You can forget about this energy-saving aid
Expensive energy and electricity prices make many Germans tremble even before the ancillary cost bills. The savings incentive is greater than ever before. Apparently, dodgy providers also take advantage of this. The Federal Network Agency is now urgently warning of devices such as power saving boxes.
Attention with energy-saving boxes: No miracle cure for saving energy
Energy prices have recently fallen again somewhat, for example thanks to full gas storage facilities and political measures that are already having a signaling effect. But even so, prices are still high, and citizens are still being asked to save – also in their own interest.
Before a supposed miracle cure but the Federal Network Agency (BNetzA) is now warning: power saving boxes or energy-saving devices are often not supposed to meet the necessary standards. “Countless energy-saving devices are offered online that do not meet the legal requirements. The use of such devices is not permitted,” warns Klaus Müller, President of the BNetzA.
The authority came to the verdict after examining several devices that were purchased online as a test from outside the EU. On top of that, Müller doubts their usefulness: “These are also state-of-the-art Energy saving effects of such devices are questionable.” Some devices, which can also be found on Amazon, are advertised as using up to 40 percent less electricity in the household.
But what are they supposed to do? According to the federal authority, they should “stabilize the flow of electricity in the household and thus lead to a lower electricity bill” (source: BNetzA). It is usually enough to connect the device to the home power supply via a standard socket, and it should do the rest on its own.
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The BNetzA also criticizes the often unprofessional processing of the parts and the lack of soldered connections. Such quality defects can also affect safety. CE marks are forged, no operating instructions are included and there is often no contact person in the EU area either. In the event of a guarantee or damage claim, customers are in a fix.
Saving energy yes, but then do it right
Nevertheless, Müller sticks to it: “It is the order of the day that we save energy and there are numerous, for example, from the consumer centers or the Stiftung Warentest excellent tips, how it works.” Real energy-saving technology, such as low-consumption lamps or plug strips that can be switched off, is preferable to the energy-saving boxes.
Consumers should also be careful to buy from well-known suppliers and compare prices. A too good offer should make you suspicious.
