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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. # # # # #
SolveYourProblem.com : 2007
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