If you are in the market for new home appliances, you might want to consider purchasing models that are Energy Star certified. Energy Star is a program that was launched by the US Environmental Protection Agency EPA in 1992, with the aim of promoting energy-efficient products and practices to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment. In this article, we will provide some hints on how to search for Energy Star options when purchasing home appliances.
Look for the Energy Star label
The easiest way to identify Energy Star certified products is to look for the Energy Star label. This label is a blue and white symbol that can be found on the product packaging or directly on the appliance itself. The label indicates that the product has been independently certified to meet or exceed energy efficiency standards set by the EPA.
Check the Energy Guide label
In addition to the Energy Star label, most appliances also have an Energy Guide label. This label provides information about the product’s energy consumption and estimated annual operating cost. By comparing the Energy Guide labels of different models, you can determine which appliances are the most energy-efficient and cost-effective to operate.
Use online resources
There are several online resources that can help you find Energy Star certified appliances. The Energy Star website has a product finder tool that allows you to search for Energy Star certified products by type, brand, model, and other criteria. You can also find product listings and reviews on retailer websites, such as Best Buy, Home Depot, and Lowe’s.
Ask the salesperson
When shopping for appliances in-store, be sure to ask the salesperson about Energy Star options. They should be able to direct you to products that are Energy Star certified and provide information about their energy efficiency and cost savings.
Consider the type of appliance
While most home appliances can be Energy Star certified, some types of appliances are more likely to have the label than others. For example, refrigerators, freezers, and washing machines are commonly Energy Star certified, while ovens, ranges, and dryers are less likely to have the label. When shopping for appliances consider which ones are most important to you and prioritize Energy Star options for those products.
Look for rebates and incentives
In addition to saving money on energy costs, purchasing Energy Star certified appliances may also qualify you for rebates and incentives. Some utility companies and government agencies offer rebates or tax credits for purchasing energy-efficient products. Check with your local utility company or state energy office to see what rebates and incentives are available in your area.
Consider the lifetime cost
While Energy Star certified appliances may have a higher upfront cost than non-certified models, they can save you money in the long run by reducing your energy bills. When comparing the prices of different models, consider the lifetime cost of the appliance, including energy costs, maintenance, and repair expenses.
Read customer reviews
Before making a purchase, be sure to read customer reviews of the product you are considering. Look for reviews that specifically mention the appliance’s energy efficiency and cost savings. This can help you determine whether the Energy Star certified model is worth the investment.
Look for additional features
Some Energy Star certified appliances may also include additional features that can further reduce energy consumption. For example, some refrigerators have sensors that adjust the temperature based on the amount of food inside, while some washing machines have a cold wash cycle that uses less energy than a hot water cycle.
Consider the environmental impact
By purchasing Energy Star certified appliances, you are not only saving money on energy costs but also reducing your carbon footprint. Energy Star certified products use less energy and produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions than non-certified products, which helps to protect the environment and combat climate change.