What Do Energy Ratings Really Mean on Appliances?

Energy labels are designed to make appliance shopping easier—but for many people, they raise more questions than answers. What does A vs B really mean? Are washer ratings reliable? And how much money can energy-efficient appliances actually save?

This guide by Central Home Appliances breaks down appliance energy ratings in a clear, practical way, using tables, real examples, and straightforward explanations—so you can make confident choices for your home.

Understanding Energy Ratings: The Basics

Energy ratings measure how efficiently an appliance uses electricity (and sometimes water). In the UK, most appliances use the A–G scale:

While the letter rating is useful, it’s only the starting point when understanding energy ratings for appliances.

Look Beyond the Letter: Check kWh

An A-rated appliance is efficient—but always compare the kWh figure too. A large A-rated fridge freezer can still use more electricity than a smaller A-rated one.

Real-world savings:

Upgrading from a D-rated to an A-rated washing machine can save around £100 over its lifetime. Multiply that across your home, and the difference is significant.

 

Get the Most From Your Appliance

Once your energy-saving appliance is installed, keep bills low with these simple habits:

• Use Eco modes whenever possible

• Keep appliances clean and maintained

• Avoid half-loads where you can

• Scan the QR code on the energy label for usage tips

What Is a Product Fiche?

If you’ve ever wondered what a product fiche is, think of it as the detailed breakdown behind the energy label.

A product fiche provides:

• Annual or per-cycle energy usage
• Water consumption
• Appliance capacity
• Performance test results
• Noise levels

It’s beneficial when comparing similar models with the same energy rating but different running costs.

 

Why Size and Usage Matter More Than You Think

Energy ratings don’t exist in isolation. A large A-rated appliance can still cost more to run than a smaller B-rated one if it’s oversized for your household.

Examples:

• A single-person household may not need a 10kg washing machine

• Running half-full loads wastes energy regardless of rating

• Choosing the right capacity improves real-world efficiency

Matching appliance size to your lifestyle is one of the most overlooked ways to save money.

 

Why Energy Ratings Matter When Buying Refurbished

Energy efficiency isn’t just for brand-new appliances. High-quality refurbished appliances with strong energy ratings can offer excellent value—lower purchase prices combined with lower running costs.

At Central Home Appliances, all appliances are professionally tested, clearly labelled, and selected to balance efficiency, performance, and affordability.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are A-rated appliances always the cheapest to run?

Not always. While A-rated models are the most efficient, a larger A-rated appliance may still cost more to run than a smaller B-rated one. Always compare kWh usage and capacity.

2. What do washer ratings actually measure?

Washer ratings combine energy efficiency, capacity, and performance testing. However, energy use per 100 cycles provides the most unambiguous indication of running costs.

3. Why are eco programmes used for energy ratings?

Eco programmes use less energy and water, providing a standardised way to compare appliances—even if the cycle takes longer.

4. Is the product fiche important when buying appliances?

Yes. Understanding the meaning of a product fiche helps you compare appliances beyond the headline rating, especially when choosing between similar models.

5. Do energy ratings for dishwashers include water usage?

Yes. Energy ratings for dishwashers also show water consumption per cycle, helping you understand both energy and water efficiency.

 

Why Energy Ratings Matter Even More With Refurbished Appliances

Buying refurbished doesn’t mean compromising on efficiency. In fact, choosing a higher-rated refurbished appliance often delivers the best value overall—lower purchase price plus reduced running costs.

At Central Home Appliances, all appliances are:

• Fully tested

• Clearly labelled

• Selected for reliability and performance

This means you save money upfront and over time.

Save on upfront costs, reduce running bills, and choose appliances that work smarter for your home.