Green and Gorgeous Remodeling: Efficient Kitchens

Green and Gorgeous Kitchen Appliances

The kitchen is not only the best room in the house, it's also the most wasteful. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, lighting, refrigeration and cooking are responsible for 41.5 percent of a home's energy consumption. Add dishwashers, oversized appliances, energy-inefficient electronics and a plethora of preparatory paraphernalia, and you've got an environmental hot spot.

Yet, appliance companies are recognizing the problem and using better design and energy-saving technologies to take the heat 'out of the kitchen.' The biggest names, such as Kohler, Bosch, GE, Kenmore, Asko and KitchenAid, are now offering greener options. Check out their wide range of environmentally responsible dishwashers, refrigerators, stoves... even the kitchen sink.

GE's Energy Star Line

For an expensive look without breaking the bank, try GE's Energy Star Kitchen appliances, from dishwashers to stovetops and refrigerators. And as if core energy saving weren't enough, many of GE's products include other environmentally responsible design elements.

The refrigerator seen here, for example, features an integrated water dispenser and LED lighting. For all the options from GE, visit geappliances.com.

Asko Dishwasher

Dishwashers should be seen and not heard. That's the credo behind Asko's latest line of energy-efficient models. The company's new tall-tank dishwashers are said to outclean conventional units while using far less water and electricity.

Available in a wide range of styles, colors and sizes, and with Energy Star's seal of approval, these washers are creating quite a commotion. But mum's the word. Ultra-clean technology makes these washers virtually inaudible. For an Asko dealer near you, visit askousa.com.

KitchenAid Architect II Series

KitchenAid is famous for stunning and streamlined design. The company's latest Architect Series II line now brings efficiency to the equation. Merging more than just form and function, the line offers beautiful, yet energy-efficient, appliances.

Perhaps most notable is the induction cooktop, which uses electromagnetic energy to disperse heat throughout, not just under, pots and pans. Find KitchenAid at appliance dealers or online at kitchenaid.com.

Bosch Evolution Refrigerator

Preserve food as well as the environment. Bosch offers several energy-efficient refrigerators that go the extra mile.

Some feature exterior temperature controls that allow you to make adjustments while the door is closed. Others include an alarm to alert you when the door is left ajar. For more energy-efficient options, visit bosch.com.

Kenmore Elite Dishwasher

For an elite look that won't cost a small fortune, consider Kenmore's Elite series dishwasher. This sleek and sophisticated design is not just chic, it's eco-chic.

With its Energy Star certification, your dishes will clean up with less energy and water but plenty more style. For the full line of Kenmore Elite products, visit kenmore.com.