Energy Efficient Appliances
Saving power and your money
Most people spend almost $2000 each year to power their homes. Choosing to buy appliances that are low on power consumption, such as those labeled Energy Star, can save you money. Not only that, you’ll be reducing your footprint and helping to protect the environment. Switching to CFL light bulbs is a good start, but big energy savings can come with larger power-consuming appliances.
But doesn’t it cost more?
The price tag of an energy-efficient appliance can initially be more than others. But the price in the store doesn’t compare to the money you’ll be saving while it’s plugged into your outlets. If you’re a really good shopper and have some time to compare, you might be able to find an energy-efficient version that actually costs less than a standard appliance. Shopping online can be a great way to find better deals than in stores.
If you need to replace an old or broken-down appliance, going more efficient, even if it’s a bit more expensive, will end up saving you money. You’ll probably make up the difference in a few months to a year, and the rest will be savings. Some products, purchased in certain areas, can get you a rebate to further make up the price difference.
Why energy-efficient appliances are a good thing
Not only are they good for your pocketbook, efficient appliances are good for the environment. According to the government’s Energy Star website (it’s a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Department of Energy), one in ten homes using energy-efficient appliances would equal the planting of 1.7 million acres of trees.
Eligible Energy Star appliances
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Dishwashers
- Clothes washers
- Air conditioners (room)
- Air cleaners (room)
- Dehumidifiers
- Water coolers
- Battery charging systems (for cordless phones, appliances, electric shavers …)
[Design note: can you put this factoid in a box? Cost per year = kWh (700) x utility rates (8.4) = total costs for 1 year ($58.80)]
The EnergyGuide label
The EnergyGuide label lists yearly average running costs and will likely display whether a product is Energy Star qualified. It also compares energy use to similar products using a bar scale with an arrow showing where the appliance sits.
Energy-efficient appliances will have lower kWh/year. If you can find that number for a current appliance, you’ll be able to figure out the cost difference between old and new. Power use isn’t the only efficiency measure though; some appliances will have their own factors for other savings, such as clothes washers and water usage.
