What to Look for When Shopping for Energy Saving Appliances

Shopping for home appliances can be costly, confusing and time-consuming. With so many options on the market, it is difficult to pick out the features that really matter and find the best models for your price range.

But one thing is for sure, in today’s world, home appliances must be energy efficient. Newspapers remind us daily that climate change is huge concern for our planet and, closer to home, ballooning energy costs ensure that our mind must be on saving energy.

So read on if you find the world of energy efficiency confusing, as this guide will help to simplify what you need to look for when shopping for appliances for any type of Malta residential real estate.

Size matters

When buying an appliance for your house, the first thing we all do is measure the space in our home to check that it will fit. But the dimensions of the appliance are just one sizing factor to take into account when deciding on the right product for our needs.

For an air-conditioning unit, consider the size of the room it needs to cool. Too small a unit and you will need to run it all the time to make a difference to the temperature of the room. Too large a unit and you will use far too much energy for no real benefit.

Similarly, consider how large a full load is in your household when looking to purchase washing machines, tumble driers and dishwashers. You should aim to run as few full loads as possible in order to remain as energy efficient as possible. The right sized appliance is key to achieving this.

Look for the star

The Energy Star logo is the standardised symbol of energy efficiency in home appliances. Indeed, an appliance with the logo can save you as much as 30% in energy bills per year thanks to its energy saving abilities.

Furthermore, some companies will offer a host of benefits such as rebates or low-interest finance options for purchases which are particularly energy efficient, another reason to look for the most energy saving options.

Read the Energy Guide label

Before buying appliances for your home in Malta, they should all have an Energy Guide label that allows you to see the estimated energy consumption of the product. If this is unclear in the store, ask an assistant to provide you with the information, as it is your right as a consumer to read over it before buying.

Interestingly, you may find that the most expensive model at purchase works out to be the cheapest in the long run, as your bills will be significantly lower thanks to its energy saving capabilities.

Buy smart

When shopping for energy efficient appliances, it can be very difficult to work out which features are important and how much a product is going to cost you in the long run.

By using the government-approved consumer symbols, you will enjoy peace of mind that you are purchasing wisely. Furthermore, if you think carefully about your usage before you set foot in the store, you will undoubtedly shop smarter and save more energy from your appliances.