ErP Energy Labels explained
From September 2015, all manufacturers of water heaters and DHW cylinders must use ErP Energy Labels.
What is an ErP Energy Label?
ErP is the statutory regulation for energy-related products, which rates different appliances and classifies them into various efficiency categories.
We’re already familiar with these labels on refrigerators, televisions, and washing machines, but from September 2015, we will also see them on domestic hot water (DHW) appliances, including:
- Instantaneous water heaters
- Small water heaters
- Wall mounted cylinders
- DHW heat pumps
- Solar cylinders
- Indirect water heaters
- Boilers
- Combination boilers
Ratings will be based on environmental consumer information, such as energy consumption per year and whether the appliance qualifies for a low tariff.
The rating system classifies DHW appliances into seven categories, with the ‘A’ rating demonstrating optimum energy efficiency, through to the ‘G’ rating, identifying appliances with significantly poorer values.
The publication of energy efficiency information is voluntary until the effective date, at which point it will compulsory.
Has the new regulation come as a surprise?
No, the Directive was published at the end of September 2013 in the official EU law gazette.
Energy efficiency is an extremely important concern in the UK (and will continue to be so) and the ErP regulation will allow DHW appliances to be compared more easily. DHW appliances and central heating account for almost 90% of energy consumption in the home, so the potential for saving domestic energy through this initiative is huge.
Which product groups does the ErP apply to?
The new Energy Label applies to all domestic electric, gas and oil water heaters.
Will some products be banned?
The aim of the ErP regulation is to ensure all products meet minimum standards. Therefore, products that fail to do so will no longer be permitted to bear the CE Declaration and will be prohibited from sale.
Will any further regulations be implemented after September 2015?
Yes, this is just the first phase of the regulation. The known timeline is as follows:
- September 2015 – all appliances must bear the new Energy Label
- September 2017 – an ‘A+’ category will be added to the label, and the ‘F’ and ‘G’ categories will be prohibited
- September 2019 – further categories will be prohibited, depending on the relevant draw-off profile of various other appliances
- September 2020 – further restrictions will be implemented for appliances with large draw-off profiles; however, this will not affect decentralised DHW heating
What obligations must dealers follow?
Dealers must ensure that the new Energy Label is clearly visible on the front of appliances exhibited in sales areas, as well as in advertising and technical documentation.