Coming soon: new ENERGY STAR standards for dishwashers and clothes washers

New ENERGY STAR standards are set to take effect for both dishwashers and clothes washers this year.

The new dishwasher standards, due August 11, set limits for maximum energy use (in kilowatt-hours per year) and water use, whereas previous standards were based on Energy factor. Because more than half of the energy consumed by dishwashers is used to heat water, the new water limits will contribute significantly to efficiency. Read More

Got chores? Do ‘em later

Now you have a good excuse to put off your chores until later: Running heat-producing appliances after dark on hot days can help you save energy.

Waiting until the sun goes down before running your dishwasher or clothes dryer will save your air conditioner from competing with the heat they produce while it’s trying to keep your home cool during the hot afternoon. Read More