The EU Energy Label is designed to tell you the exact energy consumption of your appliance in units (kWh's) under standard conditions. It must, by law, be displayed on all of the following types of new household products displayed for sale, hire or hire-purchase:
The more efficient the product, the less energy it needs and the more you get for your money. 'A' rated products are the most energy efficient and 'G' rated products are the least energy efficient.
As part of the programme the EU is removing the least energy efficient models from sale. Since September 1999, manufacturers have had to stop making fridges, freezers and fridge-freezers rated 'D' or below (or F and below for chest freezers). At the same time standards have been raised and from July 2004 there are higher A+ and A++ rating for these types of appliances:
The graph below demonstrates that a fridge-freezer which is 'D' rated costs over 3-times more to run per year than an 'A++' rated one i.e. £50 compared to £15.
The table below show the relative efficiency of the different energy rating bands, based on a D rated appliance using 100%:
| A++ | Less than 30% |
| A+ | 30%-42% |
| A | 42%-55% |
| B | 55%-75% |
| C | 75%-90% |
| D | 90%-100% |
| E | 100%-110% |
| F | 110%-125% |
| G | More than 125% |
The Energy Saving Recommended logo helps you identify and buy energy efficient products. It may be displayed alongside, but not instead of, the EU Energy Label.
Only products that meet or exceed the energy efficiency criteria set by the Energy Saving Trust and backed by the Government can display this logo. It can be shown on the same type of products covered by the EU Energy Label but in addition covers gas boilers and heating controls.
For more information on energy saving products and labeling visit the following websites:
Energy Saving Trust: http://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/energy_saving_products
European Commission: http://ec.europa.eu/energy/demand/legislation/domestic_en.htm