How to Buy an Energy Efficient Range

How to Buy an Energy Efficient Range

If you dread receiving your energy bill every month, it's time to make your home more efficient. Replacing old, inefficient appliances with new, Energy Star compliant models will save you money and reduce your household's negative impact on the environment. Here's how to buy an energy efficient range and make your trips to the mailbox less stressful.

Instructions

Step 1

Consider only those ranges that have an official Energy Star rating from the U.S. government. Energy Star ranges exceed federal requirements for consumption of energy and will lower your monthly bills.

Step 2

Compare kilowatt-hour usage and estimated operational cost per year of range models using energy guides. You can receive energy consumption information about ranges online or at appliance retailers. Online retailers of appliances usually provide a link to government energy guide information for items they sell.

Step 3

Purchase a gas range for maximum efficiency. Although gas ranges often require more initial cost than conventional electric ranges, they are far more energy efficient and will save you money in the long run. Two meals on a gas range generally consume the same amount of energy as one meal prepared using an electric range.

Step 4

Buy an Energy Star range hood and direct exhaust outside your home. Excess exhaust in your home increases temperature, releases fumes, and creates moisture than can encourage mold growth. Energy Star range hoods are quiet and those with built-in lighting reduce energy costs.

Step 5

Rest easy if you must purchase an electric range. Induction ranges supply energy directly to cookware, transferring energy through a magnetic field. Induction ranges use less energy than all other electric ranges and some gas ranges.

Step 6

Use your energy efficient range conservatively to maximize savings. Use pots of appropriate size for burners, keep burners clean and cover pots and pans to prevent heat escape.