Energy class A+++ is now only class C
This is a colorful sticker on the device or packaging that has letters from A to G on it. Class A household appliances have the highest energy efficiency, while Class G appliances have the lowest. Because the label is comparatively new, however, the search for a class A device can be in vain – because the energy label, which was valid until March 2021, worked so well that the manufacturers have always outdone each other and class A+++ devices are already on the market were. In order to make the label clearer, all devices have been reclassified and classified so that there is room for improvement again. What was classified as A+++ until March 2021 is often only class C or D with the new label. This does not mean that devices from lower classes are less energy-efficient. Rather, it may be that they continue to be the most energy-efficient appliances on the market and that there are simply no other washing machines or dishwashers with a better classification.
A higher energy class can mean up to 20 percent less power consumption
Therefore, when buying new household appliances, you should not only look at the label of individual appliances, but compare the different appliances. So if you are looking for a new dishwasher, you should not only look at one model, but also at dishwashers from other manufacturers. It is also important to know that the rating was usually calculated based on the energy consumption at Eco settings. If a washing machine is classified as class A, but is only used in the quick program, the energy consumption is usually significantly higher than stated on the label.
In general, the following applies: “With the best efficiency class, the power consumption is the lowest. Whether a purchase is economical depends on the household appliance and the actual power consumption,” said Martin Brandis from the consumer advice center to ntv. In the case of refrigerators and freezers, according to his colleague Claudia Oberascher from the HEA (professional association for efficient energy use), the power consumption can increase by up to 20 percent with each class. As a tip, she reveals to ntv: For small households, it is particularly worth paying attention to the size of the device, otherwise a lot of unnecessary electricity would be consumed here.
Tip: Measure the current consumption before buying a new device
According to Oberascher, it is not possible to say in general whether a device that is still working should be replaced. But: “Anyone who bought a good refrigerator and freezer, a washing machine or a dishwasher in a high efficiency class ten years ago can assume that these appliances are still relatively economical today.” Brandis has a tip up his sleeve here. Before buying a new household appliance, he advises checking the current power consumption at the socket with a measuring device and then comparing the consumption with the consumption stated for the new appliances.
By the way: If you don’t know exactly how old your household appliance is – because it was taken over by the previous tenant – and whether it was classified according to the old or the new classification, you can look for a QR code on the label. This is only available for devices sold after March 2021, the labels of older devices do not yet have a QR code.
Editorial office finanzen.net
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