A new website has been launched which will enable users to save money by generating the cost of a multitude of different household appliances using a quick, simple search. In doing so, you can ‘test' the energy efficiency of a fridge, freezer, television, washing machine, dryer, dishwasher, hob or oven before you buy it to ensure you are not going to end up with an unnecessarily large bill.
The impartial, independent site contains the most extensive database of appliance energy ratings in Europe which means you are almost certain to find what you're looking for. In addition, users can compare tariffs for all major UK energy suppliers, searching by price, rating or fuel mix.
If you see a tariff you'ld like to switch to, the site will guide you through the process in four easy steps. They estimate that, on average, they can save each home up to £210 immediately; more if users continue to return to the site on a regular basis.
The screens are straightforward and don't ask for masses of information, so the whole process takes just a few minutes. The idea is to get consumers thinking more carefully about the long-term cost of what they are buying, if not through concern for the environment then surely to reduce their energy bills.
If consumers start purchasing more consciously this should have a knock-on effect to pressure manufacturers into making more eco-friendly products.
How it works
On the homepage you are asked to select the brand, model and hourly usage of the appliance you wish to test. If you're not sure of the hourly usage, there is a useful ‘national average' option to choose.
This will immediately generate a yearly usage in kilowatt hours (kWh) and the equivalent cost in pounds per year for the product you have selected. You can do this as many times as you want with different selections to see how the performances compare.
If you then wish to check out the tariff comparison function of the site, you just enter your postcode and click on to the next screen. You need to enter some simple information about your current tariff and then decide whether you'd like your results to be prioritised by price, rating or green tariffs.
The following screen will display the results, which are clearly set out to optimise comparison. If, at this stage, you decide to switch to one of these options the instructions on the screen will guide you through the process.
There is a helpline to call if you have trouble using the site. It's certainly worth a visit in advance of purchasing a new appliance for your home or workplace.
| READ MORE... | |
 |
GREEN LIVING Get SMART: This technology can cut energy use Rachel Clode explains why every switched-on homeowner should be turned on by SMART technology |
 |
GREEN LIVING Change your lightbulbs Carbon Coach Dave Hampton completely ignores Matilda Lee’s thermostat and heads stright for her lightbulbs. |
