Don’t automatically replace your fridge before your dishwasher. A fridge runs continuously, while how much energy a dishwasher uses depends in part on how often you run it. To decide, compare how you use each existing appliance with its capacity and, if possible, its actual energy consumption. Then compare new models with the same function and a suitable capacity using their energy labels.
If your fridge, fridge freezer or freezer is on all the time, check its annual energy consumption and how much storage space you really need. ADEME points out that refrigeration appliances run continuously, and that the size of the appliance affects energy consumption.
If you run frequent cycles, it may be worth prioritising your dishwasher. Compare its capacity with your usual loads and check whether you use the Eco programme, which is the basis for the figures shown on the energy label, as explained by the European Commission.
If you don’t know how much energy your current appliances use, start by noting down their model numbers, capacities and how you use them. This information helps you compare like-for-like functions and usage before deciding which appliance to replace first.
Start by deciding whether your priority is refrigeration that runs continuously, frequent washing cycles or finding an appliance that fits your kitchen. Then compare each category using its own units: refrigeration product information gives annual energy consumption, while a dishwasher’s label shows, among other things, energy use per 100 Eco cycles, according to the European Commission.
| Consideration | What to check | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Continuous refrigeration | For an appliance of the same type and a similar size, check the kWh/year and compartment volumes. | When an appliance is on day and night, I want to know whether its capacity still suits my storage needs. Continuous refrigeration could be the main concern for around 40% of consumers. |
| Frequent dishwasher use | Compare kWh/100 Eco cycles, litres per Eco cycle and capacity; take into account the programmes you actually use. | If I run the dishwasher often, the frequency of cycles and whether I can use the Eco programme matter more to my decision. Frequent washing could be the priority for around 30% of consumers. |
| Capacity and installation | Measure the space and check the installation type, as well as the usable volume or place settings. | In a kitchen with limited space, I need to be able to install the appliance without losing capacity I need. This could be the priority for around 20% of consumers. |
| Comparing existing appliances | Note the model number and how you use the old appliance; measure its energy consumption if you need a personal estimate. | When several appliances are still working, I prefer to have comparable figures before choosing which one to replace. Around 10% of consumers could put this step first. |
The rating doesn’t tell you whether a new appliance offers the same function or the right capacity. A large fridge freezer won’t meet the same needs as a small fridge.
First check the appliance type, usable volume and dimensions. Then compare the label information for models that suit your needs.
The energy and water figures on a dishwasher’s label relate to the Eco programme; they don’t automatically reflect the use of other programmes.
Check how long the Eco cycle takes and whether it fits your routine before using these figures to help decide whether to replace your dishwasher.
The right capacity isn’t enough if the dimensions, installation type or installation requirements aren’t suitable for your kitchen.
Measure the space and check the information for the exact model, including dimensions, ventilation and, for refrigeration appliances, the permitted ambient temperature conditions.
ADEME’s guidance and the label for a new model don’t, on their own, tell you how much energy your old appliance uses or how you use it.
To estimate your own situation, gather information about your old appliance, your household’s usage and the electricity tariff that applies to you.
Bosch offers fridge freezers and dishwashers. Their product information can help you check the dimensions and features of a specific model.
Liebherr offers fridges, freezers and fridge freezers, with energy labels and technical specifications available to check for each model.
Whirlpool offers several types of refrigeration appliances, including fridge freezers, to consider based on the space you have and the storage capacity you need.
These fridge freezers are options to consider when replacing a refrigeration appliance. First choose a capacity and installation type that suit your kitchen, then check the energy label for the exact model. This selection alone can’t tell you whether to replace your fridge or dishwasher first.
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Worth considering as a replacement for a built-in fridge freezer if its capacity meets your storage needs.
The product name specifies No Frost, an Inverter compressor and energy rating C. Check the cabinet dimensions and confirm the rating on the label for this model.
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Consider this if you need a large-capacity fridge freezer and have enough space for it.
The product name specifies Total No Frost, a Smart Inverter compressor and energy rating E. Check the dimensions, required clearances and label for the exact model.
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Worth considering if a 360 L fridge freezer suits your storage needs and the space you have available.
The product name specifies Total No Frost, Wi-Fi, My Zone and energy rating E. Check the installation dimensions and the rating on the label for the exact model.
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Consider this as a replacement for a small built-in fridge freezer, provided a top freezer compartment suits the way you use it.
The product name specifies a single door and energy rating E. Check the cabinet dimensions, door fixing system and label for this model.
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Worth considering if you need a large amount of storage space. Check how the capacity is split between refrigeration and freezing before comparing it with your current appliance.
The product name specifies frost-free operation, 40 dB and energy rating E. Check the dimensions and energy label too before making a decision.
No. A fridge runs continuously, but a heavily used dishwasher is also worth considering. ADEME’s guidance can help you decide, but it doesn’t mean the same appliance should be the priority for every household. Check the condition and use of your appliances before making a decision.
Not without taking the units into account: refrigeration figures are generally shown in kWh/year, while dishwasher figures are shown in kWh per 100 Eco cycles. According to the European Commission, these figures are primarily for comparing models within the same category. Then consider how each result relates to the way you use the appliance.
Check the energy use per 100 Eco cycles, water use per cycle, capacity, Eco programme duration and noise level. The European Commission says the QR code on the label takes you to EPREL, where you can find more information about the specific model.
No. It shows energy consumption under standardised conditions, not how much your current appliance uses in your home. For a personal estimate, you also need to consider your old appliance’s energy consumption or usage, your household’s habits and the electricity tariff that applies to you.