You've seen the Energy Star label when you've shopped for new appliances. You probably realize the labels are there because the appliance is energy efficient, but what does that mean to you?
The Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star program has been around since 1991. It was established to rate and recognize the most efficient products and practices so homeowners can be assured when they buy them they will save money on energy, and also reduce the carbon footprint of their homes. By supporting these products, a homeowner also feels confident of contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Defining Efficiency
What does it take to be certified as an Energy Star product? The EPA has established these guiding principles:
- The categories for the product must provide significant energy savings.
- Products to be certified must not only be energy efficient but also offer features and level of performance demanded by consumers.
- Certified products that cost more than less-efficient counterparts must provide increased energy efficiency through utility savings so purchasers can recover their investments over a reasonable time period.
- Energy efficiency should be achieved by means of widely available, non-proprietary technologies. These should be offered by more than one manufacturer.
- Labeling must be visible and differentiate products effectively.
- Energy consumption and efficient performance should be measured and tested for verification.
The Energy Star Difference
Since 1991, tens of thousands of organizations and businesses have worked with the program. While improving energy efficiency nationwide, these efforts have also created financial value for businesses and organizations.
Homeowners have shared in program benefits not only by saving on utility bills, but also by learning to comparison shop for energy efficiency. As a result, efficiency as well as a cleaner environment have become more valued in our culture.
Some of the HVAC products that Energy Star tests and rates include air cleaners, air source and geothermal heat pumps, boilers, ductless heating and cooling equipment, central air conditioners, furnaces and ventilation fans.
Visit our Valley Heating, Cooling, Electrical website for in-depth information on most HVAC topics, or just give us a call at (408) 868-5500.
Our goal is to help educate our customers in the greater San Diego and San Marcos, California area about energy and home comfort issues (specific to HVAC systems).