Energy Labels Explained: Understanding A to G Energy Ratings for Appliances in Ireland

Q: What appliances have energy labels?

You'll find energy labels on the below home appliances:Refrigeration (fridges, fridge freezers, freezers)Washing machinesWasher dryersTumble dryersDishwashersOvensCooker hoodsTVs and electronic displays (computer monitors, signage ect)SmartphonesTabletsLight bulbs and lighting productsThe energy labels help Irish consumers make more informed choices based on both upfront cost and future running costs.

September 23, 2026

Time to read - 5 min

If you have been shopping for an home appliance or TV in the last few years, so have probably noticed the colourful energy labels displayed on the box or front of products. They accompany everything from washing machines, fridges, computer screens and more. But what do the A to G ratings actually mean? How can they help you make a concious decision regarding energy usage, product price and efficiency?

This guide explains everything Irish shoppers need to know about energy labels and how to choose more efficient appliances for their homes.

Understanding Energy Labels; the A to G Scale

The energy labels you see online and in-store are a standardised rating system used across the EU. It shows how energy efficient an appliance is. The purposes of the energy labels are to help consumers compare products easily while shopping and aid them in making informed purchasing choices. The energy labels provide information about energy consumption, performance, noise, capacity and other key features specific to each product type.

You'll find energy labels on the below home appliances:

Refrigeration (fridges, fridge freezers, freezers)
Washing machines
Washer dryers
Tumble dryers
Dishwashers
Ovens
Cooker hoods
TVs and electronic displays (computer monitors, signage ect)
Smartphones
Tablets
Light bulbs and lighting products

The scale on your energy labels will run from G (red) to A (dark green). The traffic light colouring is a visual aid to help to distinguish the most energy efficient models.

You can see additional information about the products energy usage below this visual scale. This information is important because it gives you a better understanding of the efficiency of the model. It was also help to compare two products that have the same energy rating.

An example of the new energy labels ratings showing energy efficiency, noise level, water usage and more

The Revised Energy Label Format

Underneath the top energy label scale you can see the kWh (kilowatt-hours) amount. This can be displayed in per annum or per 100 cycles. In the first example, the kWh is shown per 100 cycles. To calculate the product's running cost, simply multiply the given kWh usage by your electricty unit cost. If you are unsure, you can find this on your most recent energy bill.

If we calculate the costs from the top energy label example:

119 (kWh) x €0.35c = €41.65 per 100 cycles

Savings Comparison Example

Below is a comparison between two different American style fridge freezers and their usage over 10 years. The kWh is found on the energy labels displayed on the products in-store and online.

Model A - 349 kWh/ annum

Model B - 260 kWh/ annum

Model A - 349 x €0.35 = €122.15 (cost per year) x 10 = €1221.50 estimated cost for 10 years usage

Model B - 260 x €0.35 = €91 (cost per year) x 10 = €910 estimated cost for 10 years usage

Model B savings over 10 years is €311.50, compared to model A.

As of September 2026, some product types still use the old energy labels (pictured here). This scale extends to A+++ so it is more difficult for a consumer to make an informed purchase. Common product type examples include ovens and cooker hoods. These older energy labels are being phased out by the European Commission.

An example of the old energy labels ratings showing energy efficiency, noise level and more

The Old Energy Label Format

What to consider when comparing energy labels

Energy-efficient appliances typically cost less to run becuase they use less electricity. A higher-rated appliances may have a higher upfront cost when compared to a lower rated product. It's important to consider the running costs and your frequency of use to determine whether investing in the more efficient model will save you money over the lifespan of the appliance.

The kilowatt-hour usage is the most obvious consideration in terms of cost-savings. There are other areas to consider when picking which appliance will be the most efficient and suitable for your lifestyle.

Capacity
Appliance size/ fit type
Noise level
Features/ special programmes

Capacity is important when we consider energy-efficiency. If you are a single person household, an American style fridge-freezer is likely a much bigger appliance than required. If you factor in the cost to run versus a smaller undercounter fridge freezer combo, you may soend more money on electricity. Even if the undercounter is a lower energy rating. You should also consider your available space. You may be restricted to a certain fit type, depending on your kitchen or utility room setup. Noise level may also be an important factor. If you have your washing machine and dryer in an open living space, it may be worth investing in a quieter machine. Special programmes and features can also drive up the price of your appliances. It is important to consider all the factors when you are deciding which elements are worth the additional investment.

Energy Labels FAQs

Is a D-rated appliance bad?

Not necessarily. Under the current EU rating system, many modern, efficient appliances are rated D. When researching, always compare products within the same category and check actual energy consumption figures. This will give a clear indication of the energy usage and annual costs for the appliance.

Are A-rated appliances worth the extra cost?

A-rated appliances can be worth the additional up-front investment. Appliances like fridge freezers and tumble dryers which are used reguarly or are continuously turned on are the most obvious choices. The long-term energy savings can make higher-rated models a worthwhile investment. Compare the annual energy usage to work out the annual savings.

You can also consider the additonal benefits of the a-rated appliance you are considering. Special programmes and premium build quality can also be factors in higher prices.

What happened to A+, A++ and A+++ ratings?

These ratings were phased out as part of the EU energy label rescaling introduced in 2021. All eligible appliances now use the simpler A to G system.

Does an A rated appliance mean lower bills?

In many cases, yes it can mean lower bills. Actual running costs depend on how often you use the appliances, if you have day and night electricity pricing and whether you over or under fill depending on the max capacity.

What appliances have energy labels?

You'll find energy labels on the below home appliances:

Refrigeration (fridges, fridge freezers, freezers)
Washing machines
Washer dryers
Tumble dryers
Dishwashers
Ovens
Cooker hoods
TVs and electronic displays (computer monitors, signage ect)
Smartphones
Tablets
Light bulbs and lighting products

The energy labels help Irish consumers make more informed choices based on both upfront cost and future running costs.

What appliances do not have energy labels?

Not every household electrical product requires an energy label. For example, you'll generally not see A-G ratings on:

Kettles
Toasters
Microwaves
Coffee machines
Vacuum cleaners
Small kitchen appliances such as blenders and food processors

While these products still consume electricity, their energy use is typically assessed through other product standards rather than the EU energy labelling scheme.

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