If you are thinking about purchasing a new refrigerator, freezer or dishwasher, look for one that is ENERGY STAR^® qualified. These are the most efficient models on the market and will save energy and save money.

Find out more about ENERGY STAR qualified appliances.

Control the refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
The refrigerator compartment should be kept between 36° F and 38° F, and the freezer compartment between 0° F and 5° F.

Check refrigerator door seals.
If you close the door on a dollar bill and can easily pull it out, then the door seal is not very effective. Door seals can be replaced, although finding the proper seal can be difficult. You can check at refrigeration parts stores.

Keep your refrigerator in as cool a location as possible.
Try to locate the refrigerator away from ovens, stoves, and direct sunlight. A 10° F increase in surrounding temperature can result in a 20% higher energy consumption.

Clean the condenser coils.
Dust and pet hair can build up on the condenser coils at the back of or underneath the fridge, causing it to work harder. At least once a year it's worth the effort to vacuum or dust off the coils.

Make sure the refrigerator is level.
If it's not, the door might not close fully.

Keep foods in the refrigerator covered to reduce moisture build-up.
Refrigerators have to work harder if the air inside is humid.

Wash full loads in the dishwasher and choose the energy saver cycle.

With gas cooktops, make sure that you are getting a bluish flame.
A yellow flame indicates that the gas might not be burning efficiently.

Thaw foods completely before cooking.
It is most efficient to thaw foods in the refrigerator, but if pressed for time, a microwave is also efficient.

Use microwave ovens when you can.
Energy consumption and cooking times for certain foods are greatly reduced, especially small portions and leftovers to be reheated.

Use the smallest pan necessary to do the job.
Smaller surfaces require less energy. Match the pan size to the element size. For example, a 6" pan on an 8" burner can waste over 40% of the heat produced by the burner.

If you use aluminum foil to catch drips in the oven, place the foil one rack below the cookware. Foil on the rack with the cookware will reflect heat away from the cooking surface.