovery ventilator (ERV) or heat recovery ventilator (HRV),
    2. Have a minimum sensible recovery efficiency of 67 percent, rated at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius), and

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    MULTIFAMILY BUILDINGS—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE COMPLIANCE APPROACHES

    1. Have a fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.6 W per cfm. These measures shall be confirmed through field verification in accordance with the procedures in RA3.7.4.4 for buildings with three habitable stories or fewer, or the procedures in NA2.2.4.1.5 for buildings with four or more habitable stories.

    b. In Climate Zones 1, 2, 4, 11–14, and 16, balanced ventilation systems serving multiple dwelling units in buildings with four or more habitable stories shall:

    1. Be an ERV or HRV,

    2. Have a minimum sensible recovery efficiency or effectiveness of 67 percent, rated at 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius),

    3. Meet the fan power requirements of Section 170.2(c)4A, and

    4. Have recovery bypass or control to directly economize with ventilation air based on outdoor air temperature limits specified in Table 170.2-G.

    These measures shall be field verified in accordance with NA7.18.4.

    v. In buildings with three habitable stories or fewer in Climate Zones 5–10 and Climate Zone 15, when a heat pump space-conditioning system is installed to meet the requirements of Section 170.2(c)3Ai, balanced ventilation systems without an ERV or HRV shall have a fan efficacy less than or equal to 0.4 W/cfm. vi. Dwelling unit ventilation system requirements. All HRV/ERV systems serving individual dwelling units shall have a fault indicator display (FID) that is manufacturer certified in compliance with the requirements in Joint Appendix JA17.4. The FID certification shall be verified by an ECC-Rater. Exception to Section 170.2(c)3B: The field verification and ECC-Provider data registry requirements of Reference Residential Appendix RA2 and RA3 are not required for multifamily dwelling units in buildings four habitable stories and greater. The installer shall certify that diagnostic testing was performed in accordance with the applicable procedures. C. HVAC system bypass ducts. Bypass ducts that deliver conditioned supply air directly to the space-conditioning system return duct airflow shall not be used. 4. Common use area space-conditioning systems. A building complies with this section by being designed with and having constructed and installed a space-conditioning system that meets the applicable requirements of Subsections A through O. A. Fan systems.

  • § 140.4 High relevance — show source text

    Exception 2 to Section 140.4(a)1: Standby equipment with controls that allow the standby equipment to operate only when the primary equipment is not operating. Exception 3 to Section 140.4(a)1: Multiple units of the same equipment type, such as multiple chillers and boilers, having combined capacities exceeding the design load, if they have controls that sequence or otherwise optimally control the operation of each unit based on load.

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    NONRESIDENTIAL AND HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES—PERFORMANCE AND PRESCRIPTIVE

    COMPLIANCE APPROACHES FOR ACHIEVING ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    1. Single zone space-conditioning system type. Single zone space-conditioning systems with direct expansion cooling with rated cooling capacity 240,000 Btu/hr or less serving the following spaces shall meet the applicable requirements in Items A–H, or shall meet the performance compliance requirements of Section 140.1. A. Retail and grocery building spaces in Climate Zones 2 through 15. The space-conditioning system shall be a heat pump. B. Retail and grocery building spaces in Climate Zones 1 and 16 with cooling capacity less than 65,000 Btu/hr. The spaceconditioning system shall be an air conditioner with furnace. C. Retail and grocery building spaces in Climate Zones 1 and 16 with cooling capacity 65,000 Btu/hr or greater. The space-conditioning system shall be a dual-fuel heat pump. D. School building spaces. For Climate Zones 2 through 15, the space-conditioning system shall be a heat pump. For Climate Zones 1 and 16, the space-conditioning system shall be a dual-fuel heat pump. E. Office, financial institution and library building spaces in Climate Zones 1 through 15. The space-conditioning system shall be a heat pump. F. Office, financial institution and library building spaces in Climate Zone 16 with cooling capacity less than 65,000 Btu/hr. The space-conditioning system shall be an air conditioner with furnace. G. Office, financial institution and library building spaces in Climate Zone 16 with cooling capacity 65,000 Btu/hr or greater. The space-conditioning system shall be a dual-fuel heat pump. H. Office spaces in warehouses. The space-conditioning system shall be a heat pump in all climate zones.
    2. Multi-zone space-conditioning system types. Space-conditioning systems in office buildings and school buildings not covered by Section 140.4(a)2 shall meet the following requirements: Exception 1 to Section 140.4(a)3 : Buildings greater than 150,000 square feet or greater than five (5) habitable stories. Exception 2 to Section 140.4(a)3 : School buildings in Climate Zones 6 and 7. A. Space-conditioning systems shall comply with one of the following: i. The space-conditioning system shall be a variable refrigerant flow (VRF) heat pump system that incorporates refrigerant-loop heat recovery and with a dedicated outdoor air system (DOAS) providing ventilation to all zones served by the space-conditioning system. Indoor fans shall meet the requirements of Section 140.4(a)3D. The DOAS shall comply with Section 140.4(a)3E. ii. The space-conditioning system shall be four-pipe fan coil (FPFC) terminal units with a DOAS providing ventilation to all zones served by the space-conditioning system.

Frequently asked questions

What exactly must a manufacturer submit to show compliance?

The code requires the manufacturer to certify to the Commission that the equipment complies with Part 6; the Commission’s directory, a submitted application and acceptance letter, or an approved label are means to confirm certification status (see § 110.2 and related administrative rules). file

If a table lists two test procedures, is passing one enough?

No. § 110.2(a)2 requires compliance when tested by each listed test method.

Where do I find the numeric efficiency thresholds?

Numeric thresholds (EER, SEER, HSPF, AFUE, COP, kW/ton, IPLV/NPLV, etc.) are provided in Tables 110.2‑A through 110.2‑L referenced by § 110.2. Consult those tables and the referenced AHRI/ANSI test standards listed in the code for the exact numbers and test conditions. file

Do field‑modified or site‑modified units need certification?

If a unit was site‑modified in a way that affects performance, special verification procedures may apply (see § 110.1 for when field verification/diagnostic testing or alternate procedures are required).

How are chillers rated if they’re not designed for standard AHRI rating conditions?

Use the adjustment method in Exception 1 to § 110.2(a) (the K_adj polynomial and formula) to derive adjusted full‑load kW/ton and NPLV from the Table 110.2‑D values. file

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