Home Energy Archives · Consumer Federation of America https://consumerfed.org/issues/energy/home-energy/ Advancing the consumer interest through research, advocacy, and education Thu, 07 Mar 2024 17:35:23 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3 https://consumerfed.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/cropped-Capture-32x32.jpg Home Energy Archives · Consumer Federation of America https://consumerfed.org/issues/energy/home-energy/ 32 32 CFA Supports Connecticut Bill Regarding Energy Standards for Appliances https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-supports-connecticut-bill-regarding-energy-standards-for-appliances/ Thu, 07 Mar 2024 17:35:23 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=28125 CFA submitted supportive testimony to the Connecticut General Assembly for S.B. 301, which is legislation what would improve appliance energy and water efficiency for Connecticut consumers.

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CFA submitted supportive testimony to the Connecticut General Assembly for S.B. 301, which is legislation what would improve appliance energy and water efficiency for Connecticut consumers.

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Why You Should Consider a Heat Pump Sooner Than Later and 10 Ways to Save Energy and Money Today! https://consumerfed.org/why-you-should-consider-a-heat-pump-sooner-than-later-and-10-ways-to-save-energy-and-money-today-2/ Wed, 04 Oct 2023 14:45:53 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?p=27199 Today, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is giving a big shout-out for Energy Efficiency Day calling on Americans to be proactive by taking positive steps to be more energy efficient. Consider joining CFA and the hundreds of other organizations, cities, businesses, and individuals in the nationwide effort to become more energy independent, improve the … Continued

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Today, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is giving a big shout-out for Energy Efficiency Day calling on Americans to be proactive by taking positive steps to be more energy efficient. Consider joining CFA and the hundreds of other organizations, cities, businesses, and individuals in the nationwide effort to become more energy independent, improve the environment, and save hundreds of dollars in unnecessary energy costs. This year CFA is promoting electric heat pumps, a particularly energy-efficient appliance that most homeowners and landlords should consider purchasing, especially if they have an older heating or central air conditioning system.  We are also releasing ten easy tips you can use to reduce your utility bill starting today.

While many consumers are already aware of the significant savings of switching out their old incandescents or CFLs with more efficient LED light bulbs, or of installing a programmable thermostat that adjusts the heating or cooling temperatures of their homes based on need and occupancy. The recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and the rebates and tax incentives included in it, make the already compelling case for more and more homeowners to consider replacing their central AC with an air or ground source heat pump, particularly when their AC is at the end of its useful life.  It’s wise to plan ahead and not wait until the system dies so you can make a well-considered choice rather than be in an emergency situation possibly faced with a limited, less efficient selection.

Heat pumps work the same as a central air conditioning system in the summer, and provide heating in the cooler months. This can reduce or even eliminate the home’s use of combustible fuels for heating. In the heating mode, heat pumps are about three times as efficient as a gas furnace. As renewables continue to play a larger role on the electricity grid, using an efficient heat pump for most of a home’s heating will significantly reduce the home’s carbon footprint. A recent study shows savings of 45-50% for existing homes.[1]

Compared to replacing a traditional central AC system, installing an equivalent size heat pump system will cost about $1,800 more upfront, for an average home. However, the IRA provides a 30% tax credit for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters — up to $2,000 per taxpayer. Thanks to the efficient heat (and cooling!) these systems provide, consumers can see savings of 45-50% on their utility bills for existing homes![2]

Heat pumps are a prime example of the type of energy efficiency investment homeowners should embrace, especially as they replace or install a new AC system. With the passage of the IRA, a heat pump will cost less to install, save considerable amounts every month on utility bills and significantly help reduce a home’s carbon footprint while also providing support to our nation’s aging electric grid and infrastructure. Commit today to heat and cool your home with a product that won’t warm up the planet: an efficient and affordable heat pump.

Want to celebrate Energy Efficiency Day by doing something impactful to decrease your home’s energy use and carbon emissions while saving money in the process? Pledge to make your next central air conditioning system a heat pump!

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Wide Coalition Welcomes Furnace Efficiency Standards Set to Cut Energy Bills and Climate Pollution https://consumerfed.org/press_release/wide-coalition-welcomes-furnace-efficiency-standards-set-to-cut-energy-bills-and-climate-pollution/ Fri, 29 Sep 2023 14:48:16 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=press_release&p=27201 Washington, DC—Consumer, energy efficiency, environmental, and utility stakeholders welcomed a significantly strengthened federal efficiency standard for home furnaces Friday. The final standards announced by the Department of Energy (DOE) will reduce average household costs by $350 over the life of a furnace compared to using old-style models and cut 332 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions from furnaces … Continued

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Washington, DC—Consumer, energy efficiency, environmental, and utility stakeholders welcomed a significantly strengthened federal efficiency standard for home furnaces Friday.

The final standards announced by the Department of Energy (DOE) will reduce average household costs by $350 over the life of a furnace compared to using old-style models and cut 332 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions from furnaces sold over 30 years, according to the agency. The standards will also reduce emissions of nitrogen oxides, which cause asthma attacks, cardiovascular disease, and even premature death.

Furnace efficiency standards had not been meaningfully updated since they were set by Congress in 1987. DOE made a slight update in 2007, but to an efficiency level that 99% of models already met.

Steven Nadel, executive director of the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, said: “Heating is the largest utility cost in most homes, but we’ve still been installing many inefficient new models. Now, that’s finally going to come to an end. It’s a major accomplishment for the Energy Department and one that’s going to make a real difference reducing bills and greenhouse gases.”

