compact vs. side-by-side and top mounted fridges

It’s a mistake to buy a large refrigerator to be largely empty during most of the year. Compact models are particularly efficient, and side-by-side models much less efficient than standard models.

The size of the refrigerator

Do not buy a large refrigerator, unless you really need it. Typically, refrigerators under 25 cubic feet (0,7 m3) will meet most household needs. Models over 25 cubic feet (0,7 m3) use more energy and are less energy-efficient. Smaller units meet typical residential needs.

Old refrigerators

Old, inefficient refrigerators should be recycled. Ask your dealer about disposal. If you need more capacity, do not use old fridges to fulfill that need: it’s more energy efficient to buy and operate a larger new one.

Compact refrigerators

Compact refrigerators have less than 7.75 cubic feet (0,22 m3) capacity, and are particularly efficient: at least 20% more efficient than American official standards. If you need a low volume fridge, consider compact models.

Side-by-side and top mounted refrigerators

Do not choose side-by-side refrigerator models. They use more energy (10% to 30%) than top mounted models (with the freezer on top).

Which type of freezer to choose?

Chest freezers have the opening lid at the top. They hold cold air more efficiently, have lower heat gains around the lid and are usually better insulated… In other words: they are usually more energy-efficient. But they are less versatile than vertical freezers in terms of contents checking and handling.

Note: on USA, qualified freezer models are available in two configurations: upright freezers with automatic or manual defrost; chest freezers with manual defrost only.