Five checks make an energy label useful.
- 01
Match the full model number
The supplier and model identifier on the label must match the appliance you are buying, including meaningful suffixes and regional variants.
- 02
Check the scale and market
Confirm whether you are reading the current A–G scale and whether the label is for Great Britain, Northern Ireland or the EU market.
- 03
Read the consumption figure
Look for kWh per year, per 100 cycles or another product-specific measure. Compare only figures produced under the same labelled test basis.
- 04
Compare capacity and programme context
A lower figure can describe a smaller appliance or different test load. Check rated capacity, eco programme, water consumption, duration and noise where the label supplies them.
- 05
Convert energy into your cost
Multiply consumption by your electricity unit rate. Keep standing charge out of the appliance calculation because the appliance does not create a second household standing charge.
A is the efficient end of the displayed scale.
The letter is category- and regulation-specific. It is not a universal performance score and does not compare a fridge directly with a dishwasher.
kWh is the bridge to running cost.
Annual kWh can go straight into a yearly estimate. A per-100-cycle value also needs your expected cycle count.
Old A+++ and new A–G labels do not map neatly.
The scale and test methods changed. Compare the underlying consumption and current product information sheet, not a guessed letter conversion.
The label is a controlled comparison, not a bill forecast.
Programme choice, loading, room temperature, settings and maintenance can change actual consumption.
Use the label and product information sheet together.
UK guidance says in-scope products must provide the label and product information sheet. For NI/EU labels, the QR code can lead to the official EPREL model record.