Shopping by the stars in 2009

Press Release
22 January 2009

Shopping by the stars in 2009

You can look to the stars to help find the most energy efficient refrigerators – including a family-sized model that uses less energy than a 50-watt light bulb.

Many people check the stars in January to find out what the New Year may hold – now you can also check the stars to find out which new fridge will save you the most money.

Recently the Energy Efficiency & Conservation Authority (EECA) introduced the blue ENERGY STAR mark, which only the most energy-efficient fridges and freezers can display. When purchasing a new fridge look out for the blue ENERGY STAR label – to be assured it is among the top 25% or so of similar models in terms of energy efficiency.

Carrying the ENERGY STAR mark is New Zealand’s most energy-efficient two-door refrigerator, which comes from Electrolux. The new Electrolux refrigerators have a 5 star rating, and can use up to 66% less energy than old fridges1, meaning you can achieve lower power bills. The large 430-litre bottom-mount model uses less energy than a 60-watt light bulb would if it was left running for a year.

And Electrolux has done a bit more looking to the future – to further reduce the impact of its fridges on the environment, it has adopted a refrigerant with much less potential to contribute to global warming.

“Electrolux is the largest fridge supplier using this more environmentally friendly refrigerant in New Zealand,” says Electrolux Director, John Henley. “Globally Electrolux has a strong focus on reducing the eco-footprint of our manufacturing plants and products. By using a more environmentally friendly refrigerant and achieving the ENERGY STAR mark for our fridges we have shown our real commitment.”

But Electrolux has not sacrificed style or function as it focuses on sustainability. “The collection is perfect for those who believe not only that taking care of the planet starts at home, but that it can also be done with style,” says Mr Henley.

Key features of the range include:
• Delicatessen drawers for storing specialty goods
• Specialist wine racks
• Twist & serve ice stations
• Easy-glide slides on all drawers for smooth access
• Modular design to allow two fridge units to be combined into the ultimate side-by-side model.

The range includes bottom-mounted fridge-freezers, a single-door fridge and a vertical freezer, all with a mark-resistant stainless steel door and bar handle.

To view the range or find a stockist of the new Electrolux refrigeration range, visit www.electrolux.co.nz

10 Energy Efficient Tips for Fridge Shopping
1. Replacing your 10-year-old fridge with a new, energy-efficient model can save you up to $100 a year on your power bill.
2. Refrigerators with the freezer at the top are slightly more energy-efficient, although with a fridge at the top you can access items more quickly – the longer the door is open, the more cold air is replaced by warm air.
3. Choose the right sized model for your household. Consider the number of people, how often you shop and how often you entertain. Remember also that an over-full refrigerator has to work harder to stay cool than a moderately full one.
4. The consumption figure on the energy rating label indicates how much electricity the fridge uses to run per year.
5. You can compare appliances and the energy cost calculations at www.energyrating.gov.au
6. If two models have the same energy consumption the one with the larger capacity will be more efficient. The number of stars takes into account the relative size of fridges.
7. Choose models with the most stars and look for the blue ENERGY STAR mark, which clearly identifies the most energy-efficient fridges. You can find a current list of ENERGY STAR products and brands at www.energystar.govt.nz
8. Don’t be surprised at the demise of the butter conditioner – it was a heater in a fridge – not energy-efficient at all.
9. Electrolux has just released New Zealand’s most energy-efficient two-door fridge freezers, including a large 430-litre model that uses only as much electricity as a 60-watt light bulb.
10. Don’t use your old fridge as a beer fridge – it adds to your power bill. Check your Yellow Pages for your nearest fridge recycler.

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