Have You Thanked Your Washing Machine Lately?

Well you should. According to The Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers (AHAM) your washing machine is doing a heck of a job. It has reduced its energy 64% since 2000. And its capacity has increased by 9%.

Refrigerators are doing their part as well. They are over 30% more efficient than their 2000 counterparts. And refrigerators are on a continuous improvement program as well. In 2008 they used 3% less energy than in 2007.

For an interesting comparison, the average refrigerator sold today uses less energy than a 60 watt light bulb that is left on 24 hours a day says the AHAM.

And since these appliances are doing so much for the environment, the U.S. government thinks they can help the economy as well. On July 14th, the DOE gave $300 million in funding to the Energy Efficient Appliance Consumer Rebate Program, which will be administered through state energy offices for the purchase of ENERGY STAR appliances.

The money comes from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.