What To Look For in Energy Efficient Refrigerators and Freezers

source: The Middleby Corporation

source: FTC.gov

If you want to save money and be environmentally conscious, you should buy refrigerators and freezers with the "Energy Star" label. Energy Star is a joint program with the U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency, which certifies that appliances are energy efficient.

In fact, Energy Star-qualified refrigerators are 20% more efficient allowing you to maximize your energy and dollar savings without sacrificing the features you want.

Refrigerators are one of the most energy consuming appliances in the home and cost the most to run. With improved motors, enhanced defrosting capabilities and better insulation, refrigerators today use one-third the energy than 25 years ago and half as much as they did even five years ago.

Replacing your old refrigerator with a newer more energy efficient model can cut down your electricity bill by over $100 per year and help save the planet by reducing your carbon foot print!

For additional savings, some states and cities offer cash rebates if you upgrade to an Energy Star appliance so be sure to check with your local utility company.

Here’s what to look for when buying an energy efficient refrigerator:

• Look for the blue Energy Star logo and the yellow Energy Guide label.
• Consider buying a refrigerator with a top-mount freezer – they use 10 to 25% less energy than bottom-mount or side-by-side refrigerators.
• Purchase an appropriately sized refrigerator. To learn more about refrigerator capacities read Refrigerators and Freezers – Know the Basics Before You Buy.
• Consider skipping the in-door ice dispensers which add to energy consumption.
• Set your refrigerator to the appropriate temperature – 35 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Allow air to circulate behind the refrigerator and keep the coils clean.
• Make sure the door seals are tight – if they aren’t, replace them.

Here are more great resources to learn about purchasing energy efficient refrigerators and freezers:

Energy Star’s Refrigerator Savings Calculator
Learn how much your refrigerator or freezer costs to operate in energy and money and how much you can save with an Energy Star rated appliance.

Understanding the EnergyGuide Label
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the nation’s consumer protection agency, explains how to read the EnergyGuide label to help you compare the energy use of different models as you shop for an appliance.

Recycle Your Old Refrigerator
Find out four ways to find a refrigerator and freezer recycling program in your area, from Energy Star.

Refrigerator/Freezer Energy Tips
Learn valuable energy savings tips for your refrigerator from the experts at the U.S. Department of Energy.

Find an Energy Star Qualified Refrigerator and Freezer
Browse a very thorough list of refrigerators and freezers put together by Energy Star; model numbers are included.