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BUYING THE BEST APPLIANCES
from Co-op America's RealMoney
When you're looking for a new appliance, buy the most energy-efficient model possible to save energy, save money, and curb emissions.
Would you like cleaner clothes, a cozier home, lower utility bills, and to be a leader in curbing climate change? Then consider replacing your old appliances with new, energy- and water-efficient versions. The US consumes nearly one million dollars worth of energy every minute, according to the Department of Energy (DOE). By choosing high-efficiency appliances over conventional models, last year's US consumers saved $12 billion on utility bills and avoiding greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to 23 million cars. Get in on the energy saving with the strategic appliance advice we've gathered for you here.
WHEN TO REPLACE AND RECYCLE
When your old reliables break down, replacing them with the most efficient models is a top priority. You'll see lower energy bills and reduce your global warming emissions. Plus, you'll get the best advantages of new technologies.
Though they can cost more up front, energy-efficient appliances will save you enough in utility costs that they'll often pay for themselves in a short time. According to the U.S. Environmental Agency (EPA), efficient appliances use ten to 50 percent less energy and water than standard models.
If you have old working appliances, use the guidelines we offer in this article to consider replacing them with new, technologically advanced energy-efficient models.
In all cases, make sure you recycle, rather than donate, your old appliances, so you retire energy-guzzling models. Stores that sell and install new appliances often have recycling services. Or, contact the Steel Recycling Institute or enter your zip code at Earth911.com to find a recycling site near you.
LOOK FOR THE ENERGY STAR
In 1992, EPA introduced Energy Star, a voluntary labeling program to help consumers easily find the most energy-efficient products to protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. EPA partners with the DOE to evaluate appliances, office equipment, lighting, home electronics, and even homes and office buildings for the Energy Star label.
The Energy Star label means that a product meets or exceeds strict energy-efficiency guidelines established by the EPA and DOE -- so you'll always find it on the most efficient washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers, and heating and cooling units. It is important to remember that not all Energy Star appliances are created equal, so you should still compare efficiency between models. To meet international targets for curbing climate change, make it your goal to choose appliances that save at least 25 percent in energy consumption over your current models.
COOLING AND HEATING
The air conditioning and heating unit in your house can use up to one-half of total home energy consumption. Cutting your energy use here, therefore, is one of the most effective ways to reduce your home's ecological footprint.
Swapping old cooling and heating systems for Energy Star models can cut annual energy costs by 20 percent or more. Efficient models allow you to program the system to the minimum amount of energy you need to cool or heat a room at different times of day.
Central Air Conditioning (ACs) are rated according to their seasonal energy-efficiency ratiov(SEER), which is the cooling output divided by the power input. Basically, a higher SEER means a more efficient air conditioner. Most AC units range from a SEER rating of 6 to 18. New standards enacted this year have raised the SEER requirements from 10 to 13, which is the first change in 14 years. The ACEE recommends a SEER rating of at least 14.5
Most US homes are heated with a furnace or boiler. Energy Star furnaces have an annual fuel utilization efficiency (AFUE) rating of 90 percent or greater, making them about 15 percent more efficient than standard models. The most efficient boilers have an AFUE rating of 85 percent or greater. (If you have another type of heating system, visit www.energystar.gov to see what you should look for.)
When to replace: If your heating and cooling units are old, worn out, or inefficient, you should replace them with high-efficiency models -- especially if you use one or the other nearly every day. Your system technician or an energy auditor (available through your local utility) can help you evaluate your existing system and decide whether to replace it.
Extra Efficiency Tips: Most people but AC units that are unnecessarily large for their homes; visit www.energystar.gov to find what size unit your home needs. Choose "zone heating and cooling" to heat or cool only rooms you're using. Use a programmable thermostat. Get your systems tuned up accordingly to manufacturer guidelines. And plug and seal all leaks in your home.
What?
Buy energy-efficient appliances when your old models break down or wasting too much energy.
Why?
Save money on energy bills and water bills.
WOW!
Energy-Efficient appliances save resources and keep global warming emissions out of the atmosphere.
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