How to Choose an Energy Efficient Refrigerator

One of the easiest things we can do to live a "greener" life is to replace our old, energy-consuming refrigerators with newer, more energy-efficient models. Of course, not everybody can immediately go out and purchase a brand new refrigerator, but when it's time to replace your current one you will want to make the smartest purchasing decision possible (for both you and the planet).

The refrigerator is one of biggest energy-eaters in the modern home. When it comes time to replace yours, remember the following tips so you can not only choose the best refrigerator for your personal budget and needs, but one that helps reduce your carbon footprint as well. While most of today's refrigerators are certainly more efficient than your existing model, some make for better choices than others. Here are some things to look for.

Instructions

1. 

   Purchase only a new refrigerator that has the EnergyStar Energy Guide label on it. These models adhere to strict government mandates for energy conservation. Purchasing a lower-priced refrigerator that doesn't have the EnergyStar label could result in nearly double the electricity use of a model that does have it.

   * See Resources below to learn how to read the Energy Guide label.

2. Choose from among top-freezer refrigerators. While side-by-side models and bottom-freezer fridges may appear more modern and fashionable, they use approximately 55 percent more electricity than a refrigerator with a top-freezer compartment.

   According to the August 2002 Consumer Reports, the average electricity consumption of these models were:

   Top-freezer models: 468 kWh/yr
   Bottom-freezer models: 522 kWh/yr
   Side-by-side models: 680 kWh/yr

3. If given the option of an in-door or automatic ice maker, refuse it. Not only do these devices take away from your inner storage space, but they increase your refrigerator's energy consumption by up to 20 percent in some models. Plus, by refusing this convenience you'll save between $75 and $250 (depending on the model) on the price of your new refrigerator.

Resources

• How to Read the Energy Guide Label