Electric washing machines apply for Saudi water efficiency label certification
According to the latest Saudi standards, obtaining a water efficiency label certification for electric washing machines is primarily based on SASO 2885:2025 “Electric Washing Machines – Energy and Water Performance Requirements and Labeling”. This is a mandatory certification for accessing the Saudi market, and all electric washing machines and washer-dryers must comply.
🔍 Core Certification Standard: SASO 2885
The SASO 2885:2025 standard is the core document for the certification process. Key points include:
- Scope: The standard applies to electric washing machines and washer-dryers with a rated capacity not exceeding 25 kg, including built-in, multi-drum, and other configurations.
- Important Update: This standard is currently in a draft revision stage and has been notified to the WTO. It may come into effect in the future. Exporters are advised to closely monitor the final version and effective date published by the Saudi Standards, Metrology and Quality Organization (SASO).
- Key Metric Requirements: According to the latest draft, the core metric requirements for different types of washing machines are shown in the table below. These requirements are very stringent and form the basis for certification and label rating.
(The table from the original text is translated below)
| Product Type | Energy Efficiency Index (EEI) | Water Consumption Index (WCI) | Washing Efficiency Index (Iw) | Spin Drying Efficiency Index (WEI) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Front-loading machines | ≤ 41 | ≥ 2.5 | ≥ 103% | ≤ 81 |
| Top-loading machines | ≤ 68 | ≥ 3.0 | ≥ 103% | ≤ 81 |
📋 Complete Certification and Registration Process
Exporting to Saudi Arabia requires not only testing and certification but also mandatory registration through the SABER system. The process generally consists of four steps:
- Prepare Technical Documents: Contact a SASO-recognized laboratory, provide product technical information (e.g., specifications, circuit diagrams), and conduct testing according to the SASO 2885 standard to obtain an officially recognized test report.
- Submit SABER Application: Log in to the SABER electronic platform designated by SASO, fill in detailed manufacturer, product model, and technical parameter information, and upload the test report and product photos.
- Obtain Certificate of Conformity: SASO or a SASO-designated Conformity Assessment Body will review the submitted documents. Upon approval, a Product Certificate of Conformity (PCOC) will be issued.
- Issuance and Use of Label: After obtaining the PCOC, the company can download and print the official electronic water efficiency label. The label must be printed strictly in accordance with SASO’s specified format and affixed conspicuously on the product or its packaging.
⚙️ Detailed Technical Requirements and Testing
The key to certification testing is ensuring the product meets the Minimum Energy Performance Standard (MEPS) requirements. The four main metrics assessed are:
- Energy Efficiency Index (EEI): The core indicator for product energy efficiency. Lower values mean more energy savings. For example, front-loading machines require an EEI of ≤ 41, and top-loading machines require ≤ 68.
- Water Consumption Index (WCI): The direct basis for determining the water efficiency label grade. Higher values indicate greater water efficiency. Front-loading machines require a WCI of ≥ 2.5, top-loading machines require ≥ 3.0.
- Washing Efficiency Index (Iw): Measures cleaning ability. Higher values indicate better cleaning performance. Different machine types have different standard values; for example, front-loading machines require Iw ≥ 103%.
- Spin Drying Efficiency Index (WEI): Measures residual moisture after spinning. Lower values indicate higher spin efficiency. All machine types require WEI ≤ 81%.
These tests follow strict procedures, complying with international standards such as EN 60456:2016 (washing cycle) and EN IEC 62512:2020 + A12:2023 (complete cycle).
🏷️ Water Efficiency Label Specifications and Grades
Once certified, the water efficiency label must be produced and used according to the following specifications:
- Dimensions: The label size is 100 mm x 170 mm. It must include the SASO logo, energy efficiency grade, annual energy consumption, capacity, water efficiency grade, QR code, and other information.
- Grade Determination: The water efficiency grade is determined based on the Water Consumption Index (WCI), ranging from A (highest) to G (lowest). For example, a WCI value ≥ 6.0 qualifies for grade A; a WCI value < 3.0 qualifies for grade G.
📝 Required Document Checklist
To ensure a smooth process, prepare the following documents in advance:
- Company qualification documents (business license, manufacturing license, etc.)
- Product technical documents (user manual, specification sheet, circuit diagram, product nameplate information)
- Conformity documents (complete SASO 2885 test report issued by a SASO-recognized laboratory)
- Application forms (energy/water efficiency label registration application)
⚠️ Risk Reminder
It is important to note that Saudi standards may be updated at any time. When applying for certification, always confirm with official bodies or certification agencies that you are using the latest effective version of the standard for testing to avoid registration failure due to version discrepancies.
