Energy efficient Fridges: how to buy right for your household

An essential household appliance, your fridge is on all day, every day – so you'll want to pick one that is a smart energy saver. The latest fridges are designed with energy efficiency in mind, which can helpful providing relief when it comes to bills and long-term savings. Here, Peter Simic, The Good Guys Buyer – Refrigeration, and Liam Jones of energy provider AGL, explain how upgrading to a smarter, more energy-efficient fridge can make a difference to your household.

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Why Is Energy Efficiency Important In Fridges?

Fridges have come a long way in terms of energy usage, so it’s not surprising that replacing an old fridge with a newer one could help lower your cooling costs - but it pays to do your homework before you buy. "Your fridge is often responsible for a big part of your total household energy use, so choosing an energy-efficient fridge could mean significant savings over the life of your appliance," says Peter Simic. “The fridge is an appliance that runs around the clock, so to help cut costs, try to find one that is energy efficient and buy as many Energy Rating stars as your budget allows,” advises Liam Jones, Senior Manager Policy and Energy Market Regulation, AGL.

Shop Energy Efficient Fridges

TCL 415L Top Mount Refrigerator

LG 375L Top Mount Refrigerator

Samsung 458L Bottom Mount Refrigerator

Understanding Energy Star Ratings For Fridges

When shopping for a new fridge, look for the energy star rating displayed on appliances in-store. The Energy Rating Label is designed to help you understand and compare the energy efficiency and running costs of different appliances.All fridges and freezers display this label, which uses stars to quantify how efficient the appliance is to run. If you want to compare different models, use the Energy Rating Calculator, which lists the annual running costs of most brands and models of fridges and freezers.

Are New Fridges More Energy Efficient?

Fridges have come a long way in the past decade or so, with the latest fridges using significantly less energy than those from 15 years ago. If you are in the market for a new fridge, just bear in mind there are various factors that could impact a refrigerator’s running costs, including capacity, ventilation and temperature settings.

What Makes A Fridge Energy Efficient?

The most energy-efficient fridges boast clever tech that can help reduce operating costs. Peter Simic reveals the features to look for when upgrading your kitchen workhorse:

• Advanced compressor motors - they're known to be more energy efficient because they often use less electricity. They may include technology that can adjust cooling power as needed.

• Superior door seals - help ensure the fridge doors close tightly, keeping cold air in and warm air out.

• Smart temperature controls - these include digital thermostats and sensors that can help maintain precise temperature control, improving cooling efficiency and using less power.

• LED lights - these type of lights release less heat than incandescent bulbs.

Does Size Matter When It Comes To Fridge Energy Efficiency?

Yes - it sure does. “If your fridge is too big for what you need, you’re using electricity to cool unused space. And that’s a waste,” says Peter Simic. Consider whether the size of the fridge you’re looking at is appropriate for your family as the larger the unit, the more likely you'll need one that can consume energy efficiently.

Are French Door Fridges Energy Efficient?

When it comes to energy efficiency, French door fridges do have a special power. The half-size doors mean you can grab the milk by just opening one side, so less cool air escapes. But another great option to consider is top mount fridges. “As cold air naturally sinks, top-mount fridges allow the cool air to flow from the freezer section down into the fridge area, leading to better airflow and more consistent cooling throughout,” says Peter Simic.

“Your fridge often makes up a decent part of your total household energy use, so choosing an energy-efficient fridge could help make a difference to your household budget.”

What Is The Most Energy Efficient Fridge Of All?

At The Good Guys, we have a wide selection of energy efficient fridges to ensure you find the perfect model to suit your needs. Haier is a great place to start – with an 8-star energy rating, the Haier 433L Bottom Mount Refrigerator. Other popular brands worth considering include Samsung, LG and Fisher & Paykel.

Tips For Boosting The Energy Performance Of Your Fridge

Did you know how you use your fridge can also influence its energy consumption? Here are three easy ways to maximise its energy efficiency:

• Get in, get out: Standing in front of your fridge with the door open, and deciding what you want can be a money drainer. Know what you want before you open the fridge door, and take it all out in one go.

• Don’t box it in: Fridges need ventilation to keep the inside cool without the unit overheating. If your fridge is tucked too tightly into surrounding cabinetry, it must work harder to maintain airflow.

• Get the temperature right: The cooler you set your fridge, the harder it works. Generally, the ideal fridge temperature is 3℃. Check your door seals: If air is escaping through damaged seals, your fridge will be using more energy.

Are you ready to upgrade to an energy-efficient fridge? The Good Guys has you covered. See us in-store or online for the biggest brands and Pay Less Every day prices.