Refrigerator/Freezer

After air conditioning and water heating, your refrigerator is the third-largest user of energy in your home. Here are some quick tips to help you use your refrigerator and freezer more efficiently:

• Avoid using multiple refrigerators. If you have an extra refrigerator that is not kept full or is hardly used, turn it off or get rid of it. It can save you up to $100 a year.
• Keep your freezer full. This will help keep warm air out when the door is opened.
• Cover your food before storing it.

Monthly Refrigerator Cost

	How much does it cost to run my refrigerator? Age of refrigerator: select 1980-1989 1990-1994 1995-2001 2002-present Size (cubic feet): select Small (10-14) Medium (15-18) Large (19-25) Monthly Refrigerator Cost An efficient new refrigerator could save: per year * Note: Estimates are based on top-freezer models and are for comparison only. Ice in door and other features will impact actual cost. Energy cost $ 0.12 per kWh

These tips can help you trim energy costs, but the best time to save is when buying a new, energy-efficient refrigerator. Follow these simple steps to make sure you're getting the model that's right for your home:

1. Select the right size.
   
   • Larger refrigerators may cost more to run.
2. Compare features and energy use.
   
   • Side-by-side models use more energy than top-and-bottom models.
   • Automatic ice and water dispensers increase energy use.
3. Compare prices and check the Energy Guide label for operating costs of the models you're considering.