Choose ENERGY STAR products

ENERGY STAR is a joint program between the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the US Department of Energy (DOE) developed to provide buyers with an objective measurement for products with improved energy efficiency. ENERGY STAR products use 10-50 percent less energy compared to standard models, and where applicable, reduce paper and water consumption, too.

How to buy ENERGY STAR products

The ENERGY STAR label covers a myriad of products available to businesses and consumers alike, ranging from the humble battery charger to super-efficient windows and doors. They even have a program for ENERGY STAR labeled buildings (hotels, restaurants, and more). Finding these products couldn't be easier with these simple steps:

1. Consult the ENERGY STAR website for specific products.
2. The ENERGY STAR logo is usually fairly prominent on the packaging or the product itself, so pick up the box and take a look. When selecting appliances, the logo may appear on the appliance itself, the packaging, or on the EnergyGuide label.
3. If you don't see the ENERGY STAR logo, ask for help from a salesperson on identifying ENERGY STAR products.

As you browse, you may notice slightly higher prices for ENERGY STAR products, but just keep in mind that the initial price tag is not where you'll stop paying. Costs of installation, maintenance, repairs and operation apply after the initial purchase. Buying a more expensive, but energy efficient model saves money by saving energy over the product's lifetime.

Here are some ENERGY STAR products:

• Air conditioner
• Air-source heat pumps
• Battery chargers
• Boiler
• Ceiling fan
• Cell phone chargers
• Computer
• Copier, fax machine, printer, scanner, all-in-one
• Cordless phone
• Dishwasher
• Dehumidifier
• Doors
• DVD, VCR, TV, home audio, combo units
• Exit signs
• Freezer
• Insulation
• Light bulb and light fixtures
• Programmable thermostat
• Refrigerator
• Roof products
• Skylights
• Washer
• Water cooler
• Window

Choosing ENERGY STAR products helps you go green because…

• They adhere to a higher standard of energy efficiency, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Where applicable, they use water and paper, as well as other resources, more sparingly.

Through the ENERGY STAR initiative, in 2006, Americans saved enough energy to avoid the equivalent of greenhouse gas emissions from 25 million cars while at the same time saving $14 billion on utility bills.[1] If only 1/10th of American households switched over to ENERGY STAR appliances, the CO₂ savings would be equivalent to the carbon sequestration of 1.7 million acres of trees.[2]

Tax breaks and subsidies

Tax credits are available for some ENERGY STAR home improvement products, including high quality heating and cooling systems, central air conditioners, CFL lightbulbs, dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, and more. Go to the ENERGY STAR Rebate Locator for more product details.

External links

• US Federal Trade Commission - How to Buy an Energy Efficient Appliance

Footnotes

1. ENERGY STAR - About ENERGY STAR
2. ENERGY STAR - Appliances