Kitchen Buying Guides

Appliance Energy Rating Guide

From 1 March 2021 there will be changes to the way energy efficiency is rated for many household appliances, with ratings changing for refrigeration, dishwashers, and laundry equipment. To make it easy, read this step-by step guide on understanding appliance energy ratings so you know how to choose the right model for your home, lifestyle and household bills.

What is an energy rating?

An appliance energy rating determines how efficient a machine runs based on the energy it consumes, which can include water, electricity, and how well it performs. Energy ratings offer a quick way to compare models, making it easy to identify the right model. These ratings are found on labels supplied with a device, or on product pages online.

Why are ratings changing?

Household appliances have become cheaper to run and more efficient thanks to advances in technology and an eco-friendly approach to design. As a result, many devices are now more efficient than the current rating system can demonstrate. This is is why existing energy ratings are being rebased from 1 March 2021.

How are they changing?

Currently, classes span from a D rating to A+++ and will be replaced with a scale from G to A. For example, a device that is currently rated as A+++ could be A-rated in the new model. The seven-step colour chart will continue to be used, making it easy to identify green devices. Tumble dryers, ovens and extractors will continue to use the existing model.

What appliances are affected by the new energy model?

Refrigeration

Refrigerated devices are on 24/7, so ensuring they are energy-efficient is an important factor for a sustainable future. From 1 March, some models will include better insulation to retain the cool air, plus digital thermostats will be commonplace, offering better control of the temperature inside. Equipment will also include removable door seals, which can be replaced easily.

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Dishwashers

Brushless motors will become a common feature for dishwashers from 1 March 2021, as this technology prevents unnecessary friction occurring to reduce the energy consumed. Models will also go through more stringent compliance testing to ensure they are as sustainable as possible. Plus, eco-washes will become a permanent feature, which saves water and electric with each cycle.

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Laundry

Washing machines and washer dryers will be rated using the new energy classes from 1 March 2021. In addition to new labels, these devices will see changes to their design, which includes brushless motors to reduce friction, 20-degree cycles to lower energy consumption, and eco-washes that will use less water. They will also undergo more stringent compliance testing.

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Tips to reduce energy consumption

Lamona Integrated 70/30 Frost Free Fridge Freezer

1. Go high-tech on refrigeration

Whether it stores fresh goods, frozen items, or a mix of both, refrigerated machines are powered night and day, making them one of the most energy-zapping devices in the home. Investing in higher energy ratings and models with high-tech features will reap many long term benefits, such as reducing household bills and keeping food fresher for longer.

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Lamona Built-Under Integrated Larder Fridge

2. Size down on storage

Large capacity products use more energy to run, so for those living solo or with a partner, you could potentially be chilling unused space with a big device. Ensure you get the right size that matches your storing needs, and if you prefer to eat fresh, skip the freezer section, which uses more energy to keep it at sub-zero temperatures.

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Miele TCB 140 WP Freestanding 7Kg White Heat Pump Tumble Dryer

3. Opt for innovative heat pumps

Tumble dryers can be power-hungry devices, so investing in sustainable tech can help reduce energy consumption, especially if your home sees frequent or larger loads. With heat pump technology, heat is generated by a compressor, which runs far more efficiently than a traditional heater saving energy and money with every load.

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Miele 9kg 1600rpm Washing machine WCG360XL Internal Wash View

4. Save with load detection

Many laundry devices now include detection sensors that clock how big or wet a load is, so they only use the water or energy required to wash or dry the linen inside. This feature helps prolong the life of clothes as it prevents over-washing or drying – a sound investment for homes that run small and regular refreshes, like school uniforms or work wear.

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5. Dial down the temperature

By switching to a lower temperature when washing laundry, you can save energy without compromising on the cleaning performance. With new 20-degree cycles found in many laundry devices, including washer dryers, you can do your bit for the environment, while protecting your clothes from heat damage. These cycles can also be used for delicate loads that would otherwise be hand washed.

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6. Switch to induction cooking

Induction devices are the most energy-efficient hob, thanks to the electromagnetic technology found inside. This method only heats the pan, rather than the surface, which means less energy is needed to power each heat zone and less energy is wasted. It also offers precise temperature control and rapid boil features, so you can get meals served faster and achieve more consistent results.

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AEG T/C Pyrolytic Oven BPK642020M Multiple Trays

7. Favour fan technology

Ovens that use a fan at the back of the cavity to circulate hot air around the space, allow a device to heat up faster creating more consistent and even results with every dish. It can also shorten the cooking time during mealtimes, which is great for busy homes on the go, and more importantly, it reduces the time the oven is on, reducing energy consumption.

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8. Invest in a hot water tap

A terrific solution for creating a decluttered space, hot water taps can also drive down energy costs within a household, thanks to the smart, eco-friendly boilers that they are installed with. When comparing its power use to a standard electric kettle, these devices can save up to 22p with every boil. There are also options that provide filtered or sparkling water straight from the tap.

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