Refrigerators are one of the only appliances in the home that run 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Because refrigerators and freezers never turn off, even small differences in efficiency add up over the course of a year. The type of refrigerator, its age, and how it is used all affect how much it costs to run.
Refrigerators typically come in a number of different door layouts and can host several different types of technology features. A refrigerator’s door layout, technology features, and size affect the operating cost of the refrigerator.
Refrigerators come in several common door layouts, and some are more efficient than others:
Standalone freezers come in two main styles: chest freezers and upright freezers. Chest freezers are usually more efficient than upright freezers because cold air stays inside when the lid is opened.
Extra technology features can add convenience, but some also add to energy use. Through-the-door ice and water dispensers and built-in ice makers often increase a refrigerator’s energy use and are a common source of repairs. Size is also important. A refrigerator that is larger than a household needs uses extra energy to keep empty space cold.
Upgrading old refrigerators or reducing the number of refrigerators and freezers in the home is one of the most effective ways to lower refrigerator costs.
Refrigerators have become much more efficient over the past few decades. A refrigerator that is 20 or more years old can use two to three times as much electricity as a new efficient model of the same size.
For example, a refrigerator from the 1990s might use about 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year, while a new high-efficiency model might use about 400 kWh. At an electricity price of $0.17 per kWh, the older refrigerator costs about $170 per year to run, while the newer model costs about $68 per year. That’s a savings of over $100 every year.
About one in three US homes has a second refrigerator. Many homes also have a standalone freezer in a garage or basement. Every refrigerator and freezer in the home adds to the electric bill, even when it is mostly empty. Older second refrigerators kept in hot garages can be some of the most expensive appliances in the home to run, because they are usually less efficient and have to work harder in the heat. Consolidating food into one refrigerator and eliminating second refrigerators and standalone freezers can help to minimize electricity bills.
When an old refrigerator or freezer is replaced, it’s important to make sure it is taken out of service rather than moved to the garage or basement. Old refrigerators and freezers also contain refrigerants and insulation that can harm the environment if not disposed of properly. Many utilities and retailers offer free pickup and recycling of old units, sometimes with a cash rebate.
When shopping for a new refrigerator or freezer, it’s important to choose a model that has earned Energy Star certification in the US, or the highest energy efficiency rating in your country. A top-freezer model that is sized to the household’s needs is often the most efficient choice.
Small daily habits can help refrigerators and freezers run more efficiently.
Every time the door opens, cold air escapes and warm air enters. Knowing what to grab before opening the door and closing it promptly can help reduce energy use. Keeping the refrigerator organized, with older food toward the front, also makes items easier to find and helps reduce food waste.
Allowing hot food to cool briefly before putting it in the refrigerator reduces the amount of heat the refrigerator has to remove. For food safety, leftovers should still be refrigerated within one to two hours of cooking.
Regular maintenance can help a refrigerator run efficiently: