How to read the yellow EnergyGuide label

See that yellow tag on a new appliance? Give it 60 seconds before you look at anything else.

It's the EnergyGuide label. Here's what the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) says about it:

• It shows how much energy the appliance uses, and how that compares to similar models.
• You'll find it on things like refrigerators, dishwashers, clothes washers, water heaters, furnaces, heat pumps and TVs. Not every appliance has one.
• The yearly cost on the label is an estimate. It's based on typical use and a national average energy price. Your real cost depends on how you use it and what you pay for energy.
• No tag? Look inside the appliance, or check the seller's or maker's website.
• The ENERGY STAR logo means the product meets energy-efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The FTC also says: measure first (the space, the door swing, room for ventilation) and read reviews from several places.

My take (opinion): label first, features second.