A Guide to Energy Ratings for Commercial Fridges & Freezers
Metadata
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Title | A Guide to Energy Ratings for Commercial Fridges & Freezers |
| Author | 미상 |
| Site | Bromic Refrigeration |
| Published | 미상 |
| Words | ~1200 |
| Language | en |
| URL | https://www.bromicrefrigeration.com.au/articles/energy-ratings-commercial-fridges-freezers/ |
한국어 요약 (Korean Summary)
경쟁사(Bromic)가 자사 블로그에 게재한 상업용 냉장고 GEMS 에너지 등급(1~10 star) 가이드. MEPS(최소 에너지 성능 기준)의 한계(디스플레이 면적 기반이라 저장용 캐비닛엔 부적합)를 지적하고, GEMS star rating이 더 정확한 비교 지표라고 설명. M-pack 온도 등급(M1/M2/H1/L1/L2)표를 제시하며 star rating과 온도 등급을 함께 봐야 한다고 강조. 실제 비교 예시로 스타 4개 제품(연 547.5) vs Bromic 7-star 제품(연 288.35)을 들어 연 259.95 절감 사례 제시. NSW Energy Savings Scheme(최대 2,000 리베이트), VIC Energy Upgrade, ACT Business Energy & Water Program, Emissions Reduction Fund 등 정부 리베이트도 소개.
Original Content
A Guide to Energy Ratings for Commercial Fridges & Freezers
Did you know, for independent supermarkets and hospitality businesses, refrigeration equipment is often one of the greatest contributors to energy bills? With Electricity prices rising in Australia now is the perfect time to understand how energy efficiency is determined for fridges and freezers.
Energy efficient products are a fantastic long-term solution to reducing energy bills and improving your environmental impact. It is now easier than ever to invest in energy-efficient refrigeration as government supported tools such as GEMS star rating allow for easy comparison of products to provide you with full transparency on what impact the appliance has not only on your energy bill, but if it is compliant with Australian regulations.
The History of Energy Efficiency Ratings
MEPS
The original method to calculate a unit’s energy efficiency was through the “Minimum Energy Performance Standard” (MEPS) which aimed to limit the maximum output of energy that may be consumed by a product while operating. It took the energy used divided by the display area of display fridges and freezers. While this gave valuable information, it did not consider variables such storage units which do not have a display area. E.g., a fridge with a solid door uses less energy than a display fridge with a glass door as the display fridge must work harder with less insulation.
GEMS Star Rating
Thus, the Australian Government’s Energy Rating authority has created a rating system called “GEMS” or “Star Rating” that allows consumers and businesses to “easily compare like for like products with a rating from 1-10 stars.”
By looking at two similar products’ star rating, it provides a more accurate picture of the cabinet’s electrical consumption for a specific cooling capacity. A higher star rating means it’s more energy-efficient and will save you money on electricity bills over time.
GEMS Compliance
From 2021, manufacturers must comply with GEMS standards to reduce energy. However, the reality is, many manufacturers do not register their products with GEMS, despite it being a legal requirement and can still be sold on the Australian market.
It is best to purchase a GEMS certified product in Australia as it gives you certainty that the unit has been tested under rigorous Australian standards.
An easy way to know if a unit is not compliant is if the unit has no GEMS rating. You can check if it’s GEMS certified by searching for the brand or model on the Energy Rating website.
Other factors to consider when comparing energy efficiency of commercial fridges
When comparing energy efficiency for commercial refrigerated cabinets, it’s essential not to rely on the star rating as the sole factor.
Temperature Class: M Pack Temperature
The temperature class or “M Pack Temperature” of the cabinet is crucial and should also be considered. The temperature class tells you the range of temperatures the cabinet is designed to maintain.
This is critical because different products need to be stored at specific temperatures to remain safe and fresh. Choosing the right temperature class ensures your products are stored correctly and prevents any food safety issues or spoilage.