Andrew deLaski, executive director of the Appliance Standards Awareness Project, said: “This has been decades in the making. Furnace technology advanced a long time ago, but the standards didn’t keep up. Until now. This is going to guarantee that all new models use proven energy-saving technologies. We won’t keep wasting so much heat for decades more.”

Richard Eckman, energy advocate with Consumer Federation of America, said: “Although the harm done to consumers through years of inaction and stonewalling by some gas utilities on this standard cannot be undone, by adopting a higher standard, future harm will be prevented. Thankfully, the Department’s final standards announced today will save financially strapped Americans money, provide cleaner air to breathe, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to meet our climate commitments.”

Johanna Neumann, senior director at Environment America, said: “Using energy efficiently protects our air, water, and open spaces. The Department of Energy is protecting our environment from needless pollution by making sure new furnaces aren’t sold with outdated, inefficient technology.”

Charlie Harak, senior attorney with the National Consumer Law Center, said: “This is an extremely important rule for the millions of low-income households where a gas-fired furnace provides the heat.  Low-income households are disproportionately renters, where the landlord chooses which heating equipment to install. This rule ensures that the landlord will have to purchase efficient furnaces that will significantly lower bills for low-income tenants. Low-income homeowners who have to buy a furnace will benefit as well from much lower energy bills.”

Helen Burt, Chief Customer Officer at National Grid, said: “Energy efficiency is one of the most powerful tools we can offer our customers to reduce energy costs. National Grid supports the use of federal appliance standards like the rule announced today by DOE to provide equitable access to cost-effective energy efficiency gains. This standard helps ensure that the benefits of these gains reach all customer segments, including renters, who often do not make decisions about the appliances in their homes.”

Joe Vukovich, staff attorney at NRDC, said: “Thanks to this standard, consumers can be confident that when they go to purchase a new furnace they are getting the most efficient technology—one that will save a household $350 over the life of the furnace. All of that signals a win for pocketbooks and for the climate, as efficient furnaces help significantly cut climate-warming carbon emissions. And due to the rebates and tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act, it’s never been a better time to upgrade home appliances to more climate-friendly versions.”

Heating is the largest energy use for most homes. Nearly half of U.S. homes—about 50 million—are heated with a gas or propane furnace.

The updated standards will require new furnaces to use about 15% less energy than today’s least efficient models, effectively phasing out non-condensing models. DOE estimates that the vast majority of consumers who would have purchased a non-condensing furnace before the standard will instead purchase a condensing furnace. Condensing models, which today make up about half of new furnace purchases, use more of the heat from the furnace’s combustion chamber, reducing energy waste.

Federal law requires DOE to periodically review standards for furnaces and other products; under a court-approved settlement in 2014, DOE was required to finalize a new furnace standard by 2016. Thus, this rule is long overdue.

The new standards will take effect in 2028.

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CFA Letter to House Oversight Committee Explains Support for DOE’s Recently Proposed Standards for Cooking Products https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-letter-to-house-oversight-committee-explains-support-o-for-does-recently-proposed-standards-for-cooking-products/ Thu, 25 May 2023 18:00:18 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26719 CFA was joined by the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) in writing to the House Oversight Committee showing support for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) recently proposed standards for cooking products, which include electric and gas stoves. Improving the efficiency of cooking products will save consumers money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and indoor pollutants … Continued

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CFA was joined by the National Consumer Law Center (NCLC) in writing to the House Oversight Committee showing support for the Department of Energy’s (DOE) recently proposed standards for cooking products, which include electric and gas stoves. Improving the efficiency of cooking products will save consumers money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions and indoor pollutants — helping households reduce bills while benefiting our climate, the environment, and human health

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CFA Urges DOE to Enact More Energy Efficient Standards for Refrigerators https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-doe-to-enact-more-energy-efficient-standards-for-refrigerator/ Sat, 13 May 2023 18:07:52 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26714 Consumer Federation of America submitted comments to the Department of Energy in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding refrigerators. Highlighting the consumer support for greater efficiency for refrigerators, which will save billions of dollars in energy bills and eliminate millions of tons of climate-harming emissions, we urged the Department to promptly finalize standards … Continued

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Consumer Federation of America submitted comments to the Department of Energy in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding refrigerators. Highlighting the consumer support for greater efficiency for refrigerators, which will save billions of dollars in energy bills and eliminate millions of tons of climate-harming emissions, we urged the Department to promptly finalize standards for refrigerators. Consumers, and particularly low-income consumers, should no longer be subject to higher electric bills because out-of-date, less efficient technologies continue to be made available in the marketplace.

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CFA Urges Maine Legislature to Pass Bill Phasing Out Florescent Lightbulbs https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-maine-legislature-to-pass-bill-phasing-out-florescent-lightbulbs/ Mon, 08 May 2023 20:07:18 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26930 CFA testified in support of the Act to Reduce Mercury in the Environment by Phasing Out Certain Fluorescent Light Bulbs (LD1814). The legislation is a win-win-win for Maine. The Environmental Standards for Appliances Act will cut energy waste and reduce greenhouse gases while improving air quality. CFA urges you to adopt this highly cost-effective pro-consumer … Continued

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CFA testified in support of the Act to Reduce Mercury in the Environment by Phasing Out Certain Fluorescent Light Bulbs (LD1814). The legislation is a win-win-win for Maine. The Environmental Standards for Appliances Act will cut energy waste and reduce greenhouse gases while improving air quality. CFA urges you to adopt this highly cost-effective pro-consumer bill. The Act would save Mainers and businesses money by transitioning sales of common fluorescent light bulbs to LEDs. As LEDs are twice as energy efficient as fluorescents, LEDs will generate significant electricity bill savings. Estimates by ASAP show that by 2030, Maine would see annual utility bill savings of $202 million thanks to transitioning from fluorescents to LEDs. By 2050 Maine would save a cumulative $253 million on electricity bills.

