Beat the Bills While Staying Cool
As temperatures rise, so do energy bills—especially if your appliances aren’t pulling their weight in terms of efficiency. Between extra loads of laundry, more frequent refrigeration use, and the constant hum of fans or air conditioners, summer can test your household’s energy consumption. But it doesn’t have to.
At DID.ie, we’re committed to helping you save energy and money without sacrificing comfort or performance. This blog explores the best energy-efficient appliances available today—from large kitchen staples to smaller home gadgets—so you can enjoy a smarter, greener summer.
Why Energy Efficiency Matters
Lower Bills
The biggest and most immediate benefit of switching to energy-efficient appliances is the impact on your electricity bill. Many older models use up to twice as much energy as newer ones.
Eco-Friendly Living
Energy-efficient appliances use less power and water, reducing your household’s environmental impact. As Ireland continues its commitment to greener policies, switching to better appliances is a small step with a big effect.
Smarter Technology
Today’s appliances are not only efficient—they’re smarter. With features like eco-modes, auto shutoff, and app control, you can reduce waste and increase convenience simultaneously.
Cooling with Care – Efficient Air Conditioners & Fans
Cooling appliances are summer staples, but they can also be the biggest culprits when it comes to high energy consumption. Here’s how to stay cool and efficient.
Energy Star Rated Air Conditioners
When browsing air conditioners, look for the Energy Star label or A+++ EU rating . These models consume up to 40% less energy than standard models.
Recommended product types:
Inverter Air Conditioners : Adjust compressor speed based on room temperature.
Split-Systems : Provide better energy efficiency with less noise and more control.
Smart ACs : Allow remote temperature control and scheduling, reducing unnecessary usage.
Efficient Fans
While fans use significantly less energy than AC units, not all fans are created equal. Look for:
DC motor fans : Use up to 70% less energy than AC motor fans.
Fans with sleep/eco mode : These auto-adjust speed based on temperature or timer.
Explore Fans & Air Conditioning.
Chill Smarter – Refrigerators & Freezers
Refrigerators run 24/7, so upgrading to a more efficient model can save hundreds over its lifetime.
Fridge-Freezer Efficiency Tips
Opt for A or B Energy Ratings under the new EU energy labels (since 2021, old A+++ models may now be rated B or C).
Avoid oversized models unless you truly need the space—they use more energy.
Look for inverter compressors and multi-zone cooling to save energy and keep food fresher longer.
Smart Features to Consider
Holiday mode : Keeps the fridge cool while using minimal energy.
Frost-free models : More efficient over time by maintaining optimal performance.
Door alarms : Prevent accidental energy waste.
See Fridges & Freezers.
The Laundry Load – Washers & Dryers
Laundry routines often double in summer thanks to holidays, kids, and more frequent wardrobe changes. Thankfully, efficient washers and dryers can cut down on both water and energy usage.
Washing Machines
Front loaders are typically more efficient than top loaders.
Look for eco settings that adjust wash time and water based on load size.
Spin speeds of 1400–1600 RPM reduce drying time.
Dryers
Heat pump dryers are the most efficient, using up to 50% less energy than condenser or vented models.
Sensor drying stops the cycle when clothes are dry, avoiding overuse.
Combo Units
Washer-dryer combos are a great space-saver, and newer models are significantly more efficient than older two-in-one units.
Browse our Laundry Appliances.
Kitchen Efficiency – Ovens, Dishwashers, and Microwaves
Ovens
While summer isn’t prime baking season, you still need your oven for roasts, casseroles, or baked veggies. Consider:
Convection ovens : Circulate air to cook faster at lower temps.
Dual cavity ovens : Allow cooking smaller portions without powering a full unit.
Pyrolytic cleaning : More efficient than manually scrubbing and uses heat cycles wisely.
Dishwashers
Dishwashers are more water- and energy-efficient than hand-washing—if used correctly.
Use eco mode : Saves water and energy by extending cycle time.
Use full loads only : Avoid half-loads unless your machine has a dedicated setting.
Auto-dosing and sensors : Reduce detergent and water waste.
Microwaves
For reheating or cooking small items, microwaves are far more efficient than ovens. New inverter models use energy continuously and evenly rather than in bursts, improving overall efficiency.
Explore Kitchen Appliances.
Small Appliances That Make a Big Difference
Kettles
Boiling just the water you need can save €25–€30 per year. Look for:
Rapid boil tech
Minimum water level indicators
Energy-saving auto shutoff
Toasters & Coffee Machines
While not heavy energy users, they do benefit from:
Quick heat-up times
Eco brew modes
Programmable timers
Vacuum Cleaners
Cordless vacuums with brushless motors are not only quieter—they’re up to 30% more efficient. Robot vacuums with smart mapping avoid unnecessary cleaning, too.
See our Small Appliances Range.
Smart Plugs, Power Strips & Monitors
Don’t overlook smart home accessories that reduce “phantom energy” loss—power drawn by devices in standby mode.
Smart plugs : Schedule and monitor energy use per socket.
Energy monitoring systems : Identify high-usage appliances and inform smarter habits.
Smart strips : Cut power to peripheral devices when the main device is off (e.g., turn off printer when computer shuts down).
Smart energy control starts with the right tech. Find it in Smart Home Accessories.
Energy-Saving Tips for Summer
Even with efficient appliances, your habits make a major difference. Here’s how to maximise your savings:
Quick Wins:
Unplug devices not in use.
Run appliances during off-peak hours (late evening/early morning).
Keep your fridge full (it retains cold better).
Let dishes air-dry instead of using the dishwasher's heat cycle.
In the Kitchen:
Cook in batches to avoid heating the oven twice.
Use lids on pots to boil faster.
Thaw food in the fridge rather than the microwave.
Around the Home:
Wash clothes at 30°C instead of 40°C or higher.
Line-dry clothes when possible.
Close curtains to keep rooms cool and reduce the need for AC.
Grants, Rebates & Long-Term Incentives
Energy-efficient upgrades often come with financial support. In Ireland:
SEAI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland) offers grants for home energy upgrades, including efficient heating and insulation.
Check if your local council provides incentives or discounts on appliance recycling or upgrades.
Final Checklist: Upgrade Efficiently This Summer
Choose Energy Star or A/B-rated appliances
Switch to a heat pump dryer
Use eco modes on dishwasher and washing machine
Use smart plugs for high-drain devices
Replace your old fridge with a modern inverter model
Keep curtains/blinds closed on sunny days
Avoid running half-loads in dishwashers
Clean appliance filters regularly
Line-dry laundry whenever possible
Explore smart home automation for energy savings
Smarter Choices, Bigger Savings
Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances isn’t just good for the planet—it’s smart for your wallet, too. From cooling systems and fridges to washers and smart plugs, every upgrade helps you enjoy a more comfortable and cost-effective summer.
At DID.ie, we stock a wide range of energy-efficient appliances designed to meet the needs of Irish homes. Whether you’re replacing a single unit or giving your home an eco-makeover, we’re here to help you make smarter, greener choices.
