Check the energy efficiency class
For a long time, household appliances manufacturers marked the energy classes of individual models with colored labels with a scale from A to G. Over time, for simplicity, equipment of classes B, C, D, E, F and G was replaced by class A with a different number of pluses.
For refrigerators it was:
• A – the lowest class assigned to cheap appliances that consumed over 300 kWh per year,
• A+ – their annual energy consumption is about 260 kWh,
• A++ – such a refrigerator uses about 200 kWh per year,
• A+++ – the highest class energetic. Electricity consumption per year does not exceed 170 kWh.
Recently, however, technology has definitely moved forward, and people have started to care more about the use of ecological solutions in their surroundings. Manufacturers are therefore trying to design more and more energy-efficient household appliances. As a result, the current scale with pluses is no longer transparent. The European Commission has decided to change the labels and return to the scale that was used years ago (A – G).
The latest stickers specifying the energy class of refrigerators contain only letters – from A to G. They are combined with the colors used so far. Red and orange are reserved for devices that consume the most electricity, and green for energy-saving devices (the darker the shade, the lower the consumption). For example, the eco-friendly refrigerator Gorenje NRK620EABXL4, which consumes 246 kW per year, is marked with the energy class E. At: https://www.neonet.pl/lodówki-i-zamrazarki/gorenje-nrk620eabxl4.html you can learn about its exact technical parameters.
Is the Ecolabel necessary?
This mark takes the form of a blue and green flower pictogram with EU stars replacing the petals. It is a certificate awarded by the European Commission on the basis of the Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council of November 25, 2009. It confirms that a given product has been manufactured with respect for the natural environment and people.
When granting the certificate, experts assess the entire life cycle of a given product – from the method of obtaining raw materials, through the production process, to use and disposal (including the possibility of recycling). It is most often awarded to companies producing clothes, toys, mattresses, cosmetics and cleaning products. Electronics and household appliances makers can also apply for the Ecolabel, but it is difficult to obtain due to the use of many very different materials in production. So remember that the lack of this mark on the refrigerator does not disqualify it as an environmentally friendly device.
Are you buying a refrigerator? These features will come in handy!
Energy class C or B (formerly A+++) is not the only indicator confirming the ecological nature of the refrigerator. Also note the modern features. The following will be useful:
• NoFrost function – protects against ice formation on the walls and products, which reduces energy losses,
• Multi Fresh zone – intended for storing fish and meat,
• Double Fresh system – ideal for keeping fruit and vegetables fresh.
Choose a fridge tailored to your needs!
You already know the parameters that a conscious consumer should pay attention to when he wants to buy an ecological refrigerator. Check the Neonet offer and choose equipment tailored to your needs. Consider the number of people in your household and their lifestyle. Place the appliance away from cookers and other sources of heat. Make sure the seals are tight and try not to open the refrigerator door unnecessarily. Thanks to this, the level of energy consumption will be slightly lower, and you will save on bills and take care of the environment.