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CFA Urges DOE to Enact More Energy Efficient Standards for Clothes Washers https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-doe-to-enact-more-energy-efficient-standards-for-clothes-washers/ Fri, 28 Apr 2023 18:07:54 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26713 Consumer Federation of America submitted comments to the Department of Energy in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding clothes washers. Highlighting the consumer support for greater efficiency for clothes washers, which will save billions of dollars in energy bills and eliminate millions of tons of climate-harming emissions, we urged the Department to promptly … Continued

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Consumer Federation of America submitted comments to the Department of Energy in response to a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking regarding clothes washers. Highlighting the consumer support for greater efficiency for clothes washers, which will save billions of dollars in energy bills and eliminate millions of tons of climate-harming emissions, we urged the Department to promptly finalize standards for clothes washers. Consumers, and particularly low-income consumers, should no longer be subject to higher electric bills because out-of-date, less efficient technologies continue to be made available in the marketplace.

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Proposed Boost to Stove Efficiency Garners Public Support https://consumerfed.org/press_release/proposed-boost-to-stove-efficiency-garners-public-support/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 20:46:25 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=press_release&p=26472 Washington, DC—More than 20,000 individuals across the nation joined with health, consumer, and climate advocates today to urge the Department of Energy (DOE) to finalize proposed energy efficiency standards for stoves. The recently proposed standards would ensure both gas and electric stoves and cooktops use more efficient designs or technologies, saving money for their users … Continued

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Washington, DC—More than 20,000 individuals across the nation joined with health, consumer, and climate advocates today to urge the Department of Energy (DOE) to finalize proposed energy efficiency standards for stoves.

The recently proposed standards would ensure both gas and electric stoves and cooktops use more efficient designs or technologies, saving money for their users and reducing indoor air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. DOE estimates that nearly half of the gas stoves sold today already meet the proposed efficiency level, including all entry-level models.

The comments from members of the public were gathered by Earthjustice and submitted today, the final day for stakeholder comment on the proposal. The proposed rule was also supported in comments submitted to DOE by environmental, climate, and energy efficiency advocates and health advocates.

Kanchan Swaroop, senior technical advocacy associate with the Appliance Standards Awareness Project (ASAP), said: “This has been long overdue. Some electric stoves waste electricity when they’re not turned on, and some gas stove burners aren’t configured well and can waste heat. This proposal would ensure that all stoves, whether gas or electric, are using more efficient designs and technologies. The department really did its homework here to ensure that gas stoves with features like continuous cast-iron grates and high-output burners can meet the standard.”

Timothy Ballo, senior attorney at Earthjustice, said: “It’s taken 45 years since Congress gave DOE the authority, but we’re finally on the cusp of getting the first efficiency performance standard for cooktops. Reducing the gas burned in kitchen stoves is critical for healthy indoor air quality, and the proposed standards will help by making gas cooktops more fuel efficient. The strong public support demonstrated through many comments endorsing the proposed standards reflects that DOE has proposed a cost-effective, commonsense measure.”

Richard Eckman, energy advocate with the Consumer Federation of America, said: “While it has taken decades, the venerable stove is finally on the path to getting money-saving, performance-based efficiency standards. DOE’s proposal would save Americans $1.7 billion over the years ahead, move us toward cleaner air, and improve the least efficient stoves on the market today. Our surveys over the past decade show that consumers overwhelmingly want more energy-efficient appliances and strongly support stronger federal standards. In addition, they understand that energy prices will continue to be volatile, as the last year has clearly demonstrated. Rigorous future standards will be critical to protecting consumer pocketbooks and continuing an aggressive effort to address climate change.”

The proposed standards for stoves would set separate efficiency requirements for electric smooth, electric coil, and gas models. DOE’s proposed standards for each type of product would ensure that electric or gas bill savings exceed any increase in product purchase costs.

The standards would ensure that all models take advantage of proven advances already in use by many stoves today. The standard would cut 22 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions, 245 thousand tons of methane emissions, and 52 thousand tons of NOx emissions over 30 years of sales, according to DOE.

For gas stoves, DOE’s analysis found that the proposed efficiency level could be met by optimizing burner and grate design (including grate weight, flame angle, and distance from burner ports to the cooking surface). For electric smooth cooktops, the proposed efficiency level could be met by reducing standby power consumption using low-standby-loss electronic controls.

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CFA Urges DOE to Adopt Test Procedures and Efficiency Standards for Conventional Cooking Products https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-doe-to-adopt-test-procedures-and-efficiency-standards-for-conventional-cooking-products/ Mon, 17 Apr 2023 20:34:05 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26934 CFA strongly supports the proposed standards for cooking products. DOE has proposed performance-based standards for cooking tops and prescriptive requirements for conventional ovens that would provide meaningful energy savings for the nation and cost savings of up to $1.7 billion for U.S. consumers. Furthermore, the proposed standards would avert about 22 million metric tons of … Continued

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CFA strongly supports the proposed standards for cooking products. DOE has proposed performance-based standards for cooking tops and prescriptive requirements for conventional ovens that would provide meaningful energy savings for the nation and cost savings of up to $1.7 billion for U.S. consumers. Furthermore, the proposed standards would avert about 22 million metric tons of CO2 emissions and 52 thousand tons of NOX emissions over 30 years of sales and improve indoor air quality.

