Appliance. energy labelling. Retailer Training Kit REACH FOR THE STARS

Transcription

1 Appliance energy labelling Retailer Training Kit REACH FOR THE STARS

2 Credits and Copyright Prepared by the Sustainable Energy Development Authority, MLW Training Consultants and the Templar Group, for the Reach for the Stars Appliance Efficiency Program 2000/2001. This Training Kit has been produced using a number of sources, including the Energy Rating website, the Australian Greenhouse Office, the Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria, and the Australian Gas Association. Copyright: Sustainable Energy Development Authority January For information on reproduction of the materials contact: Program Manager Residential Energy Efficiency Sustainable Energy Development Authority PO Box N442 Grosvenor Place NSW 1220 Telephone: (02) Design and typesetting by Trademark Design Consultants The information in this publication was derived from various sources, is provided in good faith and believed to be correct when published. Products listed in this publication are provided for the purposes of information only and reference in this publication should not be construed as an official endorsement by the NSW Sustainable Energy Development Authority, the Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria or the Australian Greenhouse Office. The program partners shall not be liable for any loss or damage that may be occasioned directly or indirectly through the use of, or reliance on the contents of this Training Kit.

3 How to use the Training Kit The Training Kit has been developed as a resource for the introduction of the Reach for the Stars Program and education on the Energy Rating labels for gas and electrical appliances. It would be a benefit for sales staff to undertake the training conducted by one of the Reach for the Stars trainers, however in the case where a staff member is absent at the time of training they may work through the training kit at their own pace. Objectives of the Training Kit The Reach for the Stars Training Kit provides appliance sales staff with all the information they need to know about Energy Rating labels and how they can use this information in their sales strategy to sell high star rated appliances to save money, save energy and save the environment. The Reach for the Stars Program has been designed to equip retail sales staff with the knowledge and the skills they need to sell energy smart appliances. At the end of the training, participants will be able to: confidently inform customers of the financial and environmental benefits of purchasing energy efficient, energy smart appliances; answer any questions customers may ask about the Energy Rating labels for gas and electrical appliances; Secure the sale of high star rated appliances, especially Galaxy Energy Award winning appliances; and Understand and see the true benefits of selling high star rated appliances to the growing army of green consumers. The Kit has three parts: Information Manual The Information Manual is a comprehensive resource that is used firstly as a learning tool and secondly provides a useful reference resource for staff back in the workplace. All the training session content is contained in this manual and is referred to throughout the training to provide detailed information. Its purpose is to provide salespeople with the answers to most customer questions and provide key points that can be used in the sales process to assist in successfully selling more energy efficient appliances. Training Guide and Retail Staff Workbook The Training Guide provides session plans and information for the training. These are segmented to provide the opportunity to complete them one at a time or as a whole. Each segment has the instructions for the trainer or selfpaced learner, references to the relevant parts of the Information Manual and exercises to be completed. Instructions throughout the Training Guide will prompt participants to undertake the

4 required actions for both classroom and self-paced formats. Also included as part of the Training Guide is a Workbook. This can be retained by participants for their record of course completion and future reference. Participants are encouraged to fully complete their Workbook and to use the information on selling energy efficient appliances in their day to day sales presentations. Training Resources A video titled Selling Energy Efficient Appliances a guide for appliance retail staff has also been developed as part of the Training kit. The video outlines the environmental benefits of selling energy efficient appliances and demonstrates how this can be translated into an economical benefit for appliance consumers and appliance sales staff. The video is constructed so that it can be used in the trainer-based program and the self-paced program. Other training resources include: Consumer Buyer Guides, Overhead Transparencies (when running the program as a classroom format), Workbooks, and registration and evaluation forms. The registration and evaluation forms can be copied to hand out to participants as required. The evaluations are used only for the classroom format to provide the trainer with feedback on the session content and their performance. These need to be completed at the end of the session and passed to the Trainer. The registration form is to be filled out as part of the Reach for the Stars Program so that records can be kept of the number of sales staff undertaking the training and so that participants can receive a Certificate of Completion. If undertaking the trainer-based session participants must hand the completed form to the Trainer at the end of the training session. If sales staff work through the training program in a self-paced fashion they must forward the completed registration form to the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (for NSW participants) or the Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria (for Victorian participants). Before sending the registration form self-paced participants must obtain their store manager s signature as verification of completing the training.

