How to choose long-term (and environmentally friendly) electronics and appliances
Introduced for the first time in 1995, EU energy labeling has proven to be a real success, with over 85% of consumers using it before purchasing a product. This had very good effects on the competitive market and on the development of innovative solutions. Thus, although at the beginning the main energy classes were the lowest (E, F, G), we have now reached the situation where most products are part of the higher energy classes, A+, A++ or A++. In a reform of the classification system, the old system (with ++ classes) was replaced by a uniform scale from A to G.
From TV to refrigerators, worldwide
When choosing a new TV, it’s important to consider its energy efficiency. Not only can an energy-efficient TV save you money on your electricity bill, it can also help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier environment. You may not find the second part relevant, but the question is, do you like pollution, extreme heat, drought? Whatever the answer, keep in mind that energy pollution works over decades. The environmental problems of today are due to the pollution of a decade or more ago. If you want to prevent environmental problems from getting worse, maybe even better, you might want to consider the energy efficiency of the electronics you use.
And furthermore, energy will become more and more expensive in the coming years, no matter what we do. If you choose energy-inefficient equipment, the price of using it will be higher in the years to come.
EU Energy Label (illustrated for fridges, but valid for all electronics and appliances)
North American Energy Label
To determine the energy efficiency of a TV, look for the ENERG label for products in the European Union or the ENERGY STAR for those in the US and Canada. Similar classifications exist in most countries of the world. This label indicates that the TV complies with the strict energy efficiency rules established worldwide. TVs with this label use less energy than standard models without sacrificing performance or features. (See the description of energy certificate systems on the European Union website ).
Another factor to consider is the size of the TV. In general, larger TVs use more energy than smaller TVs. So, if you want to minimize energy consumption, you can consider buying a TV with a smaller diagonal.
Refrigerators and freezers – the energetic class
1 QR code
2 Energy efficiency class
3 Energy consumption in kWh/year (measured in the new standard conditions)
4 Total volume of all freezer compartments
5 The total volume of all refrigerator compartments
6 Noise level expressed in dB(A) re 1 PW and noise class
A refrigerator can be a major source of energy consumption. Look for models with an Energy Star rating, which means they are designed to be more energy efficient. Even if they are more expensive, refrigerators with a higher energy efficiency class will save a lot of money over time. Also, by choosing energy efficiency you assume an active role in protecting the natural environment.
see >
How to choose a new refrigerator
Dish Washing Machines
The electrical efficiency class for dishwashers continues to be based on the “Eco” program. This program is environmentally friendly, ideal for ordinary dirty dishes and is the most efficient program in the combination of “energy and water consumption”. As with washing machines and washer-dryers, energy consumption will be based on 100 wash cycles.
1 QR code
2 Energy efficiency class
3 Energy consumption in kWh/100 operating cycles (in the Eco program)
4 Standard number of normal cutlery for the Eco program
5 Water consumption in liters/operating cycle (in the Eco program)
6 Duration of the “Eco” program
7 Noise level expressed in dB(A) re 1 PW and noise class
Washing Machines
Energy consumption is calculated for 100 washing cycles. The new “Eco 40-60” program is suitable for cleaning normally soiled fabrics made of cotton, linen or mixed fibers that can be washed at 40°C or 60°C, based on the care symbol. The indicated fabrics can be combined in this wash cycle. The “Eco 40-60” program is the most efficient program in the “energy and water consumption” combination.
1 QR code
2 Energy efficiency class**
3 Weighted energy consumption** in kWh/100 operating cycles (in the Eco 40-60 program)
4 Maximum load capacity
5 Duration of the “Eco 40-60” program
6 Weighted water consumption** in liters/operating cycle (in the Eco 40-60 program)
7 Spin efficiency class**
8 Noise level during the spin cycle expressed in dB(A) re 1 PW and noise class**
Washing Machines with Dryers
Since washing machines with dryers are more often used only for washing, the label is separated into two parts. The left side of the label specifies the values of the full “wash and dry” operating cycle. The right side of the label only displays the values for the wash cycle.
1 QR code
2 Energy efficiency class* (full operating cycle)
3 Energy efficiency class* (washing cycle)
4 Weighted energy consumption* in kWh/100 cycles (full duty cycle)
5 Weighted energy consumption* in kWh/100 cycles (washing cycle) 6 Maximum load capacity (full duty cycle)
7 Maximum load capacity (washing cycle)
8 Weighted water consumption* in liters/operating cycle (full operating cycle*) 9 Weighted water consumption in liters/operating cycle (washing cycle)
10 Program duration (full duty cycle)
11 Duration of the “Eco 40-60” program
12 Spin efficiency class*
13 Noise level during the centrifugation cycle expressed in dB(A) re 1 PW and noise class
*The values apply to washing a quarter, half or full load. While washing and drying a half load or a full load.
** Washing and drying
New TV – Energy consumption
a detailed article > How to chose a new TV?
Additionally, some TVs come with built-in power-saving features that can help reduce power consumption. Look for features like automatic brightness adjustment and sleep modes to help save energy when you’re not actively using the TV. It should be noted that the efficiency labels describe the actual consumption during operation. But electronics consume up to 80% when they are not working but plugged in. Efficient functions allow you to save when you are not using the equipment. Or, alternatively, you can choose smart sockets or extension cords, which you turn off (or switch off) when you’re not using the TV.
By choosing an energy-efficient TV, you can enjoy all your favorite shows and movies while minimizing your impact on the environment and saving money in the process.