Northern Virginia Home Energy Audits  703-912-4710  703-328-4057 Serving the DC METRO area since 1998   Doing Energy Audits to save you money and fix your problems

Appliances

Today's major appliances are more efficient than older models because they must meet minimum federal energy efficiency standards. These standards have increased over the years and today's appliances tend to be about 40% more efficient than a appliance that is 10 years old.

The less energy we use, the more money we save. However, finding which models use less energy is sometimes difficult. Below are some ideas to help in your search.

• Energy Star models are the most energy efficient in any product category, exceeding the energy efficiency minimums set by the federal government.
• All new appliances must carry the Energy Guide label, either on the appliance itself or on the packaging. The label allows you to compare the typical annual energy consumption and operating cost of different appliance models.
• Make sure the appliance, that you're buying suits your needs. Oversized air conditioners, water heaters and refrigerators waste energy and money.
• Many of the most energy-efficient appliances cost more initially, but they'll save you money in the long run. Expect to keep most major appliances 7 years. A more efficient appliance soon pays for itself as lower monthly utility bills over the lifetime of the appliance will more than offset a higher purchase price.