Sunita Somvanshi
The Department of Energy (DOE) under the Trump administration has postponed three energy efficiency mandates for home appliances that were established during the Biden administration. The delayed rules affect walk-in coolers and freezers, gas instantaneous water heaters, and test procedures for central air conditioners and heat pumps.
Energy Secretary Chris Wright announced these changes on March 24, 2025, framing them as efforts to “lower costs, enhance performance, and expand options for American consumers.” The postponements align with President Trump’s executive order titled “Unleashing Prosperity through Deregulation.”
“By removing burdensome regulations put in place by the Biden administration, we are returning freedom of choice to the American people,” Secretary Wright said in the announcement.
Shifting Regulatory Approach
The DOE’s policy shift reflects different priorities between the Biden and Trump administrations. The Biden administration had pursued stricter efficiency standards as part of its climate change initiatives, with each rule including estimates of reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Critics of the Biden-era regulations, including Ben Lieberman, a senior fellow at the Competitive Enterprise Institute, argue that the standards raise costs and limit consumer options. “Most of these regulations are supposed to save consumers money, but several are so extreme that they’ll raise the upfront cost of the appliance,” Lieberman stated.
According to Lieberman, the latest standard for electric water heaters would increase the cost of new models by an estimated $953 once implemented in 2029, while ultra-efficient washing machines cost at least $100 more.
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Consumer Impact Debate
Supporters of efficiency standards maintain they lead to long-term energy savings that outweigh initial costs. More efficient appliances consume less energy, potentially reducing utility bills and environmental impact over time.
Opponents counter that the regulations can disproportionately affect lower-income households who may struggle with higher upfront costs. Lieberman points out that some rules, like the latest furnace regulation, would prohibit models that are best suited for older homes often owned by lower-income Americans.
The performance of regulated appliances has also been questioned. Past dishwasher regulations have reportedly increased cycle times from about one hour to two hours or more.
Broader Regulatory Changes
Beyond the three postponed mandates, the Trump administration has withdrawn four additional conservation standards affecting electric motors, ceiling fans, dehumidifiers, and external power supplies.
The current administration’s approach to appliance regulations represents a significant reversal from the previous one. While the Biden administration expanded efficiency requirements for numerous household items, the Trump team is actively working to reduce federal involvement in appliance standards.
Industry reactions have been mixed, with manufacturers often expressing concerns about increased production costs while environmental groups support stricter standards to promote energy conservation and reduce emissions.
As these regulatory changes unfold, American consumers may see shifts in appliance pricing, performance, and options available in the marketplace.
