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In a kitchen remodel, is it better to replace older appliances with more energy efficient models or keep them to reduce waste?

Weighing environmental interior design decisions sometimes requires help. Here are some resources to help you make the eco-friendly choice.

Penny Bonda -- Interior Design, 4/7/2008 12:00:00 AM

In almost all cases, replacing appliances is a better environmental choice provided you can prevent the older equipment from going to the landfill.

Typically appliances account for 20 percent of a homeowner's utility bills so finding more efficient replacements will save money—and it's good for the environment. Because energy efficiency standards have been strengthened over the years, energy efficient appliances—refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines—use anywhere from 75 percent to less than half the energy of models that are ten years older or more. Of course it's important when selecting replacements to choose ones that are the most efficiency products in their category. That's fairly easy by looking for the Energy Star label.

Disposing of the older appliances takes a little more work. Those in good working order can be donated to charities. However, this is a temporary solution at best; eventually an appliance will reach the end of its life. Refrigerated household appliances are especially tricky because they contain hazardous waste such as refrigerants, oil, foams, mercury and PCBs. Those going to the salvage yard for shredding and recycling need to have these toxins removed. Many utilities have appliance turn-in programs and offer a "bounty" to the owner to encourage recycling. The EPA offers good information.

Look for local recycling programs at Earth 911, a resource-rich web site. Also check with the local public works department and waste management companies. All disposers must comply with EPA regulations though some old appliances slip by and are dumped. Make sure yours isn't one of them.