5 Information manual information manual

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7 Contents SECTION 1. INTRODUCTION REACH FOR THE STARS PROGRAM PARTNERS CARING FOR THE ENVIRONMENT 3 SECTION 2. ENERGY LABELLING IN TRANSITION ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES GAS APPLIANCES 7 SECTION 3. UNDERSTANDING ENERGY RATING LABELS ENERGY RATING LABELS FOR ELECTRIC APPLIANCES ENERGY RATING LABELS FOR GAS APPLIANCES 12 SECTION 4. APPLIANCE PROFILES DISHWASHERS CLOTHES WASHERS CLOTHES DRYERS AIR-CONDITIONERS REFRIGERATORS AND FREEZERS GAS SPACE HEATERS GAS DUCTED HEATERS GAS WATER HEATERS 38 SECTION 5. GALAXY ENERGY AWARDS 40 SECTION 6. RESOURCE INFORMATION 45 APPENDIX 1. PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR LABELLING 47 APPENDIX 2. ELECTRICITY AND GAS TARIFFS 54 Page 1

8 Section 1. Introduction 1.1 Reach for the Stars Program Partners Reach for the Stars is an awareness program promoting the sale, manufacture and use of energy efficient domestic appliances. It deals with the Energy Rating labels on electrical and gas appliances and what they mean in terms of conserving energy and cost savings for the consumer. The program is the initiative of, and is supported by three government agencies. Sustainable Energy Development Authority The Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) is an agency established by the New South Wales Government to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by promoting the commercialisation and use of sustainable energy and energy efficient technologies. The lead Commonwealth agency on greenhouse matters Australian Greenhouse Office The Commonwealth Government s Australian Greenhouse Office (AGO) provides a whole of government approach to greenhouse matters. It is responsible for coordination of domestic climate change policy and the delivery of Commonwealth programs designed to reduce Australia s greenhouse emissions. Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria The Sustainable Energy Authority Victoria (SEAV) is a Victorian Government agency established to support and facilitate the development and use of sustainable energy options to achieve environmental and economic benefits for the community and contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases. Page 2

9 1.2 Caring for the environment The Greenhouse Effect The Greenhouse Effect is a natural phenomenon that has happened on the earth for millions of years and is due to the naturally occurring greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, such as water vapour (H 2 0), ozone (O 3 ), chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), carbon dioxide (CO 2 ), methane (CH 4 ), and nitrous oxide (N 2 O). As the average temperature increases due to global warming, Australia can expect more severe storms, floods and droughts, and loss of biodiversity. These naturally occurring greenhouse gases trap the sun s warmth like a blanket, by reducing heat re-radiated from the earth, and maintain the earth s surface temperature at a level necessary to support life. (Figure 1.) Figure 1. The Greenhouse Effect This natural warming gives the planet an average temperature of 15 C instead of -18 C. The problem we now face is that human actions particularly the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil and natural gas) and land clearing are increasing the concentrations of these gases, in particular CO 2, creating the prospect of global warming. This is known as the Enhanced Greenhouse Effect. (Figure 2.) Figure 2. The Enhanced Greenhouse Effect Page 3

10 A refrigerator can contribute up to one tonne of greenhouse gases a year; a hot water system can contribute up to seven tonnes a year! The Drive for Greater Energy Efficiency Burning coal to produce electricity is the most common method of electricity production in Australia. This creates millions of tonnes of greenhouse gases each year. When we use electrical appliances in our homes, the coal burnt at the power station produces greenhouse gas emissions. The less efficient the appliance, the more greenhouse gas emissions will be produced. Using gas appliances in our homes also produces greenhouse gas emissions when gas is burnt by the appliance. Energy efficient appliances reduce the demand for electricity and gas, and so reduce the production of greenhouse gases. With Australia s households accounting for almost 20 percent of our national greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficient appliances can play an important role in helping Australia meet our overall greenhouse gas reduction target. However, burning fossil fuels such as coal and gas for energy is not just a Greenhouse Effect problem. If we use them more efficiently we are making better use of these finite, non-renewable natural resources. So saving energy makes environmental sense, for us and for future generations. Energy costs money too, both for individuals and for the community. Using it efficiently means that consumers can save on energy bills. By recommending appliances with the highest star ratings you can help your customers reduce their energy bills and help reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Page 4

11 Section 2. Energy Labelling in transition 2.1 Electrical appliances How Energy Labelling Started for Electrical Appliances Energy efficiency labelling for major electrical appliances in Australia was first proposed in the late 1970s, by the State governments in New South Wales and Victoria. Although several states commenced mandatory labelling in the mid 1980s, it was not until 1992 that a mandatory national labelling scheme was finally agreed. Australia has one of the oldest energy labelling programs in existence. Only the Canadian (1978) and US (1979) schemes pre-date the Australian system. Who Operates the Energy Rating Label System for Electrical Appliances? Each State and Territory is responsible for administering its own legislation and regulations. However, all States and Territories have the same requirements for energy labelling and appliance model registration. How Do Electrical Appliances get an Energy Rating Label? Electrical appliances are submitted for testing to an Australian Standard which determines their energy consumption and overall performance. The resulting information shows how much energy in kilowatt-hours (kwh) the appliance is likely to use in a typical household in a typical year and determines its star rating. Appliances must also conform to the relevant Australian Standard before they are given an Energy Rating label. What Electrical Appliances Carry an Energy Rating Label? The following categories of domestic electrical appliances are required to carry Energy Rating labels: Refrigerators Freezers Dishwashers Washing machines Clothes dryers; and Air conditioners (with output capacities up to 7.5 kw) It is compulsory for manufacturers to put an Energy Rating label on every one of these appliances. Energy labelling is expected to achieve greenhouse gas reductions in Australia equivalent to some 2 million tonnes of carbon dioxide per year. Page 5

