FAQ
A frequently asked question (FAQ) is just that and on this page we have tried to provide answers, based on the most up to date information we have at the time of writing, to some of the most frequently asked Energy Labelling questions that we receive.
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Please choose from one of the following FAQ categories:
What is the purpose of the Energy Labelling Framework Directive?
The Directive is designed to communicate complex information in a clear and understandable format regarding the relative energy consumption and performance of certain, specified domestic appliances, allowing consumers to make informed purchasing decisions.
The Directive also helps ensure a level playing field for manufacturers, while encouraging competition between them on the environmental aspects of their products.
What should I as a consumer look out for?
Each appliance must bear an accurate label, affixed by the distributor (retailer) at the point of sale displaying, amongst other things, details of its energy efficiency. Other information will depend on the type of product but might include water consumption, noise levels, washing, cleaning and drying performance class. Each appliance should also be accompanied by an information notice/sheet providing similar information in written form. Where a product brochure is provided it must also contain an information notice/sheet.
What products does the Directive apply to?
The Directive applies to a range of products, all of which come in the form of regulations and can be found on the legislation page of this website.
The 'new' label
What is the new Energy Label?
The new labelling system introduces three new classes (A+ to A+++) to be added on top of the current A class rating to reflect improvements in energy efficiency and to allow consumers to differentiate between products and make more informed purchasing decisions.
The European Commission suggest that if the majority of the market reaches the upper two classes (A++, A+++), the classification will be reviewed. However, it is expected that the A+++ class is close to the technological limit of possible efficiency improvements.
Why has the new label been introduced?
The new label provides information and market transparency to assist consumers to make informed purchasing decisions. It ensures that all products are comparable using the same test methods and classification. The aim of energy labelling is to provide incentives for industry to develop further improved products and innovations beyond the "minimum" mandatory energy efficiency levels.
Will the overlap of two labels confuse the consumer?
The new label will be gradually introduced, meaning that consumers are likely to see the old and the new label close to each other for several months. However, since an old class A or B appliance is equivalent to a new class A or B, consumers will still be able to compare products at the point of sale on the basis of both energy labels. The label can be used on a voluntary basis by manufacturers immediately after the entry into force of the Regulation prior to it becoming a mandatory requirement.
Where can I download a template of the new label?
Please refer to the European Commission website, where they have example energy labels and templates to download and print. Alternatively, as an intermediate measure, labels can be downloaded from this website.
What is placing on the market?
The term placing on the market is the initial action of making a product available for the first time on the Community market, with a view to distribution or use in the Community. This is considered to take place when a product is transferred from the stage of manufacture with the intention of distribution or use on the Community market and applies to each individual product, and not a type, series or line of product.
Can I export non-compliant goods to countries outside of the EU?
The Directive does not apply to exported products placed on markets outside of the EU, only to products imported from outside of the EU to the EU market.
Are prototypes used at exhibitions and trade fairs considered to be placed on the market?
A product is not considered to be placed on the market when it is displayed at trade fairs, exhibitions or demonstrations. However, it must be clearly marked as not being placed on the market and must not be put into use. As such, any non-compliant product is for display purposes only. Prototypes for experimentation may be used providing they are not made available on the EU market.
Are ‘own use’ products considered to be placed on the market?
Products imported for own use are considered placed on the market, even when imported from another branch of the same organisation outside the EU and therefore must comply. However, products built for own use are generally not considered as being placed on the market and therefore do not have to comply.
Are products stored in warehouses considered to be placed on the market?
Placing on the market is considered not to take place where a product is in the stocks of the manufacturer. However, imports of finished products that have cleared customs and are being held by the producer without any further process required are considered to have been placed on the market.
