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Choosing Appliances Wisely

One of the most important things you can do for the environment is to be a smart shopper.

When you’re buying new appliances or equipment, the price tag isn’t the only label you should be reading. In fact, a cheaper product is quite likely to cost you more to run over its life – not to mention the toll on the environment from inefficient energy or water use.

Star Ratings

Look at the energy efficiency star-rating label on electrical appliances. The more stars the appliance has, the more efficient it is. Check the energy consumption figure. The number tells you how much actual energy the appliance is likely to use in a year.

The more expensive, highly efficient product will usually be a better choice. Provided you use it appropriately, it will cost less over the long term.

WELS

Money Saver Look at the star rating. A 4 star will save about $70 a year over a 2 star fridge.

WELS is the National Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards Scheme which will label many domestic and commercial appliances for water efficiency – similar to the way appliances are labelled for energy efficiency.

The scheme uses six stars and shows the result of thorough testing of each product. The more stars, the more water efficient the product.

Buying a product with more stars - more water efficient - will save money and save water. The WELS label is a valuable way for consumers to compare products in store and make it easier to locate more efficient and innovative products.

The WELS scheme provides clear, scientific information to consumers, so that they will know which products will help them reduce their costs and water use.

For more information about the WELS scheme go to www.waterrating.gov.au

Look for the WELS Star Label and Save

	Water Efficient	Normal
Toilet	<4 L /Flush (dual flush)	12 L/Flush (single flush)
Shower	6 - 7 L/Min	15 -20 L/Min
Washing Machine	60 L /Wash (front loader) heater	150 L/Wash (top loader)
Dishwasher	12 L/Wash	20 L/Wash
Tap	2 L/Min	15 - 18 L/Min

The Smart Approved WaterMark is Australia’s water saving labelling program for products and services that help reduce outdoor water use.

So look for this logo when buying outdoor water products. Go to www.smartwatermark.info for more information.

Green Guide References: Synergy Energy, Aurora Energy, The Australian Greenhouse Office, CoolMOB Northern Territory

All costs included in the Green Guide are guides only. Actual costs will vary according to size and brand of appliance as well as where and how the appliance is used.

November 2007