What are Energy Ratings?

energy

Energy Ratings

It makes sense to buy an energy efficient product, if only to make savings on your household energy bills.

The EU energy label rates products from A++ (most efficient, using the least energy), down to G (least efficient using the most energy).

By law, the label must be shown on all refrigeration and laundry appliances, dishwashers, electric ovens and lightbulb packaging.

The most efficient products also carry the energy saving recommended logo.

The energy ratings

The more energy efficient an appliance is, the more money you can save – and the more you help the environment. By buying a more efficient model, you’re not compromising when it comes to performance either.

Energy consumption and running costs

This shows how much electricity is used under standard operating conditions, measured in kWh / year “kilowatt hours” for refrigeration or kWh/cycle for washing and other appliances.

You can work out the average annual running cost and saving by multiplying the KWh consumption figure by 9p (which is the average unit price of electricity – your actual savings will depend upon the exact consumption figure).

Performance in other areas

Laundry and dishwashing labels also have ratings for washing, spin and / or drying performance. The A-G indicators here are similar to the main efficiency ratings, and are based on standard industry testing – the test cycle used is on the label. (”A” rating is the best).

Noise

Some models will also include information on the noise of the product. The lower number shown here the less noise the appliance emits.

So remember be kinder to the environment and your pocket, so choose an energy efficient appliance.

Filed under: Cooking, Definitions, Freezers, Fridges, Vacuum Cleaners, Washing Machines by Review Team

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Washing Machines

Washing Machines

Washing Machines

Washing Machines

There is no denying it – washing machines haven taken the stress out of washing by hand but now they also come with additional features and functions to make life even easier.

Choosing the correct model is very important because different models have many different features depending on your needs – such as:

  • delay timers
  • half load
  • antibacterial washes
  • crease reduction, and
  • delicate programmes.

Size

Where will you put your new washing machine? Most free standing models can slot underneath your worktops with the front of the machine still visible, however if you prefer, look at a built in model which can be placed behind your kitchen furniture and appear completely hidden from view.

Spin speed

Expect to pay a little more for faster spin models – the faster the spin speed the quicker the drying time which is ideal for saving energy and time. Available spin speeds range from 1000rpm – 1800rpm. Delicate items of clothing are best in a variable spin speed model where you can reduce the spin speed to ensure your fragile items are not damaged.

Load capacity

Standard load capacity in UK washing machines is 5kg however 6kg or 7kg load capacity models are also available (a 5kg load will hold up to about 17 cotton T-shirts whereas a 7kg load will hold up to about 25). A larger drum size will also help to reduce creasing because. with a larger drum, your clothes have the more space to move around, reducing tangling and creasing.

Energy ratings

Under European laws, every appliance sold now carries an industry-standard energy efficiency rating label. The grading runs from A-G where an A-rated model is the most efficient and best both for your utility bills and the environment. Washing at 30° will save even more money and also help the environment. Most modern machines now have the ability to wash at 30° which saves 40% of the energy used by washing at 40°.

Programmes

There are many useful programmes available to help make doing the laundry less of a chore. Thanks to wash programmes such as ‘quick wash’, ‘delicates’ and ‘hand wash’ you can wash anything from jeans to cashmere jumpers quickly and efficiently.

Filed under: Washing Machines by Review Team

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