How to choose an efficient appliance at replacement time

What you’ll need

• Your cost per kWh
• Measurements of the appliance space
• Your utility's rebate page

Step by step

1. 1

   Only replace at end of life

   Scrapping a working appliance rarely pays back. The decision point is when it fails or is clearly on the way out.

2. 2

   Find the estimated annual kWh

   Every energy label carries an estimated annual consumption figure. That number, not the star rating alone, drives the comparison.

3. 3

   Convert to money

   Multiply annual kWh by your all-in cost per kWh, then compare two models over ten years alongside their price difference.

4. 4

   Check rebates before buying

   Utility and state rebates often apply to specific model lists, and usually must be claimed within a window after purchase.

5. 5

   Measure the space and the doorway

   Include hinge clearance and the route into the room. This is the most common delivery-day failure.

Energy-saving tips

• Heat-pump dryers and inverter-compressor fridges are usually the biggest efficiency step changes.
• Keep the receipt and model number — most rebate claims need both.
• Cleaning condenser coils and door seals keeps an efficient fridge efficient.