When you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, one of the characteristics you will most likely be looking for is energy efficiency. In general, you can’t go wrong with anything that has the Energy Star label—these types of energy-efficient refrigerators in Williamsburg, VA have been independently tested and certified to meet minimum efficiency standards. In the case of refrigerators, that means the unit is at least 15 percent more efficient than the minimum federal standard.
Replacing an old, inefficient refrigerator can result in some big-time energy savings. There are tens of millions of refrigerators in use throughout the United States that are more than 10 years old. You stand to save at least a couple hundred dollars over the lifetime of a refrigerator by replacing it with an Energy Star-rated product, which you can expect to last for a dozen years or so.
Here are some tips Energy Star provides consumers to help them shop for reliable, energy-efficient refrigerators:
- Measure the area where you’ll be placing the fridge: To get the most efficient operation out of your fridge, you should have at least an inch of clearance all around the unit to get proper airflow. Of course, this also helps you to make sure there’s enough space for the doors to swing open around nearby walls, cabinets or equipment.
- Forgo certain features: There are some common refrigerator features that can add some convenience, but can also result in the fridge eating up significantly more energy. Common examples include an icemaker and a water dispenser. While these features do help you maintain a consistent temperature due to a decreased need to open up the door, they will also increase the purchase cost of the fridge and cause the fridge to use about 20 percent more energy on average.
- Look for energy-saving features: Some refrigerators these days feature a switch that puts you into an energy saving mode. What this switch does is turn down or turn off the heating coils that would prevent condensation. This can lower operating costs of the refrigerator by five to 10 percent and give you more control over the fridge’s anti-sweat heaters.
- Purchase for your needs: Fridges come in a wide variety of sizes. For the most efficient operation, you should get a fridge that meets your family’s needs in terms of size. A larger family with multiple children will require more cubic feet of space than a single person or a couple. The most energy-efficient refrigerators are usually 16 to 20 cubic feet, but you must also factor your needs into the equation.
- Look for the Energy Star label: To ensure you’re getting equipment that meets specific energy standards, always look for appliances that have the Energy Star label. Not only will you get long-term energy savings from purchasing Energy Star-rated products, but you will also potentially qualify for rebates or tax credits, depending on available offers and the type of product.
For more information about what to look for in energy-efficient refrigerators in Williamsburg, VA, contact the team at Healthy Communities today.