Electricity is a day-to-day necessity in every household, used for lighting, operating appliances, and keeping cool in this tropical summer heat. Household energy consumption accounts for over 25 percent of energy use of developing countries, with the average household contributing 7.4 metric tons of CO2 emissions annually.

Because CO2 emissions are greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change, energy efficiency is the key to reducing the impact of energy consumption on the environment. The efficient use of energy at home will not only lower the electricity bill, but it can actually help achieve a greener lifestyle for the whole family, and preserve the earth for future generations.

“Most of the time, consumers think they have bought the cheapest appliance but they actually spend more because of the electrical requirements of these cheap appliances. In purchasing an appliance, consider the following: The purchase price, the cost of operating it, and the cost of repairs and maintenance,” advises Frederick Lim of Automatic Centre, the Philippines’ appliance authority.

Refrigerators, for instance, may all look the same but they vary dramatically in the amount of electricity they need.

Consumers must also know that that clinging on to old appliances for too long does not mean being able to save. Old appliances tend to be less energy-efficient over time. So a smart move would be to swap out and get rid of the oldies completely. Energy-efficient appliances are fast becoming not just a trend but a way of life too.

Being armed with knowledge about spotting energy-efficient appliances is the key then to spending wisely. Here are a few simple steps to follow:

1) Consider the space the appliance will occupy and ensure that it has enough room to open the door or lid fully, and enough clearance for ventilation.

2) Weigh on brand name and model and its energy consumption. New and hi-tech appliances maybe costly but they may actually save you money.

3) Check the Energy Guide label to select heating and cooling products. Attached to new appliances, it states the estimated annual energy consumption of the appliance and helps you compare brands and similar models.