In today’s world, where energy conservation and sustainability are becoming increasingly important, upgrading to an energy-efficient TV is a smart choice. If you’re looking to replace your old TV with a more eco-friendly option, you’re not alone. Many people are seeking energy-efficient models to reduce their electricity consumption and environmental impact. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the most energy-efficient OLED TVs available in the UK market. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision.
Why Choose an Energy Efficient TV?
Energy-efficient TVs offer a great combination of entertainment and sustainability. In the UK, the average person spends around 5 hours per day watching TV, which adds up to a significant amount of electricity usage. By opting for an energy-efficient television, you can enjoy your favorite shows and movies while minimizing your energy consumption.
While TVs don’t consume as much energy as other household appliances, such as tumble dryers or electric ovens, they still contribute to your overall energy usage. Investing in a more energy-efficient TV can help you reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your electricity bills.
Understanding TV Energy Consumption
Before we dive into the best energy-efficient OLED TVs, it’s essential to understand how much electricity a TV typically consumes and the factors that influence its energy usage.
Factors Affecting TV Energy Consumption
The energy consumption of a TV depends on several factors:
- TV Wattage: The power required to operate the TV. This can range from 50W to 300W.
- Size: Larger screens generally consume more energy.
- Screen Type: Most TVs sold today use OLED, QLED, LED, or LCD technology.
- Resolution: TVs with higher resolutions, such as 4K or 8K, tend to consume more energy.
- On Time: The number of hours the TV is used per day.
- Smart Technology: Features like automatic power off, sleep mode, and local dimming can affect energy consumption.
Average TV Energy Consumption
According to ecocostsavings.com, the average TV uses approximately 106kWh of electricity per year. Based on the current average price per kilowatt (kW) of 0.34p, the annual energy cost for an average TV would be just over £34.
However, it’s important to note that larger TVs with higher resolutions can consume more energy. For example, a 55″ Ultra HD TV with HDR may cost around £68 per year to power, while a 75″ 8K HDR TV could cost £200 per year. TVs equipped with HDR ( High Dynamic Range) also tend to require twice the amount of electricity compared to those with SDR (Standard Dynamic Range).
The Top Energy Efficient OLED TVs in the UK
Now that we understand the importance of energy efficiency and the factors that influence TV energy consumption, let’s explore the top energy-efficient OLED TVs available in the UK market.
1. Samsung Neo QLED TV
The Samsung Neo QLED TV is a remarkable energy-efficient option that offers a stunning picture quality. With its Neo Quantum Processor and clever technology, this 4K Smart TV provides an excellent visual experience while saving energy. Additionally, the TV features an Ambient Mode that reduces energy consumption by blending into the background when not in use.
- Energy Rating: F
2. LG OLED Smart OLED TV
The LG OLED Smart OLED TV is another outstanding choice for energy efficiency. Its OLED technology utilizes self-lit pixels that can individually turn off and on, resulting in true black levels and improved energy efficiency. You can also customize energy-saving preferences to further reduce power consumption.
- Energy Rating: F
3. TCL 4K Ultra HD TV
The TCL 4K Ultra HD TV is not only one of the most energy-efficient models but also an affordable option with positive reviews. With its 4K Ultra HD display, you can expect excellent picture quality. This TV runs on 0.12kWh on HDR or 0.06kWh on SDR, translating to approximately 4p per hour (HDR) or 2p per hour (SDR) in energy costs.
- Energy Rating: D
4. Panasonic TX Series Ultra HD 4K TV
The Panasonic TX Series Ultra HD 4K TV is a top choice that combines crystal clear picture quality with energy efficiency. As an LED TV, it is directly lit by efficient bulbs, contributing to its energy-saving capabilities. This TV consumes 0.123kWh on HDR or 0.064kWh on SDR, resulting in energy costs of approximately 4p per hour (HDR) or 2p per hour (SDR).
