Energy efficiency classes and what the labels mean

A little history

Labeling the energy consumption class of a product has been used in Europe since the 90s of the 19th century. Now the label is used in more than 50 countries around the world. Mandatory energy efficiency labeling has become a key tool for efficient energy consumption and a driving force for reducing the energy intensity of the gross national product.

In practice, there are now two energy efficiency labeling systems:

1. The American Energy Guide model, which involves analyzing the energy consumption of similar products and selecting from them about 25% with the lowest energy consumption, which are assigned the Energy Guide brand
2. The labeling model adopted in the EU countries, which involves dividing all products of the same type into seven classes, from A to G. The same designations apply in Russia. The division is made according to the ranges of quantitative indicators of energy efficiency throughout the entire range of characteristics from the most economical to the most energy-wasting

The main levers of influence of energy efficiency labeling on the energy intensity of the economy include:

• restrictions on the export of energy-intensive products (the import of products of classes F and G into the EU countries is prohibited, and temporary restrictions have been introduced on the middle classes D and F)
• linking energy efficiency with carbon dioxide emissions into the atmosphere, implying the inclusion of labeling in the system of sales of air emission quotas
• a system of fiscal measures to limit the production and sale of energy wasteful equipment
• state support for those enterprises that are focused on using energy-efficient goods in the production
• discounts for consumers choosing energy efficient technologies
• promotion of energy saving and respect for the environment

Criterion importance

Along with the power of the compressor and the volume of the freezer, the energy consumption of the refrigerator is the most important parameter that must be taken into account by the consumer when choosing equipment. Why is it important? Unlike the entire range of household appliances, the refrigerator works around the clock, producing cold and consuming a certain amount of electricity for this work. Energy consumption indicates to the user the “gluttony” of the equipment. The production of hundreds of kilowatts of electricity consumed requires natural resources, which, unfortunately, are not unlimited.

By choosing a refrigerator with a high energy saving class, the consumer saves not only the family budget, but also the natural resources of the planet, no matter how pretentious it may sound.

On a note! The classification of energy consumption of modern refrigerators allows the consumer to conclude what financial costs it will cost to maintain the model.

Consumers often confuse the concepts of energy consumption and energy efficiency. Unlike “gluttony,” the energy efficiency index shows the relationship between the amount of energy consumed and the work done. In other words, how many kilowatts of electricity will the device spend to create and maintain standardized temperature indicators per unit of time.

Detailed description

Explanation of energy efficiency labels

The higher the energy consumption class of the device, the more efficiently it will work, while economically consuming energy resources. Products with the letter A marked on the packaging have the lowest energy consumption; products of class G, on the contrary, are the least efficient to use.

The gradation of consumer properties of a product by energy consumption class consists of ten steps. The energy consumption class affects prices: as the class increases, the cost of the product also increases.

At the same time, if your household appliances do not reach the first letter of the alphabet, this does not mean that they are bad. Products of classes “B” and “C” are also considered economical, since they spend only 75% and 95% of the norm, which in any case is less than 100%.

The quality and energy efficiency of devices may be higher than A. Some models may be marked “A+”, “A++” or “A+++”, which means they are even more efficient in use. Energy saving classes such as E, F, G, due to wastefulness of electricity, are practically not found among the characteristics of modern products.

“A+” class equipment will spend up to 42% of electricity from the standard 100%, a product with o will spend up to 30% of electricity, and an “A+++” class model will spend up to 22%.

The color will also tell you about the energy consumption class: the highest energy efficiency class is indicated by the darkest green color, a burgundy shade will indicate very high energy consumption. The cooler the color, the better.

Freezers and refrigerators

For refrigerators, when calculating energy efficiency and their class, it is important to use such information as the volume of the chambers, the lowest permissible temperature inside the device, the presence of convenient additional options such as automatic defrosting or access to a Wi-Fi network. The highest energy efficiency class that can be assigned to refrigeration equipment is A+++. Thus, the Samsung RL-44 QEUS refrigerator (volume 326 l) has class A+ and consumes 315 kW/h during the year.

Freezers are rated similarly to refrigerators for energy efficiency. When receiving an energy consumption indicator of less than 22 kW, the freezer is assigned the highest class - A+++, for consumption from 22 kW to 43 kW - class A++ or A+, for consumption from 44 kW to 55 kW - class A.

Information on Energy Efficiency Labels

Labels on energy efficiency labels must contain at least four categories describing the properties of the product. At the moment, additional parameters are being added to the main parameters: useful volume, form factors, noise level and others.

Labels usually indicate:

1. Type of equipment, manufacturer
2. brand, model
3. Energy efficiency class
4. Energy consumption per operating cycle
5. Useful volume
6. Form factor type
7. Noise level

In the diagrams, in addition to the energy consumption class, you can obtain other information necessary when choosing a model:

• inherent features of the model and materials used in its manufacture
• consumption, efficiency, power and other specific characteristics
• capacity and dimensions of the device
• noise level (sound efficiency)

Methods and methods for determining energy efficiency

The energy consumption class is determined easily and depends on the amount of power consumed, but the efficiency index is a completely different matter. If we consider how the energy efficiency index is determined, then the general principle consists of the ratio of the power consumed by equipment to perform work at maximum load to the standard value determined by the calculation method. The full calculation is more complex and is determined by mathematical calculations, taking into account many technical parameters. Each class of goods has its own characteristics and methods of definition.

What affects energy consumption indicators

The main energy efficiency indicators are influenced by the following factors:

• selecting an operating mode (for example, on a dishwasher, a long mode of washing dishes at high water temperatures will increase electricity costs)
• overload (for example, a large amount of laundry loaded into the washing machine, which will become even heavier when wet, will also increase energy costs)
• maintenance and service life (for example, over time, plaque may form in an air conditioner, which will impede the transfer of heat/cold), thereby increasing electricity consumption)

Methods for confirming the energy efficiency indicators of products include:

• declaration of the product manufacturer, which is based on product testing under regulated conditions in accordance with the method determined by the regulatory document;
• certification tests of products, which are established by state standards;
• The assignment of an energy efficiency mark to an energy-consuming product is carried out by a certification body authorized by the State Standard of Russia.

