Energy-Efficient Appliances

Home appliances look pretty much the same on the outside, but they vary greatly in terms of energy-efficiency and operating costs. The more energy-efficient an appliance is, the less it costs to run. You can lower your bills and help protect the environment. Here are a few simple steps to follow when shopping for energy-efficient appliances.

Select the Size and Style - Measure the space the appliance will occupy to be sure your new purchase will fit. Check that there's enough room to open the door or lid fully, and enough clearance for ventilation.

Consider Both Purchase Price and Estimated Energy Use - When deciding which brand and model to buy. In many cases, you may actually save money by buying the more expensive, more energy-efficient model.

Ask About Special Energy-Efficient Offers - Cash rebates, low-interest loans or other incentive programs are often offered to encourage buyers to purchase energy-efficient appliances. Look for the Energy Star Logo as Appliances with this logo are significantly more energy-efficient than the average comparable model. The Energy Star program is operated jointly by the U.S. Department of Energy and the EPA.