Proposal to update label on dishwashers and clothes washers

It is proposed to include standby energy use in the calculations of the energy rating label for dishwashers and clothes washers. Follow this link to see the public notice.

From 1 April 2007, the energy efficiency label that currently appears on dishwashers and washing machines will include standby power. Standby power is the energy used by an appliance while it’s plugged in but not being used.

Why is this change happening?

When energy labelling for clothes washers and dishwashers was first introduced, few if any models had standby power consumption. It was not taken into consideration in the calculations that determine the energy rating or annual energy consumption information that appears on the mandatory labels.

With the introduction of soft touch technology, it is now common for models to use standby. Because the current label doesn’t account for standby energy consumption, it is possible that consumers may choose to buy a model that has a high energy rating but has lower efficiency overall when standby energy consumption is taken into account.

It is important that standby energy use is reflected in the consumer information provided on the label so that the total energy use is known.

What does this mean for consumers?

Including standby energy consumption on the energy rating label will give people buying a new dishwasher or washing machine more accurate information to use in purchase decisions.

What does this mean for manufacturers and importers?

Any products imported or manufactured on or after 1 April 2007 will be required to display an energy rating label that includes standby energy consumption in the calculation for comparative energy consumption and the energy rating.

The change to the way energy consumption is calculated may mean that many current models will have a different energy rating. Models will be required to be re-listed with the new energy rating and calculation method.

Any stock imported or manufactured before this date can still use the current label.

For any further enquiries about this please contact the products team at EECA on 0800 358 676.

Coming soon – ENERGY STAR® for the most energy efficient dishwashers and clothes washers

EECA is shortly introducing the Energy Star mark on these two products. This voluntary mark enables consumers to identify which models are the most energy efficient. For more information, contact the Energy Star programme manager on 0800 358 676.

Last updated: 25/10/06