Guide on M Pack temperature ratings
| M Pack Temperature | Cabinet Type | Temperature Range | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| M1 | Fridge | -1°C to +5°C | Perishables |
| M2 | Fridge | -1°C to +7°C | Non perishables |
| H1 | Fridge | +1°C to +10°C | Only suitable for storing pre-chilled non perishable goods |
| L1 | Freezer | -15°C -18°C | Perishables |
| L2 | Freezer | -12°C -18°C | Non perishables |
For businesses, it’s crucial to consider both the star rating and the temperature class together. You want a cabinet that not only saves energy but also meets the temperature requirements for the products you intend to store.
Finding the right balance between energy efficiency and temperature suitability will help you make an informed decision and choose the best refrigerated cabinet for your specific needs. If you need of assistance in finding the perfect cooling solution for your business, speak to our team of experts!
Energy Consumption
The Total Energy Consumption (kWh/24h) is the best figure to consider when calculating how much energy the unit will use over time. It shows how much energy the unit uses over 24 hours period. A lower energy consumption means lower energy bills in the long run.
If you’d like to know how much electricity it will use over a year and, ultimately, what it roughly will cost you to run it, there’s a simple calculation to do. Just multiply this number by 365 to get the yearly energy consumption. Next, take this result and multiply it by the electricity rate from your provider – you’ll find this information on your electricity bill.
For a quick estimate, you can also use average electricity price for your state from this helpful guide by Canstar Blue.
A tale of two hospitality customers: let’s compare the two
Henry and Steve are both restaurant owners looking to update their upright fridges. They both require a glass door so they can display and easily access their produce. Henry purchases a standard single glass door fridge whereas Steve opts for a Bromic GM0690LB. Both these fridges are uprights with a single glass door.
Performance comparison
| Measure | Standard Single Glass Door Fridge* | Bromic GM0690LB (GM690 BLK) |
|---|---|---|
| M-pack Temperature | M1 | M1 |
| Volume (Capacity) | 420L | 659L |
| GEMS star rating | 4 stars | 7 stars |
| Energy consumption | 7.5kWh/24h | 3.995kWh/24h |
| Energy cost per year based on an average $0.20 per kWh, with 24 hours of use | $547.5 | $288.35 |
As you can see, Steve’s research in comparing all the factors to determine energy efficiency has paid off. He has determined his required M-pack temperature, volume requirements and purpose. Steve’s fridge has a much higher GEMS star rating and energy consumption, saving him a hefty $259.95 across the year.
*Figures taken from a popular brand’s unit available to purchase in the Australian/NZ market.
Government incentives offered to businesses
The good news is, the Australian government offers incentives and rebates for businesses to invest in energy-efficient commercial refrigeration to make your transition to becoming greener, easier.
NSW Energy Savings Scheme (ESS)
Rebates of up to $2,000 are offered for businesses that upgrade their existing refrigeration equipment to make it more energy efficient. Also, a free fridge is offered to eligible businesses that replace their old, inefficient fridge with a new, energy-efficient model. Learn more here.
Victorian Energy Upgrade and ACT Business Energy & Water Program
Rebates are offered by the Victorian Energy Upgrade program and the ACT Business Energy and Water Program for businesses that upgrade their commercial refrigeration equipment. Learn more here.
Emissions Reduction Fund (ERF)
The ERF offers grants to businesses that invest in energy-efficient technologies, including commercial refrigeration. Businesses must submit a proposal to be considered for a grant. Learn more here.
Better for the environment, better for your bottom line
Now that you have a greater understanding of energy efficiency terms, you can compare units in the Energy Rating with ease. The most important thing to remember is to firstly determine the requirements you need for your fridge. Once you have decided on the application, determine whether the manufacturer is compliant with a GEMS star rating check, then look at the M pack and energy consumption to determine which unit best fits you. By taking in the whole picture, you can make a better-informed decision, saving you costs and feeling secure that your equipment is compliant with government regulation.
Looking to upgrade? Contact the Bromic team to discuss our range of commercial refrigerators and freezers to find the most appropriate energy efficient product for your needs.