Title 24 · California Energy Code

How is certification status verified (directories, labels, applications and letters)?

For homeowners: the code requires device certification to be proved only by specific documents — the Energy Commission database or an approved directory, the manufacturer's certification application together with the Commission staff acceptance letter, written confirmation from a Commission‑approved directory publisher, or a Commission‑approved label on the device (see **§ 110.1(b)** and **§ 110.1(b)3**).

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

What the code requires — 2-4 sentences

The certification status of a manufactured system, equipment, appliance or building component must be confirmed only by specific documentary sources. The controlling rule is § 110.1(b)3, which lists the only acceptable methods to confirm certification. For appliances within the Appliance Efficiency Regulations, § 110.1(b) ties verification to the Energy Commission database or equivalent approved directories and trade association listings.

The single most important rule: certification is confirmed only by an Energy Commission (or Commission‑approved) directory, the manufacturer's application plus the Commission staff acceptance letter, written confirmation from a Commission‑approved directory publisher, or a Commission‑approved label on the device.

Requirements in detail

Key defined terms (first mention bolded)

  • Certification status — whether a device or product is certified to the Energy Commission as meeting applicable Part 6 requirements. § 110.1(b)3 describes how to confirm this.
  • Energy Commission database — the Commission’s official list of certified appliances (see § 110.1(b)).
  • Manufacturer declaration — a declaration executed under penalty of perjury certifying test methods and truthfulness when required by § 110.1(b)2.
  • Commission-approved label / directory — labels and directories that the Energy Commission has approved for identifying certified devices. § 110.1(b)3 lists these as acceptable proofs.

What you may use to confirm certification — at a glance

Decision dimension Acceptable values / proof Code Reference
Manufacturer-supplied perjury declaration (for non‑Title 20 items) A signed declaration under penalty of perjury that the information is true and that testing used Part 6 procedures (when applicable). § 110.1(b)2
Commission database or approved directory for appliances The Energy Commission’s certified appliances database, an equivalent federal directory, or an approved trade association directory. § 110.1(b)
Direct Commission confirmation options One of: (A) a directory published/approved by the Commission; (B) manufacturer’s application + Commission staff acceptance letter; (C) written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory; or (D) a Commission‑approved label on the device. § 110.1(b)3 A–D

How each acceptable proof works (practical notes)

  • A Commission directory (including the Energy Commission’s database) is an official source you can check; if the device appears there as certified, that confirms status under the code. § 110.1(b) .
  • A manufacturer’s application + letter of acceptance: the manufacturer’s submitted application for certification together with the Energy Commission staff’s acceptance letter is an acceptable pair of documents to prove the device is certified. § 110.1(b)3(B) .
  • Publisher confirmation: a written statement from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory (e.g., a trade association that maintains an approved list) that the listed device is certified is acceptable. § 110.1(b)3(C) .
  • Commission‑approved label: a physical label placed on the device that has been approved by the Commission is conclusive proof of certification for enforcement and inspection purposes. § 110.1(b)3(D) .
  • For appliances within Title 20 scope, the code specifically points to the Energy Commission’s certified appliances database or an equivalent approved directory as primary verification paths. § 110.1(b) .

Exceptions & special cases

  • When certified‑device data are not available in the approved directories/databases, the code provides alternate procedures in § 110.1(c) (e.g., default to mandatory efficiencies or follow Commission‑approved procedures). That is a separate path only when the approved sources in § 110.1(b) do not contain the needed data.
  • Devices that are appliances within the scope of Title 20 Appliance Efficiency Regulations are specifically required to be certified to the Energy Commission per Title 20 (see cross‑reference in § 110.1(b)). If a device is a Title 20 appliance, confirm via the Energy Commission database or equivalent federal/trade directories.
  • The code explicitly notes that Part 6 does not require field re‑testing of certified devices by builders/designers/enforcement agencies to re‑establish compliance; verification is documentary as listed in § 110.1(b)3.

