The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the first Energy Star label for clothes dryers. According to EPA, if all residential clothes dryers sold in the U.S. meet these new requirements, the utility cost savings will grow to more than $1.5 billion each year. The new specifications will identify a selection of highly efficient dryers that will use approximately 20% less energy than what is required by the minimum efficiency standards effective in 2015. In 2013 alone – EPA explains – Americans, with the help of Energy Star, saved $30 billion on their utility bills and prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to those of 38 million homes. “The addition of clothes dryers expands the range of Energy Star products to include one of the most energy-intensive home appliance not yet covered by the program”, said U.S. EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy. “Working with industry on innovative approaches to address our changing climate, we are helping consumers select more energy efficient appliances, save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions”. Over 80% of U.S. homes have a clothes dryer, and these appliances account for approximately six percent of residential electricity consumption. To earn the Energy Star label, products must be certified by an EPA-recognized third party, based on testing in an EPA-recognized laboratory. In addition, manufacturers of the products must participate in verification testing programs operated by recognized certification bodies.