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CFA Testifies at DOE Hearing on the Proposed Refrigerators and Freezers Efficiency Standards https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-testifies-at-doe-hearing-on-the-proposed-refrigerators-and-freezers-efficiency-standards/ Tue, 11 Apr 2023 18:39:41 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26471 CFA supports the proposed refrigerator, refrigerator-freezer, and freezer standard; however, we believe that DOE could do more. CFA’s analysis of the proposed rulemaking addresses specific concerns raised by DOE, broadly the associated technology, cost estimation, regulatory burdens, rebound effects, climate change, and other and non-monetizable effects.  Moreover, there are a number of very important fundamental … Continued

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CFA supports the proposed refrigerator, refrigerator-freezer, and freezer standard; however, we believe that DOE could do more. CFA’s analysis of the proposed rulemaking addresses specific concerns raised by DOE, broadly the associated technology, cost estimation, regulatory burdens, rebound effects, climate change, and other and non-monetizable effects.  Moreover, there are a number of very important fundamental issues, like discount rates and market processes, that we also note influence the decision on where to set standards.

In reviewing the standards for the many product classes of refrigerators, it is clear that the DOE has chosen to set the standard at the lowest life cycle cost.  That may seem reasonable, but it is inconsistent with the statute and sound public policy. A standard at one higher level of efficiency is superior; it is.

  • technically feasible
  • saves more energy
  • takes account of the climate and public health value of higher standards, ensuring consumers get the benefit of capturing externalities
  • economically justified
  • increases LCC slightly
  • yields a benefit-cost ratio of almost 2
  • delivers more consumer pocket surplus
  • has an acceptable payback period of half the life of the appliance or less while it negatively impacts only about half of consumers

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CFA Urges Maryland Legislature to Pass Bill Phasing Out Florescent Lightbulbs https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-maryland-legislature-to-pass-bill-phasing-out-florescent-lightbulbs/ Mon, 06 Mar 2023 21:08:04 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26933 CFA testified in support of the Products That Contain Mercury – Fluorescent Lamps – Prohibition, (HB1021). The Act would save Marylanders and businesses money by transitioning sales of common fluorescent light bulbs to LEDs. As LEDs are twice as energy efficient as fluorescents, LEDs will generate significant electricity bill savings. Estimates by ASAP show that … Continued

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CFA testified in support of the Products That Contain Mercury – Fluorescent Lamps – Prohibition, (HB1021). The Act would save Marylanders and businesses money by transitioning sales of common fluorescent light bulbs to LEDs. As LEDs are twice as energy efficient as fluorescents, LEDs will generate significant electricity bill savings. Estimates by ASAP show that by 2030, Maryland would see annual utility bill savings of $87 million thanks to transitioning from fluorescents to LEDs. By 2050 Maryland would save a cumulative $1.1 billion on electricity bills.

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CFA Urges DOE to Adopt More Realistic Test Procedures for Central Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-doe-to-adopt-more-realistic-test-procedures-for-central-air-conditioners-and-heat-pumps/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 21:34:06 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26935 CFA encourages DOE to move from a test procedure that relies on unrealistic fixed control settings to one that requires units to operate under native controls.

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CFA encourages DOE to move from a test procedure that relies on unrealistic fixed control settings to one that requires units to operate under native controls.

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CFA Urges Colorado Legislature to Pass Bill Adopting Appliance Efficiency Standards and Phasing Out Florescent Lightbulbs https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-colorado-legislature-to-pass-bill-adopting-appliance-efficiency-standards-and-phasing-out-florescent-lightbulbs/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 20:22:06 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26186 CFA testified in support of the Environmental Standards for Appliances Act, (HB23-1161). The legislation is a win-win-win for Colorado. The Environmental Standards for Appliances Act will cut energy waste and reduce greenhouse gases while improving air quality. CFA urges you to adopt this highly cost-effective pro-consumer bill.  

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CFA testified in support of the Environmental Standards for Appliances Act, (HB23-1161). The legislation is a win-win-win for Colorado. The Environmental Standards for Appliances Act will cut energy waste and reduce greenhouse gases while improving air quality. CFA urges you to adopt this highly cost-effective pro-consumer bill.

 

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Department of Energy Takes Important Step on Efficiency Standards for Refrigerators and Clothes Washers https://consumerfed.org/press_release/department-of-energy-takes-important-step-on-efficiency-standards-for-refrigerators-and-clothes-washers/ Fri, 10 Feb 2023 19:49:21 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=press_release&p=26083 Washington, D.C. – Today, the Department of Energy (DOE) proposed updated efficiency standards for refrigerators and clothes washers. The Consumer Federation of America supports the Biden Administration’s proposed rules which will benefit consumers when they need to replace inefficient refrigerators and clothes washers. The rules will save consumers money on electricity and water bills and … Continued

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Washington, D.C. – Today, the Department of Energy (DOE) proposed updated efficiency standards for refrigerators and clothes washers. The Consumer Federation of America supports the Biden Administration’s proposed rules which will benefit consumers when they need to replace inefficient refrigerators and clothes washers. The rules will save consumers money on electricity and water bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change.

