The Energy Star label is one that is familiar to most of today’s active consumers. Despite the familiarity of the name, few shoppers are aware of what exactly this label means and how it has become so prominent in the open market. A large majority of people assume that Energy Star is itself a manufacturer of appliances and electronics. Although the label does appear on a huge number of products, Energy Star does not actually manufacture any products whatsoever. So, what does that Energy Star label mean?
The label was actually devised by the Environmental Protection Agency as a means for promoting the development of energy-efficient products for the open market. The real motivation behind this initiative was to ultimately reduce the amount of greenhouse gases being released into the atmosphere as energy is being produced to meet the demands of the population. It was in 1992 that the Energy Star program went into full effect, establishing itself as the best source for objective information on the level of efficiency across products. Prior to Energy Star ratings, business and individuals had to use their own resources to find this type of information on any product they purchased.
Energy Star was first implemented most widely for computers and monitors that were fairly new at the time. As a new technology, these devices were consuming huge amounts of energy without the average citizen’s knowledge. The program was also aimed at promoting energy awareness. Quickly following the success of the first few campaigns, the ratings were extended to office equipment and heating/cooling units. From there, the program has boomed under the rising concern about an impending energy crisis. As it has grown, the Environmental Protection Agency partnered with the Department of Energy to continue expanding the categories for products that should be tested.
In order for a product to receive an Energy Star label, it must meet certain guidelines that have been set by these agencies for each category. The categories for products include lighting, appliances, home electronics, and heating and cooling units. These criteria are continually adjusted as time moves forward, comparing the energy consumption of products within the same category at that given period of time. Using this method allows for the system to effortlessly move forward as the technology marches ahead.
Using Energy Star products in one’s home is beneficial beyond saving money on the power bill. In order to encourage the purchase of Energy Star-rated products, the Internal Revenue Service offers tax credits and incentives to homes that make the switch to these products. For example, homes installing Energy Star windows and doors receive a 10 percent discount on the costs of installation. Specific water heaters that have gone through testing can earn homeowners $300, and Energy Star-rated metal roofs can earn buyers 10 percent back on their initial investment. Should any consumer wonder where their home or appliances stand in regard to the Energy Star scale, they can visit the Energy Star website to view specific products and gather further information.
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Post Author: andyc.
