Your cookie preferences

We use cookies and similar technologies. You can use the settings below to accept all cookies (which we recommend to give you the best experience) or to enable specific categories of cookies as explained below. Find out more by reading our Cookie Policy.

Select cookie preferences

Skip to main content

Energy efficiency labels explained

With huge increases in energy costs affecting UK households into 2024, it’s not as easy as it used to be to save money by switching energy deal. What customers can do, though, is reduce energy usage as much as possible to keep bills at a manageable level. One way to do that is to ensure that your appliances are as energy-efficient as possible.
Ben Gallizzi author headshot
Written by Ben Gallizzi, Senior Content Editor - Energy and Electric Vehicles
Updated on 28 July 2024
Share
Woman reaching into fridge

What is an energy efficiency label?

When buying a new fridge, washing machine, TV or dishwasher, it’s more important than ever to look at the energy efficiency label. These were introduced by the EU in 1995 to provide customers with more information about the machines they were considering purchasing, and to stimulate competition and innovation between manufacturers. Previously, the scale ran from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), and then extra “A” ratings were added to reward the best appliances: A+, A++ and A+++.

In March 2021, though, these extra ratings were scrapped and the system now runs from A to G, as it originally did. However, the ‘A’ rating is reserved, so a product may go from being ‘A+++’ rated under the previous system down to a B, C or even a D in the new system.

However, some shops are still selling appliances with labels showing the old rating system, which can be confusing for customers unsure what they should be looking for. While it’s possible to save on the initial purchase of the appliance, an inefficient appliance will then cost more to run over its lifetime.

What does the new energy efficiency label look like?

On the left, we can see the old energy efficiency label, and on the right we can see the new version, which is clearly rated “B” at the top. On the left, we can see the old rating system that runs to A+++. This is the main difference to look out for.

The kWh rating on the new label here applies to the amount of energy that will be used per 100 cycles but, depending on the appliance, it might apply to the amount of energy used per year or per 1,000 hours. 

Underneath the kWh rating is an area for “extra information”. Again, this will vary depending on the type of appliance:

  • Dishwasher: the number of place settings, the amount of water use per wash, the duration of the wash and the noise level as it runs (rated in decibels and on a A-D rating)

  • Fridges: the capacity of chilled and/or frozen compartments in litres and the noise volume as it runs

  • Televisions: the energy rating and consumption when displaying HDR content (assuming it has this feature) and the size, height and pixel width of the screen

  • Washing machines and washer-dryers: the capacity, duration and water consumption of the machine’s eco program and an A-G rating of the spin dry and noise rating of the final spin.

How can I save energy?

There are a lot of ways you can save energy around the home beyond investing in energy-efficient appliances. For instance, you can use the tumble dryer less if you have outside space to air-dry your clothes, or you can turn the thermostat down by a single degree to save money without feeling the difference. Take a look at our guide featuring over 100 energy-saving tips for the home for more ideas.

Can I switch energy?

You can switch energy to one of the increasing number of deals returning to market after the energy crisis. Run an energy comparison to see what's currently available by entering your postcode below.

Read more

image of a couple unloading a dishwasher with the title 'Uswitch power house report'
Which appliances use the most energy? With energy prices still high, there are limited options for both saving money and limitin ..
102 energy saving tips for the home header
104 energy saving tips for your home With working from home the new normal and energy prices high, it's important to keep your ..
What is an energy performance certificate? An energy performance certificate is required if you are selling, renting or building in t ..