Money and preservation of the environment is on everybody’s minds these days. The economy has taken a hard hit with a major decline in economic stability. Is it ever a wonder that people are looking for ways to save money and help the environment all at the same time?
People are realizing that there are things they c an do in their homes to accomplish both at once. One of the biggest ways to do this is to replace old appliances with new green appliances that are designed to save money and be eco-friendly to the environment.
The major appliances in a home are the washer and dryer, stove, dishwasher, and the refrigerator. Old and out dated appliances such as a refrigerator use up to 70% more energy than newer models today. The big thing to look for when replacing out dated appliances is what is called the Energy Star. The Energy Star is a blue star that is placed on all appliances that are designed more efficiently. An energy efficient refrigerator alone can save hundreds of dollars every year.
Not only do green appliances save money, they are also designed to protect and preserve the environment. CFC’s (Chlorofluorocarbon) were used to cool refrigerators and were used highly in air conditioners. Through intense studies and debates, Chlorofluorocarbons were shown to hurt the ozone layer that protects life from harmful sunrays. Appliances made today no longer use Chlorofluorocarbons. They now use eco-friendly materials that now longer harm the environment.
Washers and dryers have undergone some changes as well. Years ago washers used tons of water to wash clothes. Extra soap had to be added to effectively clean items being washed. With the development of energy star appliances washer now use 50% of the electricity and less water to get the job done. In some areas of the country electricity runs in short supply. By using efficient appliances the saved electricity is left available for others to use and you spend less to clean clothes. Dryers also use less energy to dry clothes today.
Energy Star appliances are marked according to the savings consumers can enjoy. When a person buys an energy efficient dishwasher there is a label attached to the front that explains how much water will be saved and how much energy is saved. Lastly the label will spell out savings in a yearly amount the consumer will save by purchasing that particular appliance. If you are in the market to update your appliances, look for the most efficient and eco-friendly ones available in the market to maximize benefits.