The United States is a heavy user of water and energy in the home. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that residential use accounts for almost 60 percent of the public water supply, and 20 percent of your energy bill goes to power appliances and electronics, says the U.S. Department of Energy. Choosing eco-friendly appliances not only helps the environment, it can significantly reduce your monthly bills.
Refrigerators
Better compressors and more high-tech insulation have made today's refrigerators much more efficient than the old avocado green ones of yesteryear. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program rates and qualifies home appliances. To qualify, appliances have to use 20 percent less energy than models not Energy Star-approved. With a more efficient, eco-friendly refrigerator, you can save between $100 and $200 per year, according to the EPA.
Washing Machines
The average washing machine requires about 41 gallons of water for a load of laundry, compared with a high-efficiency model that uses less than 30 gallons. The EPA's WaterSense program labels appliances for water efficiency, much like the Energy Star program. High-efficiency washing machines also use less hot water---or no hot water at all---and have the capacity to launder larger loads, cutting down on the number of wash and rinse cycles. WaterSense recommends only doing full loads of laundry, or adjusting the water level setting for smaller loads.
Dishwashers
Energy Star asserts that using efficient dishwashers "helps protect our lakes, streams, and oceans" by using both less water and less energy to wash a load of dishes. A dishwasher manufactured before 1994 can cost you about $40 extra per year in utility costs.
Cooking Appliances
The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy recommends taking stock of your cooking habits before purchasing an energy-efficient stove or microwave. Gas stoves make less of a dent in your utility bills, as long as you purchase one with an energy-efficient hood that vents cooking fumes outside. If you opt for an electric stove, look for electric coil or radiant heat burners. Self-cleaning convection ovens generally are more energy efficient than other models. For reheating or basic cooking, use a microwave---it uses a lot less energy and is less likely to heat up your kitchen in the summer.
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