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Smarter Consumers – More Energy-Efficient Appliances

(426 words)

Over the past two decades, appliance manufacturers have significantly improved the energy efficiency of their product lines. As the table below shows, refrigerators manufactured in 2007 use 67 percent less energy on average than those built in 1984; dishwashers use about 70 percent less energy. ENERGY STAR^® qualified appliances consume even less energy.

These improvements are due in part to the regulation of minimum energy efficiency standards in Canada and the United States and to the influence of labelling initiatives such as EnerGuide, which rates and labels the energy consumption of major household appliances and room air conditioners, as well as ENERGY STAR, which identifies the top performers. But we should also not forget manufacturers who have consistently met the challenge of producing more energy efficient appliances in response to consumers; by demanding efficient and environmentally friendly choices, you create a market in which manufacturers apply technology and innovation to continuously improve energy performance.

Consult the EnerGuide label when shopping for a new appliance. By selecting an energy-efficient model, you'll save money, contribute to long-term environmental sustainability, and promote a better quality of life in your community.

Sources: Natural Resources Canada.
Note that freezer data is not as comprehensive as for other appliances and should be used with caution.
* Clothes dryers and ranges are not rated under ENERGY STAR

Natural Resources Canada publishes an annual directory that lists more than 5000 appliances currently sold in Canada and calculates annual operating costs based on national average electricity rates. To order a free copy of the
2007 EnerGuide Appliance Directory , call 1 800 387-2000 toll-free or visit the Publications link on ecoaction.gc.ca and choose Energy Efficiency Publications. Other publications are also available by writing to Energy Publications, Office of Energy Efficiency, Natural Resources Canada, c/o St. Joseph Communications, Order Processing Unit, 1165 Kenaston Street, PO Box 9809, Station T, Ottawa ON  K1G 6S1.