What is the power consumption?

Energy consumption

- the process of consuming energy and/or energy resources during the production of products, during the performance of work and the provision of services in the technological processes of manufacturing, operation, repair and disposal of products... Source: ENERGY SAVING.

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Energy efficiency classes of refrigerators and freezers

A constantly turned on refrigerator is one of the main consumers of electricity in an apartment, so the energy consumption class is very important when choosing a model.

Refrigerators and freezers are designated from "A+++" to "G". Their energy efficiency class is determined by an index, which is the ratio of actual energy consumption to nominal energy consumption. For refrigerators and freezers, this index refers to the relationship between annual electricity consumption and the volume of food refrigerated.

An index below 22 corresponds to energy consumption class “A+++”, and an index above 150 refers to class “G”. Refrigerators of the “A+++” class will consume five times less energy than the average model, while the “G” class product will consume twice as much energy.

At first glance, it may seem that products of classes “A+++” and “A” differ slightly from each other, but in practice, a class “A+++” device consumes half as much electrical energy as a class “A” model.

In addition to the already familiar letters indicating the energy consumption class, the multi-colored diagram of refrigerators and freezers will also indicate:

• brand and model
• annual energy consumption
• useful volumes of refrigerator and freezer compartments
• noise produced

Water heaters, boilers and boilers

Energy-producing equipment such as boilers, various water heaters and boilers are divided into classes according to the seasonal energy efficiency coefficient of the heating device. This indicator is calculated by dividing the amount of electricity spent on heating (for a certain season) by the annual energy consumption that is needed to satisfy this demand, expressed as a percentage. Thus, the seasonal coefficient for a class A water heater is in the range from 90% to 98%, for class A+ equipment this number will be 98%-125%.

Another coefficient for determining the class of water heating devices is the energy efficiency of water heating. This important parameter is determined as follows. The ratio is calculated between the amount of electricity that was expended by the water heating device to heat the water and the percentage of the total energy consumption.

Energy efficiency classes of washing machines and clothes dryers

Washing machines take an honorable second place among passive consumers of electricity in the house. For them, the energy efficiency indicator depends on the energy consumption per 1 kg of washed laundry at a temperature of 60°C.

Washing machines and clothes dryers are designated "A+++" to "D", but they are assigned very differently from refrigerators. Behind each letter is the electricity consumption in kilowatt-hours for washing. To determine the energy efficiency class, you need to correlate the actual and standard resource consumption.

A class “A” model will consume less than 0.19 kWh/kg. A dryer of the same class will consume less than 0.55 kWh/kg. When loading 6 kg, 1.52 kWh/cycle or 334 kWh/year is taken as 100%. At the same time, the index of a class “A+++” machine is less than 46, and the index of a class “A” washing machine will be about 60.

Please note that the energy consumption coefficient for washing machines with a drying function of each class will be much higher than for a conventional machine. Such a class “A” unit will consume about 0.68 kWh/kg.

You can see cars with the same energy consumption at different energy consumption classes. This may depend on the washing class, spin class and other specifics.

In addition to the energy consumption class, the multi-colored diagram of washing machines and dryers will also indicate:

• brand and model
• annual energy consumption
• annual water consumption
• spin class
• maximum load weight
• noise produced
• type and duration of drying

Comparison of energy efficiency indices

We present a comparative table of energy efficiency and energy consumption coefficients for various household electrical appliances, for all existing classes.

Table continuation

Table continuation

Energy efficiency classes of dishwashers

The energy efficiency class index of a dishwasher is calculated in approximately the same way as that of a washing machine.

Standby energy consumption data is summarized over 280 dishwashing cycles with average consumption. The average consumption is washing 12 sets of dishes, which consumes 462 kWh of electricity per year.

An index of less than 50 is assigned to class “A” dishwashers; an index of over 90 is typical for the lowest class of such machines, that is, “G”. The energy consumption class of dishwashers also depends on the classes of washing and drying dishes.

The dishwasher diagram will also show the following along with the energy class:

• brand and model
• annual energy consumption
• annual water consumption
• drying class
• number of cookware sets
• noise produced

Energy consumption class for different types of household appliances

Modern household appliances are all marked with different letters depending on which energy consumption class they belong to. We all know that class A has very economical technology, and class G is the most energy-consuming. But home appliances are different and, accordingly, energy consumption classes have different meanings. In our article we will try to figure out specific numbers.

Unfortunately, such markings are only placed on large household appliances - refrigerators, dishwashers, washing machines. Small household appliances are not marked according to energy consumption classes. Washing machines Here the energy consumption class is set depending on the electricity consumption per kilogram of laundry washed in the machine. The classification numbers are as follows:• A – the machine consumes up to 190 watts per kilogram;• B – the machine consumes from 190 to 230 watts per kilogram;• C – the machine consumes from 230 to 270 watts per kilogram;• D – the machine consumes from 270 to 310 watts per kilogram;• E – the machine consumes from 310 to 350 watts per kilogram;• F – the machine consumes from 350 to 390 watts per kilogram;• G – the machine consumes from 390 watts per kilogram; RefrigeratorsU refrigerators It is difficult to calculate the direct dependence of electricity consumption on compliance with the class. This is done using a very complex formula and takes into account many factors, such as the volume of the refrigerator and so on. In this situation, you need to know that there are also classes A+ and A++ for refrigerators. Refrigerators belonging to these classes are considered the most economical IN THEIR CATEGORY

The first coefficient shows the relationship between the cold produced and the electricity spent on this process. The second shows the same relationship for the heating function. The higher the coefficients, the more economical the air conditioner. Dishwashers In this situation, efficiency depends on water consumption. The less water the machine uses to wash dishes, the less electricity it will consume to operate. This is a simplified diagram. In production, each model is tested for a number of parameters and, based on the test results, is assigned a class. But still, the main criterion remains water consumption. Highly economical dishwashers use 14-16 liters of water per wash cycle, medium-economical ones use 17-20 liters, and for low-economical ones this figure is 20-27 liters. Additionally, you can save water, detergent and energy using the Aqua Sensor device, which, after pre-rinsing, determines the transparency of the water and, under certain conditions, can reuse the same water. Ovens: Everything is simple here. There are three types of ovens - small, medium and large volume. For each type of oven there is a separate scale of energy consumption classes.

