A proposed phase-out of natural gas water heaters and boilers in some Californian cities and counties had local dry cleaners worried for the future of their businesses. However, thanks to the efforts of area dry cleaners, business organizations and the California Cleaners Association (CCA), recommendations were made that would reduce the anxiety and push back the compliance dates.
The measure – proposed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) – is designed to combat nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions from large water heaters, small boilers and process heaters. The original rule would apply to all commercial buildings and multifamily units — new and existing. Compliance would be mandatory by 2026 for new buildings, by 2029 for existing buildings.
According to a release from the Los Angeles County Business Federation (BizFed), there had been a lack of input for the radical proposal from those who would be most affected.
However, after meeting with the CCA and after some dry cleaner site visits, the SCAQMD recommendation was amended to push back the compliance deadline to 2033 for the high-temperature units typically used by dry cleaners. Conclusion: dry cleaners should be aware of this type of legislation proposals and get involved with both representatives and organizations to make sure their viewpoints are heard.
