As far as where to put them, refrigerators ideally should be situated in cool locations away from direct sunlight, and away from the dishwasher or stove. Air must be able to circulate around the condenser coils behind or beneath the unit, although some units are designed as built-ins and need less clearance. Follow the manufacturer s instructions for installation. Dishwashers Newer dishwashers actually use less energy and water than hand washing. Their booster heaters can heat water to the high temperatures needed for washing dishes, allowing the home s hot water heater to remain set at an energy efficient 120 to 130 degrees.
Air drying features and different operating cycles also are energy saving options.
As a general rule, dishwashers should not be run until they are full, and the contents should always be stacked according to the manufacturer s instructions. Consumers who replace obsolete electric ranges with new gas models can enjoy up to a 50 percent savings on energy usage. Features to look for in a new oven or range include different sized burners, an oven window, a self-cleaning feature and a timer. Energy efficient tips include minimizing preheating, making sure oven doors close tightly, and when possible cook several dishes at the same time. Although microwaves cannot replace traditional ovens, they can really save on cooking costs more than 20 percent, according to researchers.