Class

energy consumption

Small volume Medium volume Large volume A

Energy efficiency classes of electric ovens

Ovens are designated from “A+++” to “G”. Their energy consumption class directly depends on power, cooking temperature, and also on capacity. Energy will be wasted less if the oven power is higher and the volume is smaller.

An “A+” class oven will save energy by 25%, and energy savings with an “A++” class oven will double – by 50%.

A large-volume oven (more than 65 liters) will consume electricity more than 1.0 kW/h, a medium-volume oven (from 35 to 65 liters) will consume more than 0.80 kW/h, and a small-volume oven (from 12 to 35 liters) will consume more than 0.60 kW/h.

In addition to the energy efficiency class, the oven label will inform you about:

• brand and model
• annual energy consumption
• volume
• noise produced

Energy consumption of climate control equipment

Energy consumption of climate control equipment has a pronounced seasonality. For example, many people use air conditioning exclusively for cooling during the warm season. In this case, air conditioning costs will be several times higher in summer than in winter.

An air conditioner is one of the most powerful household appliances and, of course, if it is constantly on, the energy consumption will be significant.

The energy consumption of a breather also greatly depends on the time of year, or more precisely on whether it needs to heat the air or not. Heating elements of any equipment always require a lot of energy (look at a kettle, hair dryer, heater). Therefore, in winter, the energy consumption of the breather increases. Let's say, in conditions of -25°C outside the window, the breather will need a power of about 400 W to heat the incoming air to +10°C (at first speed), and about 520 W to heat it to +20°C.

But in the warm season (and some turn off the heating in the breather as soon as the temperature outside stops dropping below zero), the breather requires only 30 W at first speed to operate. Even if the device works around the clock, it will only cost 21.6 kWh per month.

When calculating the costs of climate control equipment, it would be correct to take into account not the minimum and not the maximum, but the average annual energy consumption.

In this video, the user shares his experience of using the breather and indicates real energy consumption figures:

Air conditioner energy efficiency classes

The energy consumption class of an air conditioner is made up of cooling coefficients (EER) and heating coefficients (COP), which are defined as the amount of cold or heat produced when one kilowatt of electricity is consumed under normal conditions at 100% load.

This coefficient shows how many times the cooling or heating power produced by the air conditioner is higher than the power consumed.

An “A” class air conditioner will spend over 3.6 kW. Air conditioners of the lowest class “G” will need less than 2.4 kW. Such values ​​will be correct for weather conditions accepted as normal.

Taking into account global climate change, seasonal indices (SEER and SCOP) are used in Europe, which take into account deviations from normal temperatures.

In addition to the energy consumption class, the sticker on the air conditioner packaging contains information about:

• brand and model
• type of air conditioner and cooling method
• annual or hourly energy consumption at maximum loads
• heating and cooling power
• seasonal energy efficiency coefficients
• noise produced
• heating intensity and energy efficiency

Air conditioners

Air conditioners and various split systems have certain functionality (several operating modes, two-channel or single-channel system, and so on), thanks to which these devices are assigned to one or another energy class. Not only the possibility of cooling/air conditioning is taken into account, but also the ability of the air conditioner to heat the room served.

To determine the energy efficiency class, the system is run at full power for an hour. The coefficient is calculated as follows: the cooling or heating performance of the air conditioner is divided by the total power of the device. Thus, an A-class air conditioner should have an output value of 3.2-3.4 (for the cooling function) or 3.6-3.8 (indicators for the air heating function).

Energy efficiency classes of vacuum cleaners

Vacuum cleaners are designated from “A+++” to “D”. Those vacuum cleaners that are designed for cleaning carpets are assigned two energy consumption classes.

In the case of vacuum cleaners, the assigned energy consumption class indicates not only electricity consumption, but also the cleaning efficiency.

The energy efficiency label tells you the approximate amount of dust in the air after cleaning with the selected vacuum cleaner.

It will also indicate the annual electricity consumption in kW/h, which is calculated based on 50 cleanings per year in a room of 87 square meters.

Additional elements of a sticker indicating the energy consumption class of the TV

Under the colorful scale there are the inscriptions Energy and the like, in addition to four mnemonic images:

1. In a small square there is a button with a vertical line (power button). If the TV has a control function that puts the device into standby mode with a consumption of no more than 0.01 kW/h, a check mark is placed under the stylized image in the box.
2. A little to the right is a square of similar size, where the power of the TV is indicated in Watts.
3. The last square in the row is twice as large as the previous ones; the annual consumption of the device in kWh is indicated there. This is the main number for which the sticker was created. Specific percentages, rounded down, are shown on the scale.
4. Finally, at the bottom is the display diagonal size, expressed in centimeters and inches. This takes into account the interests of measurement systems of different countries.

Modest parameters, but the result is amazing! By 2022, the European Union plans to save 43 billion kWh annually from televisions. In Russian rubles this will amount to 150 billion, which is equivalent to the pension of 20 million pensioners. We're impressed by the numbers, and are readers appreciative of the prospects?

Energy efficiency classes of lighting lamps

The lamps are designated from “A+++” to “G”. The assigned class directly depends on the relationship between power consumption and luminous flux (in lumens).

Class “A” most often includes LED lamps; halogen lamps occupy a niche from class “B” to class “C”, depending on the model. Low wattage incandescent lamps have the lowest energy efficiency.

⚠️ From January 1, 2011, incandescent electric lamps with a power of 100 watts or more, which can be used in alternating current circuits for household lighting, are not allowed for circulation in Russia.

The lamp label, along with the energy consumption class, will also indicate:

• brand and model
• lamp luminous flux
• service life in hours

Dishwashers

As for dishwashers, their class directly depends not only on the amount of kilowatts of electrical energy used, but also on the efficiency of washing and drying dishes. To determine which energy-efficient class a particular dishwasher belongs to, the quality of its operation is assessed after two hundred and eighty full cycles, which is correlated with the average amount of electricity consumed (the average value is considered to be 462 kW/h per year). Class A+ consumes less than 0.86 kW/h, class A – less than 1.06 kW/h.

