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| Major Appliances & Lighting |
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Washers: Front-loading washers are the most energy efficient with average energy savings of 60%,
and they use 36% less water than traditional washers. This can save over $100 each year. Front-loading washers also tend to be more reliable because there is no agitator which is the most common item to fail in top-loading washers.
Dryers: Gas dryer are less expensive to operate but have a higher up-front cost. The opposite is true of electric dryers. Some models have moisture detectors that detect "dryness" and shut-off accordingly.
Lighting: Halogen lights are 30-50% more efficient than incandescent lights, and are best used when a focused, high-quality light is desired.
- Fluorescent lights: select bulbs with a high CRI (color rendition index) which emit light very close to incandescents. Fluorescents last 10 times longer and reduce energy use by 50-70%.
- Sealed IC Recessed Lighting: Recessed lighting in insulated ceiling should be insulation cover (IC)-rated fixtures that are airtight & covered with insulation.
- Daylighting: Examples include light tubes/pipes, clerestory windows, light shelves and skylights, but they should be used carefully so as to avoid unwanted heat gains & losses.
- Outdoor lighting: Motion detectors are recommended. Metal halide, compact fluorescent, high-pressure sodium are the brightest and most effective. Solar powered lights are another option.
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