Those yellow EnergyGuide labels on appliances contain valuable information—if you know how to read them. Understanding energy ratings helps you choose appliances that save money and compare operating costs across different models.
Decoding the EnergyGuide Label
The large number in the center shows estimated yearly operating cost based on national average energy prices. Below that, a scale shows where this model falls compared to similar appliances—from least efficient on the left to most efficient on the right.
The fine print matters too. It shows the estimated yearly electricity use in kilowatt-hours, which you can multiply by your local electricity rate for a more accurate cost estimate.
ENERGY STAR Certification
Appliances with the ENERGY STAR logo meet higher efficiency standards than the minimum required by law. Depending on the appliance type, ENERGY STAR models use 10 to 50 percent less energy than standard models. This certification provides a simple way to identify efficient options.
Comparing Apples to Apples
Energy ratings let you compare operating costs across different brands and models. A refrigerator that costs $60 less to buy but $40 more per year to operate isn't actually more affordable over its lifespan. Energy ratings make these calculations possible.
Efficiency Degrades Over Time
As appliances age, they typically become less efficient. Dirty coils, worn seals, and aging components all increase energy consumption. Regular maintenance helps maintain efficiency, but eventually older appliances can't match the performance of newer, more efficient models.
If you're noticing higher energy bills or your appliances are working harder than they used to, our technicians can assess whether maintenance might restore efficiency or whether replacement makes more sense.
What Our Customers Say About Our Appliance Repair Services
"Nick came out within 24 hours to diagnose a problem with our Bosch dishwasher. He quickly diagnosed the problem, listening carefully to the history we gave. He recommended that it would probably be more financially expedient to replace it. We asked him to recommend a brand and a place to buy it. He even looked it up online for us."
— Kathleen W., West Michigan
"Toby was AWESOME! I called UDG about my leaking dishwasher. The appointment setup was quick and simple. Toby arrived the next day and replaced my water supply line quickly and efficiently. Highly recommend. Thanks UDG!"
— Christian H., West Michigan
"We had an issue with the dishwasher and the guys at UDG came out and were very professional! I had texts as to arrival time and they were quick to figure out the problem, the new part was ordered and installed a day later (hard to do with Kitchen Aid appliances). We had another issue arise (completely unrelated)..."
— Gregory I., West Michigan
Schedule Your Appliance Repair in West Michigan Today
UDG Services provides fast, reliable appliance repair throughout West Michigan. As a Veteran-owned business, we bring military precision and dedication to every job—backed by our warranty and 90%+ first-visit completion rate.
Serving: Muskegon, Grand Haven, Norton Shores, Spring Lake, Fruitport, Holland, and communities throughout West Michigan.
Book a service call today—we'll take it from here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Appliance Energy Ratings
What is an Energy Star rating?
Energy Star is a government-backed certification program that identifies appliances meeting strict energy efficiency guidelines. Appliances with this label typically use 10-50% less energy than standard models, depending on the appliance type.
How much can I save with energy-efficient appliances?
Savings vary by appliance type and usage, but Energy Star certified appliances can save the average household about $450 per year on utility bills. Over the lifetime of your appliances, this can amount to thousands of dollars in savings.
Should I repair my old appliance or buy a new energy-efficient one?
If your appliance is more than 10 years old and requires significant repairs, replacement with an energy-efficient model is often more cost-effective. Our technicians at UDG Services can assess your specific situation and provide honest recommendations based on repair costs versus long-term energy savings.
Do energy-efficient appliances really make a difference for the environment?
Yes! If every household in the U.S. used Energy Star certified appliances, we would prevent more than 130 billion pounds of greenhouse gas emissions annually—equivalent to the emissions from 12 million vehicles.
Where can I find energy ratings for appliances?
Look for the yellow EnergyGuide label on new appliances, which shows estimated annual energy consumption and operating costs. You can also check the Energy Star website for certified models and compare ratings across different brands and models.




























