selecting the best refrigerators and freezers

Old refrigerators are extremely energy inefficient. Modern efficient fridges can use one-third or less energy than older models, allowing large energy savings and reduced energy bills.

Refrigerators & the Energy Guide Label

Before buying, read and check the fridge or freezer Energy Guide Label. It’s mandatory. See, for details: Refrigerators and Freezers Energy Labels.

Types of fridges and freezers and their efficiency

Side-by-side refrigerators are clearly less energy-efficient. Prefer refrigerators with freezer on top, and chest freezers.

See: Sizes and Types of Refrigerators and Freezers

Large or small models

One larger refrigerator is better than two smaller ones. However, do not buy a large model, unless necessary. See, for details: Refrigerators and Freezers Types and Sizes.

Remember anyway: if fridges have different sizes and use the same amount of energy, the larger model is more efficient. Check the refrigerator Energy Guide Label to assess their energy consumption.

Automatic Ice-makers and through-the-door-dispensers

Accessories like automatic ice-makers or through-the-door dispensers for water and ice, demand more power (around 30%) and make refrigerators more expensive. Think twice before purchasing a refrigerator with those accessories.

Anti-sweat heaters

If you live in a non-moist climate, prefer a model without anti-sweat heater (a useful device in humid climates, to control condensation and frost around the door and gaskets). Anti-sweat heaters increase the refrigerator energy consumption by 5 to 10 percent. You may also deactivate this device, and only use it in moist conditions.

Manual or Automatic defrost in Fridges

Today’s automatic defrost features have evolved, and advanced refrigerator models use defrost smart controls. They switch on the heater only when necessary, making auto-defrost models energy-efficient. The best automatic defrost models on the market are now as energy efficient as manual defrost. In other words: there is no reason not to buy an automatic defrost refrigerator.