What does ENERGY STAR Certified mean?
You may have heard of ENERGY STAR or seen it stamped onto packaging or electronics and appliances. But do you know what ENERGY STAR means for your devices? ENERGY STAR appliances are designed to meet strict energy efficiency guidelines. As a result, they will cost less to operate, which can save you money on your energy bills and help you lower your carbon footprint.
The ENERGY STAR rating is a U.S. government-backed stamp designed to indicate that a product has met standards of efficiency set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Since its founding in 1992, ENERGY STAR has helped cut 5 trillion kilowatt-hours of electricity. This means American families and businesses have saved more than $500 billion in energy costs, and the US has avoided 4 billion metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions. Choosing ENERGY STAR also supports better air quality thanks to decreased pollution. And incremental updates to the ENERGY STAR rating requirements can mean potential increased benefits to both the environment and your wallet down the road.
Getting the most out of your energy-efficient appliances.
Make sure to follow all installation and maintenance instructions to maximize the benefits and increase the longevity of your energy-saving appliances. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to keep all appliances functioning at their most efficient level. For instance, cleaning your washing machine will help keep it running at its best. And if you need help with installation, don’t worry – Best Buy offers appliance installation services so you can have professional Geek Squad® Agents do the heavy lifting for you.
You can also make your energy-efficient appliances more sustainable when you pair them with other environmentally friendly items. For example, you can place water leak detectors near your home’s plumbing or water-based appliances to alert you of any water loss in your home. Or take your sustainability to the next level by getting some of your home’s electricity from a home solar system. Look for rebates and tax incentives in your area to help you cover up-front costs, then enjoy long-term energy savings.