Save money with energy efficient appliances

Next time you are out shopping for Household Electronics, ensure you buy those that have the stars (Nyota Msema Kweli). The star rating indicates the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of one to five stars, thus providing a guide, that helps you estimate the amount of energy appliances use and hence their operating cost. 

Although energy saving appliances always appear to be more expensive, this is not true in the long run. In fact, star qualified appliances such as Refrigerators and Washing Machines are 20 percent more energy efficient as compared to standard models. Whereas star qualified dishwashers use around 5.8 gallons of water per cycle, older models use about 10 gallons of water per cycle, nearly twice the amount.  

It is also important to note that how you operate these appliances is crucial. Increase your savings monthly by applying a few guidelines. Save on energy by ensuring you unplug appliances that are not in use; your laptop, television, microwave and even some washing machines have a standby mode. This means, they are still using energy even when not in use.

Instead of drying your dishes using the Dish Washer, let them air dry. While doing laundry, use cold water whenever possible and let the laundry air dry rather than using the Washing Machine. 

By taking some of these simple steps to use your appliances more efficiently, and factoring in lifetime energy costs when purchasing new appliances, you substantially add to your savings. Remember the more the stars, the more you save.