Vacuum cleaners and energy efficiency has been the subject
of much discussion of late and, whilst we are still within the EU, it is
something we are going to have to live with, for the time being at least.
The EU Eco-design Directive and the Energy Labelling
Framework Directive govern the energy efficiency and energy labelling of all
vacuum cleaners made in or shipped into the UK. The directives apply only to
new upright and cylinder vacuums and do not cover wet and dry vacuums, robot
vacuums or rechargeable vacuums.
Under the requirements of the Eco-design directive, all
vacuums must be less than 1600 watts in power, must consume no more than 62 kWh
of energy per year and must carry a dust removal efficiency grading.
The energy labelling requirement means that all vacuums will
be rated from A to G based on their energy efficiency and cleaning performance
on hard floors and carpets, and on their dust emissions. This is a similar
system to that used for washing machines and fridge freezers.
The Energy Efficiency Label
An A-rated vacuum cleaner is the most energy efficient
machine, whereas machines with a G-rating will be the least efficient. The
annual energy consumption of the vacuum cleaner is also shown on the label. The
lower the number, the more energy efficiency the cleaner offers. Remember that
the figure should not be above 62 kWh per year.
There are separate grades for dust pick-up that apply to
carpet and hard flooring. An A-rating for this element will mean the cleaner is
highly effective. If you see anything below a C-rating, it really should be a
no-go.
Dust re-emission concerns the amount of dust put back into
the atmosphere via the vacuum’s exhaust following cleaning. This is a very
important consideration where allergies are concerned, so if you are looking to
ensure your working environment is as allergen-free as possible, you will need
to go for an A-grade in this respect. The exhaust air will depend upon the
quality and type of filter fitted to the vacuum cleaner, and how well the
cleaner is sealed will also have an effect. Don’t go for anything below a
C-grade but do try to seek out A and B ratings.
The noise level of the vacuum cleaner is also graded on the
energy efficiency label. The lower the decibels, the quieter the cleaner. In a
commercial setting, this is particularly important where cleaning takes place
during working hours.
Energy Efficient Vacuum Cleaners: Buyer’s Guide
If you are looking to remain compliant when choosing a
commercial vacuum cleaner, the Numatic range will serve you well. Henry
for example is A-rated for energy efficiency. Its dust pick-up for carpets and hard
floors is grade C, as is its dust re-emission grade.
 |
| Hetty
carries the same grading as Henry as does James,
whose annual energy consumption is way below the amount allowable under the directive |
Hetty
carries the same grading as Henry as does James,
whose annual energy consumption is way below the amount allowable under the
directive at just 25.2 kWh per year.
Lindhaus
upright machines for professional use are all rated Class A for energy
efficiency. They are also very low noise level.
 |
| Lindhaus machines are A-rated for energy efficiency |
Sebo
also remodelled its designs to take in lower energy consumption in line with
the EU directive and its range now combines energy efficiency with ergonomic
and user-friendly design, exceptional performance and low noise levels.
Bespoke Advice on Buying an Energy Efficient Commercial Vacuum Cleaner
A major advantage of buying commercial vacuum cleaners from
Anderson Trade is that personalised advice comes as standard. So when you are
choosing an energy efficient vacuum cleaner, you can feel fully reassured that
you will be equipped to make the best possible decision. We are ready and
waiting to assist, so please get
in touch.
