Since I didn't get the job ...

I will reveal a little something that I discovered. New "High Efficiency" appliances might have other costs associated with them. For instance, HE clothes washers require HE detergent. This detergent runs from 3 to 6 times as much per volume as regular detergent. Now, if you were to use around 50 ounces per week, over the year you would spend about $200 extra in detergent costs. Since the water taxes and hikes aren't that high, it might leave you wondering if HE isn't a waste of money.

The HE detergent was a collaborative effort between appliance manufacturers and detergent companies. Imagine that! So, if you are going to get an HE appliance, make sure to do some research before you buy your appliance. The HE merely means that it uses less water and energy, not that it will save you money necessarily.