With the climate crisis headlining the news every day, more and more people are becoming educated about how and why energy consumption has impacted our lives and how it will determine much of our future.
It wasn’t long ago that “living green” was not part of the vocabulary of the average consumer. Today, the concept is shaping how we live our everyday lives, especially how we think of our own energy use and how we can choose to be part of the problem or part of the solution. While the crisis may seem overwhelming, there are definitely things we can do in our lives that make a difference. And, as we “save the planet,” we can save an incredible amount of money in our own wallets.
Starting with energy efficient appliances is a logical, easy first step. But, why are they so important and what do they actually mean?
ENERGY EFFICIENT APPLIANCES
- Reduce greenhouse gases and the use of fossil fuels, the primary contributors to global warming. Using less energy helps preserve natural resources such as gas, oil, coal and water used to operate appliances. Minimizing the use of these resources also helps control pollution.
- According to Consumer Reports, “By purchasing an Energy-Star certified refrigerator, for example, you can reduce your carbon footprint by 8,200 pounds over five years, the equivalent of driving 9,300 miles in your car. Replacing your old dishwasher and upgrading your range can score even more eco-points.”
- Use the least amount of energy necessary.
- Have better insulation and allow appliances to run at lower temperatures and power settings.
- Help you save money by lowering your electricity, gas and water bills. It is estimated that appliances with Energy Star ratings can reduce your energy bills by 30%!
- Provide better ventilation and drier air, and reduce allergens and provide an overall healthier environment.
- Increase the value of your home.
- Often require less maintenance and less frequent replacement than other appliances.
- Are more functional, which means they allow you to cook, clean and run your house in less time and more conveniently.
HOW DO YOU KNOW IF AN APPLIANCE IS ENERGY EFFICIENT?
If an appliance is Energy Star certified it has been tested for energy efficiency and performance according to EPA standards. To be certified, the Energy Star logo must appear on the appliance’s yellow sticker.
WHAT SHOULD YOU DO WITH THE OLD APPLIANCES YOU REPLACE WITH ENERGY EFFICIENT ONES?
“If your appliances are still in working condition, sell or donate them rather than throw them away. Someone who needs them could still get some use out of them. If they’re ready to be tossed, find an appliance recycling program near you. This is especially important with refrigerators, which contain greenhouse gases that must be removed professionally to keep them out of the atmosphere,” suggests Consumer Reports.
Beko - Award Winning Efficiency Wins Again
Beko has earned the ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Award five years in a row, an honor no other appliance brand has achieved. They are also the recipient of the ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year Sustained Excellence Award for the third time.
Beko is a brand that we stand proudly behind because of their commitment to protecting our homes and our environment. Not only do their appliances come with 2 years of warranty, but they are built with features that no other manufacturers have.
One of my favorite Beko appliances is their four-door French door Refrigerator. It is equipped with an Everfresh+ system that uses light and air technology that replicates the sun’s natural photosynthesis process. This system helps keep your fruits and vegetables lasting three times longer than your average refrigerator and helps retain vitamins and minerals.