Most everyone has seen those blue stickers on washers and dryers and fridges - what does it really mean for the homeowner?  It's really  one of the two price tags: what you pay to take it home and what you pay for the energy and water it uses. ENERGY STAR qualified appliances incorporate advanced technologies that use 10-50% less energy and water than standard models. The performance levels of these appliances meet, and generally exceed, those of industry standard models.

All major home appliances must meet the Appliance Standards Program set by the US Department of Energy (DOE). Manufacturers must use standard test procedures developed by DOE to prove the energy use and efficiency of their products. Test results are printed on yellow EnergyGuide label, which manufacturers are required to display on many appliances. This label estimates how much energy the appliance uses, compares energy use of similar products, and lists approximate annual operating costs. Your exact costs will depend on local utility rates and the type and source of your energy.

The refrigerator is probably one of the best examples of where we can decrease our use of electricity and save on our monthy bill. Refridgerators can represent 15-20% of your monthy bill, and those made 15 years ago where very inefficient.

If you replace your aging-fridge with a new energy-star appliance your consumption of energy by that fridge is probably cut in half. Switching to a horizontal axis or front load washing machine can save people 50% in both electricity and water. And you'll see added savings from a reduced use of detergent.