What Qualifies a Washer or Dryer For Energy Star?
The Environmental Protection Agency allows products to bear the Energy Star seal if they meet the requirements set out in the agency's product specifications. These requirements take into consideration whether a product offers significant energy savings; the features and options available, and whether they meet customer expectations; the purchase price in comparison to other models, and whether extra expense can be recouped in energy savings; how widely available the technology is; whether energy savings can be independently tested and verified; and whether Energy Star labeling would be effective in assisting the consumer in the purchasing process. Does this Spark an idea?
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Energy Star
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The EPA established the Energy Star program to encourage environmentally responsible product development. The program helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution through development of energy-efficient products. Manufacturers who earn the Energy Star seal for their products can display it on the packaging, drawing customers who are interested in energy savings and conservation.
Revising Requirements
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If Energy Star products gain a market share of 50 percent or higher in a category, the EPA works with the U.S. Department of Energy to review the requirements in that category and determine if they need revision. Factors in this review process include changes and advances in technology and energy efficiency, changes in federal minimum efficiency standards, the availability and performance of a product, problems with or changes to testing procedures and a history of customers not achieving the expected energy savings from a product.
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Washers and Dryers
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Energy Star doesn't label clothes dryers because they are all similar in energy usage. However, the EPA recommends using the moisture sensor option, if available, to save energy and reduce wear and tear on clothing. The agency also recommends cleaning the lint filter regularly, and scrubbing it with a stiff brush to remove accumulated film from dryer sheets.
Energy Star clothes washers use 37 percent less energy and more than 50 percent less water than other washers. Many approved washers having a higher capacity than regular washers, which translates into fewer loads of laundry, bringing even more savings. Since the average household does 400 loads of laundry a year, the savings can be significant over the life of the washer.
Financial Incentives
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Washers and dryers are not eligible for tax credits and deductions, although many other home improvements do qualify as of February 2011, such as new windows or solar panels. However, many states offer appliance rebate programs that can help offset the cost of a new appliance. Check the US Department of Energy website for current listings by state, or contact the DOE Recovery Act Clearinghouse at 888-363-7289.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Towels in the washer image by Stephen VanHorn from Fotolia.com
