When it comes to saving energy, it can't get any easier than pushing a button. Appliance manufacturer Bosch has equipped its 500 and 800 Nexxt front-loading clothes washers with a green-colored "EcoOption" button which, when pushed by the homeowner, will decrease water temperature during the wash cycle and reduce the amount of energy used by as much as 20 percent without affecting cleaning results.

The EcoOption button is also available on select 500 and 800 models of Bosch's new Evolution and Integra dishwashers, where it can reduce energy consumption by up to 25 percent when selected.

Granted, these top-of-the-line models can be a bit pricey, but the good news is that Bosch offers a wide range of washers and dishwashers, as well as dryers and refrigerators, that are energy efficient and exceed Energy Star requirements. The appliances are manufactured using low-impact processes. And some may qualify for Energy Star rebates, sales tax exemptions or tax credits.

In addition to the EcoOption feature, Bosch dishwashers are available with the EcoSense Wash Management System, which customizes the wash cycle depending on the soil level of dishes, and Nexxt dryers are equipped with an EcoSensor feature, which conserves energy by adjusting the temperature based on the moisture level of clothes.

For more information or to access Bosch's Green Resource Center, which includes an Energy Savings Calculator and an Energy Star Rebate Finder, visit http://www.boschappliances.com or call 800-944-2904.