Energy-saving appliances save money (and the planet) year-round
Energy-efficient appliances offer a practical way to reduce household energy use, lower utility bills, and support environmental sustainability. While upfront costs can be a barrier, long-term savings, rebates, and lease-to-own financing can make these upgrades more attainable. Certified products like ENERGY STAR refrigerators, washers, dryers, and HVAC systems deliver measurable performance improvements across every room in the home. By combining smart shopping with available incentives, consumers can make eco-conscious choices without straining their budgets.
Key takeaways
Energy-efficient appliances reduce utility costs year-round: ENERGY STAR certified products use less energy and water for significant savings while lowering environmental impact.
Upfront costs can be offset with long-term savings and rebates: Lifetime savings and utility rebates can significantly reduce total expenses.
Snap Finance helps you bring home eco-friendly upgrades without paying all at once: Lease-to-own financing helps consumers access appliances now and pay over time.
Rebates and incentives amplify affordability: State programs, local utilities, and federal tax credits can further reduce costs.
Why efficiency is the new must-have
Energy-efficient appliances have become more than a nice-to-have. They’re now a must-have for households looking to reduce costs and environmental impact. Whether you're replacing a broken fridge or planning a full home upgrade, choosing environmentally conscious products can help you save money on monthly utility bills while shrinking your carbon footprint.
But for many budget-conscious consumers, the upfront cost of these upgrades can feel daunting. Even with long-term savings in sight, the initial investment often leads to hesitation. That’s where lease-to-own financing, rebates, and local incentives come into play. With the right support, you don’t have to wait to make eco-friendly choices that benefit both your wallet and the planet.
Top ENERGY STAR appliances for every room
ENERGY STAR appliances are designed to use less energy and water without compromising performance. They’re certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and appliances are available across nearly every product category. Below is a breakdown of high-impact upgrades by room with statistics provided by ENERGY STAR.
Kitchen
Refrigerators: ENERGY STAR certified fridges are up to 9% more energy efficient than models that meet the federal minimum energy efficiency standard. Features like high-efficiency compressors, improved insulation, and temperature management systems help reduce electricity use.
Dishwashers: ENERGY STAR certified models save water and energy by using advanced soil sensors, efficient jets, and better filtration. Some can save you up to 5,800 gallons of water over their lifetime.
Ovens and microwaves: While cooking appliances vary in energy use, convection ovens and inverter microwaves offer better efficiency and faster cooking times.
Laundry room
Washing machines: Every year, the average American family washes about 300 loads of laundry. Front-load washers use less water and spin faster, which reduces drying time. ENERGY STAR washers use about 20% less energy and about 30% less water than regular washers.
Dryers: Approximately 80 percent of American homes have a clothes dryer. ENERGY STAR certified heat pump dryers use around 70% less energy than a conventional clothes dryer.
Living spaces
Air purifiers and dehumidifiers: Certified models maintain indoor air quality while using less electricity. This is especially helpful in humid climates or homes with allergy concerns. ENERGY STAR certified dehumidifiers can remove the same amount of moisture as a similarly sized non-certified unit while using 20% less energy.
Ceiling fans: ENERGY STAR fans circulate air up to 44% more efficiently, reducing reliance on heating and cooling systems.
HVAC systems
Smart thermostats: These devices learn your habits and adjust temperatures automatically to optimize your energy usage.
Heat pumps and central air systems: Upgrading to ENERGY STAR HVAC systems can use up to 23% less energy depending on your climate and usage, and certified mini split heat pumps can use up to 60% less energy than standard home electric radiators.
Lighting and electronics
Light fixtures: ENERGY STAR certified downlight light fixtures use 90% less energy than traditional models that use incandescent light bulbs.
Televisions and monitors: Certified screens are about 34% more energy efficient than conventional models. They can reduce standby power and optimize brightness settings, which helps lower electricity use without affecting picture quality.
Long-term savings vs. upfront costs
It’s easy to see the appeal of energy-efficient appliances when you look at the long-term savings. But for many households, the initial investment can be a barrier. Here’s how the math breaks down, according to ENERGY STAR:
Refrigerator: An ENERGY STAR fridge can save you $160 in electricity over its lifetime.