12 Label Transition for Electrical Appliances Where are we now? The Energy Labelling scheme for electrical appliances was changed in The key change to the Energy Rating label is the calculation used to measure the star rating. By law all star rated appliances on display for sale must carry the new Energy Rating label from 1 October Warehouse stock delivered to the customer can continue to the carry the original label until 1 October 2001 and for air conditioners to 1 October Energy labelling is an easy to understand system for customers. It is one of the most light-handed forms of regulation and the cost imposition on manufacturers and consumers is minimal. But it can lead to a strong market pull for energy efficient appliances and encourage manufacturers to respond to market demands. Without energy labelling, customers have no objective way to determine an appliance s operating costs, as manufacturers rarely declare energy consumption on a voluntary basis. Non Compliance Appliance energy labelling is administered and enforced by State and Territory jurisdictions with the program coordinated nationally. The legal obligation of the regulation varies from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, but is usually found in electricity supply or safety legislation. Appliance retailers not complying with the State or Territory regulations may be subject to fines. The New Energy Rating Label for Electrical Appliances Same look to key features The two key features that are the same as the old label are: The star rating band showing the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of 1 to 6 stars. The Energy consumption box showing how much energy the appliance is expected to use annually. The new features on the new label are: Half stars are now shown; All 6 available stars are shown in the outline; Figure 3. Example of the new Energy Rating label for a Refrigerator Key dates for labelling transition Date Action 1 October 2000 All stock displayed on shop floor required to carry the revised label. This applies to both current and superseded models. 1 October 2001 All stock (except air conditioners) delivered from the warehouse to customers must display revised label. 1 October 2002 Air conditioners delivered from the warehouse to customers must display the revised label. Page 6

13 Water consumption is now shown for dishwashers and clothes washers; Assumptions of how the appliance is used by the customer have changed for some appliances e.g. air conditioners and clothes dryers; The new label has a green band at the base to make it easy to recognise. It may contain the old star rating of the appliance; A clear and simpler label format, which makes it easier for manufactures to print and consumers to read; An important change is the re-calculation of the star rating for all products. An appliance will generally receive fewer stars under the new system even though the performance of the appliance remains the same. Changing the label to a tougher standard now provides a more meaningful guide to your customers and encourages manufacturers to keep improving the energy efficiency of appliances. Know the answers for your customers As a salesperson knowledgeable about appliances you will play an important role in helping customers understand the changes to the Energy Rating label. Some environmentally conscious customers may be confused and may think that less stars means the appliance is less efficient. Reassure them this is not true. Point out that the new label displaying fewer stars provides the opportunity for the manufacturer to make the appliance even more efficient. By being up to date on the changes to the new label you will be able to help your customers and provide greater customer service. 2.2 Gas appliances How Energy Labelling started for Gas Appliances For over 40 years Australia s gas industry has regulated product safety through an appliance and component certification scheme. The Australian Gas Appliance and Component Certification Schemes provide certification to identify a product as one that meets the standards prescribed in the Australian Gas Association (AGA) Codes, Gas industry Standards and Australian Standards. The Schemes are recognised in all Australian States and Territories and are recognised internationally. Approval for the Energy Rating labels on gas appliances, including residential water heaters, space heaters and ducted central heaters, is based upon the Gas Industry Standards, or Codes, which set out the industry s requirements for safety, efficiency and performance. In general, an appliance or component is approved once it has been successfully tested in a laboratory against the relevant Standard or Code. The lower star rating does not mean that the appliance is less efficient than before. It simply means there is room for even greater energy efficiency! Page 7

14 Who Operates the Energy Rating Label System for Gas Appliances? The Australian Gas Association is responsible for the administration of the national gas appliance energy labelling. The gas labelling program is currently voluntary. However, tests required for energy labelling of gas space heaters, ducted heaters and water heaters are a part of the specification for safety approval. This effectively makes the collection of data required to produce a label mandatory, since AGA certification is a requirement in all states. How Do Gas Appliances get an Energy Rating Label? Gas appliances are tested under Australian Gas Association Codes, which set minimum safety and performance standards and ensure appliances meet the relevant AGA Code requirements for energy labelling. What Gas Appliances Carry an Energy Rating Label? Energy Rating labels can be found on: Gas space (room) heaters Gas ducted heaters (central heating) Gas water heaters Once the model has been tested, the manufacturer or importer arranges for an Energy Rating label to be attached to each appliance. Labels similar but different for gas and electricity Though Energy Rating labels on gas appliances may seem similar to the labels on electrical appliances, they should not be compared with each other. The energy ratings on the gas appliances have been tested under different conditions, which make comparison with electrical appliances erroneous. However, the more stars on the label for a gas appliance the more energy efficient it is, and the fewer greenhouse gases are emitted into the atmosphere. Page 8