TV energy efficiency classes

Televisions are designated from “A+++” to “G” depending on the index, which is defined as the ratio of the energy consumption of the selected model and the average value.

The calculation uses the ratio of power consumption to display area. Power, in turn, consists of the energy consumption of the TV in operating mode and during stand-alone use.

It is worth remembering that even if the screen is turned off and the indicator on it is on, electricity continues to be consumed. Consumption is almost invisible, but it is there.

The energy consumption class of the TV is also affected by connected set-top boxes and A/V receivers, hard drives or flash drives, and so on.

In addition to the energy consumption class, the sticker on the TV will inform you about:

• brand and model
• energy consumption in operating mode
• annual energy consumption based on working four hours a day
• screen diagonal

TVs

A TV receives a certain level of energy efficiency class as the ratio of current (power) consumption to the size of the TV screen. It is noteworthy that A+ class TVs appeared only a few years ago, and now the most energy efficient TV devices are those with A++ class (for example, TFT models). At the same time, “A+++”-class TVs will soon be actively produced.

The reference power for a TV is determined by the formula:

Pref = Pbasic + A * 4.3224, where

• Pref – TV power, which is expressed in W/dm2 (Watt per square decimeter);
• Pbasic – basic coefficient (taken from the table of TV types, in which for a TV with 1 tuner Pbasic = 20 W, for a TV with hard drives 24 W, for a TV with 2 or more receivers or tuners 24 W, for a TV having both disks and several receivers 28 W, for a monitor 15 W);
• A is the screen area, expressed in dm.

Vehicle energy efficiency classes

The multi-colored diagram of car energy efficiency classes is significantly different from all previously described ones. For cars, instead of the energy class, carbon dioxide emissions are indicated, measured in grams per kilometer driven.

According to the European Union Directive of December 13, 1999, manufacturers and dealers are required to inform customers about the fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions of new passenger car models.

According to the European Commission Directive of April 23, 2009, all new passenger cars must have average carbon dioxide emissions of no more than 95 g/km. Penalties have been introduced for each extra gram: 95 euros for each g/km of excess.

Vehicle energy labels usually also include:

• make and model
• version
• Type of fuel
• transmission type
• curb weight
• Fuel consumption levels: different fuel consumption
• mixed fuel consumption
• urban fuel consumption
• highway fuel consumption

Washing machine power

What is the power of the washing machine?

The power of a washing machine consists of the load carried by individual drives:
• tubular electric heater (TEH);
• drum spinning motor;
• pump for pumping water out of the tank.

In addition to the creation of thermal and rotational energy, a certain amount of watts is consumed by the control unit and information support of the device.

Simply summing up the loads of each consumer will make it possible to find out the installed power of the washing machine: its value will be maximum, but not reflecting the true energy consumption.

The fact is that the drives in the machine operate at different times: first the heating element is turned on, after it is disconnected the drum rotation motor is started, and at the end of the cycle the drain pump is introduced.

The result is a certain average load, which is called operating power. It is calculated per 1 kg of washed laundry and by this indicator the energy efficiency of the device is judged.

You can determine how many kilowatts of electricity your machine will consume based on its technical specifications. They are located on the case sticker or in the manual manual.

You can also find out the power by the letter marking of the washing machine of a particular model. It is indicated on the EU energy efficiency label - DIRECTIVE 2009/125/EC, indicating the basic consumer properties of the product.

To get an idea of ​​the total electricity consumption of a washing machine, you need to see the values ​​​​for each current collector. There are four such devices in the device:
• The drive motor of the working element is a drum for frontal units and an activator for vertical units. Motor power is measured in watts, and this value varies depending on the brand in the range from 180 to 800 W.
• Heating element - its power is several times higher (1.7–2.9 kW), but it turns on only while the water is heating. However, it is the second most important component of resource consumption.
• The drain pump operates in short-term mode and has a low power characteristic - from 24 to 40 W. Its share in consumption is insignificant.
• The control unit, sensors and relays, light indication in total bring a load of 5–10 W.

Thus, the maximum value - the installed power of the washing machine - can reach 3.7–4.0 kW. While the average (distributed in the cycle) is in the range of 1.0–1.4 kW.

How many kilowatts does a washing machine consume?

First you need to understand which parts of a given household appliance consume electricity the most:
1. The electric motor is the “heart” of the washing machine. The task of this element is to give rotation to the drum. The main types of motors used in modern devices are commutator, asynchronous and direct drive. Average power consumption ranges between 400 and 800 Watts (0.4 to 0.8 kW).
2. Heating element – ​​used to heat water in the tank. It fully automates the washing and drying process. The quality of washing certain items depends on choosing the right temperature.
3. Pump (pump) - designed to pump out water at various stages of washing. The power consumption of such pumps varies from 25 to 40 watts.
4. The control panel, electronic module, programmer, various sensors, starting capacitors, light bulbs and other radio components are elements that together consume no more than 5 - 10 Watts.

From the above it is clear that the main consumed electricity depends on the operation of the heating element and the electric motor. In turn, they will consume the amount of energy corresponding to the choice of washing program.

The programmed modes differ from each other in temperature, washing duration, intensity, number of drum revolutions during washing and spinning, additional options (number of rinses, etc.).

Affects power consumption and weight of loaded items and fabric types.

Many different factors influence the amount of kilowatts consumed by a washing machine:
• Service life of household appliances. That is, the more the washing machine works, the more formations accumulate on the heating element. Such formations significantly complicate the operation of the machine and the process of heating water, accordingly increasing power consumption.
• The type of clothing and fabric also greatly affects the power consumption of the washing machine. The thing is that wet fabric differs from dry fabric in weight and, accordingly, requires different electricity consumption.
• The load on household appliances greatly affects energy consumption. The calculation of the amount of electricity consumed is taken per kilogram of laundry, therefore, the more you load the drum, the more power consumption the washing machine needs.
• The washing program also affects the electricity consumption. It also talks about the temperature required for washing. High temperatures will require large amounts of electricity. A long washing process increases the amount of kilowatts consumed.

