Looking into making your home a little more efficient? With Hawaii’s utility costs being the highest in the nation, it’s no wonder we are on a constant search for the latest technology in energy-efficient products.

With new federally mandated Energy Star standards, household appliances will be much more energy-efficient than today’s current models. Here are a few tips to help you achieve an efficient home.

Start with the kitchen

Advertisement

Your refrigerator runs non-stop, as it needs to maintain its temperature to keep your food fresh. But refrigerators are now being redesigned to meet new Energy Star standards, and will be 30-35 percent more efficient. That’s a great savings on your overall utility costs for the short-term and long-run.

And remember, when replacing your old refrigerator, have it recycled rather than moving it to your lanai to hold beer and soda! Old refrigerators are true energy hogs and keep your bill higher than it should be.

Think outside the box

Residential electric water heaters are the second highest energy users in U.S. households, after air conditioning. The energy consumed by your refrigerator, dishwasher, clothes washer and clothes dryer combined use less energy than your current standard water heater. GE is leading the way by developing a solution that offers the same amount of hot water for the entire family, while using significantly less energy than a standard water heater.

Advertisement

Just months away in January, the GE GeoSpring Hybrid Water Heater, currently available with a 50-gallon tank, will offer an 80-gallon tank option for households of six or more. It uses less than half the energy, when compared to a conventional water heater.

More ways to save

Coming in April 2015 will be Energy Star dryers. For the first time, the Department of Energy and major appliance manufacturers will make clothes dryers that will use less energy than today’s versions. Look for more details early next year.

What to look for

Keep an eye out for the new Energy Star label on refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners and water heaters.

Advertisement

The added savings these units bring, when compared to your old ones, will provide years of benefits.

Be sure to stop in to see these and other innovative appliances, and to learn which dealers are carrying them. The Servco Home and Appliance Showroom is open to the public for viewing Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can also call 564-2493 for the name of the dealer nearest you.

SERVCO HOME & APPLIANCE DISTRIBUTION
contact // 564-2493
address // 2841 Pukoloa St.
web // www.servcoappliance.com