The government has introduced an energy efficiency label to assist those who want an air conditioner that doesn’t consume too much electricity.
The energy star rating system makes it easy to gauge the efficiency and effectiveness of appliances. Many of us are unfamiliar with Watts and amps, and it is almost impossible to understand what they mean. Thankfully, the Australian government stepped in and gave us a standard measurement that made them easy to understand. Without it, we would have been stuck trying to make the calculations to work out which product is best.
In 1987, the energy star rating system was introduced, and in 2004, the Minimum Energy Performance Standards (MEPS) were added for residential air conditioners in Australia.
Energy Rating Labels
An energy rating label must be attached to all appliances in Australia and New Zealand before they are sold. This includes non-ducted household air conditioners in Australia. You can still compare non-ducted household conditioners without a label by downloading the Energy Rating app.
This label allows consumers to evaluate the energy efficiency of a product. It helps them calculate its capacity, which is how much power each model requires to run, by displaying the appliance’s energy rating, on a 6- or 10-star scale and its annual energy consumption.
Is A Six Star Energy Rating the Best?
When the first energy star rating labels appeared, appliances could only get six stars for their efficiency ratings. Since then, the ratings have grown, and ‘super-efficient’ appliances can now score between seven to ten stars. These super-efficient appliances come with a slightly different label and are worth keeping an eye out for if you want the best appliances for your home.
Air Conditioner Energy Star Ratings
You may have noticed that some air conditioners in Perth, Brisbane and across Australia come with a red and blue energy star rating label. But what does this mean? The blue energy star label shows how efficient an appliance is at cooling. While the red energy star label tells you how efficient an air conditioner is when it heats up. Air conditioners work the same way as other appliances. However, because a MDV air conditioners in Australia performs multiple functions, more labels are required to show its efficiency. This will ensure you’re not chilled to the bone when opening your energy bill.
Capacity Output and Power Input
It is important to choose the right air conditioner for you. However, it is also crucial to be able to compare similar products to make an informed decision. The capacity output numbers on air conditioner energy rating labels show how much cooling or heating a particular model can provide.
A ‘power input’ will be listed on the label. This will indicate how much power is needed to produce the cooling and heating shown in the output box. Compare two products that have the same star rating but different output capacities. The one with the lowest power input will be the most efficient. Simple!
A separate declaration will be included in the heating input and outbox box of some energy rating labels. This will indicate the heating output capacity of the item at 2°C. This is helpful in colder climates, where temperatures drop below 5°C. Outdoor units can ‘ice up’ and affect the unit’s heating output capacity. It is voluntary to declare this, but if your area is not listed on the label, please check with your installer or retailer.
On some labels, a Variable Output Compressor tick box will also be visible. This will let you know if the air conditioner system is an inverter model. Inverter systems can adjust their speed of operation depending on certain conditions.
How Are Energy Star Ratings Calculated?
Energy star ratings are determined based on the product’s size and its energy consumption. These products are then compared to similar-sized alternatives. The Australian Greenhouse and Energy Minimal Standards Regulator (GEMS), which was established in 2012 to develop national standards, then runs this information through algorithms and standardization.
What Happens If the System Doesn’t Have a Label?
If your air conditioner doesn’t come with a label, there are several ways you can determine its efficiency. First, go to the manufacturer’s website and check if the information about the efficiency rating is available. You should do some research if you can’t find any information.
Instead of trying to calculate the efficiency of your air conditioning system by yourself, you can use the list maintained by the Australian Government. Once you have found the right one for your area, you can simply enter the model number to see its energy rating.
Should You Pay Attention to the Energy Star Rating?
There are many things to consider when shopping for new appliances. These include the features offered, the physical size, and the colour scheme. While we may be tempted to focus only on the cost of the appliance, it is important to consider the running costs. A cheaper appliance might initially seem better, but it may end up being more expensive down the road.
If the appliance must be equipped with one, it is worth looking at the information on the energy star rating label. This will help you make an informed decision regarding the cost of the appliance and what you can expect in terms of your energy bills over time.
Do you need help selecting the right MDV Air Conditioner unit for your home’s needs? Get in touch with our expert team at IACS today.