Energy-Efficient Home Upgrades That Save You Money

When it comes to lowering your household expenses, energy-efficient home upgrades are one of the smartest investments you can make. These improvements go beyond just helping the planet, they can make your daily life more comfortable, reduce maintenance needs, and create long-term savings that add up month after month.

From modern refrigerators that keep food fresher for longer to advanced laundry appliances that cut drying time in half, today’s energy-efficient technology is designed to do more with less. Even small changes, like upgrading to a new dishwasher or induction cooktop, can lead to noticeable savings on your utility bills.

At Van Vreede’s, you’ll find a wide selection of energy-efficient appliances that make your home more sustainable and cost-effective, without sacrificing performance, convenience, or style. Whether you’re renovating your kitchen, replacing an aging washer and dryer, or simply looking for ways to make your home more eco-friendly, Van Vreede’s experts can help you choose the perfect appliances that deliver both comfort and savings.

 

 

Why Energy Efficiency Matters

Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity and water to perform the same tasks as traditional models. Over time, these upgrades help:

• Lower utility bills: Reduce monthly electricity, gas, and water costs.

• Increase perceived home value: Energy-conscious buyers look for homes with efficient systems.

• Reduce environmental impact: Using less energy helps cut greenhouse gas emissions.

• Enhance comfort: Modern designs often run quieter and perform better.

With rising energy costs, investing in efficiency pays off, both for your wallet and the planet.

 

Refrigeration: Keep Your Food Fresh and Costs Low

Your refrigerator runs 24/7, making it one of the biggest energy users in your home. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerator can make a significant difference.

Benefits of Energy-Efficient Refrigerators

• Lower energy consumption: ENERGY STAR refrigerators use up to 40% less energy than older models.

• Smart cooling systems: Advanced compressors and temperature sensors maintain freshness with less power.

• Flexible storage: Modern designs maximize space and airflow for optimal food preservation.

When shopping for a new fridge, look for models with inverter compressors and LED lighting for even greater savings. Explore different refrigerator styles that best fit your home design and layout to experience energy efficiency across configurations, including French door, top-freezer, bottom-freezer, side-by-side, built-in, and more.

 

 

Cooking Appliances: Smarter, Faster, and More Efficient

Cooking appliances have come a long way. From induction cooktops to convection ovens, modern appliances help you prepare meals faster while using less energy.

Induction Cooktops

• Heat only the cookware, not the surrounding air, reducing wasted energy.

• Offer faster boiling and precise temperature control.

• Stay cooler to the touch, improving safety and comfort.

Convection and Smart Ovens

• Circulate hot air for even cooking, shortening bake times and reducing energy use.

• Smart features allow remote monitoring and preheating to optimize energy efficiency.

Pair an induction cooktop with a convection oven for the ultimate efficient cooking setup. You can also find other energy-efficient cooking appliances like ranges and wall ovens, while completing your home cooking setup with the right hood.

 

Dishwashers: Clean More Dishes with Less Water

If you’re still handwashing dishes, you might be surprised to learn that modern dishwashers use less water and energy than washing by hand.

Energy-saving features to look for in dishwashers include:

• Soil sensors: Automatically adjust cycle length based on how dirty dishes are.

• Eco cycles: Shorter, lower-heat options for smaller loads or lightly soiled dishes.

• Condensation drying: Uses residual heat to dry dishes efficiently without added electricity.

 

Laundry Appliances: Save Energy While Keeping Clothes Fresh

Laundry can be one of the most energy-intensive chores, but high-efficiency washers and dryers change that.

High-Efficiency Washers

• Use advanced sensors to determine the right water level for each load.

• Extract more water during the spin cycle, reducing drying time.

• Provide gentle yet effective cleaning that extends clothing life.

Energy-Efficient Dryers

• Heat pump technology: Recycles warm air, dramatically reducing energy use.

• Moisture sensors: Stop the cycle when clothes are dry, preventing over-drying.

Pairing a high-efficiency washer with an energy-saving dryer can reduce your energy consumption and save you money without sacrificing the quality of your laundry experience.

 

 

Simple Home Habits That Boost Energy Savings

In addition to upgrading your appliances, a few daily habits can make your home even more efficient:

• Unplug small electronics when not in use.

• Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.

• Run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine.

• Set your refrigerator between 35°F-38°F and your freezer around 0°F.

• Use your oven’s convection setting to reduce cook times.

Small adjustments can make a big impact over time, especially when combined with energy-efficient appliances.

 

Ready to Upgrade? Visit Van Vreede’s Today

If you’re ready to start saving on your utility bills and reducing your carbon footprint, Van Vreede’s has everything you need. Explore the latest energy-efficient refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and laundry appliances from top brands, all backed by expert service and installation. At Van Vreede’s, you’ll find a wide selection of energy-efficient appliances that make your home more sustainable and cost-effective, without sacrificing convenience or style.

Visit one of our Wisconsin showrooms in Appleton, Oshkosh, or Green Bay to see energy-efficient appliances in person and see which one is right for you and your home.

Related readings from our blog:

• What Is a High-Efficiency Washer?

• Are Energy Efficient Appliances Worth It?

• Top-Freezer vs. Bottom-Freezer Refrigerators: Which is Better for Your Kitchen?

 

FAQs: Energy-Efficient Upgrades That Save You Money

What are the best appliances to upgrade for energy efficiency?

Refrigerators, washers, dryers, dishwashers, and cooking appliances are great places to start. These are used daily and can have a noticeable impact on your monthly bills.

Do ENERGY STAR appliances really save money?

Yes. ENERGY STAR appliances meet strict efficiency standards set by the U.S. EPA, helping households save hundreds of dollars annually on energy and water costs.

How can I tell if an appliance is energy efficient?

Look for the ENERGY STAR label and check the yellow EnergyGuide tag, which shows the estimated yearly energy use and cost compared to similar models.

Is it worth replacing older appliances that still work?

If your appliance is more than 10-15 years old, a new energy-efficient model can quickly pay for itself through lower operating costs and improved performance.