Appliances - Tips & Tools

Manufacturers of major household appliances in Canada and the United States have achieved major improvements in energy consumption over the past 20 years, benefiting the environment, in terms of fewer greenhouse gas emissions, and consumers, in terms of lower energy costs.

Energy Consumption of New Appliances Sold in Canada from 1990 to 1997

Energy-efficiency improvements have been particularly dramatic for refrigerators and freezers. Refrigerator energy efficiency has improved by close to 190 per cent, and freezer efficiency has improved by 138 per cent. Among the technology developments that have contributed to these advances are improved condensers, compressors, evaporators, fan motors and door seals, as well as the use of foam insulation.

The 62 per cent efficiency gain noted for dishwashers is largely due to improved spray arms and filtering systems that provide better movement and wash action, resulting in decreased hot water use. In addition, the air-dry cycle, which bypasses the electrical mode, saves energy.

For clothes washers, more cold water rinse options, the use of less hot water and more cold water in the warm setting, and better mixing valves have contributed to a 56 per cent efficiency gain over the past two decades. While clothes dryers offer little opportunity for energy-efficiency improvements, automatic termination controls have eliminated the human error of over drying. In the case of gas dryers, the electric ignition systems now found on all units have eliminated the energy-wasting continuous pilot light. More effective extraction of water by the washer has also shortened drying times.

Given the minimal opportunities to reduce the energy consumption of ranges, ovens and microwave ovens, which are already energy efficient, data has not been collected on these products. Nevertheless, additional oven insulation and tighter-fitting oven door gaskets and hinges are known to have improved the energy efficiency of these appliances.

Improvements have also been noted in the energy efficiency of room air conditioners, which now bear the EnerGuide label in Canada. New coil designs, more efficient compressors and better air circulation systems have contributed to a 51 per cent gain in efficiency.