When you're buying a new washing machine, fridge freezer, or tumble dryer, one of the first things you'll notice is the energy rating label. But what do those letters actually mean — and how much difference does it make to your bills? This guide breaks it all down.
The New UK & EU Energy Rating Scale
Since March 2021, the UK and EU introduced a rescaled energy label for most large appliances. The old system ran from A+++ down to D, but it became so compressed at the top that almost everything was rated A+ or above — making it hard to compare products meaningfully.
The new scale runs from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Crucially, the top bands (A, B, C) are intentionally left empty at launch, giving manufacturers room to improve over time. This means a product rated D or E on the new scale may actually be more efficient than an old A+++ model.
Which Appliances Use the New Scale?
The rescaled label currently applies to:
- Washing machines and washer-dryers
- Dishwashers
- Fridges and fridge freezers
- Televisions and monitors
- Light sources
Tumble dryers are transitioning — check the label on the specific model you're considering.
How to Read the Label
The new label includes more useful information than just the letter rating:
- Energy rating (A–G): The headline efficiency class
- Annual energy consumption (kWh): Based on standardised test cycles — use this to estimate running costs
- Capacity: Drum size in kg (washing machines/dryers) or litres (fridges)
- Noise level (dB): Particularly useful for open-plan kitchens
- QR code: Links to the EU/UK product database for full technical data
Calculating Real Running Costs
The kWh figure on the label is your most practical tool. Here's a simple formula:
Annual cost = Annual kWh × electricity unit rate (pence per kWh)
With the UK average electricity rate around 24p per kWh (July 2026), a washing machine rated at 52 kWh/year costs approximately £12.48 per year to run. A less efficient model at 80 kWh/year would cost around £19.20 — a difference that compounds over a 10–15 year appliance lifespan.
Heat Pump Tumble Dryers: A Special Case
Heat pump dryers are significantly more efficient than vented or condenser models. Where a condenser dryer might use 4–5 kWh per cycle, a heat pump equivalent typically uses 1.5–2 kWh — a saving of up to 60%. Over a year of regular use, that's a meaningful reduction in your energy bill.
What Rating Should You Aim For?
As a practical guide:
- Washing machines: Look for B or C on the new scale for a good balance of efficiency and price
- Fridge freezers: C or D on the new scale is solid; these run 24/7 so efficiency matters most here
- Tumble dryers: A heat pump model (typically B–D on the new scale) will outperform any condenser dryer on running costs
Don't Forget the Bigger Picture
Energy rating is one factor — but capacity, features, and reliability matter too. A highly efficient machine that's too small for your household will run more cycles, potentially negating the savings. Always match capacity to your actual needs first, then optimise for efficiency within that bracket.
Browse our full range of energy-efficient appliances below, with honest specs and expert advice from our team.
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