Do Energy-Efficient Appliances Really Make a Difference? | Teems Electric

If you have walked through any large store, you have likely seen tags on kitchen goods, electronics and appliances that describe just how much energy you can save when you purchase these goodies. Energy efficiency is a pretty common topic of conversation these days—and why wouldn’t it be when it can mean cutting your costs?

Lowering your monthly energy bill is something we all want, but are energy-efficient appliances really going to make that much of a difference? If a dishwasher from 20 years ago still cleans your dishes just as well as a new one would, is an upgrade really necessary?

While making decisions about your large appliances is certainly something that should be well thought out, if you are ready to do some updating, consider what going more energy-efficient can do for you.

What Are They?

If you are asking yourself, “isn’t everything energy-efficient these days?,” that is partly true. Just about every electronic, small kitchen accessory and appliance on the market today carries some degree of energy efficiency.

While these are still designed to help save on your electric costs, in order to really benefit you need to look for a high efficiency or Energy Star label.

High efficiency, or HE as they are often referred to, appliances are designed to offer the most efficient energy use. These appliances are tested according to federal Energy Star standards in order to be officially certified. Any appliance that meets the standards for certification will be labeled with a star. Typically, you will also find a yellow tag that breaks down how much you can anticipate to save with that product included as well.

While countertop appliances and small electronics may come with energy-efficient information or be labeled as low-energy consuming, the Energy Star program generally applies to those appliances that will contribute to a substantial amount of savings.

Are They Worth It?

When it comes to your refrigerator, washing machine, dryer and dishwasher—things you never unplug and run often—going energy-efficient can save nearly 30% on your electric bill. Upgrading your appliances to energy-efficient versions can sometimes come with tax breaks, too, another added bonus.

There are other benefits to upgrading that 20-year-old dishwasher, too. Not only will it cut your bills, but it will also come with the latest safety features. Updating your home’s equipment can help prevent a disaster from an appliance failure—and it could mean you avoid a flooded home or even a small fire.

Switching to HE appliances does come with some upfront costs, but the long-term benefits mean you aren’t losing more money as you put the seventh load of dishes in for the night. Many of these appliances are quieter than their former counterparts too. That means you can fall asleep faster and wake up to the kids digging clean dishes directly out of the dishwasher instead of putting them away.

Ready to learn more about energy efficiency? Contact us for everything you need.