subject: Three Reasons You Should Buy Energy Efficient Appliances [print this page] Have you considered using energy efficient appliances but thought they were too expensive? Many people are under the same impression. While when looking solely at the initial sticker price of an energy efficient model versus a regular appliance it may seem like this is true, when you look at all the factors this is not the case. When you consider the benefits, as well as the savings in energy costs long term, the price will look much less formidable. Below are just three reasons to use energy saving appliances.
First, an energy saving appliance results in long term savings. Some buyers object to the upfront purchase price. That may be the case in certain situations; however, the savings in the cost of energy used over the lifetime of the appliance greatly outpaces the additional cost of the purchase price of the unit. It has been estimated that an energy efficient residential refrigerator will save the homeowner $300 a year.
Second, there are numerous manufacturer rebates and promotions available. EnergyStar partners frequently offer rebates for the purchase of energy rated appliances. The U.S. EnergyStar web site has an online locator that lists current offers in your area. In addition, the federal government is offering a tax credit of 30 percent of the purchase price up to $1,500 on energy efficient appliances through December 31, 2010. The tax credit is only good on select EnergyStar units, so be sure to check on the eligibility of the appliance you would like to purchase ahead of time. Also some states offer rebate or tax credit programs on energy efficient purchases and home upgrades.
Third and last, you will be decreasing your carbon footprint and lessen the load you make on the earth. This will mean that if everyone made a concerted effort to use appliances that required less energy, the decrease in energy requirements would be phenomenal. And again, the initial cost of the unit versus a standard model is greatly offset by the long term cost savings as well as the available rebates.
The next time you go to purchase an appliance, please consider looking among the set of energy efficient appliances. There are energy efficient units available in every type of appliance, as well as many household fixtures. Before purchasing, check for sales, manufacturer rebates, and the availability of state and federal tax credits. The environment, and your pocketbook, will thank you.
Three Reasons You Should Buy Energy Efficient Appliances
