In March 2009, EPA released Version 1.0 of the WaterSense Product Certification System to guide its independent, third-party product certification process. Since that time more than 3,500 tank-type toilets, bathroom sink faucets and faucet accessories, showerheads, and flushing urinals have been certified to meet EPA’s criteria for efficiency and performance.
As the WaterSense program continues to grow and expand to cover new product categories, EPA has identified several changes that are necessary to improve the certification process and balance the cost and burden of certification with the rigor the program needs to maintain the WaterSense label’s integrity. Additionally, since the initial release of the product certification system, EPA released its Third-Party Certification Procedures for the ENERGY STAR® program, which went into effect January 1, 2011. In order to facilitate future joint-labeling opportunities with ENERGY STAR, where appropriate, EPA has revised the WaterSense product certification system to complement ENERGY STAR’s sy stem. With these changes, EPA’s goal is to better focus the resources of the WaterSense program and accommodate future growth.
EPA is accepting written comments on the Draft Revised Product Certification System through July 25, 2011, and will hold a public meeting via webinar and conference call on July 13, 2011, from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. EST to discuss the draft revisions. To review the Draft Revised Product Certification System or for information on how to submit comments, please visit the WaterSense website.