Energy Star

The Energy Star program provides fantastic opportunities for individuals and businesses to both save money and resources.

In 1992, the US Department of Energy and the EPA began a joint energy efficiency program called Energy Star. Among other things, Energy Star rates the energy efficiency of appliances, heating and cooling systems, and home electronics and assigns the best models an Energy Star seal of approval. What does this mean for you? Consider the following common household appliances: refrigerators, dishwashers, and clothes washers.

Choosing an Energy Star model of each can save money, energy, and, in the case of dishwashers and clothes washers, water. Take a minute or two to compare the relative environmental and financial costs of standard and Energy Star models of refrigerators, dishwashers, and clothes washers using the EPA’s savings calculators. In each case, you’ll probably find that choosing a more efficient appliance adds up to big savings on your utility bill.

And of course, Energy Star appliances save a substantial amount of energy. According to Energy Star:

Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2006 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 25 million cars — all while saving $14 billion on their utility bills. (Energy Star – 10/16/07)

So if you’re thinking about buying a new appliance, installing a new heating and cooling system, or simply want to do your part to preserve the integrity of our common resources, make a smart investment in a high-quality, energy-efficient, Energy Star appliance.

And if your current appliances are more than 10 or 15 years old, they very well could be burning more energy and money than they’re worth (find out how much your old refrigerator is costing you here). It’s very possible that you’ll be better off recycling the old model, buying an Energy Star replacement, and reaping the rewards of efficiency. According to Energy Star:

on average refrigerators manufactured before 1993 cost over $50 more per year to operate than new ENERGY STAR qualified models. Refrigerators manufactured before 1980 cost about $150 more per year! (Energy Star)

Making a smart investment in Energy Star appliances is yet another win-win solution that saves money and helps to preserve our precious resources. Find out more about Energy Star standards, approved appliances, and achievements here.