K. Energy Star Appliances

Energy Star is a certificate that is as good as money in your pocket! Front-loading, or horizontal axis, washing machines use an average of 15 to 18 gallons of water per wash, compared to 40 or 50 gallons for a top-loading machine. They also spin dry faster to eliminate more water from washed clothes. Energy Star refrigerators and dishwashers also lead in lowering operating costs. To know you’re getting the peak of efficiency, look for an Energy Star label.