“The long-awaited update to refrigerator and clothes washer standards is welcome news for consumers and, in particular, financially struggling households who, on average, have disproportionately higher energy burdens,” said Richard Eckman, an Energy Advocate at the Consumer Federation of America. “Our surveys over the past decade show that consumers overwhelmingly want more energy efficient appliances and strongly support stronger Federal standards. Having stronger standards in place will ensure that those products meet a higher threshold of efficiency, thereby saving financially strapped Americans money on their utility bills. This is especially beneficial for renters, who rarely get to choose their own refrigerator and clothes washer, and are stuck paying a greater percentage of their income on utility bills than homeowners do.[i] Strong efficiency standards can help ensure that landlords buy efficient appliances for their tenants.”

The current federal standards for refrigerators and clothes washers have both been in place for over a decade, even as energy and water-saving technologies have improved. American households have waited longer than necessary for pocketbook savings from more efficient clothes washers and refrigerators. Together the two standards would save consumers $425 on their utility bills over the life of the appliances.[ii]

The Consumer Federation of America applauds the Department of Energy for proposing updated efficiency standards for refrigerators and clothes washers and urges the Department to issue the final rules as soon as is practicable. The urgency of phasing out inefficient appliances has never been more pressing; as high energy prices continue to hit consumer pocketbooks, the western United States grapples with an ongoing water crisis, and the planet continues to warm because of climate change.


[i] A recent CFA-CLASP survey found that product failure is the main reason that homeowners and landlords replace their clothes washers and refrigerators.

[ii] The standards would save American consumers $3.5 billion per year on their energy and water bills.

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CFA Urges DOE to Consider Condensing-Level Standards for Non-Weatherized Oil Furnaces https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/cfa-urges-doe-to-consider-condensing-level-standards-for-non-weatherized-oil-furnaces/ Mon, 30 Jan 2023 21:34:07 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=26936 CFA urges DOE to include condensing-level standards for non-weatherized oil furnaces, as they are technologically feasible and could result in significant cost savings for consumers.

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CFA urges DOE to include condensing-level standards for non-weatherized oil furnaces, as they are technologically feasible and could result in significant cost savings for consumers.

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Advocates Urge DOE to Promptly Finalize Efficiency Test Procedures for Air Cleaners https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/advocates-urge-doe-to-promptly-finalize-efficiency-test-procedures-for-air-cleaners/ Mon, 19 Dec 2022 17:13:08 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=25887 In response to DOE’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Test Procedure For Air Cleaners, CFA joined American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Appliance Standards Awareness Project, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority in submitting comments largely supporting of DOE’s proposed test … Continued

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In response to DOE’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the Test Procedure For Air Cleaners, CFA joined American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy, Appliance Standards Awareness Project, Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority in submitting comments largely supporting of DOE’s proposed test procedure and we strongly urge DOE to finalize the test procedure quickly.

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Advocates Urge DOE to Adopt Higher Efficiency Standard for Microwave Ovens https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/advocates-urge-doe-to-adopt-higher-efficiency-standard-for-microwave-ovens/ Mon, 07 Nov 2022 16:57:31 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=25886 Responding to the supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNOPR) for energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, CFA joined other advocates in urging DOE to consider adopting higher efficiency levels than those proposed in the SNOPR. We also continue to encourage DOE to develop a test procedure and set standards for active mode energy consumption.

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Responding to the supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (SNOPR) for energy conservation standards for microwave ovens, CFA joined other advocates in urging DOE to consider adopting higher efficiency
levels than those proposed in the SNOPR. We also continue to encourage DOE to develop a test procedure and set standards for active mode energy consumption.

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New US Consumer Insights Reveal Overwhelming Support for Appliance Efficiency https://consumerfed.org/press_release/new-us-consumer-insights-reveal-overwhelming-support-for-appliance-efficiency/ Tue, 25 Oct 2022 17:50:24 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=press_release&p=25522 WASHINGTON, DC – A new issue brief from CLASP and Consumer Federation of America finds 76% of Americans support federal energy efficiency standards for appliances. The brief highlights a significant opportunity to lower energy bills across the country, including for low-income households, households of color, and renters that spend a disproportionate share of their income … Continued

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WASHINGTON, DC – A new issue brief from CLASP and Consumer Federation of America finds 76% of Americans support federal energy efficiency standards for appliances. The brief highlights a significant opportunity to lower energy bills across the country, including for low-income households, households of color, and renters that spend a disproportionate share of their income on energy.

The nationally representative survey of over 4,000 Americans revealed that a majority of the country, regardless of race, gender, or income, is in favor of standards and in support of payback periods ranging between three, five, and even ten years.

“With rising energy prices and widespread inflation, now more than ever, consumers can use the additional pocketbook savings that updated efficiency standards will provide in hundreds of dollars annually thanks to the increased energy efficiency of their household appliances,” said Richard Eckman, Communications Manager and Energy Advocate at Consumer Federation of America. “Our data show that consumers across all demographics support efficiency standards and are willing to make an investment in energy efficiency that pays for itself over a short period of time through energy bill savings.”

The survey found that two-thirds of US households replaced major appliances – like refrigerators, air conditioners, washing machines, and space heating equipment – within the last five years, largely due to emergency situations like product failure.

“Without stringent efficiency requirements, we are missing out on massive cost and energy savings that would benefit consumers across the country – especially lower-income households,” said Matt Malinowski, Director of Climate Research at CLASP, an efficiency policy NGO. “The data showcase the urgent need to eliminate the worst performing products from the market to promote the equitable benefits of leading technology.”

When faced with the need for a new appliance, a notable portion of the population turns to the used market. The survey found that low-income, Black, and renter households are at least 50% more likely than the general population to replace a major appliance with a used product.

