Label it: Energy Star and EnergyGuide

You can save a bundle on future power bills by checking energy labels before you select a new electric appliance.

Each appliance must display a yellow ENERGY GUIDE label, with a line scale in the center showing how that particular model rates in energy use (usually in kilowatt-hours per year) compared with similar models. The estimated annual operating cost is listed below. One exception: air conditioners are rated against those deemed "most efficient."

Energy Star labels, by contrast, are only rewarded to models that consume 10-50% less energy than minimum federal efficiency standards. To learn which models rate the Energy Star, call 1-800-STAR-YES, or see www.energystar.gov.