Energy label
The EU energy labels for household washing machines and washer-dryers use, as of 1 March 2021, a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The labels provide information on the product’s
- energy efficiency class(es)
- energy consumption for 100 cycles
- water consumption for 1 cycle
- duration for 1 cycle
- noise emissions
Example of energy label for washing machine and washer-dryer:
The European Product Registry for Energy Labelling (EPREL) offers detailed information on models placed on the EU market, by scanning the QR code featured on the new energy labels. The database provides information such as, the model dimensions, rated capacity(ies), the eco-programme durations, or the minimum guarantee offered by the supplier.
The legal framework is Regulation on energy labelling for household washing machines and washer-dryers (EU) 2019/2014 that repeals and replaces Regulation (EU) 1061/2010 and Directive 96/60/EC.
Ecodesign requirements
Rules on ecodesign washing machines and washer-dryers are mandatory for all manufacturers and importers wishing to sell their products in the EU.
From 1 March 2021, the Regulation on ecodesign requirements for household washing machines and washer-dryers (EU) 2019/2023 repeals and replaces Regulation (EU) 1015/2010.
This regulation better reflects users needs and also includes elements to further enhance the reparability and recyclability of appliances. For a period of 10 years, a list of spare parts, such as door hinges and seals, door locking, plastic peripherals, such as detergent dispensers, have to be available to all, while professional repairers will have access to the spare parts and information needed for the repair and professional maintenance of washing machines and washer-dryers.
Energy savings
Switching to one of the most energy efficient washing machines can save €250 over the lifetime of the product. With more efficient washing machines, Europe will also be able to save up to 1.5 TWh of electricity per year by 2020. This is equivalent to half of Malta’s annual final energy consumption and also means a saving of around 100 million cubic meters of water per year.
The new regulations will add to this saving with up to 5 TWh of electricity and 711 million cubic meters of water per year by 2030. This will in turn contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 0.84 metric tonnes of CO2 equivalent per year.