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How To Choose an Energy-Efficient Refrigerator

QUESTION: We're remodeling our kitchen and want to replace our 18-year-old refrigerator. The choices are overwhelming. We want to buy an energy-efficient model. What features should we look for? What can you tell us about this new super-efficient refrigerator appearing on the market now?

ANSWER: The energy efficiency of refrigerators has improved tremendously in the past 20 years. For example, a typical 18-cubic-foot refrigerator made 20 years ago and still in use requires 1,500 to 1,800 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually, which translates into about $120-$145 a year based on average electric cost of 8 cents per kWh. In comparison, an average freezer top model today consumes about 800 kWh per year (energy cost of $64 a year).

U.S. refrigerators manufactured today must meet certain federal energy efficiency standards, but their efficiency varies from model to model. Keeping energy in mind when buying a refrigerator, and operating it efficiently, will reduce the energy cost of your refrigerator. After all, our third largest use of energy in the house is for refrigerators. Space heating and hot water are the first and second.

When shopping for a new refrigerator, use the EnergyGuide label. It's found on the outside of all the new refrigerators and freezers and allows you to compare costs and energy use of comparable models. As required by law, EnergyGuide labels appear on the exterior of most appliances including refrigerators, freezers, water heaters, clothes washers, dishwashers, and other appliances.

In addition, consider the following factors that affect the energy use of a refrigerator:

Location: For efficient operation, the refrigerator should be placed away from heat sources such as the oven, dishwasher, direct sunlight or heating registers. Allow at least one inch of space on each side and top of the refrigerator. This provides good air circulation, which keeps the coils cool, reducing energy use. Since you are remodeling the kitchen, you have an opportunity to plan a good location.

Size: Select a size that best fits your lifestyle. If the refrigerator is too big, it will waste energy by refrigerating too much empty space. Yet one too small means overcrowding, and decreases efficiency. Measure your current refrigerator and use your experience to judge whether you need a larger or a smaller unit. Here are some other things to consider when sizing your refrigerator:

• What's the size of your household? Is it growing or shrinking?
• What are the ages and eating habits of household?
• How often do you grocery shop?
• How often do you entertain?
• Do you prepare food for several days in advance?

Design: Top freezer models are more energy efficient than side by side or bottom freezer models. Side by side models have full-length doors that release a great deal of cool air when opened. Top freezer models are less expensive and cost less to operate. According to Consumer Reports, more than 7 in 10 models sold are top-freezers.

Method of Defrosting: There are three basic defrosting methods available: manual defrost, partially automatic defrost and automatic defrost. Manual defrost and partial automatic defrost refrigerators are more economical to operate, but require you to defrost the freezer compartment. Automatic-defrost or frost-free models use about 20%-40% more energy than manual models. These units have electric resistance elements that periodically heat and melt the ice. This process requires electricity and generates heat in the cabinet that the refrigerator must remove.

Luxury Features: Units with luxury features, such as an automatic ice maker and a through-the-door ice and water dispenser can increase the energy use by 20%. These features also require electricity and generate additional heat internally, which the refrigerator must remove.

Super-Energy Efficient: The super-efficient refrigerator you are referring to is a 22-cubic-foot side-by-side model produced by Whirlpool. The refrigerator is chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) free and is 25% more energy-efficient than the comparable 1993 models.

Most refrigerators contain two types of CFCs. CFC-11 for the foam insulation, and CFC-12 as the working fluid in the refrigerator's vapor cycle. With the phase out of CFC production, and higher energy efficiency standard requirements, more and more manufacturers are directing their efforts in meeting the demand for environmentally friendly refrigerators and other appliances.

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