How to Read an Appliance Energy Label in Australia
Every major appliance sold in Australia carries an energy rating label — that yellow and blue sticker with stars. Many shoppers glance at the stars and move on, but there is a lot more information on that label that can save you significant money over the life of an appliance. Here is how to read it properly.
What Is the Energy Rating Label?
The Australian Energy Rating Label is a mandatory scheme administered by the federal government. It applies to refrigerators, freezers, washing machines, clothes dryers, dishwashers, air conditioners and televisions. The label allows you to compare the energy efficiency of different models before buying.
Understanding the Star Rating
The yellow stars represent the energy efficiency of the appliance relative to others in its category of similar size and type. More stars equal greater efficiency. The scale runs from 1 to 6 stars, though some highly efficient appliances now earn a Super Efficient rating (shown as a separate red sticker with 1 to 10 stars).
Important: The star rating only compares appliances of similar capacity. A 600-litre five-star fridge uses more energy than a 300-litre five-star fridge, because the star rating describes efficiency, not total energy consumption.
The Energy Consumption Figure
Below the stars is a figure in kilowatt-hours per year (kWh/year). This is the actual annual energy consumption of the appliance under test conditions. This number is what you should use to compare the real running cost of different appliances.
To calculate annual running cost: multiply the kWh/year figure by your electricity rate. In Sydney, electricity typically costs around 25 to 35 cents per kWh. So a fridge rated at 400 kWh/year costs approximately $100 to $140 per year to run.
Comparing Running Costs
Use the kWh/year figure to compare models directly:
- Fridge A: 500 kWh/year at 30c/kWh = $150/year
- Fridge B: 350 kWh/year at 30c/kWh = $105/year
- Saving: $45 per year. Over 10 years: $450 saved.
A model that costs $100 more upfront but saves $45 per year pays for itself in just over two years.
Air Conditioners Have Two Ratings
Air conditioners in Australia have two separate energy ratings — one for cooling mode and one for heating mode (reverse cycle). These ratings can differ significantly. If you use the unit mostly for heating, pay attention to the heating star rating.
The Zone Map on Air Conditioner Labels
Air conditioner labels include a map of Australia with different climate zones highlighted. The star ratings shown on the label correspond to the highlighted zone (Cold, Mild, Hot or Average). Sydney sits in the “Average” zone. Check which zone is highlighted on the label matches your location.
Using the Government's Energy Rating Calculator
The Australian government's Energy Rating website (energyrating.gov.au) has a calculator where you enter a product's energy consumption and your electricity rate to find exact annual running costs. Use this when comparing expensive appliances like fridges, air conditioners and dishwashers where the running cost over 10 years is a significant factor in the total cost of ownership.
Shop Energy-Efficient Appliances at Oceania Appliances
We carry a wide range of energy-efficient appliances across all categories, with free delivery across Sydney. Our team can help you understand the energy label of any appliance you are considering. Visit our Wetherill Park showroom or shop online.