ENERGY STAR is a joint program between the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE), which helps people save energy and protect the environment by providing standards for energy saving products and practices. In 2007, ENERGY STAR helped Americans save $16 billion on their utility bills, and prevented the equivalent of 27 million cars' emissions from entering our atmosphere.

Started with Energy Efficient Computers

The EPA introduced ENERGY STAR in 1992 as a voluntary labeling program for computers and computer monitors. The intention was to reduce greenhouse gas emissions while identifying and promoting energy efficient options. The program was expanded between 1992 to 1995 to include more office equipment and residential heating and cooling systems.

Now Includes More Energy Saving Products

The Department of Energy joined the ENERGY STAR program in 1996, and additional product categories were included. Now you can find the ENERGY STAR logo on all types of major appliances, lighting, office equipment, home electronics such as TVs and telephones, and building materials like roofing, windows, insulation and more.

...Even Entire Buildings Can Earn the ENERGY STAR!

Now there are ENERGY STAR standards for new homes and office spaces. The entire building can earn the ENERGY STAR seal of approval if it meets the rigorous energy efficiency standards. Similar to products that have earned the ENERGY STAR, consumers know that a building that has earned the ENERGY STAR will use less energy and be friendlier to the environment.

Energy Efficient Choices Help You Save

By making energy efficient choices, you can save about 30% on your energy bills - or more, depending on your home, where you live, your current appliances, etc. So if your average energy bill is $300 per month, by using ENERGY STAR products and recommended practices, you can reduce your bill to around $200 and save around $100 each month.

Energy Savings Without Sacrifice

With ENERGY STAR qualified products, you don't have to sacrifice anything. You get all the features, style and comfort as a standard model, but with additional energy savings built in. You can now find ENERGY STAR qualified options for most types of appliances, which have all the same features as the non-ENERGY STAR models.

Consider Both Purchase Price and Operating Cost

Appliances and other consumer products have two costs associated with them - the purchase price (i.e. how much it costs to buy) and the operating cost (i.e. how much it costs to operate) which takes into account things like electricity and water usage. It's best to consider both costs when purchasing a product. While energy efficient appliances may cost a bit more to buy, you will save a lot more in the long run with lower operating costs. With ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, you'll use 10% to 50% less energy and water compared to standard models - and that really adds up!

Look for the ENERGY STAR

Whenever you're purchasing a household item, look for a model that has earned the ENERGY STAR. That way you'll know that the product meets or exceeds the rigorous energy efficiency guidelines set by the EPA and DOE.

For more information about ENERGY STAR, guidelines and energy saving tips, visit http://www.energystar.gov.

Home Energy Problems & Solutions:

• Reduce High Energy Bills Energy Efficiency, Home Improvement Tools
• Drafty Rooms Air sealing, Heating and Cooling Contractor
• Peeling Paint Control moisture, Building Science Specialist
• Mold, Mildew or Musty Odors Reducing Indoor Humidity
• Dust Sealing air leaks, Change Filters
• Hot or Cold Rooms Room over a garage, ENERGY STAR ceiling fans
• Damp Basement Stop water leaks, Ventilation Fans
• Moisture on Windows Control Moisture, ENERGY STAR Labeled Windows
• Dry Indoor Air in Winter Home Sealing, Diagnostic Equipment
• Cold Floors in Winter Basement floor, Floor over a crawlspace
• Ice Dams Roofing Contractor, Diagnostic Equipment