Buying an Energy Star Refrigerator

If you are considering new energy efficient appliances, an Energy Star refrigerator is up to 40% more efficient than models made before 2001.

Because refrigerators use more energy than any other kitchen appliance, an energy efficient version could shave a nice chunk off your yearly utility bill. Use the Energy Star refrigerator savings calculator to see how much you could save with a new model.

With Energy Star rebates available, there is even more potential to save money when investing in a new energy efficient refrigerator. Below are a few shopping tips to help you find the right refrigerator for your needs.

Energy Star Logo & Energy Guide Label
This might sound like a no-brainer, but look for the Energy Star Logo. These energy efficient refrigerators use 20% less energy than non-labeled models. With that said, all Energy Star refrigerators aren't necessarily created equal. Be sure to read the Energy Guide label for energy usage information.

Size Matters
Typically, small refrigerators are more energy efficient and cost effective than larger ones. Try not to buy a larger unit than you need. At the same time, try and buy one refrigerator that will hold all of the household food and beverages. It's much more energy efficient to have one larger fridge than a second in the garage for food overflow.

Pick a Model

1. Top Freezer

The most affordable and energy efficient refrigerators are the top freezer models. With a lot of usable space, top freezers are also low maintenance and come in a variety of brands and colors. Offering a little of everything, it's not surprising that top freezers are the most popular type of refrigerator sold. With hard to access drawers on the bottom and commonly used items below eye level, less overall convenience is a drawback.
2. Bottom Freezer

Bottom freezer style refrigerators closely follow top freezer models in energy efficiency. They come in a variety of brands, colors and are affordable. In these models, the freezer is a large drawer-like unit that slides out for easy access. Because the freezer is located on the bottom, the most commonly used refrigerated items are at eye level.
3. Side-By-Side

Side-by-side refrigerators typically cost more than other types and are less energy efficient. Most units have a water and ice dispenser in the door, which can be a problem with some models. Side-by-side refrigerators are convenient in smaller kitchens and allow easy access for commonly used items.
4. French Door

The french door model offers side-by-side refrigerator doors on the top and a pull-out freezer drawer on the bottom. This new sleek design comes in various brands and colors. Be prepared to open your wallet; the french door refrigerator is quite a bit more costly than a standard top freezer model.
5. Refrigerator Drawers

These two drawer refrigerators may be a convenient and stylish addition to a kitchen, but they are costly and inefficient. At this time, there aren't any refrigerator drawers that carry the Energy Star seal.

Fun Features
When possible, skip on additional features. In most cases, fewer features mean a unit will be more energy efficient and affordable. Basic models also require fewer repairs.

Check for Rebates
Before heading to the store, check the Energy Star rebate finder for information in your area. Double check with sales staff about possible retailer and manufacturer rebates.