Typically, older appliances use more energy than appliances made during the last 10 years, so it seems reasonable for homeowners to expect to save money on newer, energy-efficient models. When comparing a 10-year-old 19-cubic-foot refrigerator with an energy-efficient 19-cubic-footer, a homeowner may save more than $2,200 in energy costs over the next 20 years. However, when faced with the number of models and the initial purchase cost, the appliance selection process can be difficult.

There are three components to consider when calculating the cost of owning an appliance: the initial purchase price, the cost of maintenance and repairs, and operatation costs. For budget-conscious buyers, the best buy might not be the refrigerator with the lowest sale price.

One of the biggest factors is to determine how much energy the appliance will consume and what is the equivalent cost. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, different models of refrigerators can vary drastically in the amount of electricity used. With the high cost of energy today, buying a more expensive but more energy-efficient model could save on utility bills.

While all major appliances must meet energy conservation standards set by the U.S. Department of Energy, many appliances outperform the standard. The Department of Energy has established test procedures to prove energy use and efficiency. These results are printed on Energy Guide labels, which appliance manufacturers are required to put on their merchandise.

The distinctive yellow and black Energy Guide label helps compare the efficiency or annual energy consumption of competing brands and similar models. The label contains the capacity of the particular model, the estimated annual energy consumption of the model and the range of estimated annual energy consumption or energy efficiency ratings of comparable appliances.

Some appliances also feature the Energy Star logo, which means that the appliance exceeds existing performance guidelines for energy efficiency. Currently more than 1,200 manufacturers make products that qualify for the Energy Star label in 31 product categories and on 7,000 product models. In addition to home appliances, other energy-efficient products include home video equipment, office equipment, compact fluorescent light bulbs, lighting fixtures, air conditioners, furnaces, windows and roofing products.

The Department of Energy recommends a five-step shopping strategy to assist homeowners in purchasing an appliance that best meets their needs.

The first step is to select the size and style. Measure the space for the appliance to make sure the new purchase will fit. Make sure there is enough room to open the door or lid fully. Check to see that there is enough space for ventilation.

Where to shop is next on the list. Appliance outlets, electronics stores and local retailers are good bets. Dealers also sell appliances via print catalogs and the Internet.

It's important to compare the performance of different brands and models. Review the product's literature and ask questions. Is the appliance noisy? What is the repair history? How much water is used? How energy-efficient is it?

Estimating how much it will cost to operate the appliance will help determine which model to choose. The more energy it uses, the more the appliance will cost to run. The difference on a monthly utility bill can be significant if it is considered over the 10- to 20-year life of the appliance.

Finally, the Department of Energy suggests asking the salesperson or checking with the local utility about any cash rebates, low-interest loans or other incentive programs for energy-efficient appliances that may be available.

After making the purchase, there are some ways to cut energy waste that will supplement the benefits of owning an energy-efficient appliance. Following are tips from the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Energy.

* Vacuum refrigerator coils every three months to eliminate any dust or dirt buildup. Check the door gaskets for air leaks. Defrost the freezer when more than a quarter-inch of ice builds up.

* Scrape but don't pre-rinse dishes by hand if the dishwasher has a rinse/hold cycle or automatically pre-rinses dishes. Use the energy saver option found on many machines. Features such as air drying and different operating cycles may save up to 30 percent in energy and 40 percent in water.

* Use pots that fit the size of stovetop burners and use lids on pots and pans to cook at a lower burner setting.

* The water level should match the size of the load in the washing machine. Don't fill the whole tub for a few small items.

* Clothes dryer filters should be cleaned after each use or as often as necessary.

* Set the water heater thermostat at 120 degrees instead of the factory-preset temperature of 140 degrees.

When purchasing a major appliance that will become a permanent fixture in the house, consider what kind of value will be added for resale. Realtors advise keeping purchases in line with the average home sales price in the surrounding neighborhood. High-end appliances make more sense for a home that will sell in the $2 million price range rather than for a townhome selling in the $600,000 price range.

For more information about energy-efficient appliances, visit www.ftc.gov or www.pge.com.