Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
6.3.2.6.1 Programmes for Other Appliances
1. Background to the energy labelling programme
2. History of the energy labelling programme
3. Energy labelling: facts and fiction
4. How are star ratings calculated?
5. Tips for purchasing energy-efficient appliances
6. Energy costs: the second price tag
7. Tips on how to save energy when using an appliance
8. Why is energy efficiency important?
9. How are appliances tested for energy consumption?
10. Refrigerators and freezers
6.3.2.6.2 Refrigerators
How are Refrigerator Star Ratings Calculated?
6.3.2.6.2.1 Comparative Energy Consumption
The energy consumption of a
refrigerator is measured under conditions specified in an Australian stan-
dard. Over a year, this value is known as the comparative energy consump-
tion or CEC.
6.3.2.6.2.2 Concept of Adjusted Volume
The measure of energy service for a
refrigerator is the volume that has to be cooled. However, freezers operate
at a much colder temperature than fresh food compartments, so the volume
of these compartments is 'adjusted' to take into account the extra energy
required to achieve this task. The energy service provided by a refrigerator
or freezer is called the total adjusted volume.
6.3.2.6.2.3 Performance
To be eligible for an energy label, a refrigerator
has to meet a temperature operation test and a pull down test as defined
in the Australian standard. Refrigerators also have to meet the minimum
energy performance standards (MEPS) requirements for minimum energy
efficiency.
6.3.2.7 Base Energy Consumption and Star Rating
The base energy consumption (BEC) defines the 'one star' line for particu-
lar products. An additional star is awarded when the CEC of the model is
reduced by a defined percentage from the BEC. Energy reductions per star
from 2010 were set at 23% per star. For example, a CEC that was 0.77 of the
BEC or less would achieve two stars. Similarly, a CEC of 0.5929 (0.77 × 0.77)
of the BEC or less would achieve three stars and so on.
