ENERGY-SAVING IDEAS |
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(NAPSI)-If you're looking for ways to save some bread on energy bills, you might want to hit the fridge. Refrigerators run at full power around the clock, making them responsible for a major chunk of a home's energy costs. The good news is that newer-model refrigerators use 40 percent less energy than models made just seven years ago. Plus, you might cut costs even further with Energy Star-efficient models, which use at least 20 percent less energy than other refrigerators. Just remember this tip: If you buy a new, "greener" fridge, do your wallet a favor and get rid of the old one--don't keep it in your basement or garage. Maintaining a second unit erases any energy savings achieved with the new one. The Department of Energy runs a recycling program to help people put their old units to good use. Visit www.recyclemyoldfridge.com for more information. Rating Refrigerators So which fridges are best at keeping their cool? The No. 1-ranked Energy Star refrigerator is the Miele Independence Series 30-inch bottom-mount. It's 33 percent more efficient than the current federal standard dictates. In fact, the company's entire line is Energy Star qualified and uses high-performance dual compressors, improved insulation and more precise temperature and defrost technology to boost efficiency. Close The Door Since a lot of energy is wasted when you leave the refrigerator door open, the company's new models come equipped with RemoteVision technology, which raises an alarm if you leave the door open too long or if there are problems with how the refrigerator is running. It will even use Wi-Fi to send an alert e-mail to Miele, which, in turn, will contact you if you're not home to hear the alarm. Cutting Costs You might save even more energy by activating the SuperCool feature while loading groceries, as the refrigerator will work quicker to get back to its optimal cooling temperature. You can also save some green by using the refrigerator's MasterCool technology to set the correct temperatures by zone and food type, preserving food longer. For more information about the Independence Series and other refrigerators, consumers and design professionals can call (800) 843-7231 or visit the Web site at www.miele.com. Buying an energy-efficient refrigerator can do a lot to reduce your monthly electric bill. |
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