ENERGY EFFICIENCY
If you’re planning to get a new dishwasher, it’s worth taking a look at the energy label. Models with high energy ratings are more efficient, save you money on your electricity bills, and are kinder to the environment. You’ll also find that some models use less water or are quieter than others.
ENERGY LABELS
Most modern appliances and electrical items come with an EU energy label. In the case of dishwashers, this shows the energy efficiency rating, energy consumption, water consumption, drying efficiency, noise level and capacity.
Energy ratings range from the most efficient A+++ grade to the least efficient D grade. These are shown on the label using coloured arrows. Most modern dishwashers currently have an A rating, but there are also higher rated models around.
Generally, the higher the energy efficiency class, the more expensive the dishwasher will be to buy. But, this is balanced with the savings you make in running the machine over time.
All dishwashers must now have A class cleaning performance, so this is no longer shown on the label.
Generally, the larger the dishwasher’s capacity, the more energy and water efficient the machine will be. However, this assumes that it’s completely full every time you use it. For a single person household or small kitchen, a slimline machine may be more practical and efficient than running a large model with a half load.
Most modern appliances and electrical items come with an EU energy label.
ARE DISHWASHERS BETTER
THAN HAND-WASHING?
A lot of people buying a dishwasher want to know whether they’re more energy and water efficient than washing up by hand. The answer is, ‘it depends’. There are lots of factors involved, including how often you wash up, how large your household is, whether you leave the water running, as well as the age and efficiency of your dishwasher.
However, dishwashers have some clear advantages. Loading and unloading is generally less time consuming then washing by hand. Dishwashers can also wash a large amount in one go – great if you have a dinner party planned and need lots of plates ready in time.
Dishwashers can also wash at higher temperatures than your hands can bear, which kills germs and bacteria. Thanks to new technology such as steam power, dishwashers can now sanitise your dishes and remove stuck on stains with ease.
RUNNING COSTS
If used optimally, dishwashers are often much cheaper to run than people expect. Which? calculated an average running cost of between £27 and £64 a year for a family sized dishwasher. Waiting until the dishwasher is full before use is a great way to keep costs low, as is using economy or eco programmes. If your electricity is cheaper at night, running the cycle then can knock down the electricity bill even further.
Dishwashers can also wash at higher temperatures than your hands can bear, which kills germs and bacteria.