Common mistakes

  • Relying on an unapproved third‑party website or an unpublished manufacturer claim without the manufacturer’s application + Commission acceptance letter or a Commission‑approved label/directory. The code limits acceptable proof to the four sources in § 110.1(b)3.
  • Accepting only a manufacturer’s product brochure or spec sheet without the required declaration or without Commission acceptance/documentation. For non‑Title 20 items, the manufacturer must also provide a signed declaration under penalty of perjury as described in § 110.1(b)2.
  • Assuming a label is acceptable when it is not Commission‑approved. Only a Commission‑approved label is listed as acceptable proof in § 110.1(b)3(D).
  • Not checking for the specific match of model/configuration — directories and labels must identify the model or base model that corresponds to the installed device; an ambiguous listing does not meet the specificity the enforcement agency expects (the code requires confirmation “only by reference to” the listed sources). § 110.1(b)3

Worked example — concrete scenario

Scenario: You are the building inspector verifying an installed 5‑ton packaged rooftop air conditioner (Model: CoolMax‑5T).

  1. First check the Energy Commission certified appliance database (the Commission’s official searchable directory). If CoolMax‑5T appears as a certified model in that database, certification is confirmed under § 110.1(b).
  2. If the model isn’t in the Commission database, request one of the acceptable proofs in § 110.1(b)3:
    • Option A: a Commission‑published/approved directory entry showing CoolMax‑5T is certified; or
    • Option B: a copy of the manufacturer’s application for certification for CoolMax‑5T plus the Energy Commission staff letter of acceptance for that application — those two together satisfy § 110.1(b)3(B); or
    • Option C: a written confirmation from the publisher of a Commission‑approved directory that the specific CoolMax‑5T model is certified; or
    • Option D: a Commission‑approved label permanently affixed to the unit stating certification. § 110.1(b)3 A–D
  3. If none of those documentary proofs exist and the Commission database has no data, follow the alternate procedures in § 110.1(c) (for example, default to mandatory efficiency values or use Commission‑approved procedures) — but only after confirming the approved sources are exhausted.

Related provisions

  • § 110.1(b) — verification via Energy Commission database, federal equivalent directories, or approved trade association directories.
  • § 110.1(b)2 — manufacturer’s declaration under penalty of perjury for systems/equipment not covered by Title 20.
  • § 110.1(b)3 — the four exclusive documentary methods to confirm certification (directory; application + letter; publisher confirmation; Commission‑approved label).
  • § 110.1(c) — when approved directory/database data are not available, alternate demonstration procedures apply.
  • Cross‑reference: Title 20 Appliance Efficiency Regulations (see Title 20 § 1606 referenced in § 110.1(b)) for appliances required to be certified to the Energy Commission.

Code references

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

  • § 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
  • § 110.1 High relevance — show source text

    SECTION 110.1—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLIANCES

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

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

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

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

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

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 39

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

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

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

    SECTION 110.2—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS FOR SPACE-CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT

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

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

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

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    ALL OCCUPANCIES—GENERAL PROVISIONS

    FIGURE 100.1-A CALIFORNIA CLIMATE ZONES

    Climate Zones for Residential and Nonresidential Occupancies

    2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 37

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    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:

    1. 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
    2. 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.

    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.

  • § 1.02024 Medium 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]

  • § 120.6 Medium relevance — show source text

    For purposes of this table, open-circuit cooling tower performance is defined as the water flow rating of the tower at the given rated conditions divided by the fan motor
    nameplate power.
    b. For purposes of this table, closed-circuit cooling tower performance is defined as the process water flow rating of the tower at the given rated conditions divided by the sum
    of the fan motor nameplate rated power and the integral spray pump motor nameplate power.
    c. For purposes of this table, dry cooler performance is defined as the process water flow rating of the unit at the given thermal rating condition divided by the total fan motor
    nameplate power of the unit and air-cooled condenser performance is defined as the heat rejected from the refrigerant divided by the fan motor nameplate power of the unit.
    d. Open cooling towers shall be tested using the test procedures in CTI ATC-105. Performance of factory-assembled open cooling towers shall be either certified as base models
    as specified in CTI STD-201 or verified by testing in the field by a CTI approved testing agency. Open factory assembled cooling towers with custom options added to a CTI
    certified base model for the purpose of safe maintenance or to reduce environmental or noise impact shall be rated at 90 percent of the CTI certified performance of the asso-
    ciated base model or at the manufacturer’s stated performance, whichever is less. Base models of open factory-assembled cooling towers are open cooling towers configured
    in exact accordance with the Data of Record submitted to CTI as specified by CTI STD-201. There are no certification requirements for field-erected cooling towers.
    e. Applicable test procedure and reference year are provided under the definitions. For refrigerated warehouses or commercial refrigeration applications, condensers shall
    comply with requirements specified by Section 120.6(a) or Section 120.6(b).|

