A Guide to Energy-Efficient Appliances

Many of our appliances run constantly in the background of our lives, quietly driving up our electricity bills. Even the ones that aren’t consistently running draw a significant amount of energy when we do use them. That’s why having energy-efficient appliances can make a huge difference in terms of energy savings, thanks to how far technology has come. If you’re wondering if you should upgrade your appliances to energy-efficient models, we’re here to help you sort through the details.

Refrigerators

Older refrigerator models rely on outdated compressors and insulation that aren’t built to conserve energy the way newer models are. Today’s energy-efficient fridges use improved compressor technology, better insulation and smarter temperature controls to keep food cold using a fraction of the energy. Since your refrigerator runs around the clock, an energy-efficient upgrade is well worth the investment.

HVAC Systems

Your HVAC system is one of the biggest energy culprits in your home, accounting for 50% of the average household’s total consumption. Energy-efficient models can cut this figure down significantly. With variable-speed technology, advanced heat exchangers and smarter controls, energy-efficient HVAC systems maintain a steady temperature without the constant spikes of electricity that happen when a traditional unit kicks on and off throughout the day.

Washers and Dryers

Energy-efficient washers use less energy and water than standard models. They do this by using smart sensors, lower water levels and advanced heat recycling technology. And because they use less water, they require less electricity to heat it. On top of that, they spin faster than regular washers, squeezing out much more water and shortening the amount of drying time needed.

Traditional dryers run on a set heat for a set amount of time, which usually leads to over-drying clothes and running for longer than necessary. Energy-efficient models have built-in moisture and temperature sensors that detect when clothes are dry, shutting off automatically when the cycle is done. They also use recycled heat technology, instead of consistently blasting heat out of a vent.

Dishwashers

There’s an age-old debate about whether washing dishes by hand or using the dishwasher is more energy efficient. When using an energy-efficient dishwasher, the answer is simple. These models use anywhere between 12% and 30% less heated water than standard models. They do this by using advanced water filtration systems, instead of constantly pulling fresh water, heating it and draining it. They also use smart sensors to check how clean the water is, potentially skipping extra rinse cycles, and internal heaters to heat the water rather than pulling already heated water from the water heater.

Water Heaters

Regular water heaters run all day to keep a tank of water hot. This requires a huge amount of electricity. Energy-efficient tankless water heaters work a little differently. Instead of consistently heating a large tank of water, they work on an on-demand basis, instantly heating water as soon as the tap is turned on. There’s no standby loss, and they consume no energy when hot water taps are off.

ENERGY STAR Ratings

An ENERGY STAR label means that an appliance has been tested and certified to meet specific energy-efficiency standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy. Certain rebates and incentive programs are often available for people who upgrade to ENERGY STAR-rated appliances, which can help offset the upfront investment. It’s worth checking if your area or power company offers these incentives. If they do, take full advantage!

Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is just one way you can save money on your electricity bills. Prepaid power helps you by making energy management and usage tracking easier. Learn more about prepaid power from Pronto Power here, or contact us online to get started!