15 Section 3. Understanding the Energy Rating Labels When looking to buy an appliance many customers compare the size, features, price and running costs of appliances. For electrical appliances the Energy Rating label acts as an indicator showing potential buyers how energy efficient the appliance is and how much electricity it uses to run each year (except for air conditioners, which are based on energy use-per-hour rather than annual rate). For gas appliances the Energy Rating label also acts as an indicator showing potential buyers how energy efficient the appliance is and how much gas it uses to run each year. The aims of energy labelling are to: Encourage customers to select the appliance that uses the least energy for the service the appliance is required to perform; Enable customers to take into consideration the annual energy cost of operating an appliance, and also its total (life cycle) cost; Encourage manufacturers and importers to improve the energy efficiency of products that they supply to the market. Quite simply, the more stars, the more energy efficient the appliance, the lower the running costs and the fewer greenhouse gas emissions produced. 3.1 Energy Rating labels for electrical appliances Stars rate the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of 1 to 6 How much energy the appliance typically uses annually in kilowatthours when tested to the Australian Standard Appliance type and model number The Australian Standard the appliance was tested under Figure 4. Features of the Energy Rating Label for an Electrical Appliance Page 9

16 Key Features of the Energy Rating Label The two key features of the Energy Rating label are: The Star Rating which shows the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of 1 to 6 stars. The more stars, the more energy efficient it is; and The Energy consumption box, which shows how much energy the appliance uses in kilowatthours when tested to the Australian Standard shown on the label. Who Decides the Star Rating Manufacturers who produce/import appliances for the Australian market are required to submit their products for testing to an Australian Standard. Testing determines the appliance s energy consumption and overall performance. The test results are used to calculate the appliance s annual kilowatt usage per hour (kw/h) per year and star rating (air conditioners are tested to calculate the kilowatt hour usage per hour). Star ratings have been developed to provide consumers with an easy way of comparing the energy efficiency of different models. It is a simple and fair way of comparing energy consumption of products that do a similar job. In other words, the star rating only compares apples with apples, or appliances with the same size, volume and capacity. These factors all affect how much energy an appliance uses. Models of similar size with the same star rating can still have considerably different energy consumption, because each star covers a fairly wide range. So it is important to look at the stars first and then compare the Energy consumption figures in the coloured boxes. Under the new system for rating energy efficiency, the most efficient products will generally be only 3 stars (although there are some products that already rate 4 and 5 stars) until manufacturers start producing even more efficient appliances. The Star Rating and Coloured Band This gives a quick visual comparison of the model s energy efficiency. The more stars (including half stars) and the further the coloured band extends across the arch, the more energy efficient the appliance. Comparative Energy Consumption For star rated electrical appliances (except air conditioners) the Energy consumption figure is based on the projected annual energy consumption for the appliance (units: kilowatt-hours per year) based on tested typical use of the appliance in the home. Page 10

17 For air conditioners it is based on the estimate of energy used each hour (in kwh per hour) of use at a rated capacity for cooling and/or heating, as applicable. The lower the figure in the coloured box, the less energy the appliance will use and the fewer greenhouse gases will be produced. The Energy consumption number can be used to calculate comparative running costs of appliances. This means you can give customers information about how different models of the appliance compare in terms of energy and running costs, given that other relevant characteristics are the same. Using the Thumb Test to Compare Running Costs To give your customer a quick and very rough estimate of how much the product will cost them to run each year you can use the Energy consumption figure in the coloured box (except for air-conditioners). Simply use the thumb test. Place your thumb over the last digit of the figure in the box and this gives you a rough estimate of the running cost per year in dollars. x For a quick estimate of how much the appliance costs to run for its lifetime (about 10 to 12 years) just remove your thumb. The entire Energy consumption figure is a very rough estimate of the Lifetime Running Cost. Note: using the thumb test underestimates running costs by about 35%. So if the customer is after accurate figures then you have to include the energy tariffs in your calculations. However the thumb test can still be used to give a quick comparison of products with similar features. Annual Running Cost To determine a more accurate figure for the Annual Running Cost of an appliance, simply multiply the Energy consumption figure in the coloured box by the cost of electricity per kilowatt-hour (kwh) (electricity tariff). Energy consumption x electricity tariff = Annual Running Cost For example if the Energy consumption of a refrigerator is 670kWh/year and the average tariff is 12.5 cents per kwh then the Annual Running Cost of the appliance will be: 670 kwh/year x 12.5 cents/kwh = $83.75 Don t forget to divide cents by 100 to get dollars. Note: the average electricity tariff for Victoria is 13.0 cents/kwh. Use this figure when calculating running cost for appliances being used in Victoria. The lower the figure in the coloured box, the less energy the appliance will use and the fewer greenhouse gases will be produced Page 11

