What does the energy star rating mean?

You’ve been hearing about the Energy Star rating and you know it’s a good thing. It may even be on those new windows, appliances or air conditioner you just installed. But what you may not know is where the rating came from, what it means, and why it saves you money on your utility bills.

Let’s take a second and look at the Energy Star rating and why it’s so important.

What is the “Energy Star?”

 

In 1992 the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) decided to create a rating system that would help homeowners find the best environmentally friendly products, while also using it to encourage companies to create more efficient “green” products. They rolled out the new “Energy Star” label in 1992.

This was truly a collaborative effort between public and private sector companies; the Energy Star website says 18,000 partners joined the EPA to develop and promote this rating.

Energy Star was designed as a voluntary label for manufacturers to promote their efforts to conserve energy and save the environment. In 1995, the label was expanded to the HVAC industry to help lower greenhouse gas emissions.

Today, you will find Energy Star ratings on:

 

· Major appliances

· Office equipment

· Lighting

· Home electronics

· New homes

· Commercial buildings

· Manufacturing plants

How Does a Product Earn an Energy Star Rating?

 

Manufacturers and builders must meet the EPAs standards in order to receive the Energy Star rating. The EPA requirements include:

· The product must allow for significant energy savings

· It must deliver the features it promises, in addition to reduced energy usage

· Purchases must be able to recoup some of their cost through saving money on energy

· Energy consumption of the product can be measured so it can be proven that it’s more energy efficient.

Now you know – whenever you see the Energy Star rating, it signifies a clear advancement in energy efficient technology for the homeowner.