The rising cost of fossil fuels, the imminent fear of exhausting them, coupled with global warming has awakened the global citizen to the perils of energy wastage. Governments and industry have realized that it is in the interest of the human race to conserve energy, create energy efficient appliances and equipment that consume lesser energy while delivering better utility. In the 1980s, many countries introduced or updated their laws requiring manufacturers of energy-consuming appliances and equipment to prominently display estimated measurements for energy consumption of the appliances. These assist consumers in determining the energy cost for utilizing those appliances. Here are some simple instructions on how to read an appliance energy guide.
STEP 1:
Calculation of yearly energy costs. The yearly costs displayed in the appliance energy guide are calculated based on average energy costs in the particular country and estimated usage of energy by that appliance or equipment. Other information displayed includes estimated consumption values on a per year basis and the estimated energy costs. A comparative table of energy consumption by similar models of the same appliance is provided for ready reference. A scale with markings on it assists in determining energy efficiency of the particular appliance. Normally, if the marking is close to the left, it means the appliance is highly energy efficient.
STEP 2:
Information provided. Other information displayed in the energy appliance guide includes the make and model number; size, dimensions and utility options available; name and address of the manufacturer; labels warning against improper use of appliance, etc. It must be noted that all the information mentioned on an appliance energy guide are indicative values based on test conditions. The nature of use, period of use, maintenance of the equipment in good condition and repair, load factor, geographical location and other related factors could vary these indicative figures. For example, if you do not use the 'heat water' function in your washing-machine, this could reduce energy bills; setting thermostat levels at higher temperatures in air-conditioners, using microwave ovens on below-high levels are some ways of reducing energy consumption over the indicated levels. Nevertheless, the information provided in an appliance energy guide is still a highly reliable method for indicating its energy efficiency.
Certain appliances like air-conditioners and refrigerators are fitted with energy saving devices, when activated, deliver controlled temperatures and thereby save some energy; microwave ovens too consume varied amounts of energy depending on the type of usage; for example, the energy consumption in convection mode is higher than in grill mode and so on.
Based on the equipments' energy efficiency and associated costs, consumers can make valued decisions for purchasing the appliance. Certain countries indicate energy efficiency of appliances in the form of star-ratings; more number of stars on an appliance, higher is the energy efficiency of that appliance.
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