Your kitchen appliances consume a lot of energy. What should you look for when upgrading to more energy efficient models?
Kitchen appliances are some of the most essential parts of a modern home. Not many people would be able to survive without a dishwasher, stove, or refrigerator. However, it can be surprising to learn that your kitchen appliances account for a large part of your monthly energy bills. In fact, after central heating and air conditioning, freezers and refrigerators are the biggest consumers of energy in homes. It follows that using more energy efficient kitchen appliances can make a significant and positive impact on your energy bill. Here are some tips to help you choose the best ones for your home.
Look for the ENERGY STAR Label
ENERGY STAR is a program sponsored by the federal government that was established to minimize greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants. An ENERGY STAR label is placed on kitchen appliances which adhere to the strict specifications of the program. In general, these products are 10-50% more energy efficient than regular products but do not compromise on comfort or performance. As a 100% Energy Star Partner, Columbia Builders installs only appliances bearing the Energy Star label. When you build your new custom home with us, our included appliance package features: 5-burner cooktop with range hood, double wall ovens, microwave oven, full-size refrigerator, and dishwasher. You may also choose to upgrade individual appliances from a variety of fine manufacturers such as Kitchen Aid, Bosch, Viking, Wolf, and Thermador.
Evaluating Your Refrigerator
If your refrigerator was made before 1993, it’s about time to switch to a newer, more energy efficient model. The refrigerator is the biggest consumer of energy in your kitchen, and the way it is designed can affect how much energy it uses. Refrigerators with freezers mounted on the top are more energy efficient than ones with the freezers on the bottom or the side. If you don’t need an automatic ice-maker, skip it as this increases energy consumption by 14-20%.
Evaluating Your Stove
Stove tops come in two varieties – gas and electric. Many homeowners prefer gas stove tops to electric ones even though they consume more energy. If you’re one of these homeowners, keep an eye on the BTU output of the stove top – the lower the number, the more energy efficient it is. If you want an electric stove top, consider one with induction elements as these are more energy efficient than other varieties with coils.
How Can Columbia Builders Change Your Life?
Columbia Builders is the home builder of choice in Howard County, offering homes in Ellicott City, Elkridge, Laurel, Columbia, Marriottsville, Fulton, Clarksville, Dayton, and Brookeville. No matter what the size and scope of your project, we have the skills, experience, and resources needed to bring your vision to life. We offer a level of customization that is truly unmatched and are committed to using materials and craftsmen of the highest quality, so you can trust that your new home is built to last.
If you’re ready to invest in a home that is built with your needs in mind, trust in us. Give Columbia Builders a call today at 410-730-0215 or use our contact form here. You can also keep up with us on Facebook, Twitter, Google+, Houzz, and Youtube, and don’t forget to check back on our blog for more tips and information!