What Are Energy Star Appliances?

What would life be like without appliances? Our reliance on our dishwashers, laundry machines, etc. makes them an integral part of our homes. They keep the house clean and ensure that the well-oiled machine that is your home life continues to run smoothly. Fortunately, Energy Star appliances are more sustainable than others and can save you money on your utility bills.

What are Energy Star appliances?

Energy Star products use less energy than other home appliances. Because they are more energy efficient, they help to protect the environment by reducing harmful emissions. These products adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy. Over the lifespan of these home appliances, you can save significantly on energy costs.

You’ll find the Energy Star badge on common home appliances such as refrigerators and dishwashers, but over the years, the program has expanded to other systems throughout the home including HVAC systems, water heaters, TV sets, and more.

These appliances accomplish improvements in sustainability through various product features. Here are just a few examples of their efficiency gains compared to non-certified appliances, courtesy of the Energy Star Appliances Brochure.

• Certified refrigerators are about 15% more energy-efficient
• Certified freezers use about 10% less energy
• Certified dehumidifiers use 15% less energy (roughly $175 lifetime savings)
• Certified air cleaners are 40% more energy-efficient (roughly $25 annual utility bills savings)
• Certified dishwashers are 10% more energy-efficient and 20% more water-efficient (average 1,900 gallons of water savings over product lifetime)
• On average, certified laundry machines can cut energy costs by one-third and water costs by more than half

To truly make improvements in your energy output, it’s helpful to establish a baseline. By sorting through your utility bills, you’ll gain an understanding of how your household’s energy output is distributed, allowing you to identify areas for improvement. Using these special appliances is just one way to accomplish more sustainable living at home. By combining these products with other eco-friendly practices, you’ll see your energy expenses decrease while feeling a sense of pride that you’re doing your part to protect the environment.

To maximize your appliances, it’s important to keep them clean.