The dreaded energy bill is, in many cases, one of the biggest expenses. That is why we explain below how you can reduce this energy consumption and achieve savings, which is especially relevant if you have a rental property and want to optimise its profitability.
1. Identify the appliances that use the least amount of energy
To find out which appliances consume the least energy, you will have to look at the energy label. This is a sticker on household appliances that identifies them according to the energy they consume.
The degree of efficiency is measured on a seven-letter scale: A, B, C, D, E, F, G (from highest to lowest efficiency). Below, we explain the meaning of each category (this new labelling was introduced in 2022):
In addition to the letter, you will find the following information on the label:
- Manufacturer
- Model and make
- Annual energy consumption (kWh)
- Capacity in litres and Decibels (dB)
- QR with additional information about the appliance
When you have a holiday or temporary rental flat, investing in energy-efficient appliances will allow you to reduce energy costs and offer a more sustainable and attractive home for tenants.
2. What does energy efficiency in household appliances mean?
This is the ability of the appliance to perform its function while using as little energy as possible. Logically, the less energy it uses, the more efficient it is.
In addition, it is important because the new labelling was implemented with the Royal Decree 390/2021, and these labels bring them in line with European regulations. The main objective is to provide the information more clearly so that consumers understand the information easily.
If you are an owner and delegate the management of your flat to an expert agency, making sure that the property is equipped with efficient appliances can improve its market value and attract more sustainability-conscious guests.
3. How much can I save with efficient appliances?
Below is a table showing the approximate savings according to the appliance label:
4. What aspects should I take into account when buying an appliance?
When selecting appliances, it is important to take into account resistance and durability. The appliances that consume the least are the oven, washing machine and TV. On the other hand, those that consume the most are the refrigerator, freezer, tumble dryer and dishwasher.
Pay attention to Standby mode, also known as phantom consumption! Although it may not seem like it, this accounts for 6.6% of the total energy consumption of household appliances.
Making sure your guests are using the appliances in your flat responsibly can make a big difference to your electricity bill. Tools like Polaroo can make it easier for you to keep track of your property’s expenses.
ECO Mode
This mode is designed to optimise water and energy consumption in the washing time. The process is carried out without diminishing the quality of the result, and combines the following factors in a way that manages to reduce its environmental impact:
- Duration: The ECO programme may have a longer duration than the others. This is because, by ensuring proper cleaning and using fewer resources, it needs more time.
- Temperature: The temperature is usually between 40º and 60º. This means that it operates at a lower temperature than the rest.
- Resource optimisation: This consists of adjusting the amount of water to the size of the load and, in turn, to the level of soiling. This avoids wasting water.
Therefore, one of the advantages of ECO mode is the increased lifetime of the appliance and the contribution to the environment.
5. How to make optimal use and save on your bill
- Wash with cold water to use a third less energy.
- Set the fridge temperature to approximately 3.5º and the freezer to -18º.
- Unplug appliances that you are not going to use for a while. Remember that standby mode can increase your annual electricity consumption by 7%.
- Fill the washing machine and dishwasher completely before running it. Otherwise, you will be wasting space, water and energy.
- Make use of ECO programmes. These will help you reduce energy consumption by 30%.
6. Sustainable practices you can do
- Run appliances with a full load: As we have said before, by fully loading the washing machine and dishwasher you will avoid wasting water and energy.
- Clean filters frequently: Keeping ducts and filters clean will improve performance and reduce consumption.
- Place appliances strategically: It is important to place them away from heat, such as radiators.
If you found this article useful or you are looking for an agency to manage your property, do not hesitate to contact our team!
