Efficient Appliances Save Energy -- and Money

Home Electronics

For most products, the Energy Star label is your assurance that the product will operate more efficiently than a standard model. But Energy Star TVs, audio equipment, telephones, computers and printers earn the label primarily because they draw only a small amount of power when not in use -- regardless of the amount of power they consume when operating.

When buying electronics, do look for the Energy Star label, but also keep a few general caveats in mind.

Energy-Saving Purchasing Tips:

• Ink jet printers tend to be more energy-efficient than lasers.
• LCD televisions and monitors draw less power than CRT or plasma screens.
• Small lightweight power supplies tend to be more energy efficient than large, heavy transformer-based power supplies.

More Smart Shopping Tips

• Check for incentives. Some states offer rewards for buying the most energy-efficient appliances.

  Connecticut and California, for example, have rebate programs that will refund part of the purchase price of certain new energy-efficient appliances. Maryland eliminates sales tax on some appliances with the Energy Star label.

  Check with your local utility and the Energy Star Rebate Locator to find out if cash rebates or other incentives are available in your area, or see our state-by-state listing.

• Use the Internet. Several websites contain additional useful information. The EPA's Energy Star website has information on appliance models that carry the Energy Star label and where you can buy them.

  The American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy publishes a yearly list of the most energy-efficient appliances.

  And the Consortium for Energy Efficiency has information on programs promoting energy efficiency in the home.