House Votes to Preserve Customer Choice for Water Heater Options with H.J.Res.20

The House Takes a Stand on Water Heater Regulations

In a decisive move to ensure homeowner autonomy, the U.S. House of Representatives has voted in favor of H.J.Res.20, a joint resolution aimed at preserving consumer choice regarding water heater options. This legislation, endorsed by the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) and the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), seeks to nullify recent Department of Energy regulations that impose stricter energy efficiency standards on gas-fired instantaneous water heaters.

The Implications of H.J.Res.20

The Congressional Review Act (CRA) allows Congress to review and overturn federal regulations through a joint resolution. By passing H.J.Res.20 with a simple majority, the House has taken steps to block any future attempts to reintroduce a ban on non-condensing tankless water heaters. This outcome not only protects consumer choices but also supports local contractors who offer diverse solutions to meet the unique heating needs of homeowners.

Why This Matters to Houston Residents

This resolution holds profound significance for homeowners in Houston, where the climate can necessitate adaptable energy solutions. The proposed regulations potentially threatened the availability of affordable, efficient gas-fired water heaters—products that many families rely on for comfort and convenience. With H.J.Res.20, residents can maintain access to a range of options, ensuring their ability to choose what best fits their budgets and living situations.

Next Steps: The Senate's Role

Following the House's approval, the resolution now awaits action in the Senate. With Senator Ted Cruz taking the lead on the Senate version, S.J.Res.4, there is a pressing deadline; the Senate must act before April 7 to render a decision on this critical issue. Homeowners in Houston are encouraged to voice their support by contacting their Senators.

The Impact of Regulatory Decisions

Consumer freedom is at the core of H.J.Res.20. If the regulation resulting from the DOE's proposals had gone into effect, it could have eliminated up to 40% of natural gas-fired water heaters from the market, forcing many to opt for more expensive technologies. This would have interrupted not only household budgets but also the small businesses that support local economies.

The passage of H.J.Res.20 is a significant step towards ensuring affordable energy options remain available. For Houston homeowners, this legislative decision reinforces their ability to make informed choices about essential home appliances, bolstering both their comfort and financial well-being.

Join the ACCA's initiative to support S.J.Res.4 and let your voice be heard. For assistance, you can contact their Government Relations team via govt@acca.org.