UK Energy Ratings for Appliances

The UK has introduced a new energy rating system for white goods and electrical appliances, making it simpler for consumers to understand energy efficiency and make informed purchasing decisions. In this comprehensive guide, we'll help you navigate the new A to G energy rating system and its implications for consumers.

Why the Energy Label Has Changed

Technological advancements have led to products being significantly more energy-efficient than they were 5-10 years ago. As a result, a new scale is required to accurately reflect the differences in efficiency between today's products. The energy label scale has been reset, providing clearer distinctions between the efficiency of various appliances

Understanding the New Energy Label

The new A to G energy rating scale offers a more accurate representation of the differences in efficiency between today's products. In addition to the reset scale, some labels now include improved information to help you make better decisions about the products you buy. The new scale allows for future innovation and improvement without becoming outdated.

Transition from the Old to the New Label

From 1st November 2020 to 1st March 2021, manufacturers were required to include both versions of the energy label in product packaging. This dual labelling period ensured that you received the correct information at the time of purchase. Retailers had until 18th March 2021 to change the labels on relevant products in-store and online.

Energy Efficiency and Your Energy Bills

The new energy rating system helps consumers make more informed decisions when purchasing appliances. By choosing a higher-rated product (closer to A), you are investing in a more energy-efficient appliance, which can lead to lower energy consumption and potentially save you money on your energy bills in the long run.

Choosing the Right Appliance

When purchasing a new appliance, consider the following factors:

Energy efficiency: Look for a product with a high energy rating (closer to A).
Noise rating: Check the noise rating (A - D) on the new energy label.
Size and capacity: Choose an appliance that fits your space and meets your usage requirements.
Features and functionality: Look for features that suit your needs and preferences.
Longevity and build quality: Opt for a well-built appliance from a reputable manufacturer.
Price: Consider your budget and weigh the benefits of investing in a more energy-efficient appliance.

By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the best appliance for your needs while also being eco-friendly and energy-efficient.

Frequently Asked Questions

In this section, we address some common questions about the new energy rating system:

Why are some products in store labelled differently?

During the transition period from the old energy rating system to the new one, some products in store might still have the old labels. Retailers had until 18th March 2021 to change the labels on relevant products in-store and online. Furthermore, certain product categories, such as ovens, do not yet have the new label. These will be updated later, depending on the results of public consultations and government decisions.

Why is the new label not on all product types?

The energy label has been around for a long time, but it is newer for some products than others. The rescale needed to be prioritized to ensure that the first products to change were the ones that needed it most. As a result, some product types are still in the process of being updated. You can find a list of products approved for relabelling in Great Britain on the energylabel.org.uk website.

How does the new rating system affect appliances purchased last year?

If you purchased an appliance with an 'A+++' rating last year, its rating might be different under the new system. The new energy label is more accurate and reflects how a product will perform at home, not just in test laboratory conditions. As a result, products previously rated 'A+++' may now have different energy ratings. In most cases, the majority of 'best in class' products will now be rated B or C under the new system.