What Makes a Washer & Dryer an Energy Star Product?
Energy Star certifies a variety of home appliances and products for their high energy efficiency. Qualified products meet higher standards for energy usage and are better for the environment. They may also qualify for tax credits and other rebate programs. Does this Spark an idea?
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Energy Star Washers
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Energy Star washing machines come in both top- and front-loading models. They must have a capacity of at least 1.63 cubic feet. Washers are required to have a minimum Modified Energy Factor (MEF) of two, as opposed to 1.26 for a standard model. Water Factor (WF) measurements must be no higher than six, as opposed to 9.5 for standard models.
Benefits
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According to Energy Star, certified products are 37 percent more efficient than standard washing machines. They can reduce water usage costs by more than half and cut energy-related costs by one-third when properly installed and used. Although upfront costs may be higher, long-term savings in utilities bills will eventually compensate for the initial investment.
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Dryers
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Energy Star does not certify dryers, as most models use similar amounts of energy. To maximize your dryer's efficiency, clean the lint filter after every load and use the moisture sensor if possible.
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