18 The savings in running costs on one appliance may not seem much. However, savings on all appliances used in the home, when added together, can account for a considerable amount over time. Lifetime Running Cost To determine a more accurate Lifetime Running Cost of the appliance multiply the Annual Running Cost by Years is the average life cycle of star rated appliances before they are replaced. Annual Running Cost x 12 years = Lifetime Running Cost For example if the Energy consumption of a refrigerator is 670kWh/year and the average tariff is 12.5 cents per kwh then the Lifetime Running Cost of the appliance will be: 670 kwh/year x 12.5 cents/kwh x 12 years = $1005 Lifetime Running Cost Remember to divide by 100 to convert cents to dollars. Lifetime costs can be useful when comparing two appliances with similar qualities that meet a customer s needs, but one is more efficient than the other. 3.2 Energy Rating labels for gas appliances Stars rate the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of 1 to 6 How much gas the appliance uses each year in Megajoules when tested by the Australian Gas Code The Australian Gas Code under which the appliance has been tested Figure 5: Example of an Energy Rating Label for a Gas Appliance Page 12

19 Key Features of the Energy Rating Label The two key features of the Energy Rating label are: The Star Rating shows the energy efficiency of the appliance on a scale of 1 to 6 stars. The more stars, the more energy efficient it is. Efficient products use less gas to achieve the same level of performance of similar models with the same size and capacity. Each star means that the appliance is 7-10% more efficient depending on the appliance. The red band also shows the energy efficiency and how close the appliance is to gaining another star. The Comparative Energy Consumption box shows how many Megajoules of gas the unit uses each year (MJ/year) when tested to the relevant Australian Gas Code. For gas ducted heaters it tells you how much energy the appliance uses in Megajoules to heat a cubic meter (m 3 ) of space each year (MJ/m 3 /year) when tested to the Australian Gas Code. The Star Rating and Red Band The star rating has been developed to provide customers with an easy way of comparing the energy efficiency of different models. It is a simple and fair way of comparing energy consumption of gas appliances that do a similar job. The more stars and the longer the red band the more energy efficient the appliance. An energy efficient appliance uses less gas and is cheaper to run. The red band also shows how close the appliance is to gaining another star. Comparative Energy Consumption The Comparative Energy Consumption number in the red box shows the amount of gas the appliance uses each year. Comparative energy consumption, measured in Megajoules per year (MJ per year), estimates the energy use of the appliance based on tested typical use of the appliance in the home. The exception is for gas ducted heaters which give the comparative energy consumption in Megajoules per cubic meter per year MJ/m 3 /year. If comparing two models of the same type and capacity which have the same star rating, the model with the lower energy consumption is the more efficient one. Page 13

20 The thumb test does not apply to star rated gas appliances Annual Running Cost As with electrical appliances the Comparative Energy Consumption figure (in the red box) can be used as a guide to estimate the typical yearly running cost of the appliance. Note that the Thumb Test does not apply to star rated gas appliances. Annual Running Cost = Comparative Energy Consumption x gas tariff Lifetime Running Cost To estimate the Lifetime Running Cost multiply the Annual Running Cost by 12 years, the average life cycle of an appliance before it is replaced. Lifetime Running Cost = Annual Running Cost x 12 years Gas space (room) heaters Lifetime Running Cost If we assume the space heater has a lifetime of 12 years, the Lifetime Running Cost can be estimated by simply using the MJ/year figure in the red box and multiplying it by the cost of gas in cents per MJ and by 12 years. For example if a 5 star rated product has a Comparative Energy Consumption figure of 6500 MJ/year and the average gas tariff for natural gas is 1.0 cent per MJ then the Lifetime Running Costs of the appliance will be: 6500 MJ/year x 1.0 cent per MJ x 12 years = $780 Lifetime Running Cost Don t forget to divide cents by 100 to get dollars. Note: for LPG (bottled gas) the Lifetime Running Cost is calculated the same way except that the average cost of gas is around 2.0 cents per MJ. Gas Ducted Heaters (central heaters) Lifetime Running Cost The Lifetime Running Cost can be roughly estimated by multiplying the MJ/m 3 /year figure in the red box by the floor area (square meters) and average ceiling height (meters) of space to be heated, by the cost of gas in cents per MJ. For example if a 5 star rated product has a Comparative Energy Consumption figure of 133 MJ/m 3 /year, and the floor area of space to be heated is 265 m 2, the average ceiling height of space to be heated is 2.4 m, and the average gas tariff for natural gas is 1.0 cent per MJ, then the Lifetime Running Cost of the appliance will be: 133 MJ/m 3 /year x 265 m 2 x 2.4 m x 1.0 cent per MJ x 12 years = $10,150 Lifetime Running Cost Don t forget to divide cents by 100 to get dollars. Note: for LPG (bottled gas) the Lifetime Running Cost is calculated the same way except that the average cost of gas is around 2.0 cents per MJ. Page 14

