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Managing Your Electrical Usage
Buying a New Appliance
Major appliances last an average of 13 to 21 years so choosing an
energy-efficient model can add up to substantial savings over time.
Make sure to read the following tips before purchasing your next
major appliance:
- Always read the EnerGuide label.
By law, the EnerGuide label must be included on every major
appliance; this label illustrates how energy-efficient the appliance
is in comparison with other makes and models. So when shopping
for a new appliance, make sure you are comparing "like" appliances
- energy use can range significantly within a single brand.
- Choose the capacity that's right for your family.
For convenience and savings, purchase appliances that are the
right size for your family. Try natural gas. In most cases,
a natural gas appliance is more economical to use than an electric
model.
- Replace inefficient and older appliances.
If your central air conditioner is more than 10 years old, replacing
it with a high-efficiency new unit will cut your summer electric
bills by about one-third.
- Shop during the off-season.
Many heating and cooling manufacturers offer significant rebates
during seasonal sales promotions, and dealers may charge less
for installation.
- Investigate new technology carefully.
Some innovations, like convection ovens or argon-filled windows,
may save energy and make life more convenient; others, such
as commercial-grade kitchen appliances, might be merely expensive
cosmetic enhancements.
- Look for the "Energy Star" logo.
The Environmental Protection Agency's "Energy Star" of approval
designates an appliance as one that exceeds minimum federal
energy-use standards, usually by a significant amount.
- Remember the extras.
Don't forget to ask about warranties, service contracts, delivery
and installation costs.
- Choose a reputable and knowledgeable dealer.
A good dealer should offer you a range of brands and prices
as well as help you calculate energy savings.
Refrigerators
- Choose the right size for your needs
Refrigerators usually consume the most energy of all the large
appliances so it pays to buy wisely. [Make into chart] For one
or two people, consider a capacity of about 340 litres (12 cu.
ft.). For three or four people, 395 to 480 litres (14 to 17
cu. ft.) should be right. For each additional person, add 55
litres (2 cu. ft.).
- Choose a one-door manual defrost model. One-door manual
defrost refrigerators are usually the most efficient but there
are exceptions. Remember to check the EnerGuide label for specifics
on energy-efficiency.
- Measure the space where you want to put your refrigerator.
Most manufacturers recommend 25 mm (1") of space on each side
for airflow.
- Choose a model with an energy saver switch.
Freezers
When purchasing a freezer, make sure to choose the right size
for your needs. About 85 to 140 litres (3 to 5 cu. ft.) per person
is right. Look for models with the following features:
- A chest-style freezer
A chest freezer is much more efficient than an upright both
energy-wise and space-wise.
Electric Ranges
Look for models with the following features:
- Self-cleaning
Self-cleaning ovens cost a little more but they can also be
up to 25% more efficient. Self-cleaning ovens are generally
better insulated than other models and heat is distributed more
evenly.
- Well insulated, tight-fitting oven door
A window in the oven door lets you look inside without opening
the door and letting heat escape.
Dishwashers
Look for models with the following features:
- A short-cycle or econowash feature
These features use less hot water - about 85% of a dishwasher's
electricity is used to heat the water.
- An energy-saver switch
An energy-saver switch turns off the heating element to let
dishes air dry.
Washers
EnerGuide ratings vary more widely for clothes washers than for
any other appliance. The most efficient models use less than half
the energy of the least efficient. Look for models with the following
features:
- Front-loading washers
Front loading washers are much more energy-efficient because
they use less hot water.
- Cold wash and rinse cycles
- Water level controls and shorter gentle cycles
Dryers
Look for models with the following features:
- A cool-down "permapress" cycle
This feature tumbles clothes in cooler air for the last 5 to
10 minutes saves energy and reduces wrinkling.
- A time control that lets you set the temperature and drying
time
This feature helps avoid over-drying which wastes energy and
can be hard on fabrics.
- An electronic moisture or temperature sensor
This feature automatically turns off the machine when it senses
that clothes are dry.
- Permanent press or delicate cycles
These cycles use less energy than regular cycles.
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