Choosing energy efficient appliances

About eight percent of all the energy used in the United States goes into running electrical home appliances. Appliance use and selection can make a considerable difference in utility costs. Buying energy-efficient appliances may cost more initially, but that expense is made up by reducing operating costs over the lifetime of the appliance. To save money and energy when using appliances, follow these tips: * Try to buy products that will last, they save money by reducing the number of replacements needed. * Buy equipment on the basis of initial cost plus operating costs rather than on the basis of purchase price alone. * Choose fabrics or garments that can be washed in cold water and need little or no ironing. * Buy only household equipment that you will use. * Comparison-shop when buying appliances. Compare energy-use information and operating costs of similar models by the same company. * Don't leave your appliances running when they're not in use. For more information, contact your local service professional or utility company.