Is energy rating D better than E?
Yes. On the A–G energy label used for UK appliances, D sits above E, so a D-rated machine is more efficient than an E-rated one of the same type. The class comes from a calculated energy efficiency index, where a lower number means better efficiency.
Energy labels for household appliances run from A, the most efficient class, to G, the least efficient. D therefore ranks better than E, and both rank below A, B and C. That ordering is the whole point of the label: it lets you compare machines of the same product type at a glance before you look at anything else.
[1]Where the letter actually comes from
The letter is not a direct measurement of electricity used. For washing machines and the washing cycle of washer-dryers, UK regulations define an energy efficiency index, written as EEI W. The machine's weighted energy consumption on the eco 40-60 programme is measured at full, half and quarter of its rated washing capacity, then compared against a standard cycle energy consumption for that capacity. The result is expressed as a percentage: EEI W equals the weighted energy consumption divided by the standard cycle energy consumption, multiplied by 100.
[2]The weighting matters. Machines up to 3 kg are judged entirely at full capacity. Larger machines blend the three load levels, with weighting factors that shift as capacity changes. In other words, the letter reflects how the machine performs across a mix of realistic loads on one specific programme, not how it behaves on every setting you might use.
[2]A concrete comparison
Suppose you are choosing between two 9 kg washing machines, one labelled D and one labelled E. The D machine's class reflects a lower efficiency index, meaning less energy relative to the standard for its capacity. But the letter alone does not tell you the kilowatt-hours. Two machines in the same class can consume different amounts, and the kWh per 100 cycles figure on the label is what feeds a running-cost estimate. The right move is to read the class, the kWh figure, the capacity and the test basis together rather than stopping at the letter.
[1][3]What the letter does not settle
- The letter is an efficiency class, not a guarantee of lower total energy use for a larger machine or a different use pattern.
- A better class does not guarantee a better machine overall: capacity, dimensions, noise, water use and repairability are separate considerations.
- Comparisons are only meaningful within the same appliance type; a D dishwasher and a D washing machine are not ranked against each other.
- A shared product name can cover several capacities, colours, markets or revisions, so check the full model code before trusting any figures.
One more caution: the label class applies to the eco 40-60 programme specifically. If you habitually wash at different temperatures or partial loads, your real consumption will differ from the label's basis. Treat the class as a standardised comparison point, not a forecast of your bill.
[1][2]A practical next step: find the exact model code for the machines you are considering, look up each one's kWh per 100 cycles and capacity alongside its class, and run those figures through a running-cost calculation at your own electricity rate before deciding.
[3]Sources and dates
- https://energysavingtrust.org.uk/advice/home-appliances/ · accessed 2026-10-18
- https://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2021/745/schedule/10/crossheading/energy-efficiency-index-of-household-washing-machines-and-the-washing-cycle-of-household-washerdryers-eeiw/made · accessed 2026-10-18
- https://appliancebench.com/ · accessed 2026-10-18