[GBlist] energy efficient appliances

[Sacie H Lambertson <dlambert@grasshoppernet.com>]

John Salmen's comments on the KWH required by the several refrigerators is
a most appropriate way to compare what we are shopping for.  Add that to
the life style alternatives he mentions, ie how often is it practical to go
shopping, how far away are the stores, how many people will be using the
appliance etc, and then to that include the cost of the appliance.

I remember doing such a calculation some years ago vis-a-vis the Sunfrost
fridge which costs nearly 4 times a 'normal' one.  Ditto high priced
compost toilets.   I found less costly alternatives in both cases.   If one
wants to maintain as small a footprint as possible, then the cost would not
be a priority for most of us; but realistically for the majority, the price
of item/the technology IS a major factor.  I've been looking at DHW heaters
for instance, and can not rationalize spending $2,000/$2600 for a 94%
efficient propane fired one (Polaris, Bradford-White, Voyager) when I can
purchase one for $475 (Maytag) that is well insulated and 85% efficient.   

The latest consumer report has a dishwasher comparison with a good section
on energy use for these (primarily reflected by the amount of water the
appliance requires).  The article also mentions that those with stainless
steel insides will last forever, that is the stainless will, but the
plastic alternative will certainly last as long as the machine.  Stainless
however, adds considerably to the cost of the dishwasher.
				Sacie Lambertson

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