“Our findings suggest a large used appliance market in the US. When the most inefficient appliances are passed on as second- or even third-hand items, they can have persistent and lasting cost burdens, particularly for low-income renters and households of color that spend a disproportionate share of their income on energy bills. We need to amplify efforts that lower barriers to efficient appliances for marginalized groups and expand initiatives that prevent the oldest, least-efficient products from entering the resale market,” said Lauren Boucher, Research Manager at CLASP.

Standards already save the average American household over $300 per year on their energy bills. To ensure that all Americans reap additional economic benefit from more efficient technologies, the authors recommend that the US Department of Energy meet legally binding deadlines for updating standards and when warranted, implement efficiency requirements for uncovered products.

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U.S. Consumer Attitudes Toward Appliance Efficiency Standards and Purchasing Behaviors by Income, Race, and Homeownership https://consumerfed.org/reports/u-s-consumer-attitudes-toward-appliance-efficiency-standards-and-purchasing-behaviors-by-income-race-and-homeownership/ Tue, 25 Oct 2022 17:48:33 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=reports&p=25521 This Issue Brief serves to inform the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and policymakers that there is widespread public support for federal appliance energy efficiency standards across key U.S. demographic groups. Supporting evidence is derived from a nationally-representative survey of 4,000 U.S. adults that asked about consumer attitudes towards national appliance standards and payback periods, … Continued

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This Issue Brief serves to inform the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and policymakers that there is widespread public support for federal appliance energy efficiency standards across key U.S. demographic groups. Supporting evidence is derived from a nationally-representative survey of 4,000 U.S. adults that asked about consumer attitudes towards national appliance standards and payback periods, and revealed new data on appliance purchasing decisions by race, income, and homeownership.

More stringent energy efficiency standards will benefit all consumers through energy bill savings. Survey results indicate high levels of public support for federal energy efficiency standards. Among all respondents, 76% said they support standards. Among different demographic subsets broken out by race, income, and homeownership status, support remained high, ranging from 72% to 82%. Support remains strong in response to questions about support for efficiency standards with different payback periods. The survey showed that 71% of respondents support standards within a three-year payback period and 64% within a five-year payback period. A majority of all respondents, 54%, support standards within a ten-year payback period.

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Advocates Support DOE’s Proposed Clothes Dryer Standards https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/advocates-support-does-proposed-clothes-dryer-standards/ Mon, 24 Oct 2022 20:07:28 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=25895 With fellow advocates, CFA signed onto comments to DOE regarding proposed clothes dryer efficiency standards. The proposed rule from the Department of Energy would reduce costs for households by about $580 over the life of an electric dryer and $200 for a gas dryer—while still ensuring clothes are dried. Clothes dryers—whether electric or gas—are one … Continued

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With fellow advocates, CFA signed onto comments to DOE regarding proposed clothes dryer efficiency standards. The proposed rule from the Department of Energy would reduce costs for households by about $580 over the life of an electric dryer and $200 for a gas dryer—while still ensuring clothes are dried. Clothes dryers—whether electric or gas—are one of the biggest energy users in many homes; today’s least efficient electric models consume as much as a tenth of the average home’s total electricity use. Payback period is only about six months. The cumulative net present value (“NPV”) of total consumer benefits of the proposed standards for consumer clothes dryers ranges from $9.07 billion (at a 7-percent discount rate) to $20.8 billion (at a 3-percent discount rate). New clothes dryers would use about 40% less energy than today’s least efficient models and the proposal would cut 116 million metric tons of carbon emissions over 30 years of sales. 

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Consumer Groups Urge DOE to Adopt the Proposed Furnace Efficiency Standard Rule https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/consumer-groups-urge-doe-to-adopt-the-proposed-furnace-rfficiency-standard-rule/ Thu, 06 Oct 2022 18:48:05 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=25891 CFA joined other consumer groups in urging the Department of Energy to adopt the Trial Standard Level (“TSL”) 8 as proposed by DOE in the agency’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. Adopting TSL 8 would set the efficiency level (more precisely, the annual fuel utilization efficiency, or “AFUE”) at 95%, a standard that requires the furnace to … Continued

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CFA joined other consumer groups in urging the Department of Energy to adopt the Trial Standard Level (“TSL”) 8 as proposed by DOE in the agency’s Notice of Proposed Rulemaking. Adopting TSL 8 would set the efficiency level (more precisely, the annual fuel utilization efficiency, or “AFUE”) at 95%, a standard that requires the furnace to use condensing technology.

As heating bills are often the largest utility bill households face, adopting the proposed standard would promise substantial financial benefits for consumers, especially low-income consumers.

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Why You Should Consider a Heat Pump Sooner Than Later and 10 Ways to Save Energy and Money Today! https://consumerfed.org/why-you-should-consider-a-heat-pump-sooner-than-later-and-10-ways-to-save-energy-and-money-today/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 16:13:27 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?p=25363 Today, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is giving a big shout-out for Energy Efficiency Day calling on Americans to be proactive by taking positive steps to be more energy efficient. Consider joining CFA and the hundreds of other organizations, cities, businesses, and individuals in the nationwide effort to become more energy independent, improve the … Continued

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Today, the Consumer Federation of America (CFA) is giving a big shout-out for Energy Efficiency Day calling on Americans to be proactive by taking positive steps to be more energy efficient. Consider joining CFA and the hundreds of other organizations, cities, businesses, and individuals in the nationwide effort to become more energy independent, improve the environment, and save hundreds of dollars in unnecessary energy costs. This year CFA is promoting electric heat pumps, a particularly energy-efficient appliance that most homeowners and landlords should consider purchasing, especially if they have an older heating or central air conditioning system.  We are also releasing ten easy tips you can use to reduce your utility bill starting today.

