Appliances such as washers, dryers, refrigerators, ranges, and dishwashers add value to your vacation property by providing your guests the conveniences of home.   However, when purchasing and installing appliances, consider effect they may have on your energy bills.  Powering appliances costs $1900 each year for the average home. Here are a few ways to lower your costs:

• Buy “Energy Star” appliances.  They not only have the nifty sticker, they can save you big bucks-- Up to $80 per Energy Star appliance.  If you own the appliance for 15 years, that's $1200! • Trade your top-loading washing machine for one that front-loads.  A typical Frontload washing machine uses 25 gallons of water per load compared to 40-60 for a top loader.  Since the front loading washing machines spin at 60-80 miles per hour, the clothes come out of your washer much drier, which dramatically reduces the drying time (your housekeepers will love that!)

• If in the market for a new clothes dryer, look for one with a moisture sensor.  These automatically shut off when the clothes inside are dry. • Defrost manual-defrost refrigerators and freezers between each renter.

• Lower the temperature in your refrigerator and freezer.  Set your refrigerator to 37 degrees and your freezer to 5 degrees Fahrenheit.  • Check the refrigerator door seal to make sure that it's airtight.  You can test the seal by closing the door on a dollar bill with half of it inside and half of it outside of the refrigerator.  If you can easily pull the dollar from the door once it's closed, your seal or latch needs some work. • Be sure to put your refrigerator in the coolest part of your kitchen, away from your oven and out of the sun.  If your property is in a warm climate, don't put a refrigerator or freezer in the garage—it could almost double your energy costs.

• Clean your refrigerator coils at least once a season.  First, unplug your fridge.  Then pull it out from the wall and vacuum the coils on the backside.  While you're at it, check and lubricate the gaskets on your refrigerator door with Vaseline. One last piece of advice: Read (or at least leaf through) the manufacturer's owner manuals that come with your appliances for specific tips and instructions.  © Copyright 2006 HomeAway, Inc.

How to Lower the Cost of Water Heating at Your Vacation Home    Keep your guests in hot water without breaking the bank.

Going Green at Your Vacation Home, Part 1    Easy tips for saving money and helping the environment while maintaining your vacation rental property.

20 Steps to a Greener Vacation Home    Ways to create a better indoor environment for you family and guests, lower your energy bills, and help the environment.

Going Green at Your Vacation Home, Part 2    Learn how to help your renters be environmentally conscious while staying at your vacation property.

Decreasing the Heating and Cooling Costs at Your Second Home    Make sure that you're not losing unnecessary cold air, heat, and money at your condo or cabin.