Energy Guide labels

Heating and cooling systems are some of the most important investments that can be made for the home. Buying a new house? Renovating an old one? Making an emergency purchase because the old one finally conked out? A lot depends on the choices you make. Comfort and safety are at stake, and so your money.


According to the Department of Energy (DOE), typically about 45 % of utility bills goes toward “space conditioning,” or heating and cooling a home. While the price of equipment and cost of repairs and maintenance are important to consider, do not forget about system operating costs. Hefty space conditioning costs may be lowered by choosing the most energy-efficient equipment that meets your needs and fits your budget.

The Federal Trade Commission, the nation’s consumer protection agency, wants you to know that it enforces the Appliance Labeling Rule, which requires EnergyGuide labels on certain appliances, including:
• room and central air conditioners,
• furnaces, boilers and heat pumps.
The labels let you know how energy efficient a model is compared to others like it.