New energy label for individual heating devices: what do they mean? | de/BE

Since 1 January 2018, individual heating devices (like inserts, fireplaces and wood-burning stoves, fuelled by pellets or gas) must be given an energy performance classification. This information can be found on an energy label, like the ones currently found commercially on household electrical items (fridges, washing machines etc.). A European Union directive has been introduced to provide consumers with information about the ecological and economical benefits of the latest stoves.

What does the label tell us?

The energy label provides three main pieces of information:

• The name of the supplier or the brand, as well as the product reference number appear at the tope of the label.
• In the middle, the energy classification is represented by a letter, with a scale ranging from A++ (the highest classification, shown in green) to G (the lowest classification, shown in red). It’s really easy to understand: the closer the score is to green, the less energy the stove consumes.
• The direct heat output is shown at the bottom of the label, in kW. This is the nominal output of the stove or insert, so the output achieved in normal combustion conditions. This value helps you choose the right product for the area to be heated.

What criteria are used to define the energy class?

The energy index, ranging from A++ to G, is calculated according to different criteria, associated with energy consumption. These are mainly the following elements:

• the efficiency of the stove or insert,
• the fuel (wood, pellets or gas),
• certain options (thermostat, remote control) that contribute to energy efficiency,
• whether the fire is open or closed.

These criteria explain how Stûv stoves are all A++ for the Stûv P-10, A+ and A for wood stoves and inserts and B and C for gas stoves.

What other factors should be taken into account?

While the energy label tells you about the energy consumed by the fire - its consumption is closely linked to its environmental impact - other labels provide direct information about the environmental performance of a stove or insert. This is particularly so for the “Flamme Verte” label, which guarantees excellent energy performance and low fine particle emissions.

As well as this, choosing a next generation fire to replace an old heating solution means that you save fuel, improve the efficiency of your heating and produce less air pollution.