There are many factors to consider when purchasing a new fridge. According to Energy.gov.au fridges and freezers account for around 10% of a home's energy bill¹, so it's worth considering an energy efficient model that can help save on running costs. Fridges last 10-15 years so it could be worth investing in an energy efficient model that repays the up-front cost many times over its lifetime.

Energy rating

As a fridge is always on, choosing an energy efficient fridge could potentially save you more money on your bills. When shopping for a fridge for your home, make sure you check the energy star rating before making a purchase. More stars = higher energy efficiency rating which could help you save on overall running costs in the long term.

Energy consumption

Look for the energy consumption numbers on fridge labels – this tells you the expected energy use in kilowatt/hour per year so you can compare different models and choose the most energy efficient fridge.

Size

Choose the right size fridge to save energy – if it’s too big for your needs it just wastes electricity. As a general guideline, 200 to 400 litres are needed for one to two people, 520 to 600 litres for three to four people, and 700 litres for five or more people.

Style

French door fridges help you save energy because you can open one door at a time so less cold air escapes, while top-mount fridges could also help you use less energy than side-by-side fridges of the same size.

Location

Don’t put your fridge in the path of a heat source – oven, dishwasher or direct sunlight – if you do it has to work harder to stay cool. If it can only go beside a heat-generating appliance put insulation between them. Don't forget to ensure there is a 5-8 cm gap around your fridge so air can circulate.

Seals

If a fridge door is accidentally left ajar cold air escapes and more has to be created to maintain the temperature. Some energy efficient fridges have self-closing mechanisms that keep doors sealed to prevent energy waste.

Drinks access

Having a hatch or drinks door on the front gives you access to frequently used drinks without opening the door all the time so you save energy.

Ice and water dispensers

Ice and water dispensers reduce the need to open the door, helping the freezer maintain a consistent temperature more easily.

Features

Some energy efficient fridges have holiday mode, while others have temperature-regulating technology that can help you save power.