Energy Saving in the Kitchen: Energy Efficiency Classes & Energy-Efficient Kitchen Appliances

How can you save energy in the kitchen? And what do energy efficiency classes actually tell us about kitchen appliances? We explain it in the Mykitchens Magazine.

Reducing Energy Consumption in the Kitchen

Here, we show you how to specifically reduce energy consumption in the kitchen. Below, you'll find some of the best tips for saving electricity and water while cooking and baking. Additionally, we have listed more energy-saving tips for individual kitchen appliances in "Energy guzzlers in the Household" gelistet.

• Buy A-Class Appliances
• Use 2-in-1 Appliances (Combo Appliances)
• Use Compact Appliances with Smaller Dimensions (If Possible)
• Utilize Residual Heat
• Maintain and Clean Devices Regularly
• Use Small Appliances for Small Tasks, Large Appliances for Larger Tasks
• Avoid Standby Mode, Turn Appliances Off Completely
• Use Daylight or LED Lights
• Ventilate Properly & Avoid Overheating
• Cook Less

• Set water hardness & descale regularly
• Use eco-programs
• Gas boilers & central heating systems are more energy-efficient than tankless water heaters
• Use a kettle or boiling water tap (e.g. from Quooker) for 100° boiling water
• Maintain and service faucets regularly

The Energy Label for Kitchen Appliances

When it comes to saving energy with kitchen appliances, one term often comes up: energy efficiency class. If a device in the kitchen has a poor energy efficiency class, it's not very useful to always monitor your electricity consumption because the device itself is inefficient, meaning it doesn't perform well enough. Therefore, the first step is to check where you can improve the energy efficiency of your electrical appliances. The focus should initially be on the energy label. Since the 1990s, electronic devices in the EU have been required to display an energy label. The most important feature on the label is the classification into an energy efficiency class, which manufacturers assign themselves.

For all the details on the new EU energy label and the symbols depicted, the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) has provided a clear summary here.

Other Quality Marks, Certification Labels, and Symbols for Kitchen Appliances

As a buyer, it's important to know that the energy efficiency class should not be the sole deciding factor when purchasing. Other factors should also be considered, such as the lifespan of kitchen appliances and additional resource consumption, such as raw materials used. If a kitchen appliance with a good energy label only lasts a few years, the need for replacement not only incurs higher costs but also increases environmental impact, as you have to dispose of the old appliance and purchase a new one. The same applies to the use of expensive-to-source raw materials, such as rare types of wood. Be sure to look for recycled materials and appropriate labels or certifications that indicate sustainability.

Energy-efficient Kitchen Appliances with Low Energy Consumption

If your appliances are more than 10 years old, it might be time to consider replacing them. When doing so, it's a good idea to start with well-known brands that are recognized for their environmental commitment. One such brand is Miele, which produces energy-efficient products with a long lifespan (around 20 years). Another tech giant, Bosch, also offers appliances with excellent energy performance, such as Bosch ovens from the Bosch Series 8, which feature rapid preheating capabilities. To get started, here are some appliances with the best energy efficiency class A from our shop. We also provide an overview of the energy labels, showing what to look for when selecting refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, and range hoods.