A Guide to Understanding High Efficiency Appliances

A wide variety of appliances bears the name of "high efficiency" today. Not everyone is aware of what that term means. It could mean faster operating time, which in turn uses less energy, or that the appliance uses less energy all the time when compared to similar appliances. This guide will explain how to understand the term high efficiency and how to get the most for your purchase.

Seek out high efficiency appliances when you shop.

The appliance could have a label with the letters "HE," "He," or "high efficiency" on it. All of these labels mean the same thing. In the case of water-using appliances such as washing machines, it could also mean that it is water saving as well. Labels you should look for to help you determine which machine will save the most money include:

• · The energy use label. This is the yellow sticker that shows how much money the appliance uses in a year. This price varies depending on use and energy costs.
• · The water saving label. This blue sticker resembles a drop of water and indicates that the device or appliance saves water as well as energy.
• · The Energy Star label. This label indicates that the appliance is at least 10% more efficient than other appliances of the same size or capacity.

It is important to understand that not every appliance will bear more than one efficiency sticker. To make the most of a purchase, look for all three on an appliance such as a washing machine.

Know the right size of appliance for your use.

Having a 25 cubic foot refrigerator may look impressive to guests and families, but if you are a single person living alone, you are wasting money. It takes energy to keep the interior of that huge refrigerator cold. It is better to choose a smaller refrigerator, regardless of appearances. You can add shelves and cabinets to fill space gaps. Everyone can use more storage space.

The right size of appliance will save money on water, gas and energy as well as the initial purchase price.

Select an appliance with only the functions you will use.

Multi-tasking became the song of the 90's and early into the New Millennium. Unfortunately, when it comes to appliances, the more functions you have, the more energy the appliance may use, more parts can break or fail and the higher the purchase price is likely to be.

For example, the stove with a microwave/convection/conventional oven looks and sounds wonderful. If you never use the convection oven, you've wasted money buying a product you don't use. Although convection ovens do use less energy, it takes acquired skill to use one effectively.

What else do you need to know?

Some appliances such as water heaters and air conditioners have additional caveats besides saving energy. Some qualify for tax rebates at the local and federal level. That means your purchase may qualify for rebates with local water or energy companies, property tax boards and perhaps the IRS. These rebates, combined with energy savings, can pay for the appliance, its delivery and installation. Additional energy savings is free money, like getting paid to use the appliance.

Although the initial purchase can be higher than other appliances, having an efficient appliance that lowers utility bills is better. Every store that sells appliances should have energy efficiency labels displayed. If you are not sure which appliances are Energy Star certified, the government has a website that is easy to navigate so that you can compare products, brands and appliances.

Once you have compared other factors, price can be a final guide. Of course, many stores offer special sales, such as "10% off Energy Star appliances," benefits such as free delivery or removal of old appliances. It pays to maximize coupons, sales and other benefits. You can always call stores to find out what specials are being offered.

Understanding high energy appliances will help you save money all year long. The only thing you have to do next is figure out what you are going to do with the money.