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

    TABLE 110.2-F —ELECTRICALLY OPERATED VARIABLE REFRIGERANT FLOW (VRF) AIR CONDITIONERS MINIMUM EFFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS Col2 Col3 Col4 Col5 Col6
    EQUIPMENT
    TYPE
    SIZE CATEGORY HEATING
    ** SECTION TYPE**
    SUBCATEGORY OR
    RATING CONDITION
    MINIMUM
    EFFICIENCY
    TEST
    PROCEDUREa
    VRF Air
    conditioners,
    Air cooled
    < 65,000 Btu/h All VRF multisplit system 13.0 SEER Before 1/1/2023
    Federal Minimum SEER2
    On or After 1/1/2023
    AHRI 1230 Before
    1/1/2023
    AHRI 210/240 On or
    After 1/1/2023
    VRF Air
    conditioners,
    Air cooled
    ≥ 65,000 Btu/h and
    < 135,000 Btu/h
    Electric resistance
    (or none)
    VRF multisplit system 10.5 EER
    Federal Minimum IEERb
    AHRI 1230
    VRF Air
    conditioners,
    Air cooled
    ≥ 135,
  • § 201.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections that
    are listed below
    X
    Chapter/Section
    Appendix A5.2 X

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE APPENDIX A5-11

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    APPENDIX A5-12 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    A5 NONRESIDENTIAL VOLUNTARY MEASURES

    DIVISION A5.2 – ENERGY EFFICIENCY

    SECTION A5.201—GENERAL

    A5.201.1 Scope. For the purposes of mandatory energy efficiency standards in this code, the California Energy Commission will continue to adopt mandatory standards. It is the intent of these voluntary provisions to encourage local jurisdictions through codification to achieve exemplary performance in the area of building energy efficiency. Local jurisdictions adopting these voluntary provisions as mandatory local energy efficiency standards shall submit the required application and receive the required findings of the California Energy Commission in compliance with Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106, prior to enforcement. Once the required filing has been verified and finding has been made by the Energy Commission, local jurisdictions shall file an ordinance expressly marking the local modifications along with findings and receive the required acceptance from the California Building Standards Commission in compliance with Section 101.7 of this code, prior to enforcement (Title 24, Part 1, Section 10-106 is available at https://www.energy.ca.gov/programs-and-topics/programs/building-energy-efficiency-standards/2025-building-energy-efficiency

    SECTION A5.202—DEFINITIONS

    A5.202.1 Definitions. The following terms are defined in Chapter 2.

    ENERGY BUDGET.

    GEOTHERMAL.

  • § 703.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    Certification by a national or regional green building program or standard publisher. 2. Certification by a statewide energy consulting or verification organization, building performance contractors and home energy auditors. 3. Successful completion of a third party apprentice training program in the appropriate trade. 4. Other programs acceptable to the enforcing agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    [BSC-CG] When required by the enforcing agency, the owner or the responsible entity acting as the owner’s agent shall employ one or more special inspectors to provide inspection or other duties necessary to substantiate compliance with this code. Special inspectors shall demonstrate competence to the satisfaction of the enforcing agency for the particular type of inspection or task to be performed. In addition, the special inspector shall have a certification from a recognized state, national or international association, as determined by the local agency. The area of certification shall be closely related to the primary job function, as determined by the local agency.

    Note: Special inspectors shall be independent entities with no financial interest in the materials or the project they are inspecting for compliance with this code.

    SECTION 703—VERIFICATIONS

    703.1 Documentation. Documentation used to show compliance with this code shall include but is not limited to, construction documents, plans, specifications, builder or installer certification, inspection reports or other methods acceptable to the enforcing agency which demonstrate substantial conformance. When specific documentation or special inspection is necessary to verify compliance, that method of compliance will be specified in the appropriate section or identified in the application checklist.

    2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE 7-3

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    7-4 2025 CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE

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    CALIFORNIA GREEN BUILDING STANDARDS CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

    CHAPTER 8 – COMPLIANCE FORMS, WORKSHEETS AND REFERENCE MATERIAL

    (Matrix Adoption Tables are nonregulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)