Energy efficiency classes of buildings

The energy consumption class of buildings is determined by its energy efficiency. In the United States, for example, there is the Residential Energy Services Network (RESNET), which is responsible for creating and maintaining the RESNET mortgage industry energy rating standards and for certifying and quality assurance of RESNET provider organizations.

The energy rating of a building takes into account the climatic conditions in different parts of the country and the average energy consumption of households in a given climatic region.

An existing building's energy efficiency rating allows a homeowner to receive a report listing options for improving a home's energy efficiency and allows buyers to compare homes they are considering purchasing by that classification.

The ratings awarded to buildings provide a relative energy efficiency index called the HERS Index, where one hundred represents the energy consumption of an American Standard building and zero represents a zero-energy building. The lower the value, the better.

The energy characteristics of a home that are required to assign an energy rating include the level of insulation, window efficiency, wall-to-window ratio, heating and cooling system efficiency, solar orientation of the home and hydronic heating system, and testing of doors for warm air leakage is also required.

⚠️ In the Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation of January 25, 2011 No. 18 “On approval of the Rules for establishing energy efficiency requirements for buildings, structures and structures and requirements for rules for determining the energy efficiency class of apartment buildings”, one of the energy efficiency indicators is the specific annual consumption of electrical energy for general house needs.

The calculation of the energy passport of an apartment building project should include a methodology for determining energy efficiency, taking into account the implementation of such energy-saving actions as:

• replacement of incandescent lamps with energy-saving lamps for artificial lighting of staircases, lobbies, elevator halls and inter-apartment corridors, equipped with motion sensors or automatic shutdown after a certain period after manual switching on
• replacement of incandescent lamps with energy-saving lamps with a power of 11–15 W for artificial lighting in technical undergrounds, attics and elevator shafts
• retrofitting elevator control stations, pump and fan motors with devices that compensate for reactive power

Energy classes

A refrigerator is an electrical appliance that is constantly working; food storage is an integral part of food consumption. If a person were deprived of an irreplaceable unit, a freezer, meat and food supplies would spoil in a short time. The situation will lead to an extraordinary trip to the meadow - the general store is calling! Energy consumption (in any quantity) by a refrigerator is a natural process; resisting a fan means going against the wind, subjecting the quality of food to degradation. The end result is substandard.

It is necessary to calculate the power consumption of the refrigerator; in parallel with the data obtained, you will be able to plan your family budget and cut down on overtime energy consumption by electrical appliances: toasters, electric kettles.

Today science has introduced the concept of energy efficiency class. The parameter determined by physical quantities will determine the relative energy consumption of the unit. Previously existed: “A”, “B”, “C”, “D”, “F”, “G”. Markings are used as standard. If you want to know the numbers before purchasing, look at the information on the colorful label of the device. Graphic designation with multi-colored horizontal stripes covering half of the spectrum of the rainbow (red - green).

Modern definitions are formed by the following figures:

• Class A++, percentage: less than 30%;
• Class A+, percentage: 30-42%;
• Class A, percentage: 42-55%;
• Class B, percentage: 55-75%;
• Class C, percentage: 75-90%;
• Class D, percentage: 90-100%;
• Class E, percentage: 100-110%;
• Class F, percentage: 110-125%.

The letters A, B, C, D, F, G are the values ​​​​established by the European standard, adopted by developed countries. The percentage indicates the ratio of the energy consumption of the refrigerator to the standard (an outdated device of the DE limit). If you decide to purchase a refrigerator abroad, see the format indicated on the product packaging. You will be able to determine approximate energy consumption indicators. The value is relative. A large-sized refrigerator requires more energy than a small-sized one.

Annual consumption kWh/annum

A table of refrigerator energy consumption classes will allow you to calculate monthly expenses. Avoid shocking numbers: operate the unit at full capacity. Modern inverter systems are equipped with energy-saving modes. Set the desired parameters and make the operation of the unit more profitable financially.

Today it is difficult to find class G systems (mostly exotic: gas, thermoelectric). The readings of the declared format exceed 125%. Such refrigerators consume energy in scoops. Have plenty of material resources to pay for services. Think about it when buying and discovering a lower class. It’s hard to save money with such units.

Recommendations for selection

A diagram with an energy consumption class will give you the opportunity to estimate the future costs of using a household appliance, but you should not make a choice based only on this criterion. Ask yourself the right questions:

• How often will you use the selected household appliance?
• Do you like the light of LED lamps or will warm light be more pleasant?
• Is it true that lower electricity consumption will save more than the smaller dimensions of the equipment and its overall cost?

⚠️ Remember that a high energy efficiency class does not equal low energy consumption. It is important to consider the relationship between all product characteristics. For example, an A++ rated refrigerator with two compressors will consume more electricity than an A++ rated refrigerator with one compressor.

However, by giving preference to equipment with the highest energy efficiency class, you will contribute to improving the environmental situation on our planet.

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What do the letters representing energy consumption mean?

• The letter A. It appears on the sticker on a clean green background and is highly energy efficient.
• Letter B. In this case, this class is drawn on a light green background; it is also considered quite high and very economical.
• The letter C. Displayed in green-yellow color and belongs to the middle category. It cannot be said that such devices will consume a lot of electricity, but it is also quite difficult to classify them as economical.
• The letters D, E, F, G are the lowest energy efficiency classes; household appliances with such a sticker will consume a large amount of electricity, which has a completely negative impact on paying bills for this service. Devices of such a low class are considered a fairly budget option, but this is a rather dubious saving over many years of using the device; electricity bills will more than exceed the cost of good equipment.

Every year, manufacturers are trying more and more to improve the class of household and office appliances. Therefore, there is already an energy efficiency class for household appliances such as: A+, A++, A+++ and so on. The more advantages in the designation, the more economical the device will be.

