US Department of Energy Postpones 3 Home Appliance Mandates

Editor’s Note: On March 24, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the postponement of three home appliance mandates from the Biden-Harris administration. The press release from the DOE is published below. The wording in this press release is the DOE’s own.

WASHINGTON (March 24, 2025) — U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced the Department of Energy (DOE) has further postponed the implementation of three of the Biden-Harris administration’s restrictive mandates on home appliances. These actions, taken in accordance with President Donald Trump’s executive order, “Unleashing Prosperity Through Deregulation,” marks a key step in lowering costs, enhancing performance and expanding options for American consumers.

“Under President Trump’s leadership, the Department of Energy is taking critical steps every day to help American families prosper,” said Secretary Wright. “By removing burdensome regulations put in place by the Biden administration, we are returning freedom of choice to the American people, ensuring consumers can choose the home appliances that work best for their lives and budgets. This power should not belong to the federal government.”

The department’s notices officially postpone the effective dates for three home appliance rules:

• Test Procedures for Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps
• Efficiency Standards for Walk-In Coolers and Freezers
• Efficiency Standards for Gas Instantaneous Water Heaters

In addition, under the leadership of President Trump, the department has officially withdrawn four conservation standards, including standards on electric motors, ceiling fans, dehumidifiers and external power supplies. This continued commitment to the American people will slash unnecessary red tape and regulations that raise prices, reduce consumer choice and frustrate the American people.