Rinnai America Corporation, a leading North American manufacturer of innovative, energy-efficient tankless water heaters, is calling on U.S. lawmakers to protect American jobs and consumer choice as the Senate considers a significant resolution. The company is urging support for the Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution SJ Res 4, which seeks to overturn a proposed rule by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that threatens to effectively ban non-condensing tankless water heaters.
On March 25, 2025, Rinnai publicly addressed the importance of this legislative move, emphasizing the dire consequences the DOE’s proposed regulation could have on American manufacturing jobs, particularly at its Griffin, Georgia facility, where a $70 million investment has been made. The resolution is deemed critical in preserving hundreds of American jobs and maintaining a competitive manufacturing environment.
“Protecting U.S. jobs and manufacturing investment is essential,” Rinnai stated in their appeal, highlighting the necessity of safeguarding diverse employment opportunities within the sector.
One of the key points raised by Rinnai is the efficiency of their non-condensing tankless water heaters, which boast energy savings of up to 50% compared to traditional storage tank models. This innovation not only offers significant cost savings for consumers but also represents a commitment to energy efficiency. The company argues that the DOE’s proposed rule would limit consumer choice and favor larger tank manufacturers while undermining the efficiency goals set by the DOE.
According to Rinnai, if the ban on non-condensing models goes through, up to 80% of consumers might revert to less efficient storage tank models, a move that directly contradicts ongoing efforts to improve energy usage across the country.
The implications of this rule extend to consumer costs as well. Estimates suggest that families could face an increase of $665 per unit for these storage models, coupled with installation costs that could add up to $1,000 more. In total, this regulation could impose an additional $235 million annual cost on American consumers, placing a disproportionate burden on low-income and senior households. Rinnai’s message stresses that supporting the CRA would mean protecting American families from unnecessary financial strain while ensuring access to affordable and effective energy solutions.
As the company reaffirms its commitment to U.S. manufacturing, it sets itself apart from many competitors who choose to produce their goods abroad. Rinnai’s investment in Georgia represents a crucial aspect of the broader narrative around maintaining the competitiveness of American manufacturing in a global economy. The contrast drawn here highlights the long-term economic and environmental challenges faced when manufacturing shifts overseas.
Rinnai’s urgency in calling for lawmakers to act reflects a broader concern for U.S. jobs and consumer rights. “Supporting the CRA will not only prevent unnecessary costs for families but also promote continued progress in energy efficiency and preserve consumer choice,” they emphasized.
The situation unfolding in the Senate is not merely a regulatory issue; it is a reflection of the fragility of American manufacturing amidst evolving governmental policies. As Rinnai positions itself as a stalwart of domestic production, it advocates for equitable policies that benefit U.S. entities over international competitors.
In addition to protecting local jobs and safeguarding consumer options, Rinnai’s call to action is a vital reminder of the interconnectedness of manufacturing policies and economic repercussions for everyday Americans. The outcome of the CRA resolution could set a precedent for future legislative actions affecting various industries across the nation.
The need for ongoing advocacy for American jobs and consumer rights in the face of such regulatory actions cannot be overstated. As Rinnai America continues to lead in the production of energy-efficient solutions, the company is preparing to face the ramifications of whatever decision the Senate reaches regarding SJ Res 4.
In conclusion, Rinnai America Corporation's push for lawmakers to pass the Congressional Review Act resolution REflects its commitment to ensuring a balanced marketplace that fuels innovation while protecting consumers. Their clarion call implores every lawmaker to consider the ramifications of their choices not just for the manufacturing sector but for every American family relying on reasonable energy costs and choices for their homes.
