Energy-Efficient Appliances Buying Guide

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The most complete guide in this topic — start here, then browse the guides below: Energy-Efficient Appliances Buying Overview

Buying an appliance is mostly a measurement and label-reading job. These guides walk through one product at a time — what to measure, which label numbers matter, and what to check before you buy — so you can compare models on facts instead of showroom impressions.

Laundry

• Front-Load vs Top-Load Washers: How ENERGY STAR Compares Energy and Water Use — which style saves more energy and water, and when the other style still makes sense.
• How to Keep a Heat-Pump Dryer Care and Water-Removal Log — the care routine that keeps a heat-pump dryer running efficiently.

Cooling and air

• Choosing a Room Air Conditioner: A Measurement and Purchase Worksheet — measure the room and match the capacity before you buy.
• Ceiling Fan Specs: Compare Airflow, Weighted Efficiency, Lights and Controls — the specs that decide comfort and running cost.
• Choosing a Dehumidifier: Capacity, Efficiency and Installation Checks — capacity, efficiency and installation fit, the three checks that decide whether it dries your space.

Heating, water and controls

• Before Buying a Heat-Pump Water Heater: An Installation-Site Question Planner — space, air and drainage questions to answer before you buy.
• Before Buying a Smart Thermostat: Check HVAC Compatibility, Wi-Fi and Useful Controls — the three things that decide whether it works in your home.

Air quality

• HEPA vs CADR: Why a Filter Label Does Not Establish Room Coverage — what each number actually tells you about cleaning the air in a room.

Refrigerators

• How to Check a Refrigerator Against the August 5, 2021 ENERGY STAR Size and Configuration Criteria — use the criteria to check whether a model qualifies.
• Will a New Refrigerator Fit? Check Space, Door Clearance and Capacity Before Buying — measure the space, the door clearance and the capacity before you buy.
• A Refrigerator Efficiency Check: Placement, Door Seals and Model-Specific Cleaning — placement, door seals and cleaning checks that keep a refrigerator efficient.
• Replacing a Refrigerator: Questions to Ask About Pickup and Recycling — pickup and recycling questions to ask before the old one leaves.