The energy label is one of the most important factors (if not the most important) when purchasing a washing machine (as well as any other electrical appliance), as it shows how much electricity it will consume, and therefore your long-term expenses. This mandatory labeling indicates:

• How efficient a washing machine is
• Its annual energy consumption
• Its size and capacity
• Its noise level

Since 2021, the new EU energy label has been simplified and applies to all major appliances.

Below, you can see what such a label looks like and how to decode it:

1️⃣ Energy Efficiency Scale (A to G)

The energy efficiency scale shows the energy class ratings that a device can have, with the value A indicating higher efficiency, meaning a much more economical refrigerator, and the value G indicating the lowest possible efficiency, meaning a much more energy-consuming device.

2️⃣ Energy Class

The value of the energy class shows how efficient the device is. According to the new energy label, even a refrigerator with a "B" or "C" class can be extremely efficient, given that the new scale is much more demanding.

3️⃣ Energy Consumption per 100 Washing Cycles (kWh/100)

This value shows how many kilowatt-hours the washing machine consumes in 100 washing cycles, which correspond to 6-8 months for an average household or 1 year for 1-2 people with fewer needs. With the corresponding price list from your energy provider, you can roughly calculate how much money your device will spend during this period. For example, if 1 kWh costs €0.20 and the device has an annual energy consumption of 59 kWh/100, you will spend about 11€.

✅ Useful for comparing models of the same category!

4️⃣ Capacity

At this point, you can see the maximum capacity of dry clothes that this washing machine can handle, so you can choose the right device based on your needs.

5️⃣ Spin Performance

The spin performance shows how wet or dry the clothes remain after the end of the wash and is directly related to the drum's spin speed. On the energy label, it is rated from G (lowest performance) to A (highest performance). Generally, washing machines with 1200 spins or more achieve a spin performance greater than C, which is considered satisfactorily efficient for everyday use.

6️⃣ Program Duration (Eco 40-60)

7️⃣ Water Consumption (lt/cycle)

8️⃣ Noise Level & Class

Finally, you can find the noise level, which is measured in decibels (dB). Values below 70db during spinning make the washing machine quiet. The noise level is also accompanied by the noise class, which can range from A (quiet) to D (noisy).

➡ Useful tips & advice

• You don’t need to choose a washing machine with energy class A to have low consumption. The new scale is quite strict, so even classes B or C are considered efficient.
• Compare different models based on energy consumption (kWh/100 cycles) and water consumption (liters/cycle), so you have a more realistic picture of the cost.
• Pay attention to the drum capacity: if you get a very large washing machine for just a few clothes, you’ll waste water and electricity.
• Prefer a washing machine with an inverter motor, as it operates more quietly, is more durable, and has better energy efficiency.
• Check the spin speed: 1200 rpm is enough for everyday use, while 1400+ rpm offers drier clothes, saving time on drying.
• If you often wash small loads, see if the model supports half-load programs or smart weight sensors.
• Finally, for apartments or small spaces, pay attention to the noise level (ideally below 55 dB during washing).

If you need more help, you can also take a look at the detailed buyer's guide for Washing Machines!