Each appliance you purchase has two price tags, the first one is the initial cost and the second is the cost to operate the appliance. When looking at new appliances, ensure they are ENERGY STAR rated. Once installed, the only costs that a homeowner can influence are  the costs to operate.

Ensure appliances are properly maintained and operating. Clean refrigerator coils periodically. Clean filters regularly and ensure seals on appliances, such as refrigerators, are working properly. Replace refrigerators that are more than 15 years old. New ENERGY STAR  refrigerator models use about half of the energy than refrigerators made before 1993. Check www.ENERGYSTAR.gov for listings of rated appliances.