What Are the Benefits of Using Energy Star Products?

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The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) awards Energy Star labels to appliances or home improvement products that meet stringent standards. In order to qualify, a product must give equal or better performance than its peers while using less energy. The benefits of investing in Energy Star products begin with cash savings but can extend far beyond, to environmental impact and convenience.

Saving Money by Reducing Energy Use

Installing new Energy Star-qualified products can significantly reduce your energy use and cut your electric bill. Depending on the age of your current appliances, the energy savings can be anywhere from 10 to 75 percent. This saving comes with no compromise on quality or performance. Something as simple as installing Energy Star rated bulbs in five of your highest-use light fixtures can save as much as $60 a year in electricity costs.

If you are concerned about the environment, installing Energy Star products can contribute towards reducing your carbon footprint. According to the EPA, your home can be a greater source of pollution than your car, with 16 percent of U.S. greenhouse-gas emissions generated from energy used in homes. Going with Energy Star appliances and home improvements can be a way to address that problem.

Buying new appliances of course can be expensive, but you can count on seeing some of that money back, if the products you buy save you cash on power use and water consumption. In fact, in order to qualify for the Energy Star label, the product must prove that purchasers will recover their extra investment through increased energy efficiency.

Currently, the federal government is offering energy tax credits to consumers who invest in Energy Star rated products. Appliances or home improvements bought in 2009 and 2010 can qualify you for a tax credit of up to $1,500. It's also worth checking your state's policies on tax credits for energy efficient appliances. There's a special rebate finder in the resources section below.

Many Energy Star appliances run more quietly, finish their cycles more quickly and require less maintenance than conventional products. Appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, are frequently easier on your dishes and clothes because they cycle more quickly.