Dishwashers Dodge New Water Rules: Back to Basics
Published Date: 5/16/2025
Proposed Rule
Summary
The DOE is rolling back the new water use rules for dishwashers, going back to the original limits of 6.5 gallons per cycle for regular dishwashers and 4.5 gallons for compact ones. This change affects dishwasher makers and buyers by keeping water use standards simple and clear. It means no new costs or changes for now, so everyone can keep washing dishes like usual.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Dishwasher Water Limits Restored
The Department of Energy proposes to rescind the amended dishwasher water-use rules and return to the statutory limits of 6.5 gallons per cycle for standard dishwashers and 4.5 gallons per cycle for compact dishwashers. This keeps water-use limits the same for buyers and means no new costs or changes for now.
Manufacturers Avoid New Water Rules
DOE is proposing to remove the amended water-use standards and return to the statutory 6.5 gallons per cycle for standard dishwashers and 4.5 gallons for compact models. Dishwasher makers will not face new water-use requirements or related compliance costs while this change is in effect.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-13674, Energy Conservation Program: Procedures, Interpretations, and Policies for Consideration of New or Revised Energy Conservation Standards and Test Procedures for Consumer Products and Certain Commercial/Industrial Equipment
The Department of Energy is updating how it sets and reviews energy-saving rules for products like appliances and industrial equipment. These changes include clearer steps, new definitions, and economic checks to make sure energy savings really matter. If you make or sell these products, or just care about saving energy, you can share your thoughts by August 6, 2026, and join a free webinar on July 15 to learn more.
2026-12475, Application for Authorization To Transmit Electric Energy to a Foreign Country
The Department of Energy is making it easier and faster for companies to get permission to send electricity across U.S. borders. This new rule starts on July 22, 2026, and helps keep our electric supply safe while encouraging cross-border energy trade. If you’re involved in exporting electricity, get ready for a simpler application process with clear deadlines and fewer headaches.
2026-11057, Rescinding Regulations for Loans for Minority Business Enterprises Seeking DOE Contracts and Assistance
The Department of Energy is delaying a rule that would stop loans for minority-owned businesses trying to get DOE contracts. This means minority businesses can keep applying for these loans a bit longer while the government reviews the rule carefully. The new delay pushes the rule’s start date to September 1, 2026, giving everyone more time to prepare and comment.
2026-10729, Zero-Based Regulating
The Department of Energy wants to add expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient, following a new White House order. This means certain regulations will automatically end unless reviewed and renewed, helping save time and money. If you have thoughts, speak up by June 29, 2026, because your input could shape the future of energy rules!
2026-10727, Zero-Based Regulating
The Department of Energy is adding expiration dates to some of its rules to keep things fresh and efficient. If a rule isn’t renewed before its sunset date, it disappears—no more rule, no more hassle! This change starts July 13, 2026, and helps save time and money by cutting outdated regulations every five years or less.
2026-08201, Energy Conservation Program: Exempt Power Supplies Under the EPS Service Parts Act of 2014
The Department of Energy is making it easier for companies by removing some reporting rules for certain power supplies used as service parts. This change mainly affects manufacturers and sellers of these exempt power supplies and starts on May 28, 2026. It cuts red tape without adding costs, helping businesses save time and focus on energy innovation.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-08590, Rescinding the Grant Programs for Schools and Hospitals and Buildings Owned by Units of Local Government and Public Care Institutions Regulations
The Department of Energy wants to cancel grant programs that help schools, hospitals, and public buildings get funding for energy projects. This change affects local governments and public care institutions who might have counted on these grants. They’re asking for your thoughts before making it official, so now’s the time to speak up!
Next: 2025-08592, Energy Conservation Program: Test Procedures for Small Electric Motors
The Department of Energy wants to cancel rules about certifying and testing small electric motors through special labs. This change affects manufacturers and testers of these motors, and the DOE is asking for your thoughts before making a final call. If approved, it could simplify testing but might shake up how motors get certified, with no immediate cost changes announced.