If you are replacing an appliance, whether it be a fridge or a washing machine, choosing the right appliance can save you hundreds of
pounds in energy costs. Modern energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less electricity and water and give the same level of
performance as the less efficient models. Best of all, energy efficient appliances generally do not cost any more than their less efficient
cousins.
When buying an energy efficient appliance, the easiesy way to determine it's efficieny level is to find the blue Energy Saving
Recommended logo, the Energy Star symbol or the EU energy rating label. In the UK, the most commonly found label is the EU energy rating label, as all
appliances in the EU are required to carry this lavel. The EU Energy Rating label uses a scale from A to G, with A being the most efficient.
An A-rated appliance will generally consume about half the power of a G.rated model.
We've also compiled 10 ways below in which you can save money with your existing appliances:
Washing machines purchased in the last few years all work well at lower temperatures, so wash at 40 degrees as opposed to the higher
temperatures;)
Don't leave appliances such as TV's or games consoles on standby, as shockingly these can use up to 40 watts (instead turn them off
at the wall);)
Run appliances that have a scheduling function, such as washing machines and dishwashers, in the early hours of the morning, as often
electricity is up to a third cheaper during this time;)
Load up your dishwashers and washing machine to full before running them;)
Defrost your freezer regularly (every 6 to 12 months) as this increases the efficiency);
Only fill up the kettle with the amount of water you need for the task (most kettles have a "cup" indicator);
Buy energy efficient appliances (see beginning of article);
Keep your fridge full if possible (obviously don't waste food instead) as a fuller fridge has less space to cool and therefore costs
less to run);
Check your local councils for rebates or grants, many councils around the UK have rebates when purchasing energy efficient appliances
and devices (the local Energy Efficiency Advice Centre is a good starting point); and
Only use the dryer in an emergency as it's in the top 3 of most hungry appliances in the home, together with the washing machine and
fridge (if you must use the dryer, try to always use it when it's full).
