FTC Proposes Extension of 'Lighting Facts' Labels to New Bulb Types, Other Energy Labeling Changes
The Federal Trade Commission is proposing changes to its energy-use labeling rules, including an extension of “lighting facts” label requirements to non-general service light bulbs. Under the FTC’s proposed rule, lighting facts labels would be required for decorative consumer bulbs not currently covered by label requirements. The FTC would also set new marking requirements for decorative bulbs. Other provisions of the FTC’s proposed rule would change label reporting requirements, the use of hang tags, and air conditioner and ceiling fan labeling. Comments on the proposed rule are due Aug. 18.
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Lighting Facts Labels Would Cover Specialty Consumer Bulbs
Currently, lighting facts labels are required only on general service medium screw base incandescent, compact fluorescent, and LED bulbs, said the FTC. Other types of consumer light bulbs like decorative bulbs, non- medium screw base bulbs, shatter-resistant bulbs, and vibration service bulbs are excluded from the requirement.
The FTC’s proposed rule would require lighting facts labels on certain consumer decorative or specialty bulbs that have energy use or light output similar to the general service bulbs already covered by the lighting facts label rules, it said. The proposal sets specific thresholds for bulbs that would be covered under the new requirements, with covered bulbs having to meet all three of the following requirements:
- Rated at 30 watts or higher or produce 310 lumens or more
- Have a medium, intermediate, candelabra, GU-10, or GU-24 base
- Do not meet the definition of “general service lamp.”
Non-consumer bulbs excluded. The proposed rule would not extend lighting facts label requirements to bulb types for which labeling may not provide substantial benefit to consumers, including bulbs that use less than 30 watts and produce low light output, or bulbs not typically purchased by residential consumers, said the FTC. It would also exclude uncommon bulb types, lamp types with little market presence, and bulbs generally used for commercial applications, it said. Bulbs specifically excluded by the proposed rule include:
Black light lamps, bug lamps, colored lamps, infrared lamps, left-hand thread lamps, marine lamps, marine signal service lamps, mine service lamps, sign service lamps, silver bowl lamps, showcase lamps, traffic signal lamps, G-shape lamps with diameter of 5 inches or more, and C7, M-14, P, RP, S, and T-shape lamps.
Marking. The proposed rule would also extend the lumen and mercury marking requirements for general service lamps to some other bulb shapes. A-shape and spiral lamps would be required to meet the same marking requirements as general service lamps. Lumen markings would not be required on the lamps themselves for decorative size bulbs, including B, BA, BA, F, and G-shapes. But mercury disclosures would be required on all covered bulbs containing mercury to inform consumers, said the FTC.
Other Affected Products Include Appliances, A/C Units, Ceiling Fans
The FTC proposed rule would also make changes to energy labeling requirements for other products. The proposal would affect energy labeling for electric appliances, including refrigerators, washers and dryers; air conditioners; and ceiling fans, among other products. Other highlights of the proposed rule are as follows:
Label webpages. Under the proposal, manufacturers may have to submit links to webpages that display covered product labels to the Energy Department’s Compliance and Certification Management System (CCMS) database.
Hang tags. Hang tags would have to be affixed to products using zip ties, double strings with reinforced punch holes, or material with equivalent or greater strength, connected with reinforced punch holes.
A/C labels on boxes. Manufacturers would have to print or affix EnergyGuide labels on room air conditioner boxes instead of adhering them to the units themselves so that consumers can examine the label before purchase.
Ceiling fan energy use. The proposed rule would require estimated annual energy cost information as the primary disclosure on ceiling fan labels.
(Federal Register 06/18/14)