These rating methods also underlie policies that promote adoption of high performance products, such as performance labels and public benefit incentives. A good testing procedure that closely approximates field performance increases confidence that programs and policies will actually save energy. On the other hand, highly complex procedures will not gain acceptance and will be difficult to implement. Therefore, developing and refining these methodologies is a continual process and a critical one to ensure sound policy and to minimize market barriers.
ACEEE provides input to the Department of Energy, ASHRAE, AHRI, and other organizations on their periodic revisions of appliance and equipment test procedures. Current important test procedure revisions include those for water heaters, refrigerators and clothes dryers.
