We all know fathers love appliances and gadgets. With Father’s Day coming up, what better way to thank your dad for . . . well, being your dad . . . than with a green-appliance gift? He’ll like getting a piece of heavy-duty equipment, but he’ll love that it’s green. Most of all, you’ll enjoy that “feel good factor” . . . you know, the one that comes from taking the environment into account and supporting environmentally conscious products and businesses.

One of the best ways to research green gadgets and appliances is through Energy Star. Energy Star is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy that identifies and promotes energy efficient products. Those appliances carrying the Energy Star symbol are better not only for the environment, but also your father’s energy bill. According to Energy Star’s website, “Americans, with the help of Energy Star products, saved enough energy in 2006 alone to avoid greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from 25 million cars — all while saving $14 billion on their utility bills.” Wow, that’s a pretty convincing statistic!

There are so many places to buy Energy Star products. If you’re a first time ES purchaser, however, and need to get something soon for Father’s Day, it’s best to start small and simple. Avoid getting overwhelmed by a plethora of options and visit a simple site. Shop Green is actually a great place to start. It has a solid assortment of Energy Star dishwashers, air conditioners, cordless phones, showerheads, refrigerators, etc. The site picks the best Energy Star products and organizes them in an easy and convenient list so you can scroll by price, brand, or customer rating. Check it out . . . your dad, his energy bill, and the environment will thank you.

Posted on June 15th, 2007 by Olivia Zaleski