The U.S. government’s plan to educate us consumers when it comes to saving energy was well-placed but perhaps not fully thought out. For instance, it can be easy to presume that the mere presence of a yellow Energy Star sticker means that your refrigerater is tops.
Nope, sorry. Despite what “star” implies, most new ‘fridges will qualify and the differences between them can be astounding. The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, for instance, suggests that you shoot for the refrigerate that beats the government’s standard by at least 20%. Check the Energy Star site for models and ratings on all kinds of appliances, and the ACEE has tips on what to look for.
Also, the government revised all its standards tighter a few years ago, so buying an older model off the floor or keeping your old ‘fridge in the garage — star or not — could mean you’re actually running an energy hog using up to 40% more energy than necessary. What about small refigerators? Absolutely, if you can manage on less than 7.75 cubic feet, you’re saving serious watts. Definitely buy less than 25 cubic feet in any case, says the ACEEE, and buy a top-mount freezer (rather than side-to-side), avoid ice machines and, if you really need two refrigerators, recycle the older one and consider a new, second mini-fridge instead.
Want numbers? The feds say appliances alone (not counting heating or cooling) account from 24% to 34% of your home’s power use right now.
