How To Save Energy, Water And Money

If you've had your refrigerator, freezer or clothes washer since before your teenagers were in diapers, those old appliances may be wasting your hard-earned money.

Saving money and energy may be easier than you think. Compared to a new, Energy Star-qualified model:

• A washer 10 years old or older uses 30 more gallons of water each time you do a load of laundry. That's about as much water as you'd use taking two showers. It also costs $145 more in electricity and water each year.

• A refrigerator 16 years old or older wastes at least $100 a year in electricity.

• If your freezer was built in the 1970s, it costs four times more to operate.

It may pay not to wait until these energy and water hogs break, but to save water and energy by replacing them now.

When you do shop for a new unit, look for the blue Energy Star label. Every major appliance manufacturer sells qualified refrigerators, which must be at least 20 percent more efficient than the minimum federal energy standard, and qualified freezers, which must be at least 10 percent more efficient. Qualified clothes washers are 40 percent more energy and water efficient than the minimum federal energy standard.

If you're buying a new unit, you may also be able to take advantage of rebates on new energy-efficient appliances through federal stimulus funds. Once you have your new appliances, be sure to recycle the old ones properly. Not only is it good for the environment, it could be good for your wallet. Some companies and others may pay you to do so.

Visit www.energystar.gov/recycle to find recycling options and learn about rebates and special deals.Labor Day HOT APPLIANCE SALE 9/4-9/8!

New appliances can be so much more efficient than older ones that they pay for themselves in a few years.