Consumer Reports Identifies Energy-Efficient Appliances to Reduce Utility Bills
Consumer Reports has released its findings on energy-efficient appliances that can help consumers lower their utility bills amidst rising costs of electricity, natural gas, and water. The organization conducts real-world testing of appliances, such as loading dishwashers with dirty dishes, to provide accurate energy consumption data. For refrigerators, which operate continuously, Consumer Reports highlights significant differences in energy use across models. Top-freezer models, like the Frigidaire FFHT1425VV ($746), are generally more efficient, with annual costs ranging from $37 to $97. Bottom-freezer options, such as the GE GDE21EYKFS ($1973), offer more capacity with annual costs between $34 and $105. In the laundry category, efficient washing machines like the LG WM4000HWA ($945) can reduce dryer workload by extracting more water. While heat pump dryers save considerable energy, they have longer drying times. For ranges, the Frigidaire FCFI3082BS induction range ($1,099) is noted for balancing high pe...