Expert opinion

Which refrigerator model with an economical energy consumption class is better from the range available on the domestic market? According to the expert, the best representatives of energy-saving refrigerators are represented by the following models:

• A+++ Siemens KD 29EAL40; Samsung RL-58 GQGIH; Bosch KGN39XI40; Bosch KGE36AL40
• A++ Samsung RB-29 FERNCSS; Bosch KIF42P60; LG GA-B489 TGDF; Hotpoint-Ariston EBLH 18323 F.
• A+ Samsung RB 29 FSRNDWW; Beko RCNA 400E 21ZXP; Gorenje NRK6191GHX4; Atlant XM 6125-180.
• A Samsung RB29HSR2DSA; Snaige FR275; Panasonic NR-B591BR; Biryusa 149 M.

The energy consumption class affects the cost of refrigeration equipment. The difference in cost between adjacent classes in models of the same brand can reach 25%.

If your financial condition does not allow you to purchase a new energy-efficient model, then you should take care of the old refrigerator: change the gasket on the door, install the unit in such a way as to ensure good air circulation on the back wall of the device.

Watch the video: Refrigerator energy consumption classes

Which is better

The optimal energy efficiency class for a refrigerator is A: its index does not exceed 55%. This also includes subclasses A+ and A++, which are considered highly efficient: A+ spends up to 42% of energy when properly installed, A++ no more than 30%.

Models of the highest class A+++ are almost always single-chamber refrigerators or separate freezers. Their high price is not offset by years of energy savings.

Classes A++ and A+ are optimal in terms of energy efficiency and are represented by models starting at RUB 45,000. Energy consumption indicator is at least 315 kW/h per year.

Refrigerators of category A are most often single-chamber, so the price is low, on average from 19,000 rubles. Energy consumption per year will be from 360 kW/h.

Class B models are also considered economical, although they are less efficient than A. They are successful in the market due to their price-quality ratio. The energy efficiency index ranges from 55 to 75%. Two-chamber refrigerators with a volume of 275 liters cost from 20,000 rubles.

C is the lowest of the classes included in the “TOP” energy efficiency. Significantly inferior to A and B, but remains within the normal range of 100%: the index ranges from 75 to 95%. One of the advantages is the budget price, about 10,000 rubles. The downside is that at least 548 kW/h of energy is spent per year.

Models marked D are less common, since they differ in their position on the border of average energy efficiency: from 95 to 110%. Manufacturers of household refrigerators are reducing production of units in this category. According to forecasts, in 5-10 years they will finally be removed from the assembly line.

Refrigerators with a class below D are considered inefficient and have not been found on the household goods market for the last 15-20 years.

Interesting! In the Russian Federation, the new classification has turned into a marketing ploy: prices for ultra-efficient foreign-made refrigerators of class A+++ are 30-35% higher than for models of the same category sold in Europe.

The amount of energy that equipment will consume depends not only on the category, but also on the volume. For example, a refrigerator model Bosch KAN 58A40 class “A” with a volume of 507 liters will consume 522 kW/h of electricity per year, and a copy of the same category “A” Ariston MBA2200 with a volume of 370 liters will consume only 360 kW/h. A large refrigerator will increasingly consume more light, although it is labeled with a high energy efficiency class.

The concept of energy consumption and the importance of the parameter

The standard classification was adopted in 1992, and as household devices have evolved, the parameters for belonging to a particular class have been revised many times and new categories have been introduced. In the year the classification was adopted, there were only 7 energy efficiency categories, which were designated by capital letters A...G. But later, when it was possible to further reduce energy consumption, additional classes arose - A+, A++ and A+++, and energy consumption categories of refrigerators E and G were no longer produced.

Reference! A refrigerator is one of the small number of household appliances that operate around the clock. Taking into account the power of such a device, it can be said that the refrigerator is the main consumer of energy consumption in a home. According to statistical information, the unit is capable of “eating” up to 30% of the total amount of electricity consumed in an apartment or house.

In accordance with the specific energy consumption, refrigeration cabinets are divided into appropriate categories or classes. High-class devices have a higher cost, but they cover their high price with low power consumption. In accordance with this statement, Class A units guarantee increased efficiency and reduced utility costs.

The energy consumption category is calculated as a percentage or certain conditional indices that reflect the hourly energy consumption. The index reflects how much operating time from the electrical network is required for refrigeration or freezer compartments to maintain the set user temperature. Economical variants of units require only 15% of the operating time to maintain the specified temperature indicators in the compartments. In the case of uneconomical variations of refrigerated cabinets - several times more. The fewer the number of starts of the refrigeration cycle and compressor, the more economical and better a particular unit is. Energy consumption indicators depend on the following factors:

• volume of the freezer and refrigerator compartment;
• motor-compressor power;
• temperature indicators of the air surrounding the unit;
• type of specific equipment;
• cell congestion level;
• type of defrosting control - automatic or manual;
• frequency of swinging the sash and keeping it open;
• presence of a dispenser or ice maker.

The average refrigerated cabinet spends up to 25-35 kWh per calendar month or about 300-400 kWh per year. Certain models charge less, others spend more. Electricity consumption indicators are indicated in the operating manual and on the rear wall of the unit.

“We do not expect favors from nature; taking them from her is our task!” – as a result of the implementation of this ringing slogan, the human impact on the world around us became so strong that even the climate began to change. Gas emissions from the combustion of fossil fuels, which have been increasing over the past 50 years, have even affected the climate, sharply increasing the trend towards global warming. The “greenhouse effect” has become especially noticeable in the last two decades, and it is no longer possible to ignore its manifestations - more frequent hurricanes, abnormal heat, floods.

Humanity is burning oil and coal faster and faster. And the need for energy is growing! According to various estimates, at this rate of development, natural resources will be completely exhausted before the end of this century.

The only way to change the situation today is to change humanity’s attitude towards energy consumption. It has been proven that in this case you can save up to 40% energy. This is a huge number! According to the UN International Commission on Climate Problems (IPCC), increasing energy efficiency will reduce harmful emissions by a billion tons annually by 2010.

