Start by comparing the annual energy consumption of your current appliances with that of new models of a similar type and capacity. An old fridge or freezer is often worth looking at first because it runs continuously. However, a washing or cooking appliance could take priority if how often you use it and the annual kWh difference make a stronger case: the energy rating alone won’t tell you what to replace first.
If you’re weighing up several replacements, start by checking the energy consumption of your fridge, fridge-freezer or freezer. As it runs continuously, comparing annual consumption is particularly useful, provided you compare appliances of a similar type and capacity.
If you use your dishwasher or washing machine frequently, the number of cycles you run each year could change what you should replace first. Compare this with the consumption shown for the reference programme of the model you’re considering, rather than relying on its energy rating alone.
If you use your hob or oven frequently, estimate its energy consumption over a year before making a decision. Then compare the potential difference with that of your refrigeration and laundry appliances, based on how you use them.
For each appliance you’re considering replacing, work out the annual kWh difference between your current appliance and a comparable new model. Then check whether its capacity and condition make replacement worthwhile.
| Factor | What to check | How it applies to me |
|---|---|---|
| Appliances that run continuously | Check the kWh/year figures for your current appliance and the new model. Compare appliances of the same type and with a similar usable capacity. The European Commission lets you look up the declared parameters for models in EPREL. | My fridge or freezer runs continuously, so I want to find out whether replacing it would make a bigger difference to my annual consumption than my other projects. |
| Washing cycles | For a washing machine or dishwasher, use the kWh/100 cycles figure on the energy label alongside the number of cycles you run each year. The ADEME notes that this figure is often based on the Eco programme, so also check capacity and water use per cycle. | I run a lot of washing cycles, so the number of cycles and the programmes I use matter more to my decision than the energy rating letter on its own. |
| Electric cooking | Estimate how often you cook. For an oven, compare the kWh per standardised cycle for similar cavities and modes, in line with the measurement basis set out in European regulations. | If I cook often, I want to compare this with my refrigeration and laundry appliances before deciding which one to replace. |
| Size and installation | Check the volume or capacity you need, the space available and the installation requirements. A model of a different size won’t give you a like-for-like comparison of energy consumption. | I’m looking for an appliance that suits my usual loads and the space available, without choosing a capacity based solely on its energy rating. |
| Condition of the appliance | If your current appliance has developed a fault, get the cost of a repair assessed. For a new model, check the applicable repairability or durability information as well as its energy label. | My appliance still works, or could be repaired, so I want to assess its condition before deciding that the difference in energy consumption justifies replacing it straight away. |
What to replace first depends on the difference in annual energy consumption. A fridge or freezer runs continuously, while the impact of washing and cooking depends on how often you use them.
List the appliances you could replace, then compare their annual kWh figures with those of new models of a similar type and capacity.
ADEME’s estimates are based on appliances and usage patterns used as a reference. A different capacity or frequency of use can change the kWh difference.
Use your annual cycle count, the capacity you need and your appliances’ data to make your own comparison.
According to ADEME, the energy consumption shown for washing is often based on a reference Eco programme. It won’t necessarily reflect the other programmes you use at home.
Calculate the kWh/100 cycles figure based on how often you wash, then check the capacity, water use per cycle, Eco programme duration and noise level.
A small difference in energy consumption isn’t, on its own, enough to justify replacing an appliance that can be repaired. Its condition and the repairability or durability information for a new model also matter.
If your appliance has developed a fault, get it assessed before choosing between repair and replacement.
These models illustrate two different options: replacing a fridge-freezer or choosing a compact dishwasher. Before deciding which option is right for you, compare your current appliance’s energy consumption and how you use it.
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If you’re considering replacing your fridge or freezer, compare its 333 L capacity with the space you have and the capacity you need. The product name indicates No Frost and an A rating; check the annual energy consumption on the label for the exact model before calculating the difference compared with your current appliance.
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Its capacity of 6 place settings is worth considering if it suits your usual loads and the space available. The product name indicates a D rating and 47 dB; check the label for the exact model to compare Eco programme energy consumption based on how many cycles you run.
Convert both figures to kWh per year, then work out the difference. Use the kWh/year figures for fridges and freezers. For a washing machine or dishwasher, use the kWh/100 cycles figure and the number of cycles you run. For an oven, use the kWh per cycle figure and how often you cook. Compare models with capacities and usage patterns that are as similar as possible.
No. You should also compare the stated energy consumption and check how it was measured. According to ADEME, washing figures are often based on a reference Eco programme. For fridges and freezers, capacity and kWh/year are essential when comparing models.
Check its energy label and look up the exact model in EPREL, the European Commission’s database of models subject to energy labelling in the European Union. Compare the declared parameters for the model and variant you’re considering.
Not necessarily. Compare its energy consumption based on how often you wash with that of a new model that has a suitable capacity, and take its condition into account. If it has developed a fault, an assessment can help you consider whether it can be repaired before you decide.