The EnerGuide Label

What does EnerGuide mean?

• Prominently featured on every appliance, the EnerGuide label allows you to quickly compare the energy efficiency of one appliance with another.
• An EnerGuide label does not mean the appliance is energy efficient – it only indicates where the appliance falls on an energy-efficiency scale.
• All appliances have EnerGuide labels, but some are more energy efficient than others. Be sure to carefully check its efficiency level.

1. Shows the annual energy consumption of the appliance in kilowatt hours. Look for the lowest number possible.
2. The energy consumption indicator lets you know how this model compares to others in its class. The bar below the indicator gives the energy efficiency range for this class of appliance. The further the indicator is to the left end of the scale, the better.
3. This bar shows you the energy consumption of the most and least efficient appliances in this class. In this case, the most efficient comparable model consumes 564 kWh per year while the least efficient uses 972 kWh per year.
4. The type and capacity range of similar models are compared.

Appliance Shopping Guide

• Consider an ENERGY STAR appliance when shopping for something new.

To learn more about ENERGY STAR qualified appliances, visit Natural Resources Canada 

Dishwashers

• An economy cycle feature uses less hot water – about 85% of a dishwasher's electricity is used just to heat the water.

Dryers

• A "perma press" cycle tumbles clothes in cooler air for the last few minutes, to reduce wrinkling and save energy.
• A time control helps avoid over-drying and energy waste.
• An electronic moisture or temperature sensor will automatically shut the dryer off when clothes are dry – a great energy saver!

Electric Stoves

• Self-cleaning ovens can be up to 25% more efficient because they are usually better insulated than other models. When it comes to normal usage, the heat is distributed more evenly so less energy is consumed.
• Check to see that the oven door is well insulated and fits tightly. An oven window lets you check on food cooking without opening the door and letting heat escape.

Freezers

• Chest freezers are more energy-efficient than uprights and give you more usable space.
• Allow for about 85 to 140 litres (3 to 5 cu. ft.) per person.
• As with refrigerators, be sure to allow for the appropriate airflow space around the unit. 

Refrigerators

A refrigerator is one of the largest consumers of electricity in your home, so be sure to select the right size for your needs.

• For 1 to 2 people, about 340 litres (12 cu. ft.).
• For 3 to 4 people, 395 to 480 litres (14 to 17 cu. ft.).
• For each additional person, add about 55 litres (2 cu. ft.).
• In your home allow for 25mm (1") of space on all sides so heat can move away from the compressor and condensing coil.
• When considering the various makes and models, choose a refrigerator with an energy-saver switch.

Washers

• A front-loading washer uses significantly less hot water and is much more energy efficient.
• Cold water wash and rinse cycles significantly reduce energy costs.
• Consider a compact model if your laundry loads are usually small.