Upgrade Refrigerator/Freezer
Older refrigerators use up to 2-3 times the energy of newer models. Find out when to replace your old refrigerator to save significant energy and money!
Your Impact
Action Steps & Tips
Introduction
Also, if you haven't shopped for a fridge recently, you will be amazed by the features available on new fridges today—speed chilling, multiple compartments, and even digital touch-screens. Read on to learn about your possible savings and the best time to upgrade.
1Figure out your potential savings and when to upgrade
Advanced insulation and compressors, as well as government incentives, have supported significant improvements in refrigeration. To determine your potential savings, figure out what year your refrigerator or freezer was manufactured. Then read on or use the estimator at the top of the page to determine your potential savings.
If your refrigerator was manufactured before 1993: you can save up to $200 a year by upgrading to a new energy efficient refrigerator. With new efficient refrigerators in the range of $300 - $1,200 (or more depending on the features you choose), your new refrigerator could pay for itself in energy savings within 2-6 years and provide $200 a year in savings after that.
Refrigerators built 1993 to 2000: you can save up to $100 a year by upgrading, which means your refrigerator will likely pay for itself during its lifetime, which is generally 10-20 years.
2001 to 2008: the savings are smaller, under $50 a year.
2009 or later: it makes sense from an energy standpoint to continue using your existing fridge until it has reached the end of its useful life.
Annual energy savings for freezer-only units may be slightly lower than for refrigerators. Generally, refrigerators have a lifespan of 10-20 years, so if your fridge is older than 2001, it is already approaching the end of its life. The savings listed above should be a good average estimate for your household. Look up your specific refrigerator type to calculate an even closer estimate.
2Choose energy-saving options on your new fridge
Here are a few features to add on your new fridge that will save you energy.
Choose Energy Star or better. Although all new refrigerators are energy-efficient, there are some that save more energy and money than others. The good news is there are highly efficient options in all price categories. How to tell which models are best? Look for the Energy Star label—a yellow sticker on the refrigerator with energy efficiency ratings. There is a range of efficiencies within Energy Star, so look for one that has the highest rating on the energy guide label that fits your needs and budget. To take credit for this action, make sure to choose at a minimum an Energy Star rating for your new refrigerator.
Choose the right size fridge for your home. It is better to have one refrigerator that is big enough for your family than purchasing an extra one later on. However, if it is too big, you are paying extra to chill empty space. Since a refrigerator lasts up to 20 years, think about your long-term space needs.
The design of the refrigerator can also make a difference. Models with freezers above refrigerators tend to be the most energy efficient and trouble-free. They also tend to be less expensive. Freezer drawers below refrigerators are also a relatively practical design. Side-by-side freezer and refrigerator units offer easy access but are typically the least energy efficient option. Also, consider the energy implications of the accessories you choose for your refrigerator. Automatic ice makers, for example, can increase the energy use of a refrigerator by up to 40%.
3Install your new fridge and recycle your old one
Once you find the fridge you like, purchase it and have it delivered! Then make sure to dispose of your old one safely.
Safe disposal. Many appliance retailers will pick up and dispose of your old refrigerator or freezer when they deliver your new model. There is sometimes an additional fee for this service. However, some energy utilities may offer you an incentive for recycling your old refrigerator! If neither of those options is available, be sure to bring your old unit to a recycling center where it will be responsibly and safely disposed of.
Refrigerators contain substances that can create severe environmental damage if not disposed of properly. These can include ozone-depleting substances, greenhouse gases, mercury, and PCBs. Some common substances found in refrigerants are 10,000 times more powerful greenhouse gases than carbon dioxide. So make sure that your refrigerator does not end up in a landfill!
Congrats! You have completed another big energy saving action—one that will save you money for years to come. Now, time to stock the fridge!