Energy Star vs Non-Energy Star Products
Lighting technology has come a long way over the years, and with the emergence of LEDs, choosing the right lighting product can seem like an overwhelming task. With so many options to consider, one important factor to look at is whether a product is Energy Star certified or not. Energy Star is a voluntary program established in 1992 by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that identifies and promotes energy-efficient products to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In this blog post, we will compare Energy Star and non-Energy Star products and help you make an informed decision.
Energy Savings
Energy Star products are designed to be more energy-efficient than their non-certified counterparts. They are tested and certified to meet strict energy-efficiency guidelines set by the US EPA. Energy Star certified products typically use 30% less energy than non-certified products, which can result in significant energy savings over time. For example, an Energy Star certified LED light bulb uses 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, which can translate into significant cost savings on your electricity bill.
Quality and Performance
Energy Star products are not only more energy-efficient, but they also meet high-quality standards. Energy Star certified products undergo rigorous testing to ensure they perform as well as or better than non-certified products. For example, an Energy Star certified LED bulb can last up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs and can produce the same amount of light using less energy.
Environmental Impact
Energy Star certified products are designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help protect the environment. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency, if every home in the US replaced just one incandescent bulb with an Energy Star certified LED bulb, it would save enough energy to light 3 million homes for a year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 800,000 cars.
Cost
Energy Star certified products may cost more upfront than non-certified products. However, the higher cost is often offset by the long-term energy savings and performance. According to the US Department of Energy, Energy Star certified products can save consumers up to 30% on energy bills over their lifetime, which can translate into substantial cost savings.
Conclusion
Choosing between Energy Star and non-Energy Star products can be a challenging task. However, the benefits of Energy Star certified products are clear. If you're looking for a lighting technology option that uses less energy, has good performance, protects the environment, and saves you money over time, then Energy Star certified products are the way to go.
References
- US Department of Energy. (2021). Energy Star. Available at https://www.energy.gov/eere/buildings/energy-star
- US Environmental Protection Agency. (2021). Energy Star Program Requirements for Light Bulbs Version 2.0. Available at https://www.energystar.gov/products/lighting_fans/light_bulbs/energy_star_program_requirements_version_2_0