Consumption advises checking the energy label before buying an appliance
The Regional Ministry's Directorate-General for Consumption recommends comparing the consumption of appliances before buying them and recalls simple habits, such as washing with a full load or switching equipment off from standby mode, to lower the electricity bill.
FJCG ·
Choosing a lower-consumption appliance can reduce the electricity bill. This is the recommendation that the Directorate-General for Consumption of the Regional Government of Andalusia passes on to those who are going to buy an appliance, on World Energy Saving Day, which is celebrated this Wednesday, October 21.
The label, before paying
Before buying an appliance it is advisable to check its energy label. This classification system makes it possible to know the characteristics of the appliance and compare the consumption of different models. It applies to refrigeration equipment, washing machines, washer-dryers, dishwashers, mobile phones, tablets and televisions, among others.
The scale has seven categories, from A to G, identified with colours ranging from green to red. The letter A corresponds to the most efficient appliances and G to those with the lowest energy performance. The label shows the trade mark, the model, the energy efficiency class and the electricity consumption.
Habits that lower spending
In addition to comparing labels, Consumption points out that certain usage habits reduce consumption. In washing machines and dishwashers, the advisable thing is to wait until there is a full load and to use low-temperature programmes when washing needs allow it.
With the oven, it is advisable to avoid opening the door while it is running and to take advantage of the residual heat by switching it off a few minutes before finishing cooking. The refrigerator consumes electricity continuously, so it should be kept at about 4 °C and the freezer at −18 °C, without putting hot food in, opening the door only when necessary and checking that the seals close properly.
Connected electronics
Electronic equipment is one of the main sources of household consumption, especially due to the prolonged use of devices connected to the Internet. To reduce it, it is recommended to switch off and disconnect appliances and computer screens when not in use, instead of leaving them in standby mode, because they continue to use energy. It is also advisable to unplug chargers when finished and to remove devices when the battery is full.
What can be done
Anyone who is going to buy an appliance can check the energy label in the shop itself before deciding on a model. At home, it is enough to apply the indicated usage guidelines: full loads, suitable temperatures in the fridge and oven, and switching off completely any equipment that is not being used.