Reach for the stars when buying an appliance

The more stars, the more savings every year

Whether you are looking to replace an ageing appliance, adapting to new needs, or buying second hand appliances, look for energy and water star ratings.

Most appliances can have up to 6 stars, and air conditioning units can have up to 10 stars. The more stars, the more energy and water efficient, the more you save every year on running cost.

Appliances with energy star ratings are: air conditioning, dishwashers, washing machines, clothes dryers, fridges/freezers, TVs, and pool pumps.

Air conditioning unit blowing air
Washing machine
Dishwasher
Full fridge and freezer

Appliances running cost savings per year

Fridge/freezer

Dishwasher

Washing machine

Clothes dryer

Air conditioning

TV

$115

$111

$281

$118

$261

$75

Savings calculated using similar size appliances, comparing highest versus lowest star rating

Taking the example of the fridge, a new energy efficient appliance could mean up to $115 in saving per year. Energy efficient appliances cost more to buy, but would result in savings in the long run.

Star rating tips

For air conditioning, the star rating depends on your climate zone

To find out more about energy star rating, visit: www.energyrating.gov.au

Check for the water stars too. The more stars, the more savings.

To find out more about water star rating, visit: www.waterrating.gov.au

You may have noticed that a lot of appliances do not have star ratings. Most notably, there are no star ratings for cooking appliances like stoves, oven, air fryer, toasters, and microwaves.

There is also no rating for hot water systems, portable fans and ceiling fans.

This is changing and hopefully in the near future more appliances will have star ratings.