Refrigerator and Freezer Energy Efficiency Tips

Saving money and energy is typically somewhere near the top of our appliance-buying list and buying an ENERGY STAR qualified refrigerator or freezer ensures you'll get just that (use their savings calculator to see just how much). ENERGY STAR has made it even simpler with their Find a Model search functionality where you can search by brand, type of refrigerator and/or capacity size.

ENERGY STAR-qualified refrigerators and freezers are guaranteed to be 20% more energy efficient than the miniumum federal standard. They're indicated by the bright yellow EnergyGuide label which identifies the model's estimated yearly operation cost and electricity use compared to other comparable non-ENERGY STAR qualified models.

A refrigerator is one of the most energy-consuming appliances in the home - and since it runs 24x7, you can understand why. However, with newly improved motors, enhanced defrosting capabilities, and better insulation, refrigerators today use one-third the energy compared to 25 years ago, and about half as much as they did even five years ago. By replacing your older refrigerator with a newer, more energy-efficient model, you can reduce your electricity usage, save money and help save the planet. Many states and cities offer rebate programs to replace older, inefficient appliances with ENERGY STAR qualified appliances - check with your local utility company as well.

Refrigerator and Freezer Energy-Efficiency Tips:

• EnergyStar's Refrigerators for Consumers
• CNet Reviews' How To Find a Fridge That's Energy Efficient and Green
• The Green Guide's Refrigerator Buying Guide
• American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy's Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings: Refrigeration
• Consumer Energy Center's Refrigerator and Freezer Efficiency
• US Dept of Energy's Refrigerator and Freezer Energy Tips
• Refrigerator Efficiency's Exploring the World of Energy Efficient Refrigeration
• Flex Your Power's Efficient Refrigerators