What Is the ENERGY STAR Label?
What Is the ENERGY STAR Label?
When shopping for new appliances, you may have noticed a small blue label with the words "ENERGY STAR" on it. But what does this label really mean, and how can it help you make smarter, more energy-efficient choices? Understanding the Energy Star certification can help you save money on energy bills, may reduce your environmental impact, and even qualify you for rebates. Let’s break it down.
What Is the ENERGY STAR Certification?
The ENERGY STAR program is a government-backed certification that helps consumers identify energy-efficient products by providing simple, credible, and unbiased information.
To earn the ENERGY STAR label, products must meet strict energy efficiency specifications set by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan). The specifications are aimed at ensuring that appliances use less energy while still performing at the highest level. The result? Lower utility costs and a reduced carbon footprint, according to ENERGY STAR Canada.
How to Identify ENERGY STAR Appliances
ENERGY STAR appliances can be easily recognized by their distinctive blue label. This label appears on a wide range of products, including:
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Dishwashers
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Air conditioners
- Dehumidifiers
- Electric Stoves
- Electric Ovens
- Range Hoods
How to Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances
Beyond simply carrying the label, ENERGY STAR-certified appliances come with an EnerGuide label that provides detailed information about the appliance’s energy consumption. The EnerGuide label includes the estimated annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours and a performance scale that compares the appliance's efficiency to similar models. Use the EnerGuide label to make an informed decision and gauge the long-term savings of your new appliance upgrade.
Learn how to read the EnerGuide label.
Why Choose ENERGY STAR Appliances?
Opting for ENERGY STAR appliances offers multiple benefits:
Lower Energy Costs
ENERGY STAR appliances consume less electricity, leading to significant savings on utility bills over time. According to ENERGY STAR, this can amount to as much as 20% of your utility bill.
Environmental Benefits
ENERGY STAR appliances use less energy and help reduce emissions that contribute to climate change. Many ENERGY STAR appliances also reduce water usage. According to Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), the energy and water savings for ENERGY STAR appliances are as follows (when compared to non-energy star appliances):
- ENERGY STAR Dishwashers use 12% less energy
- ENERGY STAR Range hoods use up to 70% less energy
- ENERGY STAR Fridges use 9% less energy
- ENERGY STAR Clothes washers use 25% less energy and 33% less water
- ENERGY STAR Clothes dryers use 20% less energy
Superior Performance
ENERGY STAR appliances are designed to be just as effective, if not more so, than their non-certified counterparts. They ensure quality without excessive energy use. Many also include enhanced features, such as smart features and longer lifespans.
Home Efficiency Rebates
Many utility companies and government programs make it easier to invest energy-star options by offering rebates to encourage the purchase of ENERGY STAR appliances. BC Hydro and Fortis BC offer rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances in British Columbia. These rebates can offset the initial cost of energy-efficient appliances, making them an even better investment.
Pro Tip: If you are looking for rebates on a specific appliance, make sure you check back often, as some rebates are seasonal.
Making the Switch to ENERGY STAR
If you’re in the market for a new appliance, choosing an ENERGY STAR-certified model is a wise decision. Not only will you save money in the long run, but you’ll also be reducing your emissions. Look for the blue Energy Star label when shopping, and review the EnerGuide information to find the best fit for your home and budget.
When you purchase your new ENERGY STAR-certified appliance, make sure you dispose of your old appliances responsibly. If your old appliance is no longer functioning properly, you can drop it off at any Large Appliance Recycling location in BC for FREE.
To learn more about what and how we recycle, visit LargeApplianceRecycling.ca