subject: Getting The Most Benefits From Your Energy Efficient Appliances [print this page] There is a growing shift of focus towards energy efficiency going on in a global scale but more so in several states including Texas. Now that people have the power to choose their energy options, more and more people are more conscious about their use and consumption of Texas electricity and are seriously considering changing their appliances to more energy-efficient models.
A report from the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, if every home in the United States changed every major appliance in their homes to more energy-efficient models, the country could reduce the number of required power plants by 25. This would have a significant impact in helping preserve the environment by reducing the occurrence of air pollution, acid rain, smog and global warming.
But for the ordinary Texas consumer, the use of energy-efficient appliances not only will be good for the environment but it would work wonders on your electricity bills too! And to top it all, you can even qualify for an energy tax credit by buying energy-efficient appliances. The following is a brief overview of major energy-efficient appliances that you should have right in your own homes.
Energy Efficient Appliances You Should Have in Your Homes
Before buying any energy-efficient appliance, you must first understand that these models come with higher initial price tags. It may seem not economical during this initial setting but once you factor in the secondary price tag, which is basically to cost of running these units and the amount of Texas electricity they will consume over time, you will then realize tremendous benefits from their use.
* Energy Efficient Refrigerators
Refrigerators are probably the single most energy-consuming appliance in a typical home. This is one appliance that is really worth investing in. The design of your energy-efficient refrigerators will define its electricity consumption. Models with no freezers but with side-by-side doors consume the most electricity while single-door units with a freezer at the top or at the bottom will consume 15 percent less energy. Make sure that you choose units that are Energy Star compliant.
* Energy Efficient Dishwashers
Dishwashers are not constantly running and will give you a better opportunity to plan how you use them for even more power savings. Even if you have energy-efficient dishwashers, they would consume a considerable amount of Texas electricity if these are used constantly so it would be best to schedule your washing chores during off-peak hours. Some Texas electric companies in some areas will charge less for energy consumed during off peak times giving you more savings.
* Energy Efficient Washing Machines
When choosing washing machines, it would be best to choose front-loading machines over top-loading machines. They may have a higher initial price but front-loading machines are more energy efficient and consume less water and electricity. It would also be best to pair your washing machine with an energy-efficient dryer.
* Energy Efficient Water Heaters
Water heaters account for at least 20 percent of energy costs in a typical American home. Using energy-efficient water heaters could give you lots of savings. These units are designed with better heat traps and advanced insulation, as most of the energy consumption is brought about by compensating for heat losses that occur in the water tanks.
* Energy Efficient HVAC Systems
Heating and cooling your home will require a significant amount of Texas electricity if you are not using energy-efficient HVAC units. Choose HVAC systems that are Energy Star certified which will assure you of at least 10 percent reduction in energy consumption than standard HVAC units.
