How to Read an Appliance Energy Label: What Every Number Means

Every major home appliance sold in Australia must carry an Energy Rating Label — the yellow and black sticker you see on fridges, washing machines, dishwashers, dryers and air conditioners in showrooms. Understanding what this label is actually telling you can save you hundreds of dollars over the life of an appliance.

The Australian Energy Rating Label

The label has two key pieces of information: the star rating and the annual energy consumption figure.

The Star Rating

The row of stars at the top of the label shows the appliance's relative energy efficiency compared to other products in the same category and size class. The scale currently runs from 1 to 6 stars, with some super-efficient models displaying additional stars above 6.

Important: Star ratings compare appliances within the same category. A 4-star washing machine is more efficient than a 3-star washing machine of similar capacity. But a small 3-star fridge might use less electricity per year in total than a large 5-star fridge — because the size difference matters more than the rating difference.

The Annual Energy Consumption Figure

Below the stars, the label shows the estimated annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year. This figure is calculated under standardised test conditions and assumes typical use patterns. It is the most direct way to compare actual electricity use between two models.

To estimate your annual running cost: multiply the kWh figure by your electricity tariff rate. At 32 cents/kWh (a common Sydney rate in 2025):

• 400 kWh/year fridge: approximately $128/year
• 280 kWh/year fridge: approximately $90/year
• Saving: $38/year — or $380 over 10 years

What Each Appliance Label Shows

Refrigerators and Freezers

Label shows annual energy consumption and star rating. The capacity in litres is also shown. Compare kWh/year for fridges of similar total capacity.

Washing Machines

Some labels show energy and water use separately. The water efficiency star rating (WELS) is on a separate blue label. Cold water wash ratings reflect standard cold wash use.

Dishwashers

WELS water efficiency label shows litres per wash cycle. Energy label shows annual energy in kWh. A well-rated dishwasher uses 9–12 litres per cycle — less than hand-washing.

Air Conditioners

Split system air conditioners show separate star ratings and kW figures for cooling and heating mode. Compare the kW input (how much electricity it uses) versus kW output (cooling or heating delivered) — the ratio is the COP or EER, with higher being better.

Clothes Dryers

Shows annual energy in kWh per year. Heat pump dryers will have significantly lower figures than conventional electric dryers at the same capacity.

Limitations of the Label

Test conditions may not reflect your actual use. If you do only cold washes at 30°C, your washing machine will use less energy than the label shows. If you run your dishwasher twice daily, it will use more. The label is a comparison tool, not a precise bill predictor.

For appliance advice, contact Oceania Appliances at 0493 300 490 or visit oceaniaappliances.com.au. Free delivery across Sydney.