Energy Star (trademarked ENERGY STAR) is a program run by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) that promotes energy efficiency. The program provides information on the energy consumption of products and devices using different standardized methods. The Energy Star label is found on more than 75 different certified product categories, homes, commercial buildings, and industrial plants. In the United States, the Energy Star label is also shown on the Energy Guide appliance label of qualifying products.
Elements of the Energy Star Program are being implemented in Japan, Taiwan, and Switzerland – as well as Energy Star Canada. In 2018, a 15-year long agreement with the European Union expired. A previous agreement with the European Free Trade Association[6] has also expired.
As of early 2008, average refrigerators need 20% savings over the minimum standard. Dishwashers need at least 41% savings. Most appliances as well as heating and cooling systems have a yellow EnergyGuide label showing the annual cost of operation compared to other models. This label is created through the Federal Trade Commission and often shows if an appliance is Energy Star rated. While an Energy Star label indicates that the appliance is more energy efficient than the minimum guidelines, purchasing an Energy Star labeled product does not always mean one is getting the most energy efficient option available. For example, dehumidifiers that are rated under 25 US pints (12 L) per day of water extraction receive an Energy Star rating if they have an energy factor of 1.2 (higher is better), while those rated 25 US pints (12 L) to 35 US pints (17 L) per day receive an Energy Star rating for an energy factor of 1.4 or higher. Thus a higher-capacity but non-Energy Star rated dehumidifier may be a more energy efficient alternative than an Energy Star rated but lower-capacity model.[21] The Energy Star program’s savings calculator has also been criticized for unrealistic assumptions in its model that tend to magnify savings benefits to the average consumer.
Another factor yet to be considered by the EPA and DOE is the overall effect of energy-saving requirements on the durability and expected service life of a mass-market appliance built to a consumer-level cost standard. For example, a refrigerator may be made more efficient by the use of more insulative spacing and a smaller-capacity compressor using electronics to control operation and temperature. However, this may come at the cost of reduced interior storage (or increased exterior mass) or a reduced service life due to compressor or electronic failures. In particular, electronic controls used on new-generation appliances are subject to damage from shock, vibration, moisture, or power spikes on the electrical circuit to which they are attached. Critics have pointed out that even if a new appliance is energy efficient, any consumer appliance that does not provide customer satisfaction, or must be replaced twice as often as its predecessor contributes to landfill pollution and waste of natural resources used to construct its replacement.
Dragon Air Services is a family-owned business located in the heart of Plano. We specialize in residential Air Conditioning and Heating repairs, Air Conditioning, and Heating replacements, and Air conditioning and Heating service. Our expert technicians pride themselves in providing honest diagnostics so our customers can make educated decisions on what’s best for them. If you are in need of replacing and HVAC unit in Dallas, Plano or surrounding cities call us today at 214-790-9872 to schedule an appointment.
Here’s the list of services we provide in Plano and Collin County
AC repair
AC Replacement
AC Installation
Heater Repairs
Heater Replacements
Heater Installation
AC and Heater Preventative Maintenance Furnace Repair
Furnace Replacement
Furnace Installation
Duct Replacement
Duct Design