Products must earn the ENERGY STAR logo. How do they do it?

I recently read on the Consumer Reports blog that certain ENERGY STAR-rated dishwashers will lose that status as of Jan. 20, 2012. According to the post, dishwashers that “qualify for Energy Star must be about 9 percent more energy-efficient, and use almost 27 percent less water, than before.”

Essentially, the models that were shipped out having been granted energy efficient status would suddenly not be included in the ENERGY STAR club.

Don’t worry, dishwashers, Pluto knows how you feel.

This sudden dishwasher demotion got me wondering: How do appliances actually gain ENERGY STAR status?

Not surprisingly, the ENERGY STAR website provides the program details and how the Environmental Protection Agency selects the star-worthy appliances and fixtures.

ENERGY STAR is a standard for energy efficiency products established in the early 1990s by the EPA to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The famous blue label helps to make it easy for consumers to find an energy-efficient product that use electricity (like lighting or an appliance).

How a product earns this badge of honor is by:

• Using 20 to 30 percent less energy than is required by federal standards
• Contributing significant energy savings nationwide as a product category
• Delivering the features and performances demanded by customers, while also being energy efficient

And no, a product doesn’t get partial credit for getting two out of three—which is likely why the dishwashers are being forced to hand in their ENERGY STAR member cards. After Jan. 20, 2012, retailers can still carry the products, but they’re not required to remove or alter the logo on models that already sit in the store.

So, if you’re looking for the most efficient dishwashers that have a true ENERGY STAR rating, you’ll have to ask.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!

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