New regulations for Walk-In Cooler and Freezer Efficiency go into effect in 2020. All condensing units used in new installations, service replacement, or packaged systems must meet these efficiency standards. For medium-temperature units, the new regulations go into effect on January 1, 2020. For low-temperature units, the new regulations go into effect on July 10, 2020. Contractors and wholesalers are allowed to use and stock condensing units manufactured before these enforcement dates.
The regulations cover enclosed walk-in coolers and freezers, whether indoor or outdoor, with a chilled storage area of less than 3,000 square feet. Equipment designed and marketed exclusively for medical, scientific, or research purposes is exempt. Equipment designed and marketed to serve more than one walk-in cooler or freezer is exempt. Compressor-based racks that serve multiple refrigeration loads are exempt. Remote air-cooled condensers and fluid coolers not used for walk-in coolers and freezers are exempt.
More information on the new regulations can be found here.