Although energy-efficient appliances sometimes cost more initially, any extra cost can often be made up by the additional savings on your utility bill. One way to look at whether purchasing energy-efficient appliances makes sense for you is to think of the appliance as having two price tags. The first price tag is the price that you will pay to purchase the appliance. The second price tag is the cost to operate the appliance over its lifetime. When both are considered, an appliance with a higher initial purchase price may actually be less expensive in the long term.

An appliance's life-cycle cost is the most realistic measure of its true cost, because it takes into account the purchase price and the operating cost. By using the "EnergyGuide" label, you can compare the true costs of different makes and models of refrigerators and freezers. The following simple calculations can be used to estimate the actual long-term cost of these appliances:

Purchase Price + (Avg. Lifespan x Est. Annual Energy Cost) = Total Life-Cycle Cost

Total Life-Cycle Cost/Avg. Lifespan = Annual Expense For Appliance

One of the easiest ways to determine and compare the operating or energy cost of different models is to use the "EnergyGuide" label. The federal government requires that all appliances (not just energy-efficient models) display this yellow and black label. This label identifies the type of appliance, make and model number, and estimated annual energy cost based on average electric rates and use. It also shows how that model compares with models having the highest and lowest energy costs and contains a table showing average costs for different electric rates.

Here are some additional energy-efficient features to look for when purchasing new appliances.

Ovens

• Self-cleaning models are more efficient because they have more insulation.
• Convection ovens are more energy efficient because heated air is continuously circulated around the food being cooked. More even heat distribution and temperatures mean faster cooking times.
• If you are a cook who likes to peek in the oven, buy a model with a window.

Dishwashers

• Energy-saving wash cycles, such as "light wash" or "light/china" save energy by using less water and running for shorter periods of time.
• A "No-heat" dry option will save energy by allowing you to air-dry, instead of using the electric heating elements.
• EnergyGuide ratings for dishwashers can be misleading. The rating is based on operating the dishwasher through 322 cycles annually, on the "normal" setting. Your energy use could vary substantially, depending on how often you run your dishwasher. This is especially true if you are considering a model with other wash cycle options. Also, be aware that there are two categories of dishwashers, compact and standard capacities. Compact models use less energy, but they also hold fewer dishes.

Washing Machines

• Choose a washer that offers a wide range of water temperature controls for wash and rinse cycles. Options to control the length of a wash cycle have little impact on energy consumption (most of the energy is used to heat the water).
• Choose a machine that allows you to select lower water levels when doing smaller loads. Some models have advanced electronic controls that automatically adjust water levels according to the size of the load.
• A front-load washer uses one-third less water than a top-loading machine. Consumer Reports and other studies show better overall washing performance with a front-load machine. Front-load washers have no agitator so you can fit large items, and clothes won't wear out as fast. Finally, since front loaders use less water, you need less detergent.
• The EnergyGuide Label will help you compare energy efficiency by comparing annual operating costs. But be sure not to compare apples to oranges. Smaller capacity washers will have better energy-efficiency ratings, but the smaller capacity may mean that you have to run the machine more often, and it may cost you more to operate.

Refrigerators and Freezers

• Consider what style and features you want in the new refrigerator and what the energy consequences might be. Side-by-side refrigerators use more energy than the standard models with freezers on the top. Bottom freezer models are slightly more efficient than top freezer models. Manual defrost models use less electricity than automatic defrost models; however, they must be defrosted periodically to maintain their efficiency.
• Also consider size when shopping for a refrigerator. Larger units use more electricity and take up more space. Currently, the most efficient models are in the most popular 16-20 cubic feet range. Models equipped with ice makers and water dispensers will have higher energy costs.