The Hidden Cost of Old Appliances
That 20-year-old refrigerator might still be running, but it could be costing you hundreds of dollars extra each year in electricity. Understanding these hidden costs helps you make smarter repair vs. replace decisions.
ENERGY STAR Savings by Appliance
Refrigerators
According to ENERGY STAR, replacing a refrigerator from 2001 or earlier with a new ENERGY STAR model can save:
- $80-100 per year in energy costs
- $1,200-1,500 over the appliance's lifetime
Modern refrigerators use advanced insulation, more efficient compressors, and improved temperature controls to dramatically reduce energy consumption.
Washing Machines
ENERGY STAR certified washing machines use:
- 25% less energy than standard models
- 33% less water than standard models
Annual savings: $50-75 in utility costs, plus reduced water heating expenses.
Dishwashers
ENERGY STAR dishwashers provide:
- 12% less energy use than standard models
- 30% less water use than standard models
Annual savings: $25-40 in utility costs.
Dryers
ENERGY STAR certified dryers use:
- 20% less energy than conventional models
- Advanced moisture sensors to prevent over-drying
Annual savings: $30-50 in electricity costs.
Calculating Your Potential Savings
To estimate your savings from upgrading:
- Find your appliance's age (check the serial number or purchase records)
- Look up energy use for your model vs. current ENERGY STAR models
- Calculate the difference and multiply by your electricity rate
- Factor in the appliance's remaining lifespan vs. upgrade cost
Example Calculation
- Old refrigerator: 700 kWh/year
- New ENERGY STAR model: 400 kWh/year
- Savings: 300 kWh/year
- At $0.15/kWh: $45/year savings
- Over 15 years: $675 total savings
Beyond Energy: Water Savings
Water-using appliances (washers, dishwashers) also save on:
- Water bills (significant in drought-prone areas like San Diego)
- Water heating costs (heating water is expensive)
- Sewer charges (often based on water usage)
When Energy Savings Justify Replacement
Consider replacement when:
- Energy savings will pay for the new appliance within 5-7 years
- Your old appliance is past 50% of its expected lifespan
- You're already facing a major repair
Tax Credits and Rebates
Check for available incentives:
- Federal tax credits for certain ENERGY STAR appliances
- Utility rebates from SDG&E and other providers
- Manufacturer promotions especially around holidays
Our Recommendation
If your appliance is working well and under 10 years old, repair usually makes more sense than replacing for energy savings alone. However, when repair costs approach 50% of replacement cost, the energy savings tip the balance toward replacement.
Need help deciding? Call Superior Appliances Repair at (619) 639-7535 for an honest assessment of your appliance's condition and efficiency.