Energy Ratings for Appliances – Usage Tips

April 4th, 2007

Environment, Energy & Water Saving

If energy saving is a concern when purchasing and using your home appliances, then good on you – you’re doing the world a big favor!

The following is a great list of hints and tips on energy ratings for appliances that anyone could use to help save water and energy in the home, which of course will save you money and be beneficial to the world and the environment.

FRIDGES OR FREEZERS – ENERGY RATINGS FOR APPLIANCES

1. Keep it in a cool spot
2. Ensure ventilation around cabinet
3. Ensure clean door seal
4. Set thermostat between 3 and 5 degrees
5. Do not overload the freezer (leave 20% space free for air circulation)
6. Defrost regularly
7. Turn second fridge off when not needed
8. Avoid placing hot food in fridge
9. Get local council to dispose of old fridges to avoid ozone damaging CFC’s.

CLOTHES WASHERS – ENERGY RATINGS FOR APPLIANCES

1. Once again, the right sized machine is essential to prevent energy wastage
2. If you have the option, front loaders are more energy and water efficient, and are generally gentler on clothes
3. Try and look for models with dual water connection lend themselves to cold washes and load size selection- saving more water
4. A high spin speed as well as reverse tumble action save energy
5. Economy cycle should always be employed when possible.

CLOTHES DRYERS – ENERGY RATINGS FOR APPLIANCES

1. Auto sensing features means the machine knows when to stop using energy
2. Use a clothes line or rack when you can
3. While you should use full loads instead of several small ones, avoid over loading
4. Do not put wet clothes in the dryer. Part spin dry them first in the washer
5. Clean the lint filter after each load
6. Moist air can be removed via externally ventilated machines.
7. Use the medium setting instead of high

DISHWASHERS – ENERGY RATINGS FOR APPLIANCES

1. Ensure that you’re buying the right sized machine for your typical loads
2. Look for dual water connection models- hot connection only models use much more energy
3. Select the most water and energy efficient models
4. The design of the model is important- note the basket and rack design and research their performance.
5. Use machines which employ economy cycles.
6. Do not rinse under hot water first
7. Ensure the plates have been scraped well before placed in the machine
8. Wait until the machine is full before putting a load through
9. Utilize the cold water wash as often as possible- its uses less energy
10. Open the door instead of using the drying cycle
11. Economy cycle should always be employed where possible