Redecorating? Shop smart and save energy
When shopping for new appliances, look for those with the Energy Star logo. An Energy Star-qualified clothes washer uses 8,000 fewer gallons of water each year.
- Replace your top-loading washing machine with a front-loading horizontal axis model. They use less energy and water.
- When shopping for a new clothes dryer, purchase one that senses when clothes are dry and automatically shuts off.
- When purchasing a new refrigerator, consider one with a small trap door on the front that allows you to access items without opening the door, causing cool air to escape. Some newer models will even alert you when you leave the door open.
- When planning a new kitchen, don't put the refrigerator next to any other appliances. Appliances need buffers around them so they operate correctly and efficiently.
- When replacing windows, be sure to research those that will save the most energy. Choose windows with a low U-value (lower than .35) to maximize insulating qualities.
- Replace your wood front door with one made from fiberglass. Fiberglass offers up to five times more protection from cold than traditional wood doors.
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