Energy efficient appliances help conserve our planet, but they can also save you tons of money! With many choices available, it can be difficult to know which brand or model is the most cost efficient. Here are a few tips so you’ll know what you should look for.
- Ask about special energy-efficient offers. Rebates, low-interest loans, or other incentive programs are often available to encourage buyers to purchase more energy efficient appliances.
- Read the Energy Guide label. The yellow and black label located on the appliance is required by the FTC on all new appliances (with the exception of ranges, microwaves, and clothes dryers). It will tell you the estimated annual energy consumption and will help you compare the efficiency of competing brands.
- Look for the Energy Star logo. Appliances with this logo are significantly more energy-efficient than the average model.
- Refrigerators with fewer accessories are usually more energy efficient. Ice makers and water dispensers use unnecessary energy. Auto-defrost causes lower overall efficiency because it uses heat to speed defrosting. The most efficient refrigerators are 16-20 cubic feet with freezers on the bottom rather than the top or sides.
- Self-cleaning ovens are more energy efficient because they are better insulated.
- Front load washers use much less water, hold larger loads, and conserve more energy in reduced water heating. Look for models that come with a sensor that automatically stops the dryer when the clothes are dry.
- Choose a dishwasher with an “energy-save” or “light wash” cycle which uses less water and runs for a shorter period of time. Also choose a model with an “air dry” option which uses a circulation fan. This uses less power than a “heat dry” option.
- If buying a new air conditioner, choose a model with an Energy Efficient Ratio (EER) of 10.0 or higher.
For more information on energy efficient appliances, energystar.gov offers a wealth of information!