While many consumers are already aware of the significant savings of switching out their old incandescents or CFLs with more efficient LED light bulbs, or of installing a programmable thermostat that adjusts the heating or cooling temperatures of their homes based on need and occupancy. The recent passage of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and the rebates and tax incentives included in it, make the already compelling case for more and more homeowners to consider replacing their central AC with an air or ground source heat pump, particularly when their AC is at the end of its useful life.  It’s wise to plan ahead and not wait until the system dies so you can make a well-considered choice rather than be in an emergency situation possibly faced with a limited, less efficient selection.

Heat pumps work the same as a central air conditioning system in the summer, and provide heating in the cooler months. This can reduce or even eliminate the home’s use of combustible fuels for heating. In the heating mode, heat pumps are about three times as efficient as a gas furnace. As renewables continue to play a larger role on the electricity grid, using an efficient heat pump for most of a home’s heating will significantly reduce the home’s carbon footprint. A recent study shows savings of 45-50% for existing homes.[1]

Compared to replacing a traditional central AC system, installing an equivalent size heat pump system will cost about $1,800 more upfront, for an average home. However, the IRA provides a 30% tax credit for heat pumps and heat pump water heaters — up to $2,000 per taxpayer. Thanks to the efficient heat (and cooling!) these systems provide, consumers can see savings of 45-50% on their utility bills for existing homes![2]

Heat pumps are a prime example of the type of energy efficiency investment homeowners should embrace, especially as they replace or install a new AC system. With the passage of the IRA, a heat pump will cost less to install, save considerable amounts every month on utility bills and significantly help reduce a home’s carbon footprint while also providing support to our nation’s aging electric grid and infrastructure. Commit today to heat and cool your home with a product that won’t warm up the planet: an efficient and affordable heat pump.

Want to celebrate Energy Efficiency Day by doing something impactful to decrease your home’s energy use and carbon emissions while saving money in the process? Pledge to make your next central air conditioning system a heat pump!

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10 Tips to Save Energy Dollars https://consumerfed.org/consumer_info/10-tips-to-save-energy-dollars/ Wed, 05 Oct 2022 05:00:18 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=consumer_info&p=25280 Make the switch to LEDs LED light bulbs are a great example of how innovation and technology can make your life easier. They last up to 25 times longer and consume up to 90 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.  And it’s great not having to change bulbs as often.  You pay a little more … Continued

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  • Make the switch to LEDs
  • LED light bulbs are a great example of how innovation and technology can make your life easier. They last up to 25 times longer and consume up to 90 percent less electricity than incandescent bulbs.  And it’s great not having to change bulbs as often.  You pay a little more up-front, but shop around, prices are dropping.

    Tip: By switching five of your home’s most frequently used bulbs with ENERGY STAR® certified LEDs, you can save $75 on energy costs annually.  To match the soft, yellow-white light of your old bulbs, choose LEDs between 2700-3000 kelvin. Bulbs with a cooler or bluish light will be between 4000-6500 kelvin.

    1. Heat and Cool Efficiently

    Don’t waste money heating or cooling an empty home. Install a programmable thermostat and in colder weather schedule your home’s heat to lower when you are away or asleep, and increase when you are returning home or waking-up. In warm weather, schedule the thermostat to raise the temperature when you are away or asleep, and lower it at other times.

    Tip: Follow the U.S. Department of Energy recommended temperatures and be energy-efficient all year.

    1. Maintain Your HVAC (Heating and Cooling) System

    Make sure to clean or change your furnace filters regularly. A dirty furnace filter will slow down air flow, making the system work harder to keep you warm (or cool) and costing you more money.

    Tip: Consider getting a winter tune-up. Just as a tune-up for your car can improve your gas mileage, a semi-annual or yearly tune-up of your heating and cooling system can be vital to improve efficiency, saving you money and making your home more comfortable.

    1. Seal Those Leaks

    On average, heating and cooling account for almost half of a home’s energy consumption. In fact, all the little leaks can be equivalent to leaving open a 3-foot-by-3-foot window.

    Tip: Take simple steps like caulking windows, sealing leaks around chimneys and recessed lighting, and sliding draft guards under your doors to save up to 20% on heating costs.

    1. Wash Your Clothes Efficiently

    A washing machine spends 90% of its energy to heat water.  There are a number of ways to use it efficiently.

    Tip: Consider using cold water instead. In addition, try to run full loads as much as possible, because the machine uses roughly the same amount of energy regardless of the load size. Also, consider air-drying.

    1. Clean Your Dishes Efficiently

    Dishwashers certainly make life easier—and on top of that, you can use your dishwasher efficiently to save energy dollars.

    Tip: Avoid the “rinse hold” cycle and skip heated drying – simply open the door at the end of the washing cycle and let the dishes air dry!

    1. Turn the Electronics Off

    It’s all too easy to forget and leave electronics plugged in that are not in use.

    Tip: Turn off unnecessary/idle lights, appliances and electronics. A power strip can help turn off multiple items at once and avoid ‘phantom loads’. (Sometimes the simplest things are really effective!)

    1. Winter Tip: Invite the Sun In

    Don’t forget to take advantage of the sun during the cooler shorter days.

    Tip: Open curtains/shade on your west-and south-facing windows during the day to allow sunlight to naturally heat your home, and save 2%-12%.

    1. Summer Tip: Close Blinds and Shades

    Excess, warm summer sunlight makes it harder to keep your home cool and comfortable.

