Energy Efficient Appliances Guide for Australians

Switching to energy-efficient appliances isn’t just great for the environment—it can also save you hundreds of dollars on your annual energy bills. With the cost of living on the rise, smart choices about household appliances can reduce expenses without compromising comfort.  

If you’re unsure where to start, we’ve created this guide to help you understand how energy-efficient appliances work, the key benefits, and practical tips for choosing the ideal products in Australia. With this information, you’ll be able to make confident decisions that positively impact your wallet and the planet. 

Note: This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, product, or energy advice. Individual savings and results may vary depending on usage, appliance model, and household conditions. 

What Are Energy-Efficient Appliances? 

Energy-efficient appliances are designed to use less electricity or gas while delivering the same (or better) performance as standard appliances. They achieve this by incorporating advanced technologies, such as heat pumps, induction heating, or improved insulation. 

To help consumers identify how efficient appliances are, Australia uses a star rating system. Found on most household electrical and gas appliances, this label provides two key pieces of information: 

• The star rating (on a scale of 1–10 stars): Higher stars equal better efficiency. 
• The energy consumption estimate (kilowatt-hours per year or MJ/year for gas): This gives you an idea of yearly running costs. 

For example, a 6-star fridge uses 23% less energy than a 3-star fridge of the same size. Over the years, that translates to big savings on your utility bills. 

Why Should You Switch to Energy-Efficient Appliances? 

Here’s why upgrading to energy-efficient appliances is a smart investment: 

1. Save Money on Power Bills 

Energy-efficient appliances consume significantly less electricity or gas. While they tend to have a higher upfront cost, the savings on running costs often pay for the investment over time. For example, a 7-star pool pump  may save up to $1,200 depending on usage and appliance efficiency. 

2. Reduce Your Environmental Footprint 

Every kilowatt of electricity saved reduces demand on fossil fuel-generated power, cutting greenhouse gas emissions.  Energy-efficient appliances may help reduce emissions depending on your energy source. 

3. Enjoy Advanced Features 

Modern energy-efficient appliances often come with advanced features like smart controls, better durability, and quieter operation—making your home more comfortable and functional. 

4. Future-Proof Your Home 

With stricter energy regulations and rising electricity prices, equipping your home with efficient appliances ensures you stay ahead of market trends while keeping operating costs to a minimum. 

How to Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances for Your Home?

Follow these steps to identify and purchase the ideal energy-efficient appliances for your household: 

1. Understand Energy Star Ratings 

Look for appliances with a high star rating to maximise energy savings. For air conditioners, check the zoned energy labels, which calculate efficiency based on Australia’s diverse climates (hot, average, or cold zones). 

For example: 

• A 1-star clothes dryer can use nearly three times the electricity of a 6-star model. 
• An 8-star pool pump compared to a 3-star pump could save hundreds of dollars annually. 

Use the Energy Rating Calculator on the energyrating.gov.au website or its free app to compare the annual running costs of different models. 

2. Focus on Key Appliances 

Some appliances have a greater impact on your bills than others. Here’s a quick breakdown: 

Kitchen 

• Fridges & Freezers: Choose a size suitable for your household. A properly sized fridge that’s two-thirds full runs more efficiently. High-star fridges can save you up to 23% in costs compared to low-star alternatives. 
• Dishwashers: Energy-efficient dishwashers consume less water and electricity. Look for those with eco-cycles and delayed start functions to take advantage of solar or off-peak energy. 
• Induction Cooktops: These are faster and more energy-efficient than gas and traditional electric stovetops, with the added bonus of superior safety and precise temperature control. 

Laundry 

• Washing Machines: Front-load washers use about half the water of top loaders and are generally more energy efficient. Wash with cold water to reduce electricity usage further. 
• Clothes Dryers: Heat pump dryers use up to half the electricity of conventional dryers. They come with a higher price tag but can save substantial amounts over their lifetime. 

Electronics 

• TVs & Monitors: LED and LCD screens with high energy ratings may use significantly less energy than older plasma TVs, depending on screen size and usage. 
• Computers: Look for models with the voluntary Energy Star label for greater efficiency on standby and during use. 

Pool Pumps 

• An efficient pool pump can cut your energy usage by up to 70%. Seven-star models may cost more upfront but drop running costs dramatically over the pump’s lifetime. 

3. Calculate Running Costs 

Compare energy labels not just for star ratings but also for annual usage in kilowatt-hours or megajoules. A product’s estimated running costs per year are one of the ideal indicators of long-term savings. 

4. Time Your Usage for Maximum Savings  

Schedule your appliances to take advantage of cheaper energy rates or use power during solar-output hours if you have panels installed. For example: 

• Run dishwashers and washing machines during the middle of the day. 
• Use dryers during off-peak evening rates. 

5. Eliminate Wasted Energy 

• Standby Power: Avoid leaving devices on standby. Devices like hi-fi systems and older appliances can consume hundreds of additional kilowatt-hours a year. Where possible, turn them off at the wall. 
• Current Monitors: Use energy monitors (available at hardware stores or libraries) to keep track of how much power each appliance consumes. 

6. Recycle Responsibly 

When upgrading appliances, ensure the old ones are recycled through eco-friendly programs. Contact your council about responsible disposal or trade-in services. 

How to Afford Energy-Efficient Appliances?

High upfront costs don’t have to stand in the way of owning energy-efficient appliances. Here are practical financing options: 

• No Interest Loan Scheme (NILS): Australians on low incomes may qualify for loans to purchase essential energy-efficient appliances with no interest. 
• Manufacturer Rebates: Many manufacturers or energy companies offer cash-back or rebates for purchasing energy-efficient models. Check online before buying. 

Take the First Step Toward Smarter Energy Use 

Switching to energy-efficient appliances isn’t just a decision for today—it’s an investment in your home, your wallet, and the planet. By making informed, strategic purchases, Australian households can significantly reduce energy costs without compromising lifestyle quality. 

Are you ready to explore smarter energy solutions? Energy comparison platforms such as Econnex may help explore efficient electricity and gas plan options. Always ensure you check product efficiency through official resources like energyrating.gov.au before purchase decisions. Every star counts, and every step you take makes a difference!