Penny Lane Domestic Appliances

EU Energy efficiency

EU Energy efficiency labelling scheme, explained

Energy labelling is a useful tool to determine the environmental performance of a Washing machine

A labelling system within the European Union was introduced in 1995 and now covers most white goods. Labels - ranging from "A+++" for the most energy efficient to "D" for the least efficient - are currently applied to Washing machines, Combined washer-dryers, Tumble-dryers, Refrigerators and Dishwashers.

The EU introduced maximum permissible limits for energy consumption in Refrigerators and Freezers in September 1999.

Corresponding systems for energy labelling exist in North America. In China, voluntary energy labelling similar to that in Europe was introduced in 1999. In Brazil, legislation on energy labelling was introduced during 2000.

Energy label

Energy scale

Appliances are allocated a letter rating from (A - D)

"A+++" being the most efficient and "D" the least.

Washing machines are rated for:
Energy Consumption.
Washing Performance.
Spin Performance.

Energy efficiency scale is calculated using a cotton cycle at 60°C with a maximum load; this load is typically 6 kg.

You will also find on the label more details of the above. Figures such as 0.89 kw/h for energy consumption, water usage in litres, and sometimes the noise rated in dBA (decibels) of the appliance.

By law, the Label must be displayed on all new domestic washing machines, tumble-dryers, Combined washer-dryers, Refrigerators, Freezers and Fridge-freezer combinations, and Dishwashers displayed for sale, hire or hire-purchase. You should expect to be provided with this information however you buy these products. Mail order catalogues, Web sites and manufacturers' literature must contain similar information.

The EU Energy efficiency labelling scheme makes it very easy to make a like-for-like comparison when choosing a new washing machine, tumble-dryer or combined washer-dryers.

Though these figures represent the energy efficiency of the appliance, the build quality and reliability may differ greatly between manufactures.

For further information about the EU Energy efficiency labelling scheme and helping the environment, go to our Energy efficiency links page.

Also see our guide to . . . . .

Front loading -Vs - Top-loading?

The WEEE Directive

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