Santa isn’t the only one who makes an appearance this month. As the year nears its end, retailers start trumpeting deep discounts on home appliances. That’s great if you’ve considered replacing some of your home’s tired appliances with one of today’s smart models. But before buying a smart appliance, take some time to learn what they offer—and think about what you really need.
Begin with an honest look at how you live, and consider the role your current appliances play in your daily routine. Would the capabilities of a smart appliance make your life easier? For example, if you frequently forget to start the laundry or your dishwasher, Wi-Fi-enabled appliances with remote start capabilities may save you time and trouble.
If you’re thinking about stepping up to a smart appliance because it has a cool feature
you might use once a year, ask yourself if it’s worth the extra cost.
Next, think about any smart devices you already use in your home. Make sure they’re compatible with the smart appliance’s operating system, so you can get all the benefits you expect. For example, many of these appliances are engineered to work with familiar voice assistants, such as Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant or Apple’s Siri. Incompatible systems might limit your ability to use the features most important to you.
Is your home’s infrastructure ready to handle the demands of a smart appliance? Depending on the model you choose, it might require anything from a basic internet connection to a home Wi-Fi network to provide the operation you expect.
Some smart appliances may require Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave or other systems for connectivity. Others can receive software updates via Wi-Fi. Having access to the right technology ensures your system functions correctly and can handle updates as they become available.
It’s always important to consider energy efficiency when buying a new appliance. Most smart appliances are designed to reduce energy consumption, with operating modes that deliver the performance you want while making more efficient use of energy.
Smart appliances that are Energy Star-certified meet or exceed federal energy-efficiency standards, and some may use only half as much energy as standard appliances. Many let you schedule operations during times of the day when energy rates are lower. That’s particularly beneficial with high-energy appliances, including washing machines, dishwashers and clothes dryers.
Repairs to smart appliances can be expensive, so be sure to consider the warranty. Generous manufacturer warranties demonstrate the company’s confidence in the quality of its products.
Finally, because most smart appliances are connected to the internet, make sure you think about privacy and security. Research the manufacturer’s privacy policies and security features to ensure data —like your voice commands and shopping habits—don’t fall into the wrong hands. Making sure the manufacturer takes your privacy and online safety as seriously as you do is a smart strategy.
For most homeowners, the biggest downside to smart appliances is they carry higher price tags than their not-so-smart counterparts. However, price is just one factor in the cost of any appliance. When you also consider the long-term value smart appliances deliver—whether that’s in energy savings, helpful conveniences or improved reliability—most save you money over their service life.
Smart appliances may be eligible for rebates and tax incentives, so ask your retailer what’s available.
What’s ahead for smart appliances in the foreseeable future? The marketplace is starting to see the integration of basic artificial intelligence capabilities that can make smart appliances provide better service, greater reliability and lower energy needs. As these AI-fueled systems become more common, your refrigerator might know your habits so well it can generate a shopping list for you. Your dishwasher could adjust its operating cycle to better clean your family’s uniquely dirty dishes.
There was a time when appliances changed little from decade to decade. Today, products advance more quickly than ever before, and we can expect to see more big changes ahead.
Shop Wisely and Be an Energy Star
By Jennah Denney
As the days grow colder, you may be considering ways to stay cozy while also managing home energy use. One of the best ways to make your home more energy efficient is by choosing products with the Energy Star label. But what exactly does the label mean, and how can it benefit you?
How Products Earn the Energy Star Label
Energy Star is a program by the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency to help consumers identify energy-efficient products that save money and reduce environmental impact.
Products that earn the Energy Star label must meet strict guidelines for energy efficiency, performance and cost effectiveness. Here’s how the process works:
- The product must be more energy efficient than typical models. This helps you save on energy bills by using less electricity while still providing the same performance.
- The product must be tested in EPA-recognized labs following standardized procedures. These tests ensure the product meets all energy-efficiency and performance requirements.
- Once tested, the product’s data is reviewed by a third-party certification body to verify it meets the set standards. This ensures only the best products receive the Energy Star label.
Even after a product is certified, the EPA conducts off-the-shelf testing on random samples of Energy Star products to ensure they continue to meet the required standards. If a product fails to meet the performance requirements during verification testing, it can be disqualified from the Energy Star program. The EPA has clear procedures for handling such disqualifications to maintain the integrity of the label.
Speaking of Labels
Whether you’re upgrading your refrigerator, replacing lightbulbs or buying new electronics, the blue Energy Star label is your assurance the product has passed all energy-efficiency tests. It’s easy to spot and can be found on products ranging from small and major appliances to electronics.
Many large appliances, such as washing machines and clothes dryers, include a yellow Energy Guide label that provides estimated energy use. Comparing these labels can help you determine how much you can save with an Energy Star model compared to a standard model.
While Energy Star products can cost a little more upfront, their energy savings over time often cover the difference. They help reduce your household energy consumption, which could translate to lower utility bills.
As you shop for appliances, electronics or other home equipment this holiday season, look for the Energy Star label. Whether it’s a new washing machine or energy-efficient lighting options, these products are a simple and effective way to save money and lower energy use. Check with your electric utility about rebates or incentives for buying Energy Star products.
To browse products that have earned the Energy Star® label, visit www.energystar.gov.