At a Glance:
How Much Energy Does a Refrigerator Use
What is an Energy Efficient Refrigerator
7 Most Energy Efficient Refrigerators at Idler's
Why Choose an Energy Efficient Refrigerator
How to Choose the Most Energy Efficient Refrigerator
One of the best decisions you can make for your home is to choose products that are energy efficient because they not only help you save on your electricity bills but also help protect our environment. When looking for a new refrigerator for your place, it's a great idea to watch for energy-saving features; they might serve you greatly in the long run, besides being an eco-friendly option. Check out our breakdown of the most energy efficient refrigerators and their characteristics, as we dive into how much energy a refrigerator uses, explain what makes refrigerators energy efficient, and highlight some of our most energy efficient refrigerators at Idler's.
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Looking for a new refrigerator? Discover energy-saving options from top brands like GE, LG, Frigidaire, and more at Idler's Home, today.
Shop All RefrigerationHow Much Energy Does a Refrigerator Use?
A refrigerator's energy consumption can vary based on its size, age, efficiency rating, how it's used, and the environment it's in. On average, a standard fridge in the US uses about 300 to 800 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. Larger or older fridges use more energy than smaller, newer, and more efficient models.
The most energy efficient refrigerators often have an Energy Star rating, showing they meet specific efficiency standards the EPA sets. These models are designed to use less energy, potentially saving money on electricity bills compared to non-certified fridges. For the exact energy usage of a specific fridge, it's best to check the label or manual provided by the manufacturer.
→ Learn more: Tips To Increase Your Refrigerator's Efficiency
What is an Energy Efficient Refrigerator?
An energy efficient refrigerator is designed to consume less electricity while performing well. Compared to standard models, these refrigerators are built with advanced technology to minimize energy consumption. Critical features of energy efficient refrigerators include:
✓ Improved Insulation: Better insulation helps reduce the loss of cold air, allowing the refrigerator to maintain lower temperatures more efficiently.
✓ High-Efficiency Compressors: Modern compressors are designed to use less power to keep the temperature inside the fridge.
✓ LED Lighting: New refrigerators often use LED lights, which consume less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs.
✓ Smart Temperature Controls: Some models have sensors and controls that optimize temperature settings based on how you use them, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
✓ Better Air Circulation and Sealing: Improved air circulation and tighter seals help maintain consistent fridge temperatures, reducing the compressor's workload.
✓ Size and Design: Smaller models with optimized interior layouts maximize space while minimizing energy usage.
As mentioned above, by using these technologies, energy efficient refrigerators save energy, reduce electricity bills, and contribute to a lower environmental impact by decreasing power consumption.
7 Most Energy Efficient Refrigerators at Idler's
Here is a list of seven of the most energy efficient refrigerators available at Idler's Home. They are from different brands and come in different sizes and features, so you can check them out to see the best solution for your needs.
1. Fisher & Paykel Series 9 10.7 Cu. Ft. Panel Ready Built In Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
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With a slim profile, this Fisher & Paykel refrigerator is perfect for compact kitchens or pairing it with other integrated models for generous storage. These models fit flush with your counters and can be hidden behind your cabinetry to customize your kitchen to your taste.
They have a touch-control panel and Wi-Fi capability, and the ActiveSmart™ Foodcare system learns how you live. It is a technology that understands how you use your freezer and adjusts the temperature, airflow, and humidity inside to help keep food fresher for longer.
→ Learn more: Top Freezer vs Bottom Freezer Refrigerators: The Great Debate
2. Frigidaire® 11.6 Cu. Ft. Brushed Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
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Energy Star designated this Frigidaire refrigerator as one of the most energy efficient refrigerators last year, so it makes a great choice for your home.
But besides the energy-saving feature, it comes with adjustable shelves to create more space for taller items, LED lighting, a hidden door hinge for a seamless look, humidity-controlled drawers, and substantial door bins for large containers. It also comes with a reversible door swing option to choose the perfect opening side in your kitchen.
3. GE® 30 in. 19.1 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
This GE refrigerator comes with Energy Star certification and is ADA compliant, which means excellent energy efficiency and easy operation. It comes with a premium inner door for flexibility and organization options, LED lighting to maintain a natural-looking illumination at your fridge, edge-to-edge glass shelves extending the entire width of the refrigerator, and an adjustable wire freezer shelf.
4. LG 30 in. 20.2 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
Another Energy Star-certified refrigerator on our list, this LG fridge is sophisticated at every turn! It comes with contoured doors and great interior features that give you a design marvel full of functionality. It has an automatic ice-maker, so you always have ice on hand for hot summer days, humidity-controlled crispers that extend the life of your fruits and vegetables, and digital temperature controls, monitoring the conditions within the refrigerator to keep things cool.
