Introduction
Purchasing a new refrigerator and freezer can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. With so many options on the market, it can be difficult to know what features to look for when seeking a high-quality energy-efficient appliance. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of eco-friendly refrigeration and examine some of the top-rated energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers on the market today.
Main Content
Why Efficiency Matters
The importance of energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers extends beyond just saving energy costs. These appliances help to reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a cleaner environment. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), about 15% of total home energy consumption comes from refrigeration. With advancements in technology, manufacturers are able to design more energy-efficient appliances that can meet our needs without breaking the bank.
Selecting the Right Energy-Efficient Refrigerator and Freezer
When shopping for energy-efficient refrigerators and freezers, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Look for the ENERGY STAR certification from the EPA, which means that the appliance meets their standards for energy efficiency.
• Energy Efficiency Scale: Refrigerators and freezers are rated on their Energy Efficiency Scale (AES). This scale is represented as a number between 0 and 10, with 10 being the most energy-efficient. As the AES rating increases, energy efficiency also increases.
• Energy Consumption: Always check the energy consumption details to ensure that the refrigerator and freezer meet your power and energy needs. Average household energy consumption for these appliances is around 60 kilowatt-hours per hour.
• Material Durability: Check for sturdy construction, a magnetic door seal, and quality parts to ensure your energy-efficient refrigerator and freezer is both durable and eco-friendly.
• In-Basket Cooling: Ensure in-basket cooling is an energy-saving feature that uses automatic adjustment to maintain a lower interior temperature.
• High-Efficiency Evaporator Coils: Select refrigerators with efficient coils that reduce the rate at which heat escapes during normal operation.
• Quick Cooling: Check whether refrigerators have rapid-freezing technology, ensuring more food is preserved for prolonged durations.
Taking a Closer Look: Top-Rated Energy-Efficient Refrigerators and Freezers
Liebherr PRBD2516
• Rating: ENERGY STAR certified
• AES: 5/10
• Power Consumption: 70 W
• Height and Width: 44 1/2 × 23 3/8 inches
• Type: Bottom freezer door unit
• Brand: Liebherr
• Price: ~ $1,800 – $2,200
Maytag BRV3252SYL
• Rating: ENERGY STAR certified
• AES: 5.4/10
• Power Consumption: 67 W
• Height and Width: 41 1/8 × 23 11/16 inches
• Type: French Door top freezer
• Brand: Maytag
• Price: ~ $1,600 – $2,000
