ENERGY STAR Certified Kitchen Equipment: A Guide
ENERGY STAR certified kitchen equipment is independently verified to meet efficiency standards that go beyond typical commercial equipment, which can translate into meaningful utility savings over the equipment’s lifespan. Understanding what the certification actually means helps restaurant owners weigh it against other buying factors. This guide covers what to know about ENERGY STAR certified kitchen equipment.
What ENERGY STAR Certification Means
ENERGY STAR certified equipment has been independently tested and verified to meet specific energy efficiency criteria set by the EPA, covering categories like refrigeration, dishwashers, fryers, and ice machines. Certification doesn’t guarantee the lowest purchase price, but it does indicate lower expected operating costs.
Where the Savings Add Up
Refrigeration and dishwashing equipment run continuously or near-continuously in most kitchens, making them the categories where ENERGY STAR certification tends to produce the most noticeable utility savings over time.
- Refrigeration and ice machines run near-continuously
- Dishwashers use substantial hot water and energy per cycle
- Savings compound over the equipment’s full operating lifespan
Weighing Certification Against Other Factors
ENERGY STAR certified equipment sometimes carries a higher upfront cost than non-certified alternatives, so it’s worth calculating the expected payback period based on your kitchen’s actual usage volume before deciding it’s the right fit.
ENERGY STAR Categories Common in Kitchens
| Equipment Category | Typical Savings Area |
|---|---|
| Refrigeration | Continuous operation, compressor efficiency |
| Dishwashers | Hot water and energy per cycle |
| Ice Machines | Continuous operation efficiency |
| Fryers | Reduced energy per cooking cycle |
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ENERGY STAR certified equipment cost more upfront?
Sometimes, yes — but the higher upfront cost is often offset by lower utility costs over the equipment’s operating life.
Which equipment categories benefit most from ENERGY STAR certification?
Refrigeration, ice machines, and dishwashers tend to show the most noticeable savings since they operate continuously or use significant hot water and energy per cycle.
How is ENERGY STAR certification verified?
Equipment is independently tested against EPA efficiency criteria before it can carry the ENERGY STAR certification.
Is ENERGY STAR certified equipment available used?
Yes, certified equipment can be found on the used and auction market, offering both the efficiency benefit and a lower upfront cost.