What Makes an Appliance Energy Efficient?

An energy-efficient appliance is designed to use less energy while delivering the performance you need. Its efficiency can be influenced by factors such as its energy rating, energy consumption, and the technology used to operate it.

Features such as efficient heating systems, good insulation and eco programmes can help reduce the amount of energy an appliance uses.

Understanding the Energy Efficiency Label 

What Does the Energy Label Tell Me?

Energy labels help you compare the efficiency and energy consumption of household appliances. Depending on the type of appliance, the label can show information such as its energy efficiency rating, energy consumption, water consumption, and other relevant performance information. 

What Do A-G Energy Ratings Mean? 

Energy efficiency labels use a scale from A to G, with A representing the highest energy efficiency and G the lowest. The rating makes it easier to compare the energy efficiency of appliances within the same category.

The rating is based on how efficiently an appliance uses energy, but it doesn't tell you exactly how much electricity it will use. For a more accurate comparison, check the energy consumption figure in kilowatt-hours (kWh) on the label as well.

What Happened to A+++ Energy Ratings? 

You may notice that some appliances now have a lower energy rating than they did previously. This doesn't necessarily mean that the appliance has become less efficient. Energy labels for several appliance categories were rescaled to the simpler A-G system, with the aim of leaving room for future improvements in efficiency. For example, a Smeg FAB28 fridge that was previously rated A+++ is now rated D under the newer scale, despite the appliance itself being just as efficient as before. 

Which Appliances Have an Energy Label? 

Energy labels are used for a range of household appliances, including ovens, hoods, cookers, fridges and freezers, wine coolers, dishwashers, washing machines and washer-dryers. The specific information shown on the label varies depending on the type of appliance. Some appliances, including microwaves and kettles, do not currently have energy labels.

If you're comparing a Smeg appliance, its energy label and relevant energy consumption information can also be found on the product page.

Which Kitchen Appliances Use the Most Energy?

The amount of energy an appliance uses depends on its type, size, efficiency and how frequently it is used. Appliances that heat, cool, or dry tend to require more energy than those performing simpler tasks, while appliances such as fridge-freezers can consume energy continuously to maintain their temperature.

When looking at your kitchen as a whole, consider both how much energy an appliance uses and how often it operates. An appliance with relatively low consumption per cycle can still contribute significantly to household energy use if it is used frequently.

How To Choose an Energy-Efficient Appliance

When comparing energy-efficient appliances, the energy rating is a useful starting point, but it isn't the only factor to consider. Looking at the appliance's energy consumption, size, capacity, and features can help you choose a model that suits both your household and how you use it.

Compare Energy Consumption

The A-G rating shows how an appliance compares with other models in the same category, but the energy consumption figure in kilowatt-hours (kWh) gives you a better indication of how much energy the appliance is expected to use. Check this figure when comparing different models. 

Choose the Right Size

A larger appliance isn't necessarily the most efficient choice if you don't need the additional capacity. Choose a size that suits your household and how you use the appliance to avoid using more energy than necessary. 

Look for Energy Saving Features

Features such as eco programmes, efficient heating technology, good insulation, and load or temperature sensors can help reduce energy consumption. The features that make the biggest difference will depend on the type of appliance you're choosing. 

Consider How You Use It

Your usage can also affect how much energy an appliance consumes. Consider how frequently you'll use it, which programmes or settings you'll need, and whether features such as Eco modes could help reduce energy consumption during everyday use.