Energy rating labels
Energy rating labels give you information on how much energy a product uses. They make it easy for you to compare the energy efficiency of both similar and different sized models of appliances. Every new whiteware appliance and heat pump sold in New Zealand displays this label.
Understanding the energy rating label
Understanding the energy rating label
The energy rating label shows a star rating and an annual energy consumption figure.
Star rating
The more stars on the label, the more energy efficient the appliance is compared to similar models.
If you're comparing models for energy efficiency, they must be of the same type - that is, similar in capacity and features. For example, if you are comparing 2-door 300L fridge-freezers, the one with the most stars will be the cheapest to run. Many top models have four or more stars.
Some appliances have more than one ‘band' of stars. For example, air conditioners have blue for cooling and red for heating performance. Washing machines and dishwashers have red for warm washes and blue for cold washes.
Annual energy consumption figure
The number in the red box is the energy consumption figure. This tells you how much electricity the appliance typically uses to run in a year, in kiloWatt hours (kWh).
The lower the number, the less the model will cost to run and the lower the environmental impact. Use this figure to compare between all models and types of appliance. For example, if you want to compare the running cost of a fridge and a fridge freezer, look at the energy consumption figure.
Calculating running costs
You can use the energy consumption figure to estimate the annual running cost of the appliance:
Multiply the number in the box by your electricity tariff (including GST). You'll find this tariff, or unit cost, on your electricity bill. The national average is currently 23 cents per kWh. For example: 640 x 0.23 = $147.
And to calculate the estimated lifetime running cost of the appliance:
Multiply the annual running cost by 10. Most whiteware has an estimated lifetime of about 10 or so years. For example: $147 x 10 = $1470.
This is like a second price tag, showing ongoing running costs on top of the purchase price.
Where to find the label
Energy rating labels are displayed on all new whiteware appliances and heat pumps available for sale in New Zealand.
You can find information on choosing appliances under each of the product categories below:
More information
- To find out about energy consumption of appliances in more detail, you can visit the Energy Rating website.
