Energy and Water Efficiency
A Way of Life
When purchasing a new refrigerator, freezer, dishwasher, water heater, clothes washer, air conditioner or furnace, check the Energy Guide label. Look for the bright yellow label on the appliance.
The Energy Guide labels compare the estimated annual energy cost or energy efficiency of the appliance with competing products of the same type and size.
Air conditioners and furnaces are assigned a seasonal energy efficiency rating (SEER) – the higher the SEER rating, the more energy efficient the product. While an energy-efficient model may be higher in initial price than another model, the lower cost of operation might well offset the higher purchase price over a period of just a few years.
For the most energy-efficient products took for the EPA's ENERGY STARŪ labels. These energy-saving products currently include clothes washers, refrigerators, dishwashers, room air conditioners, lighting, home electronics (including televisions), office equipment, computers and more.