Chest freezers are typically 15 to 20 percent more efficient than upright freezers because they are better insulated and cold air doesn't spill out when they are opened. Washers and dryers Look for washers with water level and water temperature controls. Since up to 90 percent of the energy needed to wash clothes is used to heat water, controls that allow you to use cooler water and adjust the amount of water to the load save energy. Energy guide labels are not required on clothes dryers. Dishwashers Most of the dishwasher's energy use goes to heat water, so it pays to look for features that reduce hot water use.
Short cycles use less hot water and are suitable when dishes are only slightly soiled.
An air-dry selector shuts off the heat during the drying cycle, cutting electricity use by up to 20 percent. Ovens Convection ovens circulate hot air with a fan, providing for more even temperature in the oven. Because of this even heat, temperatures often can be lowered and cooking times shortened, thereby reducing energy use. The more even temperatures also allow for more items to be cooked at the same time. Self cleaning ovens are up to 20 percent more energy efficient because they have more insulation.