Remodeling With An Eye Towards Energy Efficiency

“WE’RE STARTING OUR KITCHEN REMODEL AND WE WANT TO BE ENERGY EFFICIENT WITH ALL OF OUR APPLIANCES. IS THERE ANYTHING SPECIFIC WE NEED TO LOOK FOR WHEN WE SHOP?”

One thing you should definitely consider—before you start shopping—is the placement of your new kitchen appliances. Try to plan your kitchen layout with energy efficiency in mind. If possible, keep your refrigerator away from your dishwasher, stovetop and oven, as these heat-producing appliances will force your refrigerator to work harder to keep cool. Once you begin your shopping, remember that your refrigerator and dishwasher will be your biggest energy users, so shop for these two appliances wisely. Your refrigerator alone can average eight percent of your total household energy bill. When you shop, look for the Environmental Protection Agency’s Energy Star label, which denotes an energy-efficient product. According to the EPA, the average homeowner spends approximately $2,000 per year on energy bills and Energy Star appliances can save an average of $75 per year. For more information on energy-efficient household appliances—including detailed specifications on different appliance brands—visit the EPA’s Energy Star website at www.energystar.gov. ∆