Of course, the greatest energy consumption is accounted for by the population of the countries of the so-called “golden billion”, i.e. industrialized zones of the Earth. This is not surprising: high-tech civilization requires huge amounts of electricity and heat. However, it was here that the ideas of a reasonable attitude towards the environment were first formulated. Eco-friendly style has become more than just a fashion - a real way of life among educated Westerners. It is no coincidence that alternative energy projects and “passive houses” have become so popular recently. Already today, these measures can provide from a quarter to a third of the existing demand for electricity and heat. The trend was also supported by the giants of the global industry, producing more and more economical equipment for home and industrial use.

Russia is a little behind in this. But in our country, an increasing number of people are moving to a new way of life. The indicator of success today is not only knowledge of languages ​​and computer innovations. A culture of behavior, civilized consumption, including energy consumption – this is the distinguishing feature of a modern successful Russian. At the same time, to implement such a lifestyle, you do not need to give up comfort. Even using basic measures to wisely use and save energy, you can significantly reduce heat and energy losses. Moreover, this will help not only save non-renewable resources, but also significantly reduce your own costs. Let's look at this in more detail.

How much energy do you need?

At first glance, it may seem that saving energy means saving on comfort. Indeed, without household appliances - TV, washing machine, computer, etc. It is no longer possible to imagine modern life, not only in the city, but also in the countryside. In practice, reasonable and civilized energy consumption does not at all mean giving up the usual amenities. You just need to slightly, almost painlessly, adjust your everyday life style.

So how much electricity do we need? Federal Law of the Russian Federation (Federal Law No. 201-FZ of November 20, 1999) provides that the amount of electricity per person per month included in the so-called “consumer basket” must be at least 50 kW/h. Based on our habits, this is not much. But on the other hand, if we consider that energy efficiency in Russia is 6 times lower than in Japan, 2 times lower than in the USA and, moreover, 1.4 times lower than in India and China, this is not so not enough. Let us also note that the energy intensity of the gross domestic product (GDP) in our country is 2-3 times higher than in the USA! This situation suggests that there is a huge reserve for saving energy resources. According to the Government's Energy Program, by 2010, with the planned increase in GDP, it is planned to ensure an increase in domestic consumption of heat and energy resources (FER) by only 10%. It is proposed to cover such a huge gap in the growth rates of GDP and consumption of fuel and energy resources by reducing the energy intensity of GDP by 70% by 2010.

To understand where this huge difference comes from, let's look at what we spend electricity on simply for domestic purposes. According to research, the majority, 79%, goes to heating the premises, 15% goes to ordinary household needs (cooking, washing, etc.), about 5% goes to electrical appliances and another 1% is spent on radio and TV. At the same time, with a rational approach to business, you can save up to 40% of energy consumption. Here is a small summary table that shows where and how the most noticeable losses occur:

Table 1 Household electricity losses

It is clear that if there is no culture of energy consumption in everyday life, then it is unlikely to arise in other areas of our lives... What to do? Follow simple energy efficiency rules. “When leaving, turn off the lights,” clean the refrigerator on time, even if it is a modern “no frost” one, buy good dishes with the “right bottom,” replace the windows or at least insulate them properly. The situation with the selection and operation of household and other electrical equipment is somewhat more complicated. It is known that modern units have great power (see Table 2), but you don’t want to sacrifice the comfort that has already become familiar.

However, here you can try to get real savings. For example, cook by covering the pan with a lid (rapid evaporation of water extends the cooking time by 20 - 30%). Switching to a lower cooking temperature after boiling food. This is obvious: water above 100 °C at atmospheric pressure will still not heat up, but with intense boiling it will evaporate very actively, carrying away about 0.6 kW/h for every liter of boiled water.

Table 2 Average power consumption of household appliances

When washing in an automatic washing machine, you should fully load the drum (without overloading the machine, however). Even using the “economy” or “half load” mode provided on most modern units, with an incomplete load, a significant part of the machine’s power will be spent on idling water in the tank. However, the quality of washing will not improve.

The power of the iron is quite high - up to one and a half kilowatts. At the same time, it is one of the most uneconomical household appliances. Stop ironing? This is also an option, but it is not always acceptable. To save at least a little, you should not iron overdried laundry. Modern wireless models are convenient - due to the thermal inertia of the massive sole, the process continues effectively without consuming electricity. In principle, any iron can be unplugged at the end of ironing, especially if you have to iron items made from thin fabrics.

When using a vacuum cleaner, you should know that even a third full dust bag reduces suction by 40%! Accordingly, energy consumption increases by the same amount... Therefore, it is necessary to either change bags and filters on time, or purchase a modern “cyclone” type unit.

As a general recommendation, we can advise purchasing energy-efficient modern household appliances. To do this, you need to carefully consider the information of manufacturers who assign a certain energy consumption class to their products.

Class approach

The idea of ​​energy-saving technology did not arise out of nowhere. Even during the first oil crisis in the 70s. In the last century, electrical appliances that were able to perform their functions economically gained advantage. With the development of science and technology, the units became more and more “smarter” and had less and less “appetite”. To guide the consumer, it was decided to create a system of labels showing how economical a particular device is. It should be noted that each class of household appliances has its own standards for electricity consumption, but the system itself is the same for all. Since the problem of energy efficiency was most acute (and still is in Europe), it was she who became the pioneer of classification. Today this system is used everywhere. Many countries have developed their own standards based on it.

Thus, in Russia, GOST R 51388-99 “Informing consumers about the energy efficiency of household and municipal products”, which includes the EU classification system, has been in force for several years. Currently, almost all household appliances have a special “euro sticker” indicating energy saving classes from A to G. The most economical appliances correspond to class A, and class G includes the most “expensive”. Each energy saving class corresponds to a certain level of energy consumption.

Not long ago, manufacturers of household circulation pumps used in individual heating systems also joined this system. Energy consumption labels (see picture) have been used and will be placed on the packaging of the devices. It is interesting that the GRUNDFOS concern (the world leader in pump manufacturing) has developed the world’s first circulation pump (GRUNDFOS Alpha Pro series) for private homes, which corresponds to class “A” in energy consumption. For example, for the Alpha Pro 25-40 model, energy consumption under normal conditions is no more than 6-7 W, which corresponds to approximately 100 kW/h per year. This is especially interesting in light of the emerging trend towards the construction of energy-efficient and passive individual houses.

