Episode 5 :: Choosing and using efficient whiteware
Running whiteware appliances - like fridges, washing machines, dryers and dishwashers - accounts for about 30% of the average power bill.
Because we use these appliances daily and tend to keep them for a long time, choosing and using them wisely can lower your power bills and make better use of our country's resources for years to come. Here's how.
Know what you need
Think about what you need your appliance to do and how big it needs to be. Appliances that are too big or too small generally won't be as efficient.
Find out more about choosing and buying appliances.
Choose highly efficient appliances
When buying a new appliance, it's not just the purchase price you need to consider. Some appliances cost a lot less to run over their lifetime, because they're a lot more energy efficient.
The blue ENERGY STAR® mark is the simple way to choose highly efficient appliances - it is only awarded to products with top energy performance.
You can also use the energy rating label to help compare models - the more stars, the more efficient.
Find out more about energy rating labels and the ENERGY STAR mark.
It's not just what you buy...
Appliance running costs are not just about what product you buy - how you use them every day also makes a big difference.
Find out lots of simple energy-saving tips.
Maintain your appliances
Check your appliances are working properly, otherwise they will have to work harder and will cost you in the long run.
A simple way to check the door seals on your fridge is to turn a torch on, put it inside your fridge and close the door. If you can see the torchlight your seals need replacing.
Did you know?
Over its lifetime, a two-star washing machine could cost three times as much to run and a four-and-a-half star machine.
