Energy Labelling Directive

It is critical that the heating industry is ready for the Energy Labelling Directive being introduced on January 1, 2018, Specflue has warned.

Ian Sams, the company’s commercial director of the leading flue, chimney and renewable heating supplier, said: “The Ecolabel energy rating system brought in with this Directive is exemplified by the multi-coloured A to G sticker seen on white goods such as fridges, freezers and washing machines.

“Wood-burning stoves will display a label from 1 January 2018 to make appliance selection easier for consumers and to make clear the efficiency levels of solid fuel equipment.

“However, the legislation will also impact on manufacturers who will need to ensure that their products are appropriately labelled, and installers who will need a good understanding of the requirements to ensure commissioned installations comply with the rules.”

All newly manufactured solid fuel appliances sold by retailers and from suppliers after the implementation date will have a copy of the energy label fixed to them, giving technical details and information on the appliance performance capabilities and energy rating.

The Energy Labelling Directive scheme identifies products and services with a reduced environmental impact with an A++ to G scale (A++ being the best).

Most modern wood burning stoves are expected to come in at the A and A+ level, and pellet-burning stoves achieving A++. Electronic versions of the label and fiche will also be made available to dealers. The information shown on the energy label includes the supplier’s name or trade mark and model identifier, the energy efficiency class and the direct heat output of the appliance in kW.

Mr Sams concluded: “Brexit will have no effect on the Energy Labelling Directive because the Great Repeal Bill is set to bring it into UK law.”