Appliances that are more than 10 years old cost more to operate than newer, energy-efficient appliances. The more efficient an appliance, the less you will pay to run it, and using less energy is beneficial to the environment by reducing air and water pollution. If you can save money and the environment at the same time, why wait?

Part of the HES Program is identification of older, less efficient appliances. You may qualify for incentives (rebates and tax credits) for the replacement of older inefficient refrigerators, freezers clothes washers and dehumidifiers. Your CRI Technician will review the options with you at the conclusion of your appointment.

Some things to note with regard to appliances:

• Appliance manufacturers have made incredible technical advances since the early 1990s. Depending on the appliance type, its efficiency may have increased by 25–50 percent.
• For example, refrigerators (the biggest energy user of the large appliances) are nearly 150 percent more efficient than in 1980. Therefore, upgrading to a newer unit will really pay off in energy savings.
• ENERGY STAR qualified clothes washers use about 30 percent less energy and use over 50 percent less water than regular washers. Many qualified clothes washers also have a greater capacity than conventional models, meaning fewer loads of laundry.
• One of the newest features in clothes dryers are moisture sensors that will shut off the dryer when the clothes are dry. This means big savings of money and energy compared to an older dryer that runs on a timer.
• Dishwashers use most of their energy consumption to heat the water needed for washing. Today, some manufacturers are designing dishwashers to use four to six gallons per load as opposed to 10 years ago when over 14 gallons were needed.

There is an easy way to spot these new appliances when you are shopping. Look for the blue ENERGY STAR label. It assures you that the appliance exceeds federal efficiency standards.

Back to Services