A:
Thanks for the question, Quack. Energy Star's testing standards were changed as of last year. Prior to the changes in the testing procedure, the RF263BEAESR was rated by Energy Star as using 475 kWh/yr of electricity for an estimated annual cost of $51. As indicated on the Energy Guide, that amount was based on a national average energy cost from 2007. Based on the current (new as of September 2014) standards, the RF263BEAESR uses 637 kWh/yr of electricity for an estimated annual cost of $76. Basically, the two sets of numbers are comparing apples and oranges. The RF263BEAESR itself has not changed, only the testing procedure has changed. This model is still Energy Star-certified and rated as CEE Tier 2, which is very efficient. When comparing this model to others, be sure to look for the new Energy Guide with the black boxes and yellow lettering, such as the one that came packaged with your RF263BEAESR. The old Energy Guides, which are no longer valid, are all yellow with black lettering.
I hope this helps put your mind at ease.
Regards,
Ms. Samsung