How to Read an EnergyGuide Label

In 1980, the Federal Trade Commission’s Appliance Labeling Rule became effective, and required EnergyGuide labels to be placed on many new appliances. EnergyGuide labels are bright yellow with black lettering and display the energy consumption information of certain household appliances. Although these labels do not tell you which appliance is most efficient, they do enable you to compare the estimated annual energy usage and operating cost for similar appliances.

When reading an EnergyGuide label, the appliance type and capacity are listed on the upper left side of the label beneath the word "Energy." (Figure 1) The manufacturer’s name and model number can be found beneath the word "Guide." (Figure 2) The black bar in the center of the label is a scale which displays the range of energy consumption for all appliances of the type and capacity listed in Figure 1. The lowest estimated yearly energy consumption appears on the left side, and the highest estimated yearly energy consumption figure appears on the right side. The arrow with a number on top represents the usage of the appliance being considered and allows you to easily compare this water heater with other similar models. (Figure 3) The dollar figure at the bottom is the "estimated" annual cost to operate. Annual costs will be affected by your gas cost rate and personal usage habits. (Figure 4)

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