Energy Efficient Home Review

Unlike the reference to seeing stars, these are stars that are well worth the gazing.  In the "green" theme, this symbol is found on those appliances that have been graded as those whose operation and service will be saving you money on that ever-rising energy bill and keep guard over our environment at the same time.  In the area of the kitchen, energy efficient refrigerators would be a major appliance to focus on.  Our world today is quite different from days gone by when our chilling device was the old-fashioned ice box which required a daily visit from the iceman.  True, it didn't require any energy but was far from the method of convenience that we enjoy in today's home.

The evaluation process in order to be classified as "energy star quality", the manufacturer must show that this product utilizes 20% less energy which over the life-time would equate to approximately $170.  This scenario just starts you off as never having used any type before.  If by chance you should be replacing an older refrigerator for a new unit, the energy efficient refrigerators will show an even more remarkable savings on your energy costs.  These calculations can be made easily with the Energy Star Calculator by supplying all the required data that would be specific to your model and costs of energy in your locale.  There are tax credits available in some states for these products.

There are many Energy Star products from various manufacturers available in today's market.  General Electric has a wide array of energy efficient refrigerators to choose from.  The GE Energy Star, model # GTH21SCXSS is available in stainless steel and offers the top loading freezer which seems to offer a plus in energy savings.  This unit does come with a factory ice-maker which is not recommended for better energy conservation.  The approximate utility costs for using this appliance is $44 per year which can vary depending on the energy base in your particular location.  This compares to approximate operational costs of the non-Energy Star of $56.  This would equate to a considerable savings in your pocket over the life of the appliance.

One very important point that should be considered before purchasing a new refrigerator should be keep the size appropriate for the family it is to serve.  The larger the unit, the more energy that will be needed to operate.  Energy efficient refrigerators (16-18 cu. ft.) will usually be the lowest in energy usage.  Frigidaire offers an 18.2 cu. ft., model# 2536189*80 which has an Energy Star rating of 21% which would rate this product to be ideal in saving energy.