Do lower EnerGuide ratings mean that ranges already on the market are more energy-efficient than previously believed?
No. The rating on the EnerGuide label is an estimate of the model’s annual energy consumption, based on normal usage in a typical Canadian home. Consumers are not using ovens as much as they did in the past, so the standard has been updated to reflect this change. Reduced oven use means reduced energy use, which in turn results in a lower annual energy consumption rating, even though no changes have been made to the range itself. It’s important to keep in mind that EnerGuide ratings are estimates only and are intended to help consumers compare the energy consumption of different appliance models. What other changes been made in the standard for ranges? Ranges that have tungsten halogen elements, which were exempt under the previous standard, are now regulated. Effective October 8, 2003, these ranges must comply with the reference standard and must bear an EnerGuide label that shows their annual energy consumption relative to other ranges of the same size and class. Another change is th
