Product Efficiency Standards
Small Product and Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards
Connecticut product energy efficiency standards are an effective means to save energy and reduce residents' utility bills. In 1987, the Connecticut General Assembly first recognized the benefits of new product energy efficiency (EE) standards. The state established product standards for -luminaires, light ballast and showerheads. Since then, Connecticut has adopted 21 product energy efficiency standards. Although Federal law has preempted, or replaced, some of CT’s EE standards, DEEP continues to support and adopt new product standards. DEEP understands that more efficient products are a way to lessen pollution, while saving energy and money.
2017 - Connecticut's Current EE Small Product and Appliance Standards
Connecticut law requires the following products that are sold, offered for sale, or installed to meet energy efficiency standards.
- Bottle-Type Water Dispensers
- Commercial Hot Food Holding Cabinets
- Compact Audio Players
- Digital Versatile Disc Players
- Digital Versatile Disc Recorders
- Pool Heaters
- Portable Electric Spas
- Residential Pool Pumps
- Televisions
Exceptions:
- Products sold wholesale in CT for final retail sale or installation outside the state.
- Products installed in mobile manufactured homes at the time of construction.
- Products designed expressly for installation and use in recreational vehicles.
Product Testing:
Connecticut generally adopts either California, or the U.S. Department of Energy’s product testing standards. These standards describe the product testing procedures and energy efficiency levels required for compliance with the law.
Product Certification:
In Connecticut, certification is required prior to selling products in Connecticut. Connecticut regulated products listed as “certified” in the California Energy Commission’ s active Appliance Efficiency database are automatically considered compliant. cacertappliances.energy.ca.gov/Login.aspx
Enforcement:
Any person who violates the energy efficiency appliance standards shall be subject to a civil penalty of $250 per day/per offense.
Connecticut Law (CGS § 16a-48)
Connecticut law focused on Energy Efficiency Standards for Small Products and Appliances
Federal Law
Federal law has pre-empted Connecticut’s energy efficiency standards for these products:
| Product | Federal Pre-emption Date |
|---|---|
| Low Voltage Dry-Type Transformer | 1/2007 |
| Unit Heaters | 8/2008 |
| Commercial Refrigerators and Freezers | 1/2010 |
| Large Packaged Air-Conditioning | 1/2010 |
| Metal Halide Lamp Fixtures | 1/2009 |
| Single Voltage External Power Supplies | 7/2008 and 2/2014 |
| State Regulated Incandescent Reflector Lamps | 6/2008 |
| Walk in Refrigerators and Freezers | 1/2009 |
| Torchiere Light Fixtures | 1/2006 |
| Traffic Signal Module | 1/2006 |
| Commercial Clothes Washers | 1/2007 |
| Illuminated Exit Signs | 1/2006 |
Other Resources:
Contact:
Michele Melley, Associate Research Analyst
Bureau of Energy and Technology Policy
860-827-2621
michele.l.melley@ct.gov
Content last updated January 2020