What Are Energy Star Home Appliances?
If you are looking to replace any appliance in your home, it’s fairly safe to say that you are spoiled for choice. You can choose from a vast range of products from different manufacturers in different sizes, different colors, and features.
So, how do you make a rational choice, then? Well, there are different ways to approach this topic, but Lars Appliance Showroom recommends focusing on features that you absolutely must have, and working your way from there. One feature that has become more prevalent in recent years is the so-called Energy Star Rating. Since we weren’t sure what it was, we asked them to explain it a bit further.
Energy Star Is Government-Based
Energy Star rating is a program started by the US government, the Department of Energy, and the EPA. With increased energy consumption in recent years, and with our grid being pretty aged at this point, there is a specific strain on the energy production and distribution system. If your area hasn’t experienced blackouts in recent years, consider yourself fortunate.
To combat this problem, the US government has started numerous programs for energy conservation, and Energy Star is one of them.
It Is All About Efficiency
The requirements for an appliance to get this certification are pretty strict. Naturally, the first requirement is that the device needs to be more energy-efficient than a comparable standard product. However, it needs to achieve this energy efficiency without compromising performance.
This program sets some standards to avoid manipulation by manufacturers who would increase efficiency by thin margins. For instance, a fridge can only get the Energy Star badge if it is 15% more efficient than a standard fare. Television sets need to be 50% more efficient when in standby mode.
Are Energy Star Devices More Expensive?
Energy efficiency does come with a somewhat higher purchase price. After all, the company needed to invest money in research and development to achieve these results. However, if you look at this purchase as an investment and a long-term project, you will find that these devices usually pay off over the device’s lifetime.
Paying more outright but saving on each electricity bill for as long as you have the device is a value proposition that not everybody can appreciate, but it is there. Think of these devices like solar panels – sure, they cost money upfront, but they decrease your monthly electricity bill.
Where Can I Find Energy Star Products?
It’s important to note that Energy Star is not a brand of products but rather a certification that any brand can attain if they follow specific rules. You can find a comprehensive list of manufacturers, devices, and even particular products that comply with this standard on the Energy Star website.
However, if you want to buy one of these devices, you have two options. You can either shop online and select the product you want from a vendor you find online or visit a showroom and see, touch, and familiarize yourself with the device you are buying.
If you have the time and patience, we recommend going out and talking to a professional – they might have some insight about a particular model or manufacturer that you wouldn’t otherwise know about. Buying a new appliance doesn’t come around too often for most people. This is why it is essential to take the time to find the ideal appliance for your purposes. After all, you will end up using it for years to come.
