How to Buy an Energy Efficient Refrigerator

A refrigerator is one the few appliances in your home that is always running. Refrigerators manufactured before 2001 are up to 40 percent less efficient than newer models. Here's how to buy an energy efficient refrigerator and start saving on your grocery and utility bills.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Limit your search to refrigerators with the Energy Star rating. Energy Star models exceed federal minimum requirements for energy efficiency.

2. Use energy guides supplied by the U.S. government to compare kilowatt-hour usage and estimated yearly energy costs associated with refrigerators. Energy guides are available online or at your local appliance retailer.

3. Purchase a refrigerator with a highly efficient compressor and good insulation. Poor compression or insulation can allow cool air to escape, which will raise energy costs.

4. Look for models with advanced temperature and defrost controls. Some newer refrigerator models have digital temperature display so you can easily monitor energy use and detect any problems with the cooling system.

5. Eliminate freezer-on-top models that do not have an energy saver switch. The energy saver switch allows you to deactivate the anti-sweat function which lowers moisture content, and is only necessary when humidity is high.

6. Remember that efficient refrigerators may involve more up-front costs than less efficient models, but will save you money in the long run. When you buy an energy efficient refrigerator, compare initial investment and long-term running costs of the models you like.

Tips & Warnings

• Use computer spreadsheet software to easily compare cost and energy consumption of refrigerator models. Print the spreadsheet and take it with you to appliance retailers.
• Recycle your old refrigerator to cut down on energy costs and help the environment. Putting your inefficient refrigerator in your garage will raise your energy bill. Call your energy provider for more information on refrigerator pick-up.
• Avoid leaving your refrigerator door open for extended periods. You don't want to buy an energy efficient refrigerator just to waste cool air unnecessarily.