Dang it, who keeps sending me those high limit credit cards? Well, Sears today reaped the benefits of my lack of willpower. I made one of those snap decisions to replace my 20 year old kitchen appliances with snazzy new stainless steel, super-quiet, energy-saving models. Now, I certainly understand that not everyone can afford to do such a thing (nor can I, but hey, 0% financing until 2004…). But if you can and are in the market for new appliances, be sure to always look for the “Energy Star” logo. It certifies that the device complies with the energy saving requirements of the Energy Star program. As it turns out, a refrigerator generally accounts for as much as 15% of a home’s electricity bill. 
My old fridge (above) was built in 1982, and probably uses a huge amount of power. The new one (left) – which will be delivered tomorrow – uses the equivalent of a 75 watt light bulb. Yay! Combine that with the low energy, low water dishwasher I bought; as well as the high efficiency water heater I got earlier this year and all those fluorescent light bulbs I use, and my electric bill is going to plummet!
I also drive a Toyota Prius, which is energy efficient and cool as heck. The most amazing thing about all of this is that I’m cutting my home energy consumption dramatically without really making a big effort. My car cost no more than a nice 4 door sedan, the appliances were no more expensive than the others, and at Ikea you can purchase fluorescent bulbs for only $3!
Dang it, who keeps sending me those high limit credit cards? Well, Sears today reaped the benefits of my lack of willpower.
