Rental housing providers facing South Coast AQMD’s zero-emission appliance requirements have a new resource from CAA to help determine what the rules mean for their properties.
CAA has released a new Industry Insight, “South Coast AQMD Zero-Emission Requirements for Water Heaters, Boilers and Pool Heaters,” that breaks down the complicated requirements of Rule 1146.2 and provides practical guidance for rental housing providers.
The rule applies throughout Orange County and large portions of Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties. It requires both new and existing buildings to transition certain gas-fired appliances to zero-emission alternatives. In practice, that generally means replacing covered gas equipment with electric models.
The requirements vary considerably depending on the type and size of the appliance, whether it is in a new or existing building, and, in some cases, the age of the equipment. Properties with four or fewer units are covered by the rule but are treated differently from larger multifamily properties.
CAA’s guide walks members through those distinctions, including:
- Which appliances are covered.
- When different compliance deadlines take effect, including a phase-in schedule running through 2033.
- Special rules for properties with four or fewer units.
- Extensions when electrical upgrades, utility delays or construction make timely conversion difficult.
Although most existing multifamily properties do not face replacement requirements until at least 2029, CAA recommends that owners begin planning now. Converting to electric equipment can require electrical panel upgrades, equipment relocation and other building modifications that take significant time to plan and complete.
CAA continues to challenge Rule 1146.2 in federal court. Unless the rule is stayed or invalidated, however, rental housing providers should prepare to meet its compliance deadlines.
CAA members are encouraged to read the full Industry Insight on South Coast zero-emission requirements.