    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM HCD Col6 Col7 DSA Col9 OSHPD Col11 Col12 Col13 Col14 Col15 BSCC DPH AGR DWR CEC CA SL SLC
    Adopting agency BSC BSC-
    CG
    SFM 1 2 1/AC AC SS 1 1R 2 3 4 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5
    Adopt entire CA chapter X
    Adopt entire chapter as
    amended (amended
    sections listed below)
    Adopt only those sections
    that are listed
  • § 110.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    B Ceiling-Mounted Air Conditioners and Condensing Units Serving Computer Rooms–Minimum Efficiency Requirements Table 110.2-M Cellular Foam Insulation 120.4(F), 150.0(M)9,160.3(b)5I, 160.3(c)2G Cement-Based Roof Coatings 110.8(i)4 Central Boiler 140.4(a), 170.2(c)3A Chiller 140.4(a)2 Forced-air 150.0(h)4, 150.0(m)13, 150.0(o), 150.1(c)10, 160.2(b)2A, 160.3(b)4, 160.3(b)5, 170.2(c)3B Furnace 110.5, 110.5(a) Water heating system 110.10(c), 150.1(c)8, 170.2(d)3 Centrifugal Fan Table 110.2-F, 140.4(h), 170.2(C)4F Centrifugal Water Chilling 110.2(a) Certificate of Acceptance 10-103(a)4, 10-103(b)1B, 10-103.1(c)3, 110.6(a)6, 120.5(a), 120.5(b), 120.6(a)7, 120.6(b)6, 120.6(c)8, 120.6(e)6, 120.6(f), 120.6(g), 120.6(i), 130.4(a), 130.4(c),

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    INDEX

    140.9(b)3, 140.9(c), 160.3(d)1, 160.3(d)2, 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e)1, 3 Compliance 10-103(a), 120.8(d), 150.1(b)3, 170.1(d) Installation 10-103(a)3, 150.1(b)3, 150.1(c)7, 150.2(b)1F Verification 10-103(a)5, 150.1(b)3 Certification 110.0(B), 110.2, 110.3(A), 110.4(a), 110.6(a), 110.8(a), 110.8(g), 110.9(c), 110,11, 120.5(b), 130.4(b), 130.4(c), 140.9(a)4, 150.0(n)3, 160.3(d)3, 160.4(c), 160.5(e) Certification Identification Number 10-103(C)3G, 120.5(B), 130.4(c), 160.3(d)3, 160.5(e) Certification Requirements 110.0(B), 110.6(a)1, 110.8(g)1 Certified 110.6(a)6, 110.8(i)1, 120.5(a) Equipment 110.4(a)1, 150.0(h), 150.0(p)1A Lighting Controls Acceptance Test Employer 130.4(c), 160.

  • § 120.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception to Section 120.2(g): Zones designed to be conditioned continuously.

    (h) Automatic demand shed controls. See Section 110.12 for requirements for automatic demand shed controls.

    (i) Economizer fault detection and diagnostics (FDD). All newly installed air handlers with a mechanical cooling capacity over 33,000 Btu/hr and an installed air economizer shall include a stand-alone or integrated Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) system in accordance with Subsections 120.2(i)1 through 120.2(i)8.

    1. The following temperature sensors shall be permanently installed to monitor system operation: outside air, supply air, and when required for differential economizer operation a return air sensor, and
    2. Temperature sensors shall have an accuracy of ±2°F over the range of 40°F to 80°F; and
    3. The controller shall have the capability of displaying the value of each sensor; and
    4. The controller shall provide system status by indicating the following conditions: A. Free cooling available; B. Economizer enabled;

    C. Compressor enabled; D. Heating enabled, if the system is capable of heating; and E. Mixed-air low limit cycle active. 5. The unit controller shall allow manual initiation of each operating mode so that the operation of cooling systems, economizers, fans and heating system can be independently tested and verified; and 6. Faults shall be reported in one of the following ways: A. Reported to an Energy Management Control System regularly monitored by facility personnel. B. Annunciated locally on one or more zone thermostats, or a device within five (5) feet of zone thermostat(s), clearly visible, at eye level, and meeting the following requirements: i. On the thermostat, device, or an adjacent written sign, display instructions to contact appropriate building personnel or an HVAC technician; and ii. In buildings with multiple tenants, the annunciation shall either be within property management offices or in a common space accessible by the property or building manager. C. Reported to a fault management application which automatically provides notification of the fault to a remote HVAC service provider. 7. The FDD system shall detect the following faults: A. Air temperature sensor failure/fault; B. Not economizing when it should; C. Economizing when it should not; D. Damper not modulating; and

    E. Excess outdoor air.

    1. The FDD System shall be certified to the Energy Commission as meeting requirements of Subsections 120.2(i)1 through 120.2(i)7 in accordance with Section 110.0 and JA6.3. Exception to Section 120.2(i)8: FDD algorithms based in direct digital control systems are not required to be certified to the Energy Commission.

