Star rating shows efficiency
The Energy Rating Label applies to certain products under the Energy Efficiency (Energy Using Products) Regulations 2002. These products must display the label when they are offered for sale.
EECA administers the label compliance in New Zealand. The label also applies in Australia. It was developed under the trans-Tasman Equipment Energy Efficiency (E3) programme.
Which products require an Energy Rating Label?
- Household refrigerators
- Household freezers
- Household fridges/freezers
- Heat pumps/air conditioners
- Clothes washers
- Clothes dryers
- Dishwashers
- Computer monitors
- Televisions
What’s on the label?
The label features a star rating, along with the product’s annual energy consumption in kilowatt hours (kWh) per year, based on assumed usage and standardised tests. It also contains the product’s Test Standard.
Where does performance information come from?
Products are tested to the Standards cited in the Regulations under test conditions. The product’s star rating and annual energy consumption are derived from the results of these tests. Some of the key assumptions are:
- Clothes dryers: 52 uses a year
- Clothes washers: 365 uses a year
- Dishwashers: 365 uses a year
- Fridges and freezers: on 24 hours a day
- Televisions and computer monitors: on for 10 hours a day and standby for 14
- Heat pumps/air conditioners (heating and cooling): climate zone specific
How does the label help?
Energy efficiency labelling encourages manufacturers to make more and more efficient products, and keeps the most inefficient models out of New Zealand. It helps consumers save money, and New Zealand save energy and emissions.
- Importers and manufacturers – use this information to promote the energy efficiency and running costs of appliances.
- Retailers – use the label to help customers choose more energy efficient products with lower running costs.
Water efficiency
Clothes washers and dishwashers also need to have a Water Efficiency Label.