Energy Efficiency Ratings | Appliance EPCs Explained
Energy Efficiency Ratings
With a high demand for sustainable appliances that are cheaper to run, brands began breaking through the previously set standards – finding more ways for products to be energy efficient. In 2010, the grading system expanded, introducing ratings of A+, A++ and even A+++.
These new ratings blurred the lines between gradings and made it harder for buyers to assess an appliances’ true energy efficiency.
Today’s scale has been reverted to a simpler system, with appliances awarded a rating between A and G.
This means some products that previously rated highly, falling within the A+ categories, have shifted down the scale. This does not mean they have decreased in efficiency.
This new, simpler scale makes it easier for buyers to detect energy efficiency. It also encourages brands to produce products that are even more energy efficient. You can now find the latest energy rating labels on all new appliances and bulbs.
Label Scale
Label Scale
There is now a single scale for all products within the updated ranges, covering from A to G. The old A+, A++ and A+++ ratings are no longer being used across the rescaled products.
QR-Code
QR-Code
In the upper right corner of the label now sits a QR-code that links to more detailed information. You can access this information by scanning the QR code with a smartphone.
Icons
Icons
The label still uses icons showing product features, but some have been updated. There are a few new icons including those to explain other efficiencies within specifc products.
Energy Consumption
Energy Consumption
The energy consumption of the products is now sat in the middle of the label for added visibility. This can be presented as kWh per year/per 1000 hours/per 100 cycles.
Union Flag
Union Flag
The new rescaled products will have energy labels containing the Union flag instead of the EU flag; a change made for all products that have been reclassified post-Brexit.
Online Arrows
Online Arrows
All relevant products will have a simplified diagram showing the energy efficiency class with an arrow. This will link through to the full energy label.
With 'A' being associated with a good rating by consumers, the addition of A+, A++ and A+++ ratings made the old system less transparent as products moved up the scale due to improvement in product efficiency. The revised A-G system has reset the scale, making it easier to understand, as well as incentivising manufacturers to product even more efficient products.
What has changed on the new label?
The scale is now between A-G, with no extensions to A+ classes anymore. The label will also feature the Union flag as opposed to the EU version post-Brexit. Some new icons have been added, and older ones adapted, to provide a more transparent insight into the products.
Which product categories are changing?
Lighting, Fridges/Freezers, Washing Machines, Washer-Dryers, Dishwashers and Wine Storage are now on the new rating system. Changes to further product categories will occur in 2026, this will include Tumble Dryers, Range Cookers and Hoods.
What do we mean by energy efficient?
If an appliance is deemed energy efficient, it operates effectively using less energy. An energy-efficient appliance saves you money and helps you live sustainably. The formula to calculate energy efficiency considers how much power an appliance uses and produces. This means we look for the product that uses the least energy to provide the right amount of power.
How do energy ratings affect your appliances?
As your appliances are fit for different purposes, their energy efficiency is assessed differently.