- Energy Rating: E
5. TOSHIBA Ultra HD QLED TV
The TOSHIBA Ultra HD QLED TV offers both high quality and good energy efficiency compared to its competitors. Its QLED technology utilizes a quantum dot film that enhances color and brightness while consuming less energy than traditional LCD TVs. This TV consumes 0.123kWh on HDR (G rating) or 0.064kWh on SDR (E rating), resulting in energy costs of approximately 4p per hour (HDR) or 2p per hour (SDR).
- Energy Rating: E
6. Hisense Ultra HD 4K Smart TV
The Hisense Ultra HD 4K Smart TV is a feature-packed option with a good energy efficiency rating, especially in HDR mode. With its LED direct-lit screen and built-in Wifi, this TV offers a great viewing experience. The Hisense Ultra HD 4K Smart TV consumes 0.11kWh on HDR or 0.077kWh on SDR, resulting in energy costs of approximately 4p per hour (HDR) or 2.6p per hour (SDR).
- Energy Rating: F
7. Philips Ambilight LED Smart TV
The Philips Ambilight LED Smart TV offers immersive entertainment and top-quality viewing. With its slim design, this TV can fit into most spaces without compromising on performance. The Philips Ambilight consumes 0.141kWh on HDR (G rated) or 0.078kWh on SDR (F rated), resulting in energy costs of approximately 5p per hour (HDR) or 2.6p per hour (SDR).
- Energy Rating: F
Calculating TV Energy Costs
To estimate the electricity cost of running a TV, you need to consider the wattage, your electricity unit rate, and the number of hours you watch TV per day. Follow these steps:
- Divide the wattage by 1000 to get the kW per hour rating. For example, if your TV has a power rating of 80W, the calculation would be 80W / 1000 = 0.08kWh.
- Multiply the kWh by your electricity unit rate. If your electricity unit rate is 0.34p per kWh, the calculation would be 0.08kWh x 0.34p = 0.0272p.
- Multiply the cost per hour by the number of hours you watch TV per day. If you watch TV for 4 hours per day, the calculation would be 0.0272p x 4 hours = 10.88p per day.
- Estimate weekly, monthly, and annual costs based on the daily cost. In this example, the weekly cost would be 76p, the monthly cost would be £3.26, and the annual cost would be £39.71.
The Benefits of Energy Efficient OLED TVs
Energy-efficient OLED TVs offer several advantages:
- Lower Energy Consumption: OLED technology consumes less energy compared to traditional LCD and LED TVs, allowing you to reduce your carbon footprint and save money on your electricity bills.
- Better Picture Quality: OLED TVs offer superior picture quality with deeper blacks and vibrant colors, providing an immersive viewing experience.
- Longer Lifespan: OLED TVs typically have a longer lifespan compared to other types of TVs, reducing electronic waste and the need for frequent replacements.
- Environmental Friendliness: By choosing an energy-efficient OLED TV, you contribute to a more sustainable future by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and minimizing your impact on the environment.
Understanding TV Energy Rating Labels
Since March 2021, a new Energy Rating label system has been in operation in the UK and EU. The new system uses a more straightforward A-G rating, with A being the most energy-efficient and G being the least. This change allows consumers to understand the energy efficiency of appliances more easily. It’s important to note that different appliances have different energy rating systems, so be sure to check the Energy Rating label specific to TVs.
Conclusion
Upgrading to an energy-efficient OLED TV is a wise decision for both your entertainment needs and the environment. By choosing a more sustainable TV, you can reduce your energy consumption, lower your carbon footprint, and save money on your electricity bills. With the wide range of energy-efficient OLED TVs available in the UK market, you can enjoy stunning picture quality while making a positive impact on the planet.
Remember to consider factors such as TV wattage, size, screen type, resolution, on-time, and smart technology when selecting an energy-efficient TV. Calculate your TV’s energy costs using the steps provided, and compare different models based on their energy ratings.
Investing in an energy-efficient OLED TV is not only a smart choice for your home but also a step towards a greener and more sustainable future. Enjoy your favorite shows and movies while reducing your environmental impact with an energy-efficient OLED TV in your living room.
