Whirlpool Discontinues "Energy-Wise" Refigerators

Whirlpool Corporation has suspended nationwide sales of its super-efficient “Energy-Wise” refrigerators, according to the 23 August issue of Global Environmental Change Report. This refrigerator was introduced in 1995 and is virtually identical to the “golden carrot” refrigerator developed through the utility-funded Super Efficient Refrigerator Program. The company cites poor market acceptance, probably due to the high price ($1,500), as the reason for the product’s discontinuance. This super-efficient refrigerator, made with Owens Corning vacuum insulation on the freezer compartment (see

EBN

Vol. 4, No. 1), is still available in the service areas of 24 utility companies around the country that funded its development.