The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), along with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), launched the Energy Star program to help protect the environment through the promotion of energy efficient products -- and to help consumers save money on utility bills.
For homeowners, builders and remodelers, the Energy Star logo on appliances, heating and cooling equipment such as geothermal systems, small wind power systems and home electronics means that the product uses, on average, 10 to 50 percent less energy than a traditional product that doesn't meet the rating standards. (Before switching to an Energy Star appliance, it may be worthwhile to perform an energy tracking analysis to find out which appliances and devices are using energy inefficiently.)
In addition to the immediate energy savings, there are other ways that choosing Energy Star products can mean serious cash back.
Many manufacturers have partnered with the Energy Star program to offer rebates and incentives to potential customers. These rebates are intended to not only encourage the purchasing of water and energy conserving appliances, but also to help speed the acceptance of new technologies in the market. Because it's a U.S. Government program, Energy Star doesn't offer any rebates directly, but it does promote these programs and helps link customers to partners through their rebate locator website.
Although a few years ago the Energy Star label might only be seen on home appliances like dishwashers, refrigerators, or laundry units, today other building materials and accessories carry the logo as well -- including windows, doors, skylights and even some roofing material.
