- An Energy Star rating means that an electrical appliance is in compliance with the energy-efficiency requirements established by the EPA. To qualify, products must meet nationwide energy savings and performance guidelines, and produce utility bill savings over time. The EPA periodically revises these standards due to advances in technology, performance or product quality.
- Electrical appliances are rated for their specific wattage. For example, a hair blower may be rated at 1,000 to 1,500 watts. Watts are the standard measurement of electricity, with 1,000 watts used for one hour equaling one kilowatt hour. By using the wattage ratings of electrical appliances both large and small, you can calculate the average kilowatt hours required per day. These ratings give consumers more information on energy costs and efficiency.
- UL is an organization that rates businesses, services, industries and products for safety. This includes electrical appliances. Consumers are familiar with the UL rating mark that shows that an appliance is in compliance with UL standards. Manufacturers allow UL engineers to perform periodic testing of their products to assess that compliance. Products carrying the UL rating mark are certified by UL under written agreements with the product manufacturers.
- "Consumer Reports" is a national publication that tests, reviews and rates most products, including electrical appliances. On an annual basis, they test and rate over 1,000 electrical products, ranging from big-screen LCD plasma TVs to small digital cameras. Ratings are based on performance, but also on consumer needs and issues specific to individual types of products.
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