    Tip: During the day, keep your blinds and shades closed to prevent warm air from building up in your home.

    1. Look for the ENERGY STAR® Label

    Consider this: Clothes washers and dryers that have earned the ENERGY STAR® label provide superior energy efficiency by incorporating advanced features that deliver on performance while being gentler on your clothes. You can save $380 over the lifetime of an ENERGY STAR® certified clothes washer.  They use 25% less energy and approximately 33% less water than standard models. Learn more at: www.energystar.gov.

    Tip: If you are undertaking a major home remodel or new build, consider installing ENERGY STAR® qualified HVAC equipment and appliances.

    For more energy saving info, visit energystar.gov

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    U.S. Department of Energy Must Implement Delayed Efficiency Standards https://consumerfed.org/press_release/u-s-department-of-energy-must-implement-delayed-efficiency-standards/ Tue, 20 Sep 2022 19:48:36 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=press_release&p=25893 WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has agreed to review energy efficiency standards for 20 categories of consumer and commercial appliances and equipment, as part of a settlement approved today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Updating the 20 overdue standards would mean huge savings for U.S. consumers and businesses, … Continued

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    WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has agreed to review energy efficiency standards for 20 categories of consumer and commercial appliances and equipment, as part of a settlement approved today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. Updating the 20 overdue standards would mean huge savings for U.S. consumers and businesses, approximately $650 billion in cumulative utility bill savings through 2050. This action will also prevent between 970 and over 1800 million metric tons of carbon emissions over the same period according to an analysis by the Appliance Standards Awareness Project.

    NRDC along with Public Citizen (represented by attorneys at NRDC), Sierra Club, the Center for Biological DiversityConsumer Federation of America, the Massachusetts Union of Public Housing Tenants (MUPHT) (with Earthjustice as their counsel), and over a dozen states and cities, sued DOE in 2020 for failing to review and update the overdue energy efficiency standards, including standards for large energy users like refrigerators and water heaters.

    “This settlement is a triumph for consumers and the environment. It will jumpstart DOE review of efficiency standards poised to save $650 billion in utility bills and avoid the release of, at least, nearly a billion metric tons of climate-warming carbon pollution by 2050,” said Joe Vukovich, NRDC energy efficiency advocate. “Under the Trump administration, DOE completely abdicated its duty to review and update energy efficiency standards for the appliances we use every day. Today, the court set us back on track to reap the significant consumer, economic, and environmental benefits of updated energy-efficiency standards.”

    “Setting strong efficiency standards on the products we use most often helps to achieve the cost-effective reductions in energy use and power plant emissions that we sorely need to avoid the worst impacts of climate change,” said Timothy Ballo, senior attorney at Earthjustice. “We’re happy to see the Department of Energy get back on track to evaluate standards on everyday products that make a huge impact on our emissions reductions.”

    “With inflation high and the planet cooking, America desperately needs updated and upgraded energy efficiency standards. As the settlement reflects, it is time for the Department of Energy to get to work and issue the new efficiency rules that already should have been finalized,” said Robert Weissman, president of Public Citizen.

    “This agreement is essential for catching up on missed deadlines as quickly as possible in order for the incredible consumer, economic, public health and environmental benefits of updated standards to be realized,” said Richard Eckman, an Energy Advocate at the Consumer Federation of America. “Now more than ever, consumers can use the additional pocketbook savings that updated efficiency standards will provide in the billions annually thanks to the increased energy efficiency of common household appliances. The agreement is also crucial in order to prevent millions of metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to climate change from being emitted. We’re looking forward to working with DOE in moving forward with updates to appliance efficiency standards.”

    “The technology exists to make consumer products and commercial equipment incredibly energy efficient, and it is the responsibility of DOE to hold manufacturers accountable to meeting the highest possible standards,” said Jessica Tritsch, building electrification campaign director, Sierra Club. “This settlement will help us meet climate goals but also help American families save money on their energy bills and create sustainable manufacturing jobs for the future. The strongest possible energy efficiency standards will also ensure Americans keep their lights on and their heat or air conditioning on when the weather turns extreme by not overtaxing our electrical system. After all, heat waves and strong storms are only getting more common in the face of climate change — a crisis we must do everything we can to address with all the tools we have at our disposal.”

    “This agreement will conserve energy and save consumers money when they use everyday appliances,” said Howard Crystal, legal director, Center for Biological Diversity’s Energy Justice Program. “Energy efficiency is critical to addressing the climate emergency and ensuring a livable planet, even if it doesn’t get as much attention as other efforts. We’re pleased the department will finally move forward with these commonsense standards.”

    “We applaud this settlement, which will save huge amounts of energy and keep money in the pockets of consumers across America, including the 85,000 low-income public housing tenants Mass Union represents,” said Jack Cooper, executive director, Massachusetts Union of Public Housing Tenants.

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    DOE Encouraged to Continue to Investigating Load-Based Testing for Dehumidifiers https://consumerfed.org/testimonial/doe-encouraged-to-continue-to-investigating-load-based-testing-for-dehumidifiers/ Mon, 08 Aug 2022 20:07:27 +0000 https://consumerfed.org/?post_type=testimonial&p=25894 Responding to the DOE Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Test Procedures for Dehumidifiers, CFA joined advocates urging DOE to continue to investigate load-based testing for dehumidifiers.

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    Responding to the DOE Notice of Proposed Rulemaking for Test Procedures for Dehumidifiers, CFA joined advocates urging DOE to continue to investigate load-based testing for dehumidifiers.

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