Energy Efficient Refrigerators

Today, everyone is looking for energy efficient refrigerators as they require less electricity consumption, thereby reducing overall energy bills. Buying an energy efficient refrigerator is one of the best investments if you are looking for energy savings in the long run. These refrigerators can save a considerable amount of money on utility bills. Factors that determine the amount of energy the refrigerators consume are as follows:

• Refrigerator Size
• Configuration (top mounted or bottom freezer)
• Additional features like anti sweat heaters and ice makers
• Location of the refrigerator at home

Many people are under the impression that refrigerator size does not influence the energy consumption. However, it does matter. As we all know, a larger car requires more gasoline to operate than a smaller car. The same is applicable to a refrigerator. Larger the size and volume of the refrigerator, the more will be its energy consumption. Refrigerators that come with automatic defrost feature use more energy than manual defrost models. Although many, find optional features of refrigerators useful and convenient, these additional features contribute towards more energy use. When choosing a location to place a refrigerator, it is necessary to keep the unit away from heat sources such as stove and cooker. This will ensure that your refrigerator operates efficiently, years down the line. You need to check the refrigerator from time to time, for any possible damages. Refrigerators that are not maintained properly consume more energy.

When it comes to buying energy-efficient refrigerators, top freezer and bottom freezer refrigerators score higher than side-by-side model (French door model). Their energy efficiency achievements are indeed commendable. Another advantage of using these refrigerators is that they are less expensive and reliable. Studies have revealed that top mounted freezer models take 10-25% less energy than a bottom or side by side type.

Which are the Most Energy Efficient Refrigerators?
A refrigerator consumes most energy amongst all the home appliances. So, you should be very careful in buying this appliance. Refrigerator that have a Energy Star Logo (label) are considered to be one of the most energy-efficient appliances. The logo symbolizes it as an energy-efficient product, that can save 20-30% energy on an average. Experts say that by purchasing energy star appliances, one can reduce utility costs to a great extent. Older refrigerators consume twice the energy than energy star certified refrigerators. Conventional models purchased as recently as 2001 consume 40% more energy than those models that come with energy star logo. In terms of energy efficiency, Kenmore refrigerators have received high ratings from customers. Sun Frost manufacturers also have a good reputation, of making high quality energy-efficient refrigerators.

Solar Powered Refrigerators
As solar energy being a renewable source, using a solar-powered refrigerator would be a good option. These refrigerators use the power of the sun (solar power) to generate electricity. A solar panel fixed at the top of the building converts sunlight energy into electricity, which is then used to run a solar-powered refrigerator. A normal refrigerator works when you plug it into a power grid. However, solar powered refrigerators operates by plugging into a solar panel set up. The energy consumption in case of solar-powered refrigerators is remarkably low. No wonder, they are regarded as the most energy-efficient refrigerators. The initial cost of installation might be high but for long-term energy savings, these refrigerators are the best choices.

Use of these refrigerators is the first step to tackle the current energy crisis. To generate awareness about these energy-efficient equipment among the households is the need of the hour.