Appliances
  • Heat water only when needed. This can be accomplished by turning the water heater on half an hour prior to use.
  • Turn off the water heater in the summer and when it's not needed to reduce energy consumption.
  • Consider using a timer; you can heat water at a set time every day, eliminating the need to turn off the water heater manually.
  • Adjust your water heater's thermostat down to 55°C. Most people don't need water hotter than that, and every 2 degrees lower uses up to 6% less electricity.
  • Make sure to keep enough space, at least 10 cm, all around the refrigerator so that air can circulate easily, which helps reduce energy consumption.
  • Put your fridge in the coolest place in the kitchen, out of direct sunlight and away from heat sources to reduce energy consumption.
  • Consider energy-efficient refrigerators when shopping for new ones.
  • Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight.
  • It is more energy efficient to purchase one large fridge than two smaller units.
  • Avoid putting hot food in the fridge to reduce its energy consumption.
  • Don't leave the refrigerator door open any longer than necessary.
  • After using the refrigerator, always make sure the refrigerator door is completely closed.
  • Use the dishwasher and clothes washing machines at full load to reduce electricity and water consumption.
  • Use lower temperature settings. Use warm water or cold water for the wash cycle instead of hot water.
  • Buy a 5-star energy-efficient dishwasher and clothes washing machine.

It isn't always simple to know how to choose the right appliance for your needs. Our appliance buying guide aims to help you make the right decision to help conserve electricity and reap the maximum rewards in terms of savings.

1. Look for the Energy Efficiency Label. Energy Star models are the most energy efficient in any product category, exceeding the energy efficiency minimums set by the Emirates Authority for Standards & Metrology (ESMA). If you remember only one rule when you shop, remember to look for the Energy Star label and the Emirates Quality Mark.

For more information on the Emirates Quality Mark visit the ESMA website at www.esma.gov.ae

2. Use the Energy Guide label. Some uninformed salespeople might tell you that the model you're looking at is the most efficient because it has an Energy Guide label. This isn't exactly true. All new appliances must carry the Energy Guide label, either on the appliance itself or on the packaging. The label allows you to compare the typical annual energy consumption and operating cost of different models of any type of appliance you're thinking of buying.

For more information on the Energy Guide label, please visit the ESMA website at www.esma.gov.ae

3. Get the right size. Make sure the product you're buying suits your needs. Oversized air conditioners, water heaters and refrigerators may satisfy design and aesthetic sensibilities, but if they aren't going to be used optimally, they will waste energy and money; in many cases, they also may not perform as well.

4. Think long-term. Many of the most energy-efficient appliances cost more initially, but they'll save you money in the long run. Expect to keep most major appliances for no more than 10 to 20 years. A more efficient appliance soon pays for itself; lower monthly utility bills over the lifetime of the appliance will more than offset a higher purchase price. In addition, the latest resource-efficient clothes washers and dishwashers not only save electricity; they also use a lot less water and can reduce your water bill significantly.