What Is the Energy Star Rating System and How Does It Work?
When you buy a home appliance in Australia, you'll see a blue or red energy star rating label on the product. This label is mandated by the Australian government and provides a standardised way to compare the energy efficiency of appliances across brands and models. Understanding how to read it properly can save you hundreds of dollars over the life of an appliance.
What Does the Energy Star Rating Label Show?
The Australian energy rating label (also used in New Zealand) has three key components:
- The star rating: More stars = more energy efficient. The scale typically runs from 1 to 6 stars, with some categories extending to 10 stars using a "super efficiency" label.
- Annual energy consumption: Printed in large text, this shows how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) the appliance will use per year under standardised test conditions. This is the most useful number for calculating running costs.
- The comparative market band: A scale that shows where this product sits relative to other products of the same type currently on the market.
Why the Annual kWh Number Matters More Than Stars
Stars are useful for quick comparisons within the same size category — but a 6-star 400L fridge may use more energy than a 4-star 300L fridge, simply because it's larger. The annual kWh figure lets you calculate actual running costs regardless of size.
How to calculate annual running cost:
Annual kWh × electricity price per kWh = annual running cost
At Sydney's current electricity rates (approximately 25–35 cents per kWh), a fridge using 400 kWh/year costs $100–$140 per year to run. A less efficient model using 600 kWh/year would cost $150–$210 per year — a difference of $50–70 per year, or $500–$700 over 10 years.
Which Appliances Must Carry the Label?
The Australian energy rating label is mandatory for:
- Refrigerators and freezers
- Clothes washers and dryers
- Dishwashers
- Air conditioners
- Televisions
- Computer monitors
It's not mandatory for ovens, cooktops, rangehoods or small appliances like kettles and toasters, though some manufacturers include voluntary ratings.
The "Super Efficiency" Label
Products that significantly exceed the standard energy efficiency threshold can carry an extended star rating (up to 10 stars) on a red "super efficiency" label instead of the standard blue one. These are typically the most energy-efficient products available in their category.
Water Star Rating
Separate from energy efficiency, washing machines and dishwashers also carry a blue Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) star rating. More stars = less water used per cycle. For a large family or household with high water bills, the water star rating is an important consideration.
How to Use the Energy Rating When Buying an Appliance
When comparing two appliances, look at the annual kWh figure for the most accurate running cost comparison. Use the star rating to quickly filter your shortlist. For high-use appliances like fridges and washing machines that run constantly or daily, an extra star is worth paying for — the savings add up over 10+ years.
At Oceania Appliances, we can advise on the energy ratings of every appliance we stock. Our range includes many high-efficiency models from leading brands, available as certified pre-owned or graded-new units at prices well below retail. Free delivery across Sydney, 3–6 month warranty on every unit. Visit us at 2/14 Centre Place, Wetherill Park or browse online at oceaniaappliances.com.au.