B.C. updates Energy Efficiency Standards for Gas Fireplaces
The Government of British Columbia released an updated Regulatory Bulletin on Energy Efficiency Standards for Vented Gas Fireplaces.
New energy efficiency standards for vented gas fireplaces came into effect on January 1, 2019. This regulation applies to the sale of new, replacement and retrofit products in B.C. The regulation applies at the manufacturer, distributor and retailer levels. The regulation applies to products that are manufactured after the effective date, so the existing stock of non-compliant products can be sold until supplies are gone.
The regulation includes a “no standing pilot light” requirement for all vented gas fireplaces. Decorative gas fireplaces have labelling requirements. Heater gas fireplaces have minimum efficiency requirements as well as labelling requirements.
Retail stores can confirm which products will be affected by contacting their wholesale distributor. The Ministry web page provides more detailed information on the Energy Efficiency Standards Regulation. In addition, upcoming changes on January 1, 2020 will impact compact fluorescent lamps, general service incandescent lamps, general service LED lamps, small diameter directional lamps, and, single-phase and three-phase split-system heat pumps.
Background
On March 15 2018, RCC advised members of regulatory changes to the Energy Efficiency Standards Regulations under the Energy Efficiency Act. The updated standards are effective for (gas fireplace) products manufactured on or after January 1, 2019.
If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact: Greg Wilson, Director, Government Relations (British Columbia) at gwilson@retailcouncil.org or 604-736-0368.
