Sears Blue Climate Crew

The search for energy-saving appliances

Nonrenewable energy sources such as fossil fuels and nuclear power make up about 90 percent of electricity used in US homes. By using more efficient products, you can consume less electricity, help reduce pollution and save money – for the average home, around $80 per year. Although some energy-efficient appliances are more expensive, the overall savings in operating costs ultimately pays off the initial purchase price.

You might already know that you can identify energy-efficient products by specific labels, such as ENERGY STAR® and EnergyGuide. But you might not know that there are some features to look for when shopping for "green" products:

Clothes washers and dryers

• Features such as automatic water level controls, "suds savers," adjustable spin cycle and large capacity that reduce water use

• Horizontal-axis washers, which can save 6,000 gallons of water a year

• Dryer units with moisture sensors – they save energy and your clothes

• Gas dryers – they cost a little more than electric but are usually cheaper to operate (depending on current prices for natural gas and electricity)

Dishwashers. Features such as booster heaters and smart controls that reduce water use

Electronics. Power management features for remote controls and channel memory, which save energy when you're not using them

Home office equipment

• Power management features that trigger a low-power "sleep" mode when not in use

• Cordless phone models with "smart" chargers and switch-mode power supply circuits

Refrigerators and freezers

• Refrigerators with top or bottom freezers (not side-by-side) – they're naturally more efficient

• Heavy door hinges for a better seal

• Manual defrost, which use up to 50 percent less energy than automatic units

• No through-the-door dispensers and automatic ice makers, which consume more energy, are more expensive and often need repair.

Residential lighting. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), which use up to 75 percent less energy and last up to 10 times longer

Room air conditioners. Correctly sized units – they're naturally more efficient

Water heaters

• Low-flow showerheads and faucet aerators, which can cut water consumption in half

• Electric water heaters with an Energy Factor (EF) rating of about 0.95, gas water heaters with ratings of 0.06 or better and oil water heaters with ratings of at least 0.59