    74 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    NONRESIDENTIAL, HOTEL/MOTEL OCCUPANCIES, AND COVERED PROCESSES—MANDATORY REQUIREMENTS

    (j) Direct Digital Controls (DDC) . Direct Digital Controls to the zone shall be provided as specified by Table 120.2-A. The provided DDC system shall meet the control logic requirements of Sections 120.1(d), 110.12(a) and 110.12(b), and be capable of the following:

    The provided DDC system shall meet the control logic requirements of Sections 110.12(a), 110.12(b) and 120.1(d) and be capable of the following:

    1. Monitoring zone and system demand for fan pressure, pump pressure, heating and cooling;
  • § 0.45 Medium 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

    246 2025 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE

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

    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.

  • § 503.4.3 Medium 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:

  • § 703.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Aluminum Chapter 20 Concrete Chapter 19, Chapter 19A Glass and glazing Chapter 24 Gypsum Chapter 25 Masonry Chapter 21, Chapter 21A Noncombustible 703.4

    Plastic Chapter 26 Steel Chapter 22, Chapter 22A Testing (see Testing) 1707 Wood Chapter 23 Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Exposure Chapter 7A Means of Appeals 113, Appendix B Means of Egress Chapter 10, 202 Accessible 1009, 2702.2 Aircraft related 412.2.2, 412.2.5.1, 412.4.2, 412.6.1, 412.7.3 Alternating tread device 412.7.3, 1006.2.2.1, 1006.2.2.2, 1011.14 Ambulatory care facilities 422.3.1, 422.3.3 Assembly 1009.1, 1030 Atrium 404.9, 404.11, 707.3.6 Capacity 1005.3

    Laboratories

    Classification of 304.1, 307.1.1 Hazardous materials 414, 415 Higher education laboratories 304.4, 428 Incidental uses Table 509.1

    Ladders

    Boiler, incinerator and furnace

    rooms 1006.2.2.1

    Construction 1011.15, 1011.16, 1014.2, 1014.7, 1015.3, 1015.4 Emergency escape window wells 1031.5.2

    Group I-3 408.3.5, 1011.15, 1011.16 Heliport 412.7.3 Refrigeration machinery room 1006.2.2.2

    Ship′s ladders 408.3.5, 1011.15 Stage 410.5.3.4 Laminated Timber, Structural Glued 602.4, 2303.1, 2303.1.3, 2304.12.2.4, 2306.1, 2308.8.3, 2308.11.8 Landings Doors 1010.1.5

    Ramp 1012.6 Stair 1011.6

    Landscaped Roof 1606.5 Lath, Metal or Wire Table 2507.2 Laundries 304.1, 306.2, Table 509.1 Laundry Chute 713.13, 903.2.11.2 Legal Federal and state authority 102.2 Liability 104.8 Notice of violation 114.2, 116.3 Registered design professional 107.1, 107.3.4 Right of entry 104.4 Unsafe buildings or systems 116 Violation penalties 114.4 Libraries

    Classification, other than school 303.1.3, 303.4 Classification, school 303.1.3, 305.1 Live load Table 1607.1 Light, Required 1204 Artificial 1204.3 Emergency (see Emergency Lighting) Means of egress 1008.2 Natural 1204.2

Frequently asked questions

Who can present the proof of certification?

Either the manufacturer, supplier, owner, or installer may present the acceptable documentary proof; the enforcement agency must see one of the proofs listed in § 110.1(b)3.

Is a manufacturer’s brochure enough to prove certification?

No. A brochure or spec sheet alone is not one of the four approved proofs in § 110.1(b)3; use the Commission database, application + acceptance letter, publisher confirmation, or a Commission‑approved label.

What if the device is listed in an industry directory but the directory is not Commission‑approved?

Only Commission‑published/approved directories or approved trade association directories (as described in § 110.1(b)) are acceptable. If the directory is not Commission‑approved, get one of the other approved proofs.

If a device has a label, how do I know it’s valid?

The device label must be a Commission‑approved label to count as proof under § 110.1(b)3(D). If in doubt, cross‑check the label claim against the Commission database or request the application + acceptance letter.

What happens when the Commission has no published data for a product?

If approved sources lack data, follow the alternate paths in § 110.1(c) (e.g., default to mandatory efficiencies or use Commission‑approved procedures). Confirm approved sources are exhausted before using alternates.

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