October is Energy Awareness Month. ENERGY STAR certified products can save energy and save you money.
Energy-saving products are widely available, but since October is National Energy Awareness Month, Lowe’s is spotlighting an unlikely cast of ENERGY STAR characters to help you save big.
It’s important to remember ENERGY STAR certified products meet strict energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). So, if you buy ENERGY STAR, you’re buying efficiency.
1. Roof Shingles
Who knew that shingles could help you be more energy efficient? The folks at ENERGY STAR, that’s who. Ultraviolet blocking granules built into each shingle reflect solar energy, which helps keep your roof cooler while decreasing the amount of heat transferred inside your home. The less heat transferred inside, the less likely you’ll be to blast your AC during warmer months.
2. String Lights
It’s never too soon to think about holiday decorations. ENERGY STAR decorative lights don’t have moving parts, filaments or glass, so they’re more durable and shock-resistant than other lights. They also use 75 percent less energy than conventional incandescent light strings, leaving you with more money to deck the halls and buy figgy pudding.
3. Mini Fridges
ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators are about 9 percent more energy-efficient than models that meet the federal minimum energy efficiency standard. High-efficiency compressors create less heat, use less energy and are often quieter than standard compressors. Think of it this way, if all refrigerators sold in the U.S. were ENERGY STAR certified, the energy cost savings would grow to nearly $700 million a year. (Okay, maybe a mini-version doesn’t save quite as much, but it still helps.)
4. Kegerators
Kegerators can be convenient, especially if you’re into homegating this NFL season, but they can also be energy guzzlers. You can save that energy with an ENERGY STAR kegerator which features temperature stability and close-door assist technology to keep the cool air in and circulating.
5. Wine Chillers and Coolers
If you’re a wine connoisseur, you’ll appreciate an energy-saving wine chiller. ENERGY STAR certified wine chillers have improved insulation located in doors and exterior walls to help keep beverages cold and muffle noise. What’s more, getting an ENERGY STAR certified wine chiller or second refrigerator, can save you about $60 a year in operating costs.
Of course, if you’re looking for some of the more typical ENERGY STAR certified products Lowe’s offers (like dishwashers, clothes washers, air conditioners, refrigerators, dehumidifiers, smart thermostats and lighting, just to name a few), visit lowes.com. Just search for your item and be sure to look for the blue ENERGY STAR product label. Or, learn more about ENERGY STAR certified products by visiting their website.