Energy efficient appliances and lighting can help you to save energy and money. One household study by the Housing and Development Board (HDB) shows 35% monthly energy savings when energy efficient air-conditioner, refrigerator and lighting was used.
Energy Label
If you’re planning to buy a new air-conditioner, refrigerator or clothes dryer, remember to choose an energy efficient appliance with the Energy Label. The Energy Label is issued by the National Environment Agency (NEA) and it is mandatory for registered suppliers of air-conditioners, refrigerators and clothes dryers to affix the Energy Label on the units that they supply in Singapore.
The Energy Label shows the energy efficiency rating and the energy consumption of the appliance. The energy efficiency rating is expressed in green ticks:
- 1 tick – Fair
- 2 ticks – Good
- 3 ticks – Very Good
- 4 ticks – Excellent
The appliance with more ticks is more energy efficient. You can compare the green ticks for different brands and types of appliances from this database of registered goods. Remember to look out for the Energy Label when you’re buying a new appliance at the retail store.
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Lighting
If you’re buying lightbulbs, choose energy efficient compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs). CFLs last up to 10 times longer and use up to 80% less energy than incandescent lightbulbs. You should also choose the lowest wattage lightbulb needed for your specific lighting purpose.
Besides CFLs, you can choose LED lighting that are more efficient and last longer than CFLs.
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ENERGY STAR
For other appliances that are not under the Energy Label scheme (such as computers, dishwashers, ceiling fans, televisions and lighting), you can check whether they are ENERGY STAR qualified. The ENERGY STAR is a US labeling program to identify and promote energy efficient products. Find a suitable model from this wide range of ENERGY STAR appliances.
Image credit: Energy Label via E2 Singapore