21 Don t forget to ask your customer how big the space is that they want to heat. Note: The energy rating for gas ducted heaters only applies to the heating furnace and does not include the ductwork or outlet registers. For an effective and efficient ducted heating system, consideration should be given to the design of the system, quality of ductwork, location of thermostats and controls, quality of outlet registers and zoning opportunities. Gas Water Heaters Lifetime Running Cost If we assume the appliance has a lifetime of 12 years, the Lifetime Running Cost can be roughly estimated by simply using the MJ/year figure in the red box and multiplying it by the cost of gas in cents per MJ and by 12 years. For example if a 5 star product has a Comparative Energy Consumption figure of MJ/year and the average gas tariff for natural gas is 1.0 cent per MJ then the Lifetime Running Costs of the appliances will be: The actual energy used and the running costs of an appliance will depend on where the customer lives, environmental conditions, operating times, the size and space being heated, thermostat settings, appliance and installation factors and gas costs MJ/year x 1.0 cent per MJ x 12 years = $2,412 Lifetime Running Cost Don t forget to divide cents by 100 to get dollars. Note: for LPG (bottled gas) the Lifetime Running Cost is calculated the same way except that the cost of gas is around 2.0 cents per MJ. Page 15

22 Section 4. Appliance profiles Visit energyrating.gov.au for more information on energy labelling for electrical appliances More detailed information on each of the electrical appliances covered in this section can be found on the energy rating website: As a salesperson of electrical appliances it would be a great benefit for you to become familiar with the information on this website. For the calculations to determine running costs the average figure of 12.5 cents per kilowatt hour (c/kwh) is used. However, when calculating the running cost for appliances used in Victoria use 13.0 c/kwh as the average electricity tariff. 4.1 Dishwashers The Energy Rating Label for Dishwashers About 35% of households in Australia own a dishwasher. Dishwashers are generally used between 4 and 7 times per week (up to 365 times per year) although this varies by household. The program used for the energy labelling program is currently the one specified by the manufacturer, although in late 2001, all dishwashers will have to be labelled on their normal program. Most of the energy used in a dishwasher is for water heating so energy efficient models can save both energy and water. The Energy Rating label shows both energy and water consumption for dishwashers. The star rating shows the energy efficiency of the dishwasher on a scale of 1 to 6 The measure of energy service for the dishwasher is the number of placing settings declared by the manufacturer which defines the test load in the Australian Standard Amount of water the dishwasher uses for a normal program setting Recommended Connection How much energy the dishwasher uses per year (7 times a week on a normal cycle and a cold wash connection) when tested to the Australian Standard Alternative Connection How much energy the dishwasher uses per year (7 times a week on a normal wash and hot water connection) when tested to the Australian Standard Page 16

23 Estimating Running Cost To estimate the annual running cost of a dishwasher, use the Energy consumption figure in the red box and multiply by the electricity tariff. The actual energy used and running cost will depend on water supply connections, water temperatures, load sizes, cycle settings and user behaviour. Even though running cost may vary from the tested results, the relative comparison against other models remains consistent. Annual Running Cost = Energy consumption x electricity tariff For Example: For a dishwasher with an Energy consumption of 317 kwh/year 317 kwh/year x 12.5 c/kwh = $39.62 per year Remember to divide cents by 100 to get dollars If the dishwasher has a life span of 12 years multiply the cost per year by 12 to get the Lifetime Running Cost. $39.62 x 12 years = $475 Lifetime Running Cost Note: the figure in the red box assumes that the appliance is being used 7 times a week. Estimating Greenhouse Gas Emissions The amount of greenhouse gas emissions (CO 2 ) produced annually can also be estimated from the Energy Rating label. For each kwh per year of electricity used by the dishwasher approximately 1 kilogram (kg) of greenhouse gas (CO 2 ) is emitted at the power station. (Except in Tasmania, as majority of electricity is generated from hydro sources). For a dishwasher with an Energy consumption of 317 kwh per year the approximate greenhouse gas emissions (CO 2 ) per year are: 317 kwh/year x 1kg = 317 kg CO 2 per year Over the lifetime of the unit: 317 kg/year x 12 years = 3.8 tonnes CO 2 Divide kg by 1000 to get tonnes. Recommending an Energy Efficient Dishwasher Recommend an energy efficient dishwasher with a good range of programs, including economy options. This will allow the customer to match the dishwasher s performance to their needs and help save energy and water. Water connection influences energy use: Cold water connection will use the least energy. The dishwasher heats its own water only for the parts of the cycle where hot water is needed. If a customer has a gas or solar hot water system, models that can be connected to both hot and cold water (even though less common) will reduce both carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) emissions and operating costs. There is Page 17

