Q & A

• Q.

  Is a split air conditioner approved and used for EU countries usable in US? Please explain how it will or will not work.
  A.

  In principle, an split air conditioner approved in the EU can be used in the U.S., but mini-splits are unusual in the U.S., and efficiency requirments are somewhat different. The following comes from our local air conditioning expert:"The EU (and the rest of the world with the exception of the US and Canada) rates the efficiency of mini-splits with EER (energy efficiency ratio). In the US and Canada mini-splits must be rated with an SEER (seasonal energy efficiency ratio). The test procedure to come up with the SEER is much more time consuming than the test procedure for EER. Also, SEER measures the benefits of components that improve seasonal performance (e.g., variable-speed or inverter-driven compressors, thermostatic or electronic expansion valves) while EER does not."

• Q.

  Do you have any information/publications on the comparison of test methods for clothes washers? If I were to prepare a paper like this, what factors should be given importance?
  A.

  As far as we know, there has not been a comprehensive study comparing all test methods for clothes wathers, but we do have some references on the various procedures. Some of the widely referenced procedures are:

  • Japan - JIS 9606

  • US - DOE 10 CFR 430 Appendix J and J1

  • Canada CSA C360-03 (closely aligned with US procedure)

  • International (Europe) IEC 60456

  Additionally, an archive of documents used in developing clothes washer standards for Thailand. These were prepared by Chris Stone, Director of US Programs and Chief Technical Advisor for Testing at CLASP. We think you may find these useful, because they give a highly summarized overview of the characteristics of each procedure, which will give you an idea of the important factors, and key differences. Also included is a presentation that offers a step-by-step walk through of the test procedure.

  Please click to download at CLASPOnline WasherFinalDraft