You've purchased an energy efficient appliance, but do you know how much energy (and money) you'll really be saving? Learn how to decipher those energy labels to find out.

The appliance manufacturer and model number are found in the upper, right-hand corner of the label. This area also lists what type of appliance it is. For example, it may say Kenmore, Model #55432, Washer.

On the opposite side, in the upper, left-hand corner, you'll find the features of the appliance. This includes capacity, operating modes, interior space and so on, depending on the type of appliance.

In the center, under "This models uses," you'll see a number listed. The number in an estimate of how much energy the unit uses in a one-year period and is measured in kilowatt hours per year. The lower the number, the more efficient the model is.

Below the aveage energy used, you'll see "Energy Use (kWh/year)Range of All Similar Models," with a scale below it. Your model is marked on the scale compared to other similar models. The further the marker is to the left, the more energy efficient it is in its class.

Lastly, the number at the the bottom of the label is representative of how much money you'll spend to run the unit throughout the entire year and is based on a national average rate.