24 also a saving on the energy bill if the customer has an off peak electric hot water system. A dishwasher connected to hot water only will use the most energy, although it may be economical if the customer has off peak electric, solar or mains gas hot water. Some manufacturers participate in the voluntary National Water Conservation Rating and Labelling Scheme, where appliances have an AAA Water conservation rating. The rating applies only to the product s water use. The ratings are as follows: A...An acceptable level of water efficiency AA...A good rating AAA...An excellent rating Recommend a dishwasher with an AAA water conservation rating. This also helps the customer save on the dishwasher s water usage. Your customers can get more information on the water labelling scheme by contacting the Energy Smart Advisory Centre in their State. Energy Smart Features to Look For When recommending an energy smart dishwasher some of the energy saving features to look for are: Lower water consumption, recommend models with AAA water ratings. Dual water connection. Water temperature options Load capacity to suit the customer s general needs A filter that is easy to remove and clean Special features such as economy programs, which use less energy than the normal program Half load washing option Delay start function to take advantage of cheap off-peak electricity or time-of-use tariffs. Questions and Answers Q. Are dishwashers tested on real dirty dishes and utensils? A. Yes. The Australian Standard requires the test to include a range of standard dirty products in the test wash. After the wash the contents from all parts of the dishwasher are carefully inspected to see if they pass the wash quality test. Q. What are the two energy consumption figures shown on the dishwasher label? A. The Energy Rating Label for dishwashers shows the energy consumption for two water connection options. Some dishwashers are made for connection to cold water only, and heat the water internally as required. Other models can be connected to either hot water or to both hot and cold. The energy consumption based on the manufacturer s recommended connection is displayed in the red box and energy consumption for the alternative hot water connection is written on the label below. Q Which water connection uses the least energy when running a dishwasher? A. Dishwasher connected to the cold water supply only is the most energy efficient to run. The water for the wash cycle is heated by the dishwasher and cold water is used for rinsing and prewash cycles. Q. How do dual hot and cold water connections save energy? A. Dishwashers with dual hot and cold water connections will use hot water only for those cycles where it is required. These dishwashers have shorter operating times, and if connected to mains gas or solar water heater they have both lower running costs and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Q. What are the benefits of choosing a Galaxy Energy Award winning or energy smart dishwasher? A. By choosing a Galaxy Energy Award winning dishwasher customers can reduce their household energy costs. For a 14 place setting dishwasher the savings could be as much as $395 over 12 years. This would reduce your home s greenhouse gas emissions by some 3 tonnes. Page 18

25 4.2 Clothes washers The Energy Rating Label for Clothes Washers More than 95% of households in Australia own a clothes washer. Clothes washers are used on average about 7 times per week, although this varies by household. There are two kinds of labels for clothes washers. The cold/warm wash label may be used on machines featuring an option where the consumer can select the temperature setting. The other label is used where this option is not available. Cold and Warm Wash The star rating shows the energy efficiency of the clothes washer on a scale of 1 to 6 Appliance type and model number How much energy the clothes washer uses on a cold wash per year (7 times a week) Note: Cold wash performance has not been measured and is not guaranteed How much water is consumed for normal cold and warm washes Load capacity for most effective wash results How much energy the clothes washer uses on a warm wash per year (7 times a week) when tested to the Australian Standard Cycle the Appliance has been tested on Page 19

26 Warm Wash Only The star rating shows the energy efficiency of the clothes washer on a scale of 1 to 6 Appliance type and model number Load capacity for most effective wash results How much energy the clothes washer uses on a warm wash per year (7 times a week) when tested to the Australian Standard How much water is consumed for a normal warm wash Cycle the Appliance has been tested on Estimating Running Cost To estimate the maximum yearly running cost of the clothes washer, use the Energy consumption figure in the red or blue box and multiply by the electricity tariff. Annual Running Cost = Energy consumption x electricity tariff For Example: For a clothes washer with an Energy consumption of 399 kwh/year based on the warm wash cycle. 399 kw/h/year x 12.5 c/kwh = $49.88 per year Remember to divide cents by 100 to get dollars. If the clothes washer has a life span of 12 years multiply the cost per year by 12 to get the Lifetime Running Cost. $49.88 x 12 years = $598 Lifetime Running Cost Some points to note: This estimate will be accurate for the cold wash cycle, for the warm wash cycle where the clothes washers heats all its own water and if connected to an electric hot water system running on a peak tariff. When using the clothes washer on a warm wash a large percentage of the energy used is to heat the water. Therefore, it is important to note that the kwh usage in the red box when Page 20

27 multiplied by the domestic tariff of 12.5 cents/kwh may give a higher than actual operating cost. If the water is imported into the machine from a gas or off-peak electric hot water system, then each component (gas/electric) should be multiplied by its respective tariff. A more accurate estimate of the actual running costs in these cases can be obtained by looking the model up on the national energy rating website Don t forget to inform your customer of these points when working out the running cost of the appliance. Estimating Greenhouse Gas Emissions The amount of greenhouse gas emissions (CO 2 ) produced annually can also be estimated from the Energy Rating label. For each kwh of electricity used by the clothes washer approximately 1 kilogram (kg) of greenhouse gas (CO 2 ) is emitted at the power station. For a clothes washer with an Energy consumption of 399 kwh per year (on a warm wash cycle) the approximate greenhouse gas emissions (CO 2 ) per year are: 399 kwh/year x 1kg = 399 kg CO 2 per year Over the lifetime of the unit: 399 kg/year x 12 years = 4.7 tonnes CO 2 Divide kg by 1000 to get tonnes. Recommending an Energy Efficient Clothes Washer Find out the size and type of machine the buyer needs. A larger than necessary machine will use more energy and cost more to run. The two main types of clothes washer are drum type machines (usually called front loaders) and agitator or impeller machines (often called top loaders). Each has its advantages and disadvantages, however drum machines are generally more energy and water efficient. Before recommending either a top loading or a front-loading clothes washer there are a number of things to consider. Make sure you ask your customer how often they would use the machine during a washing session, as this will make a difference to your recommendation. Some of the aspects to consider for each type of clothes washer are as follows: Top loaders - Generally faster washing times (30-45 minutes) - Generally use more water which means that on a warm wash they use more energy - Wear and tear on clothes is harsher (especially impeller types) - Usually less expensive to purchase (although not always) Greenhouse gas emissions may be lower if hot water is supplied from a gas, solar or heat pump hot water system. Page 21

