New appliances can save you money on your energy and water bills. If you’ve chosen an Energy Star product, checked efficiency ratings, or explored rebates, you’re off to a great start!
Here’s how to make the most of your energy-efficient appliances.
1. Choose the best appliances
Look for appliances that save energy and fit your needs:
- Heat pump water heaters can use up to 70% less energy to heat water. Some models even have “vacation mode” to save energy when you’re away.
- Front-load washers and heat pump dryers use less energy and water but still clean and dry your clothes well. Short on space? Consider a 2-in-1 washer-dryer.
- Smart refrigerators and dishwashers have energy-saving features like automatic energy-saving modes and helpful alerts to improve efficiency.
2. Install them correctly
Proper installation saves energy and avoids waste. For instance:
- Refrigerators need enough airflow, and their doors must seal tightly to hold in cold air.
- Heat pumps need to be installed by a professional to work efficiently. Hiring a professional ensures the installation is done right while helping you save money.
- Contractors who buy a heat pump from our participating distributors can get an instant discount and pass those savings onto you in their bid.
If you rent, you might not control how appliances are installed. Ask your landlord to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines.
3. Use rebates and incentives
New incentives are available for both homeowners and renters:
- City Light rebates (extended through 2025) can help you save on upgrades like heat pump water heaters and energy-efficient laundry appliances. Rebates range from $35 to $750 depending on the unit.
- Seattle’s Clean Heat Program offers rebates to Seattle renters and homeowners who switch from oil heating to efficient heat pumps. Through May 2025, the City is giving a $4,000 bonus rebate while funds last. Income-qualified residents can combine this with the $2,000 Clean Heat rebate (available to all) and a $2,000 federal tax credit, totaling up to $8,000 in support for switching to an energy-efficient electric heat pump.
- Seattle’s HomeWise Weatherization Program offers free energy-efficiency improvements to income-qualified homes.
4. Maintain your appliances
Keep appliances running efficiently with simple maintenance:
- Check door seals on refrigerators, ovens, and washers to prevent energy loss.
- Clean refrigerator coils once or twice a year to stay energy efficient.
- Replace filters in air conditioners, vacuum cleaners, and dishwashers as recommended.
Renters can ask landlords to maintain large appliances. This helps them save money, too!
5. Use smart features
Many modern appliances have smart features designed to save energy:
- Wi-Fi-enabled devices allow you to control them remotely to ensure that settings are optimized even when you’re not home.
- For example, a smart thermostat paired with electric baseboard heaters can save a lot of energy by adjusting automatically based on your habits.
- Energy-saving modes lower energy use for electronics and appliances when they’re on standby.
6. Optimize appliance settings
Fine-tuning your settings can save even more:
- Run dishwashers and laundry machines only when full to save water and energy.
- Set your fridge between 37°F and 40°F and your freezer 0–5°F for efficiency.
- Use the high-speed spin on washers to shorten drying time.
- Turn on automatic drying sensors in dryers to stop the machine when clothes are dry.
7. Energy-savings tips for renters
Even if you can’t upgrade your appliances, you can still save on energy:
- Smart power strips cut off power when devices aren’t in use, reducing wasted electricity.
- Thermostatic shower valves save water during warm-ups. Rebates of $15 per unit are available.
- Window insulation kits keep the heat in during winter and save on heating costs.
These portable solutions work great for renters who don’t want to make permanent changes.
No matter if you own your home or rent, these tips can help you save energy and money. Take advantage of rebates, keep up with regular maintenance, and make smart use of the latest technology. Small changes can make a big difference!