Tips for Reading and Understanding the EnergyGuide Label

When it’s time to buy a new appliance or HVAC equipment, you may notice the EnergyGuide label. This label displays how much energy the equipment uses and makes it easier for homeowners to compare the energy use of similar items. Saving energy is good for both your wallet and the environment.

The EnergyGuide label offers a standardized way to compare appliances with different features from diverse manufacturers and with contrasting efficiency ratings. It takes much of the sales jargon out of the energy comparison process for consumers.

What’s on the EnergyGuide Label?

• List of features – The features are listed in the upper left corner, just under the EnergyGuide header. You can use this list to ensure you’re comparing equipment with similar features.
• Make, model and size of the equipment – The make, model and size information is in the upper right corner, just under the EnergyGuide header. Such information allows you to verify the model is what you think it is.
• Estimated annual operation costs – The estimated operating cost is the dollar amount printed within the center box above the cost range. It’s based on the national average cost per kilowatt.
• The cost range of similar equipment – The cost range sits just under the annual cost estimate. It shows how this particular piece of equipment compares with similar equipment.
• Estimated annual energy usage – The estimated energy use is just below the estimated yearly operating cost box. You can multiply this number by your local cost per kilowatt to get a more accurate picture of what it will cost to run the equipment in a year.
• Energy Star compliance – The Energy Star label will appear in the lower right corner. It will only show up if the equipment meets the Energy Star standards.

Learn more about using the EnergyGuide label to choose from Custom Air & Plumbing’s home comfort solutions, or give us a call at (866) 819-0992.