Energy Star Claims For Appliances May Be Misleading

As consumers become more concerned with reducing their impact on the environment while keeping monthly bills as low as possible, energy efficient appliances are becoming more popular. In fact, washing machines, refrigerators and air conditioners are some of the most significant sources of electricity usage in the home. One way consumers can tell if the appliance they are thinking of purchasing is energy efficient is by relying on its Energy Star certification.

Energy Star is an international standard for energy efficient consumer products. Appliances carrying the Energy Star logo generally use 20%–30% less energy than required by federal standards. As a result, consumers expect that appliances with the Energy Star logo deliver the promised energy savings. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.

Indeed, it has been reported that certain Maytag Centennial washing machines and KitchenAid refrigerators failed to meet the required Energy Star specifications, notwithstanding the fact that they bore the Energy Star certificate. In addition, investigators have reported that certain models of Kenmore, Electrolux, Frigidaire and LG Electronics refrigerators do not meet the Energy Star specifications they claim.

If you or someone you know has purchased any of these appliances, please contact us to discuss your legal options.