How can you tell how much electricity a major appliance (such as a refrigerator) will use?

Question

In Australia we have a system of 'stars' which show how 'energy efficient' an appliance is, which is good ... BUT, if I buy a new refrigerator, how do I know how much energy it will actually use?

Any help appreciated.

Answer 1

This site has star rating, as well as energy consumption (kWh/365 uses) and cost to run electrical appliances that are  available in Australia:

http://www.energyrating.gov.au/

Answer 2

Do a google for "Energy Meter". There are small meters for as little as $24 that let you plug the appliance into and it will tell you exactly what any appliance is using.

Answer 3

You can use this formula to estimate an appliance's energy use:

Wattage × Hours used per day × Days used per year ÷ 1000 = Kilowatt-hour (kWh) consumption per year

For example: Personal computer (120 Watts) and monitor (150 Watts)

(120 Watts + 150 Watts) × 24 hours per day × 365 days per year ÷ 1000 = 2365 kWh/year **

**figures used assume computer and monitor are left on at all times

Then, calculate the annual cost to run an appliance by multiplying the kWh per year by your electricity rate per kWh consumed.

2365 kWh × $0.049 (sample residential rate) = $115.88 per year

You can usually find the wattage of most appliances stamped on the bottom or back of the appliance, or on its nameplate.The wattage listed is the maximum power drawn by the appliance. Since many appliances have a range of settings(hairdryers), the actual amount of power consumed depends on the setting used at any one time.

Answer 4

The star system is very efficient, but if you are going to buy a new fridge try asking around at your local major electronic stores and they should give you all the information which you need. It is very hard to find that kind of information on the internet. Just ask around and you should find out some info.

Hope this helped