Tough energy efficiency rules cutting costs for householders

The cost of running household appliances such as watching the television and washing clothes in Britain’s households has fallen significantly since the 1990s, according to a new report. That’s the […]

The cost of running household appliances such as watching the television and washing clothes in Britain’s households has fallen significantly since the 1990s, according to a new report.

That’s the result of tougher EU minimum performance standards and an increase in energy efficient products on the market, DECC revealed, claiming the UK could save more than £850 million every year by 2020 as a result.

It also found that the most important criteria for consumers looking to buy an appliance is its energy rating, with sales of energy efficient fridges, washing machines and TVs rising by 18% in the last three years.

The average fridge bought in 2000 costs twice as much to run over the course of its lifetime compared to one bought in 2013, the report suggests. A washing machine bought last year uses 28kWh of electricity less every year than the most energy efficient model from 2000.

That has led to a typical family paying around £25 less in electricity costs to run their fridge and washing machine last year, according to DECC.

Source: DECC

The report also found a single LED bulb lasts around five and half years, which is 50 times longer than a traditional light bulb if switched on constantly.

Energy Secretary Ed Davey said: “Making everyday appliances more energy efficient has helped to keep more money in the pockets of consumers – without people having to do a thing.

“Newer, less power-hungry appliances are coming out all the time thanks to better product standards and improving technology – which means running costs are going to keep falling, saving people even more money.”

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