How To Choose Green Appliances

  • March 24, 2009
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As your current appliances die of old age, make sure you replace them with energy-efficient ones.

You Will Need

  • Time to comparison shop
How To Choose Green Appliances: Look for the logo

Step 1: Look for the logo

The easiest way to find “green” appliances is to look for the Energy Star logo, which indicates that the model far exceeds the federal minimum requirements for energy efficiency.

How To Choose Green Appliances: Compare energy guides

Step 2: Compare energy guides

Compare the energy guide—a sticker that indicates the energy efficiency of the product—on models you like.

How To Choose Green Appliances: Know the basics

Step 3: Know the basics

Know some basic guidelines like: front-loading washers are usually more efficient than top-loading ones; side-by-side fridge/freezers are better than freezer-on-top models; and manual-defrost freezers use nearly half the energy of self-defrosters.

If your fridge is more than 10 years old, consider investing in a new one—modern models use half the energy. And skip the energy-draining water and ice dispensers.

How To Choose Green Appliances: Air-dry dishes

Step 4: Air-dry dishes

Make sure any dishwasher you buy has an air-dry feature—and use it.

If your current dishwasher doesn’t have an air-dry option, just open the door after the final rinse.

How To Choose Green Appliances: Get a double oven

Step 5: Get a double oven

If you do a lot of cooking, consider an oven with a second, smaller unit on top. It will save more energy than having a separate toaster oven. Now you yourself are an energy star!

Running a full dishwasher uses less water than hand-washing them.

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Comments (1)

HeatherM

Beautiful, clear, and inventive. Excellent video!

over 2 years ago by HeatherM

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Video is in Go Green! (21 videos)