SENATE BILL REPORT

                           EHB 2347

AS REPORTED BY COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES, FEBRUARY 21, 1994

Brief Description:  Changing the energy building code for glazing, doors, and skylights.

SPONSORS: Representatives Morris, Horn, Bray and Springer; by request of Department of Community Development

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

SENATE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY & UTILITIES

Majority Report:  Do pass as amended. 

     Signed by Senators Sutherland, Chairman; Ludwig, Vice Chairman; Amondson, Hochstatter, Owen, Roach and Williams.

Staff:  Phil Moeller (786‑7445)

Hearing Dates: February 16, 1994; February 21, 1994

BACKGROUND:

In a typical building envelope, most heat loss occurs through windows.  Minimum efficiency levels for windows, along with specific testing procedures, were adopted by the Legislature in the residential energy code legislation of 1990.

Until 1993, one specific laboratory within the state was testing most of the product lines produced by window manufacturers in this state.  The Federal Trade Commission challenged the accuracy of the laboratory's tests; eventually the case was settled but with many tests dating to the mid-1980's declared as invalid.  Without validated efficiency ratings, the value of many window product lines is jeopardized.

SUMMARY:

Windows must be tested according to appropriate standards of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). The State Building Code Council may approve alternative testing methods for windows.  The council is directed to review NFRC standards for doors and skylights when these standards are developed.  The council may adopt those standards if it determines they are appropriate.  The council may also adopt alternative testing standards.  Results for doors and skylights tested under the NFRC standard shall be acceptable for compliance with the state energy code.

SUMMARY OF PROPOSED COMMITTEE AMENDMENTS:

A striking amendment was adopted.

Language is added clarifying that the State Building Code Council's requirements regarding labeling standards apply only to U-values. 

Appropriation:  none

Revenue:  none

Fiscal Note:  available

Effective Date:  The bill contains an emergency clause and takes effect immediately.

TESTIMONY FOR:

This bill clarifies the authority of the State Building Code Council and properly updates references to testing standards.

TESTIMONY AGAINST:  None

TESTIFIED:  Tim Nogler, Energy Office (pro); Judith Darst, State Building Code Council (pro)