28 - Generally have a range of cold washing options Front loaders - Generally slower washing times (typically minutes) - Generally use less water which means that on a warm wash they use less energy - Much more gentle on clothes and usually wash better - Can be more expensive to purchase (although not always) - Some have only single cold connect (internal water heating) and some have limited cold water washing options. Recommend a model that has automatic load sensing and water level adjustment. This will ensure that the minimum amount of water and energy is used for each load. Or at least make sure there is a variable water level so those small loads can be washed efficiently. Recommend a model that can wash in cold water. Although the washing performance is generally reduced when using cold water, your customer can typically save 80% to 90% of the energy. If your customer uses cold water washing half of the time, they will be saving half the energy. Ensure that there is a cold rinse option for all of the common programs on the washing machine. This will give your customer the option to save more energy. Ensure the model you recommend has a good spin performance (e.g. high spin speed) as this can cut down on energy use for customers especially if they dry some or all of their loads in a clothes dryer. You can check the spin performance of the models your customer is considering on the energy rating website. Recommend a machine that has a hot and cold water connection. If your customer uses solar, gas or off peak electric hot water, the total cost of energy will be greatly reduced for those loads they do wash on a warm setting. Internal water heating is generally more expensive, although front loading machines use less water and less energy overall. The suds saver option is an important feature to consider in your recommendation. It saves energy and also reduces water consumption of the clothes washer. Page 22

29 Energy Smart Features to Look For When recommending an energy smart clothes washer some of the energy saving features to look for are: A machine with a range of settings to let the consumer match the cycle to the type and size of load. Such settings include: several wash/rinse temperature combinations a choice of gentle or regular agitation drip-dry facility short wash and soak options. Soak cycles help to remove stubborn stains in one wash cycle ability to reuse wash water (suds saver) a fast spin cycle will save drying energy if a clothes dryer is to be used Dual water connection Low water consumption, look for models with AAA water rating Delay start function to take advantage of cheaper off-peak electricity. Some manufacturers participate in the voluntary National Water Conservation Rating and Labelling Scheme, where appliances have an AAA Water conservation rating. The rating applies only to the product s water use. The ratings are as follows: A...An acceptable level of water efficiency AA...A good rating AAA...An excellent rating Your customers can get more information on the water labelling scheme by contacting the Energy Smart Advisory Centre in their State. Question and Answers Q. Does a clothes washer wash as well on cold water as on hot? A. Most people find that cold wash cycles using modern detergents are quite satisfactory and save a lot in energy costs. On the new Energy Rating label for clothes washers the cold wash energy consumption may be displayed in the blue box and the warm wash energy consumption is displayed in the red box. However on heavily soiled clothes a warm or hot wash may be necessary. Q. What type of clothes are the washing machines tested on? A. Energy consumption is measured on the program recommended for a normally soiled cotton load at the rated capacity. After the wash, the soiled samples are removed from the clothes washer and are inspected to see if they pass the wash performance. Page 23

30 Q. Does the suds saver save energy? A. The suds saver feature on a clothes washer is primarily to save water. If you are using a hot wash, the suds saver feature will allow you to save hot water, which in turn saves energy. Q. Does water consumption alter the running cost of a clothes washers? A. Yes, if using warm wash cycles the energy for heating water accounts for about 80 to 90% of the total energy consumption. Therefore models with low water consumption use less energy. To calculate water costs ask your local water supplier for the water and waste water tariffs applicable to you. Q. What are the benefits of choosing a Galaxy Energy Award winning or energy smart clothes washer and dryer? A. For a Galaxy Energy Award winning clothes washer the savings could be as much as $180 over a 12 year lifetime, assuming an off-peak electric or mains gas hot water system. This would also reduce your home s greenhouse gas emissions by up to 7 tonnes. 4.3 Clothes dryers The Energy Rating Label for Clothes Dryers About 60% of households in Australia own a clothes dryer. Clothes dryer use varies widely, with some households using them as little as once per month while others use them to dry every load that they wash. Clothes Dryer The star rating shows the energy efficiency of the clothes dryer on a scale of 1 to 6 Appliance type and model number The measure of energy service is rated load capacity declared by the manufacturer. This value is the test load used in the Australian Standard How much energy the dryer uses per year when tested to the Australian Standard (based on use of once a week) Page 24