Washer and dryer: Upgrading both can save you more than $1,000 in energy and water costs over their lifetimes.
Heat pumps: Switching to a high-efficiency heat pump can save you $460 to $950 per year depending on your current system.
Over time, these savings add up. In fact, the average U.S. household spent over $142 per month on electricity in 2024, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. ENERGY STAR appliances can reduce that cost significantly. Depending on usage and climate, that could amount to hundreds of dollars back in your pocket every year.
Still, if you’re living paycheck to paycheck or managing other financial priorities, even a few hundred dollars upfront on a new appliance can feel like a stretch. That’s why it’s important to explore options that make upgrades more accessible without requiring full payment upfront.
Financing energy-efficient upgrades with Snap
Snap Finance’s lease-to-own financing helps consumers access the appliances they need today and pay over time. Whether you're shopping for a new washer or upgrading your HVAC system, Snap’s convenient lease-to-own financing is designed to work with your lifestyle.
Here’s how Snap’s lease-to-own financing works:
Apply online or in-store: No credit is needed, and all credit types are welcome to apply.1 The application is quick and easy, and you can get a decision in seconds.
Shop at a partner retailer: If approved, you can shop for eligible appliances at participating Snap Finance partner retailers online or in-store.
Pay over time: Make convenient payments over time on a schedule that aligns with your payday.
Complete your lease: Once you’ve made all of your payments and completed the terms of your lease, the items are yours to keep.
Rebates and local utility incentives
Many states and utility companies offer rebates for energy-efficient appliances. These incentives can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs and make upgrades more affordable.
Here’s what to look for:
State energy offices: Many states run rebate programs for HVAC systems, water heaters, and smart thermostats. For example, California’s TECH Clean California program offers rebates for heat pump installations.
Local utility companies: Check your provider’s website for appliance-specific rebates, seasonal promotions, or bill credits. Some utilities offer instant rebates at the point of sale.
Federal tax credits: Certain upgrades may qualify for federal tax incentives. These credits can offset installation costs and reduce your tax liability.
Here are some tips for maximizing your rebates:
Keep receipts and documentation: You’ll often need proof of purchase and installation.
Submit applications promptly: Many rebates have deadlines or limited funding.
Stack savings: Look for sales at local or national retailers. Some retailers also offer bundled promotions that combine manufacturer discounts with utility rebates. Ask your retailer if any current offers apply to your purchase.
Real-life example: A smarter laundry upgrade
Let’s say you’re replacing a 10-year-old washer and dryer. You choose ENERGY STAR models that cost $1,200 total and get approved for Snap Finance’s lease-to-own financing. Here’s how the savings and support stack up:
Estimated annual savings: $360 in energy and water costs
Utility rebate: $150 from your local provider
In this scenario, you save money with the rebate, reduce your monthly bills, and make payments over time rather than paying for everything upfront. Plus, you’re making a sustainable choice that benefits your household and the environment.
Smarter spending starts with smarter appliances
Energy-efficient appliances are more than a smart buy; they’re a step toward a more sustainable lifestyle. By reducing your energy use, you’re lowering your bills and your environmental impact. And thanks to Snap’s lease-to-own financing, you don’t have to wait to make the switch.
Whether you’re replacing a single appliance or upgrading your whole home, start with what matters most: products that work harder for your wallet and the planet. Ready to shop? Visit your local Snap partner retailer or explore lease-to-own financing to get started.
Interested in learning more about lease-to-own financing for appliances and other essentials? Check out these resources from Snap Finance:
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The advertised service is a lease-to-own agreement provided by Snap RTO LLC. Lease-to-own financing is not available to residents of Minnesota, New Jersey, and Wisconsin.
Some restrictions may apply on leasable auto parts, electronics, or sporting goods. Please check with merchants for details.
1Not all applicants are approved. While no credit history is required, Snap obtains information from consumer reporting agencies in connection with applications, and your score with those agencies may be affected.