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Appliances With the high cost of electricity and the ever increasing cost of consumer products, finding new ways to leave a little change in your pocket is becoming a new trend. Going green by purchasing Energy Star® rated appliances is one way. These appliances are specifically designed to save energy and resources. What are the Costs and Savings? The average home in America today uses $1,300 - $1,900 in energy costs a year. By simply switching to Energy Star® rated appliances, you’ll save on average 30% and put $400 - $600 back into your wallet. Energy Star® appliances use 10 – 50% less water and energy than standard models. In fact, for every federal dollar spent on the Energy Star® program, a $60 savings in energy goes to the homeowner. Although the Energy star® models are a little more expensive initially, the savings of water, sewer and utility bills will more than make up the difference over a period of time. Which Type of Appliances Qualify? The appliances that have earned the Energy Star® rating include: dishwashers, refrigerators, window air conditioners, dehumidifiers, and washers. These appliances are marked with an Energy Star® tag. History of Energy Star® Energy Star® is an international standard for energy efficient consumer products that was created as a U.S. government program in 1992. The EPA (Environmental Protection agency) created the program in an attempt to reduce power consumption and greenhouse emissions by power plants. The idea was that if every household used fewer resources, the power companies wouldn’t have to produce as much power. This in turn would reduce greenhouse gases caused by the burning of fossil fuels used to generate power. Greenhouse gases are blamed for global warming. As of 2006, the EPA estimates the savings in energy costs to be $14 billion and about 12% of new housing in the U.S. is using Energy Star® appliances. How do Appliances Qualify? As of 2008, appliances need to meet minimum savings requirements to qualify for the Energy Star® logo. Dishwashers are required to have at least a 41% savings and refrigerators need at least a 20% savings. Additional Savings Further rebates and tax credits may be available through state and local government agencies. The savings are real and a sign of the times. Nothing wasted is something earned! |