At the same time, the difference in energy consumption by class can reach quite significant values.

For example, according to SAMSUNG Corporation, for washing machines with a load of 1 kg of cotton laundry and a temperature of 95 ° C:

• with class “A”, 0.19 kW/h of energy is consumed,
• at “B” – from 0.19 to 0.23 kW/h,
• at “C” - from 0.23 to 0.27 kW/h.

When loading 5 kg, these figures increase accordingly and are:

• for class “A” – up to 0.95 kW/h,
• for “B” – from 0.95 to 1.15 kW/h,
• for “C” – from 1.15 to 1.35 kW/h.

For refrigerators:

• energy consumption class “B” – consumption: 1.26 kW/day;
• energy consumption class “C” – consumption: 1.45 kW/day.

It must be said that all major manufacturers try to label their units in accordance with the accepted system. This not only guides the buyer, but also serves as a kind of incentive for further developments in energy efficiency, because such products have a noticeable competitive advantage. ..."

The economy must be economical!” – with what irony we quote these words from the recent past. But is this maxim really so meaningless? It is obvious that reasonable savings will not only have a positive impact on the family budget, but will also help preserve rapidly diminishing natural resources.

After all, civilization is manifested not only in the ability and ability to use complex instruments and units, but also in a responsible attitude towards one’s living environment, from home to the whole world. And following the principles of energy efficiency is one of the ways to prove that you belong to modern culture and lifestyle.

Refrigerator Energy Saving Tips to Reduce Costs

Here are some simple yet great energy saving techniques to reduce and keep your maintenance costs low.

Keep your temperature settings under control

The temperature level of your refrigerator plays a crucial role in determining your energy bill. Maintaining unnecessary cold temperatures can increase energy consumption and, in turn, your bill. The ideal temperature of a refrigerator should be between 2-4℃, while the freezer should always maintain a temperature between -16℃ and -18℃. If the temperature inside the refrigerator is too high or too low, there is a high chance that your food will also spoil.

Read: Rules and tips for caring for your refrigerator

If you need to check the temperature inside the device, place the thermometer in a glass of liquid (water) and leave it for 24 hours. Similarly, place a thermometer between two frozen ice cubes or any food item for 24 hours to check the freezer temperature.

Keep your refrigerator stocked with food

Yes, as strange as it may sound, the more you store in your refrigerator, the more efficiently you use it. However, overcrowding should be avoided by allowing air to circulate evenly throughout the refrigerator. A loaded refrigerator maintains the ideal temperature better than an empty one. If your refrigerator is almost empty, fill it with containers of water or other liquid. This will improve the performance of the device. It is also important to cover all containers and other food items before storing them. Opened food tends to dry out, and the loss of moisture in turn makes it harder for the compressor to operate, which impacts energy consumption.

Place your refrigerator correctly

The installation of a refrigerator makes a huge difference in determining its efficiency. These types of appliances need some space around them to help with air circulation. Overcrowding the space by placing it between cabinets or storage can hinder its performance. Additionally, it is important not to keep refrigerators near any heat-producing objects such as an oven, stove, etc. Placing them in direct sunlight is also not recommended. The temperature around the refrigerator may require 20% more electricity.

Regular Maintenance

Refrigerators have metal condenser coils located at the back that help get rid of the heat generated by the compressor. Keeping the coils clean is an important step to ensure your refrigerator lasts long and performs efficiently. Cleaning them once a year should prevent overloading the compressor. Whether you have a refrigerator with automatic defrosting or you have to do it manually, make sure your refrigerator goes through a regular freeze and defrost cycle to improve its efficiency. Ice accumulation in the evaporator should not exceed 6 mm. The greater the ice accumulation, the greater the energy required to keep the engine running.

Keep the doors closed

It may seem small, but it plays an important role in maintaining the temperature in your refrigerator. Frequent and unnecessary opening of refrigerator doors allows cold air to escape, making it difficult for the compressor to operate to replace it. Also, make sure the gasket around the door is tight enough to prevent air from escaping. A torn or worn gasket (seal) does not trap cold air, which spoils food and increases energy consumption.

Turning off the ice maker

While ice makers are a boon for those days when you need a quick and large supply of ice for a limited period of time, ice makers use more electricity than your regular refrigerator. Automatic ice makers are known to improve energy efficiency by 15-20%. So you should probably consider turning it off when not needed or when the tray is full.

Do not put hot food in refrigerators right away

Allow food to cool before storing it in the refrigerator. No matter how busy and in a hurry you are. Overuse of the device will lead to early deterioration in performance. Hot air and moisture inside the refrigerator will make it difficult for the compressor to operate and consume more electricity.

Activate the refrigerator's energy saving mode

Most modern refrigerators come with an energy-saving mode. Older models used heaters to prevent condensation inside the unit when the door was opened and the cold air in the refrigerator was cooled. New appliances with energy-saving mode reduce the need for a heater and, in turn, the need for additional energy consumption.

Store food in your refrigerator correctly

No, this is not an article about good housekeeping, but did you know that a well-organized refrigerator space saves energy and keeps your food preserved longer? To ensure maximum efficiency, store food in its rightful place: juice and drinks by the door (warmest part), leftovers should be stored in the main top unit. The bottom shelves are the coldest part of the refrigerator other than the freezer. They are ideal for storing dairy and meat products. Fruits and vegetables should be stored separately.

What refrigerator size should I choose?

For an ordinary family of four, a refrigerator with a capacity of 320/360 liters is sufficient. Keep your requirement in mind before purchasing the appliance. Although three door refrigerators look modern and create good home decor, their efficiency is much lower than single door or double door refrigerators. Large refrigerators, which contain almost no items, require more energy to maintain a certain temperature than small ones, which are stored at full capacity.

Although the structure and shape of a refrigerator does not directly affect its efficiency, it is important for saving energy. Refrigerators with top and bottom doors are considered more energy efficient than refrigerators with parallel doors. This is due to the placement of the compressor, which plays an important role in its efficiency.