Specify Energy Star appliances
Rated appliances use less energy
Dishwashers with an Energy StarLabeling system sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy for labeling the most energy-efficient products on the market; applies to a wide range of products, from computers and office equipment to refrigerators and air conditioners. rating are at least 25% more efficient than minimum federal standards. The minimum energy factor for Energy Star dishwashers is .58, versus a federal factor of .46. Energy Star refrigerators exceed the 2001 minimum federal efficiency standards by 10%. If Energy Star models are not available, compare the annual energy use ratings of each brand to choose the most efficient machine.
Green points
LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify.
: 1 point for an Energy Star refrigerator and 1/2 point for an Energy Star dishwasher that uses less than 6 gallons of water per cycle (EA 9).
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions.
/ICC-700: 5 points for an Energy Star refrigerator and 2 points for a rated dishwasher (704.2.5).
Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia
