Purchasing Tips
If you're in the market for a major appliance, such as a front-loading clothes washer, fridge or freezer, look for the ENERGY STAR symbol. Energy savings will vary from one appliance to another but typically an ENERGY STAR model will be 10 to 50 per cent more efficient than a conventional model.
Another guide that can help you make an energy-wise choice when shopping for a major appliance is the EnerGuide label.
| Kitchen & Laundry Appliances | Standard Appliance Annual Energy Costs1 | Energy Star Appliance Annual Energy Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | $29 | $24 |
| Dishwasher | $23 | $19 |
| Clothes Washer | $23 | $10 |
| Clothes Dryer | $57 | N/A |
| Chest Freezer | $22 | $20 |
| Upright Freezer | $31 | $29 |
| Electric Range | $32 | N/A |
| 1 These costs are based on average amounts for Manitoba households and will vary depending on the size, age and model of your appliance. You can reduce these amounts by choosing energy efficient appliances and using them wisely. | ||
Water conservation – every drop counts
Front-loading clothes washers can cut water use by up to half. By purchasing an ENERGY STAR front-loading clothes washer, you could save up to 75 litres of water per wash. This translates to savings of over 28,500 litres of water per year.
Buying a new refrigerator?
Here are some tips to ensure your new fridge does not drain your wallet.
- Buy an ENERGY STAR qualified appliance.
- Determine the size of fridge that you need and don't go any larger. A family of four needs between 16.5 and 17.5 cubic feet, and a family of 6 might choose a 20 cubic feet model.
- Decide if you really need features like a cold water or automatic ice dispenser. These can increase electricity consumption by as much as 20 per cent compared to similar models without these extras. These features will cost you more when you buy the fridge and then again when you pay your electricity bill each month.
Recycling
Appliances often contain materials and components that are recognized as harmful to the environment such as ODSs (Ozone Depleting Substances). Manitoba Hydro encourages you to protect our environment and to recycle your old appliances in an environmentally friendly manner.
Please check with your local municipality for recycling options within your community.
