Why energy labels matter before you buy
Replacing an appliance can lower your electricity bills and reduce your household's carbon footprint, but the saving depends on which machine you replace and how often you use it. The biggest gains usually come from appliances that run all day or on every load, such as the fridge freezer, washing machine, dishwasher and heating controls. Start there rather than with small gadgets that are used only occasionally.
Before you compare models, check the energy label. Most current UK labels use an A to G scale, so older A+++ ratings come from a previous system and should not be compared directly with new ones. The label measure also differs by product: fridge freezers show an estimated consumption in kWh per year, while washing machines and dishwashers show consumption per 100 cycles. Capacity matters as well, because a larger fridge freezer will normally use more kWh per year, so compare models of similar size before judging efficiency.
How to choose without relying on the badge alone
Start by comparing the label figure that actually applies to the appliance. For a fridge freezer, look at the estimated kWh per year and the capacity in litres, and compare only models of similar size. For a washing machine or dishwasher, look at the kWh per 100 cycles at the standard programme and the water use per cycle, remembering that the label reflects a standard test rather than your own routine. Tumble dryers and ovens have their own label measures, so check the figure printed on each label rather than assuming they are comparable. Also look for features that reduce use in practice, such as a half-load or eco programme, a load sensor or good door seals.
Replacing an old fridge freezer is often assumed to give the biggest saving, but that is only sometimes true. The gain depends on the appliance's age, size, condition and use. An old, oversized or poorly sealed unit that runs constantly can use far more than a modern model of the right size, whereas a well-maintained older unit used sensibly may not use much more than a new one. Before replacing it, check the door seals, set the fridge to 5°C or below and the freezer to -18°C, and keep the vents clear. Trade-offs matter too: a higher-rated machine can cost more upfront, the payback depends on how often you use it, and smart features only pay off if you use them.
The label tells you the rating; your size, habits and the condition of the machine decide how much you actually save.
From the editors
Common mistakes include buying on the badge alone, choosing a size that does not suit your household and ignoring installation. A dishwasher bought too large for a couple will often run half-empty, and a fridge placed against a hot oven or with blocked vents will work harder. Eco programmes often take longer, so check that the cycle fits your routine. Finally, ask whether the retailer will take away your old appliance when delivering the new one, and confirm that the energy label is visible on the product page before you order.
What to look for first
For each item we name a store where you can start comparing.
Fridge freezer
Choose a model whose kWh per year figure suits its capacity and your kitchen space. Check the door seals and ventilation requirements before you buy.
Search termsfridge freezer · kWh per year · energy label · frost-free
Our recommendationhooverdirect.co.ukGreat for laundry and cold storageWashing machine
Compare the kWh per 100 cycles and water use per cycle on the label, then look for a half-load or eco programme. Choose a drum size that matches the loads you usually wash.
Search termswashing machine · kWh per 100 cycles · eco programme · load size
Our recommendationhooverdirect.co.ukGreat for laundry and cold storageDishwasher
Compare the kWh per 100 cycles and the water use on the label at the standard programme. A machine that suits your household size avoids running part-empty loads.
Search termsdishwasher · kWh per 100 cycles · water use · place settings
Our recommendationtheappliancedepot.co.ukWidest rangeSmart thermostat
A smart thermostat can help you heat only when needed, provided it suits your boiler and heating system. Check compatibility before buying and set a schedule that matches your routine.
Search termssmart thermostat · heating controls · heating schedule · boiler compatibility
Our recommendationhivehome.comSmart heating controlsKettle or microwave
Smaller appliances add up less than major ones, but a well-chosen kettle or microwave still helps. Look at the rated power and capacity, and only heat the amount you need.
Search termskettle · microwave · rated power · capacity
Our recommendationshop.swan-brand.co.ukEveryday small appliances
A practical order for your shopping
Begin with the appliance you run most. List your fridge freezer, washing machine, dishwasher and any heating controls, then note roughly how often each runs and how old it is. That gives you a priority order, so you spend time on the models that will matter most rather than on everything at once.
Next, compare label figures for the same appliance type. theappliancedepot.co.uk is a sensible place to compare a range of household appliances side by side, while hooverdirect.co.uk covers washing machines and fridge freezers if you already know which type you need. If your heating is the bigger cost, hivehome.com offers smart thermostats that can help you schedule heating more precisely. Check the size, delivery and removal of the old machine before you choose, and keep your label notes so you can compare like with like.
Before you order
- Note how old each appliance is and how often it runs.
- Check the energy label measure for the specific appliance type.
- Measure the space and ventilation available before choosing a fridge freezer.
- Compare capacity in litres or loads so you judge similar sizes.
- Check door seals and set fridge and freezer temperatures before replacing.
- Ask whether the retailer removes the old appliance on delivery.
- Confirm that any smart controls work with your existing heating system.
The stores at a glance
theappliancedepot.co.uk
Widest rangeUseful for comparing several household appliance types side by side, with energy labels in one place.
Recommended for Dishwasher
hooverdirect.co.uk
Great for laundry and cold storageOffers washing machines and fridge freezers, where the label figures are most useful to compare directly.
Recommended for Fridge freezer and Washing machine
hivehome.com
Smart heating controlsSmart thermostats can help you schedule heating more precisely, and the range also includes heat pumps for larger projects.
Recommended for Smart thermostat
vonhaus.com
Wider home rangeCovers home appliances alongside other household products, so you can find several items from one shop.
shop.swan-brand.co.uk
Everyday small appliancesSuitable for smaller everyday appliances such as kettles and microwaves, where using only what you need makes the biggest difference.
Recommended for Kettle or microwave
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Frequently asked questions
Do I need to replace my appliances to save energy?
Not always. A working appliance that is well maintained and the right size may already be efficient. Replacement makes most sense where the appliance is old, faulty or runs constantly, and where the label shows a clear gap against comparable models.
Why can't I compare washing machines by annual kWh?
Washing machine and dishwasher labels state energy use per 100 cycles at the standard programme, because households run different numbers of loads. To estimate your own use, multiply the figure by the number of cycles you run in a year and divide by 100.
Are A+++ labels comparable with new labels?
Usually not directly. Many current labels run from A to G, so an older A+++ rating is not on the same scale as a new A rating. Compare the kWh figures printed on each label instead.
Do smart thermostats always save money?
Not automatically. They can reduce wasted heating if they match your routine and you use the scheduling features, but the saving depends on your heating system and habits. Check compatibility with your boiler before buying.
TransparencySome links to stores may be partner links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission – the price stays the same for you. We choose the stores independently. How we make money
