We all want to save money, especially when it comes to our utility bills. One great way to reduce your monthly expenses is to cut usage with water and energy efficient appliances. While most people cannot afford to replace all their appliances at once, choosing efficient models when the time comes to buy a new washer, water heater or dish washer can make a big difference on both your water and electricity bills.
Choosing A New Appliance
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has made it easy to recognize appliances that are efficient in their energy use. Two programs are sponsored by the EPA, WaterSense and ENERGY STAR, both labeling appliances and fixtures that are deemed energy and water efficient.
- WaterSense. WaterSense is a partnership program through the EPA which labels products that are certified to be at least 20% more efficient without sacrificing performance.
- ENERGY STAR. For over twenty years, the ENERGY STAR voluntary EPA program has helped identify appliances which help to save energy. For example, an ENERGY STAR washer today can save over 70% on water and energy than a similar washer made twenty years ago.
The use of these more efficient appliances and fixtures have saved an estimated $230 billion in utility bills over the last twenty years, and 1.8 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, making them good for your wallet and the planet.
When you are ready to convert your water appliances to more efficient models, be sure to consult your plumber to be aware of any changes you may need for your home to connect to these new models. In addition to your appliances, your plumber can recommend water efficient toilets and water heaters when the time comes to replace them as well.
Posted on behalf of Seagraves Plumbing
