February 2022 Update
In February 2022, EPA withdrew broadly applicable test methods ALT-125 and ALT-127.Appliances certified to ALT-125 or ALT-127 will not be eligible for recertification pursuant to 40 CFR 60.531 and 60.534(a)(2). As ALT-125 and ALT-127 were the only cordwood tests any appliances were certified to, this effectively reverts industry testing to a cribwood standard that does not closely reflect how appliances are burned in owners’ homes.
November 18, 2020 Update
Despite HPBA efforts, EPA will not be providing sell-through of any kind for Step 1 products.
HPBA has received official word from the U.S. EPA that they will NOT be providing a sell-through period for Step 1 appliances.
Thank you to everyone who helped us with our advocacy efforts on this issue. EPA made it clear that it was not for lack of effort on our part, just that EPA was delayed during other parts of the process by other agency priorities.
Is there still a donation option?
No.
We asked EPA if they might still allow dealers to donate Step 1 products to non-profits HPBA has been working with to replace older products with EPA-certified units. EPA has told us this would not be possible due to the need to publish a rule change to distinguish between prohibited sales and donations. There is not enough time for EPA to do even this, and the rule change would face opposition that would kill the effort.
What can dealers do now with any remaining Step 1 products?
With no sell-through or a donation option, any Step 1 products remaining can only be recycled or destroyed. They cannot even be given away as the EPA prohibits the transfer of ownership of a Step 1 product after May 15, 2020.
This is extremely disappointing news, especially in light of the second wave of COVID-19 cases impacting families and small businesses. We urge you to share this with your dealer network.
Many of your question are likely answered on our FAQ page.
REVIEW FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
To read more about the recent history of this issue, read our May 6 blog post, here.