5. Crosley® 17.5 Cu. Ft. Black Top Freezer Refrigerator
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This roomy Crosley refrigerator is designed to make your kitchen life more manageable. It has adjustable shelves in the freezer and a spill-proof floor, so cleaning messes is a breeze. The temperature controls are right up front and simple for the fresh food and freezer sections. You can adjust the glass shelves edge-to-edge to fit more stuff inside. The LED lights ensure you can see everything and are energy efficient, saving you money. You've also got two crispers with a cover and lots of space in the door for big containers, freeing up shelf room.
6. Frigidaire® 30 in. 18.3 Cu. Ft. White Top Freezer Refrigerator
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This next Frigidaire refrigerator has everything if you want to find a place for everything. It has 2 wire shelves, big door bins, and a full-width glass freezer shelf. The auto-close doors help you avoid spoiled food by automatically closing the door if it is ajar.
The Energy Star certification is also present here, but there's more: each refrigerator goes through a 42-point quality check to guarantee strong performance for years to come, so you can be sure this product will be a great choice.
7. GE® Series 11.6 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel Top Freezer Refrigerator
This GE model is a great compact refrigerator with Energy Star certification. The internal LED lighting keeps natural illumination when you open the doors, the controls are located in an easy-to-find position, right upfront, and you also get many glass shelves to organize your food, besides two crisper drawers.
And if you want to make full use of the functions in the refrigerator, there's space for an optional ice maker, which is perfect for those summer days or family gatherings.
→ Learn more: 5 Counter Depth Refrigerators to Up Your Kitchen Style
Why Choose an Energy Efficient Refrigerator?
Selecting an energy efficient refrigerator offers numerous advantages. It contributes to a greener environment by reducing energy consumption and cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions, and it also leads to cost savings on your energy bills over time. These fridges often operate quietly and generate less heat, creating a more comfortable home environment. Opting for an energy efficient refrigerator supports sustainability, saves you money, and enhances your home's overall comfort.
How to Choose the Most Energy Efficient Refrigerator
Choosing the most energy efficient refrigerator is not only environmentally responsible but can also lead to significant cost savings over the life of the appliance. Here are key considerations to help you select the most energy efficient refrigerator:
- Energy Star Certification: Look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that the refrigerator meets or exceeds energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Energy Star-certified refrigerators typically consume 10-50% less energy than standard models.
- Size Matters: Opt for the right size refrigerator for your household's needs. Larger models tend to consume more energy. Assess your storage requirements and select a size that fits your usage patterns without excess capacity.
- Inverter Compressor: Refrigerators with inverter compressors are more efficient than traditional compressors. They adjust the cooling intensity based on the contents and maintain a more stable temperature.
- LED Lighting: Choose a refrigerator with LED interior lighting. LED lights are energy-efficient and generate less heat than traditional incandescent bulbs, reducing the workload on the cooling system.
- Temperature Controls: Look for refrigerators with precise temperature controls. Some models offer separate temperature zones for different compartments, allowing you to optimize energy use.
- Smart Features: Some modern refrigerators come with smart features that help optimize energy consumption. They can adjust settings based on usage patterns and offer remote control via smartphone apps.
- Energy Guide Label: Review the Energy Guide label on the refrigerator to understand its estimated annual energy usage and cost. Compare this information with other models to make an informed decision.
By considering these factors and conducting thorough research, you can choose a refrigerator that not only meets your cooling needs but also minimizes energy consumption, contributing to both environmental sustainability and long-term cost savings.
FAQ
What are the most energy efficient refrigerators?
Energy Star-certified models are generally the most energy efficient refrigerators.
What style of refrigerator is the most energy efficient?
Top freezer refrigerator models often use less energy than side-by-side or bottom-freezer types. Newer features like inverter compressors and improved insulation also boost efficiency.
What makes a refrigerator energy efficient?
Better insulation, efficient compressor technology (like inverter compressors), intelligent temperature control, and Energy Star certification contribute to a refrigerator's energy efficiency.
Where can I buy energy efficient refrigerators near me?
If you live on the CA Central Coast, visit Idler's Home for an energy efficient refrigerator. We offer excellent customer service and always aim to find the best products for you, your home, and your budget.
Why Trust Idler’s Home?
At Idler’s Home, we believe in providing the highest quality products and service to our community. Over the span of 70 years (and counting), our business has seen successful growth, with over 100 employees and five locations along the central coast of California. Not only do we offer major appliances, quality furniture, and the best mattresses but we also provide hot tubs and swim spas and perform kitchen design services. In addition, our trained professional installers can set up all appliances we sell while our factory-trained technicians service and repair them if they ever break down. Suffice it to say: Idler’s is dedicated to helping you make the vision you have for your home a reality.
Shop Refrigerators at Idler’s
Envision the possibilities for your home and shop refrigerators online at Idler’s. Our friendly team is always happy to help you find the most energy efficient refrigerator — whether you call us, email us, or use our online chat feature. Or better yet, stop by any of our five Central Coast locations to experience the quality of our products yourself. Visit us today!
→ Learn more: How Black Refrigerators Elevate Your Kitchen's Style