Shooting for the ENERGY STAR

We don't always know if our appliance purchases are energy efficient

. But when we buy things that are marked with the ENERGY STAR seal, we know our purchase is helping to conserve energy. Buying appliances with the ENERGY STAR seal is one way of promoting a green lifestyle.

ENERGY STAR is a program of the EPA www.epa.gov and the U.S. Department of Energy www.energy.gov that helps us protect the environment through the use of energy efficient products and practices. Policies that now have been adopted by the European Union, Japan, and several others. According to the ENERGY STAR website, www.energystar.gov , "Results are already adding up. Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved enough energy in 2008 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 29 million cars, all while saving $19 billion on their utility bills." The numbers here truly do speak for themselves.

When buying, it is best to do some research to make sure you are buying the most energy efficient product possible for your needs. New specifications for computers became effective on July 1, 2009. They require better bronze supplies during construction because bronze is less energy intensive.

Most appliances as well as heating and cooling systems have a yellow Energy Guide label showing the annual cost of operation compared to other models. This label is created through the Department of Energy and often shows if an appliance is ENERGY STAR compliant.

The ENERGY STAR seal is also available on heat pumps, boilers, air conditioning systems, and furnaces. The ENERGY STAR website tells prospective buyers that better sealing will help maximize the efficiency of those products. ENERGY STAR qualified room air conditioners are at least 10% more energy efficient than the minimum U.S. federal government standards.

ENERGY STAR qualified TVs use 30% less energy than average ones. In November of 2008, new specifications were in place to make TVs even greener. Other qualified home electronics include cordless phones, battery chargers, VCRs and external power adapters, most of which use 90% less energy. We are probably most familiar with ENERGY STAR when it comes to lighting. ENERGY STAR is awarded to only certain bulbs that meet strict efficiency, quality, and lifetime criteria. ENERGY STAR qualified CFL uses 75% less energy and lasts up to ten times longer than normal incandescent lights. LEDs are even better as they last 35 to 50 times longer than incandescent lighting and about 2 to 5 times longer than fluorescent lighting and contain no mercury.

New homes that meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency can qualify for ENERGY STAR certification. An ENERGY STAR qualified home uses at least 15% less energy than standard homes built to the 2004 International Residential Code (IRC). They usually include properly installed insulation, high performance windows, tight construction and ducts, energy efficient cooling and heating systems, and ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, lighting, and water heaters.

There are even more programs coming up with ENERGY STAR. For updates on products as well as the ENERGY STAR programs, visit the ENERGY STAR website.

Shooting for the ENERGY STAR

By: EnviroCitizen

POST COMMENT

energy saving Finding Legal Aids in New York Prudent RVer says, Live 'Off-grid' on Solar Power Using LEDs QuickMedcial and Qtube Announce New Exergen Virtual Classroom Check Out The New Multi-view Napa Leather Case Cover For Apple Ipad From Tuff-luv Gooseneck Lighting Fixture for Business that Grows Used Dirt Bikes in New Jersey Specifics Energy Efficient Lighting Practical And Useful Basement Design Ideas For Your New Home Power your lives with solar energy Industrial Services of American (Nasdaq: IDSA) Hits New 52-week High on Updated Guidance Contemporary furniture-a new definition of home decor Baduk Advice Designed For New Players