Energy Saving Appliances

What can I do to start saving energy today?

Tumble Dryer

• where and when possible dry your clothes outside or on a clothes rack
• fill the dryer each time you use it

Washing Machine and Dishwasher

• wash at 30 degrees - today's detergents wash just as well at low temperatures
• wash with full loads - a half load setting does not use half the energy
• switch it off and unplug it - you will save the energy used by the lights and displays
• clean it - appliances run more effectively when the filters have been cleaned

Fridges and Freezers

• Defrost regularly - appliances will run more efficiently

What do I need to consider when I am buying a new appliance?

• Consider the running cost as well as the purchase price - an efficient product could save you a lot of money over its lifetime.
• Look for the smallest product for your needs
• Look for the label

What does the labelling mean?

There are two key energy labels to look out for:

EU Labelling

All shops should display this label for all the white goods and ovens they sell. The rating goes from A to G.

A is the best rating. An A-rated appliance will use approximately half as much electricity as a G-rated appliance.

Energy Saving Recommended

This logo can only be used on the most energy efficient products, usually the top 20 percent of those available.

Currently endorsed products can be found at the Energy Saving Trust website.

How do I get rid of my old appliances?

It is important to recycle your old appliances. Dumping old machines can lead to harmful chemicals escaping and causing pollution. What can you do with them?

• many of the major stores will take away your old appliance when they install a new one - ask if they offer this service when you buy your new one
• you can recycle many items at one of Oxfordshire County Council's recycling centres
• we will also collect any items through a bulky waste collection service

More Information

Page last reviewed 24 Jan 2011