Homeowners are increasingly turning to energy-efficient appliances for both environmental and financial reasons.
Energy-efficient refrigerators are designed for lower electricity consumption, reducing the amount of power needed to keep groceries cool. This can potentially reduce electric bills, helping homeowners save money.
This guide will highlight the best energy-efficient refrigerator models and provide estimated savings amounts for upgrading your current appliance. Here’s everything you need to know when choosing an efficient refrigerator.
Why Energy-Efficient Refrigerators Are the Smart Choice
The average homeowner spends about $20 per month on electricity to power their refrigerator, which totals about $240 per year. While the average cost of refrigerator electricity varies depending on your region, refrigerator model, and usage, the $20 mark is a good estimate.
Modern technology empowers homeowners to use less electricity while maintaining their refrigeration appliances. Smart sensors track temperature changes while inverter compressors run more efficiently. As a result, homeowners can enjoy lower utility bills and feel confident that they are having a lower environmental impact.
Energy-efficient refrigerators also support food preservation. By keeping food fresher for longer, less gets wasted. This also has environmental benefits while supporting families financially. When food isn’t thrown out due to rot, families don’t have to replace groceries they never had time to eat.
If you are looking for the highest energy-efficient refrigerator on the market, start with Energy Star certification. This can help you identify energy-friendly models. The next step is to research which of the Energy Star appliances are the best when it comes to efficiency.
Key Features to Look for in an Energy-Efficient Refrigerator
Several factors contribute to efficiency, which means not all energy-efficient refrigerators are created equal. There are a few design elements to look for that support efficiency efforts and can guide your purchase process. Here’s what you need.
- Inverted compressors: These systems vary their performance based on need. When your refrigerator is in a low-need state (like when you are on vacation), the compressors don’t work as hard.
- Top-freezer design: If you are buying strictly based on design, invest in a top-freezer model. This keeps the coldest part of the refrigerator away from the hottest part (the motor).
- Air circulation and climate control: Make sure there are systems in place to protect your groceries. This will reduce food waste.
You can also look for bonus features like alerts when the refrigerator door is left open. This will prevent you from losing cold air, reducing your energy needs. Efficient brands should brag about their technology and highlight the value of various features.
➜ Learn More: Comparing GE vs LG Refrigerators for Value and Performance
8 Best Energy-Efficient Refrigerators to Buy Now
More companies than ever are investing in energy-efficient appliances, and that’s good news for customers. It means there are several energy-efficient fridge options to choose from. Here are eight of the best energy-efficient refrigerator models currently available to start your home appliance search.
Frigidaire Gallery 30 in. 20.3 Cu. Ft. Smudge-Proof Stainless Steel Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Shop Frigidaire Gallery 30 in. 20.3 Cu. Ft. Bottom Freezer Refrigerator
Frigidaire proves that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to find an energy-efficient refrigerator.
Some of the top features of this model include the internal water dispenser, the CrispSeal® drawers that protect your produce, and the EvenTemp™ cooling system.
This Frigidaire refrigerator is ideal for tight spaces, maximizing storage in small kitchens.
LG 36 in. 25.5 Cu. Ft. Print Proof Stainless Steel Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
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This is the best LG energy-efficient refrigerator for families. It is large enough to hold everything you need while still minimizing energy usage.
Family members and guests will love the Craft Ice™ that is round and slow melting, perfect for cocktails.
This is also a smart appliance that can be managed through the ThinQ app
⭐Featured LG Energy Refrigerator Review:
"We have had this Fridge for about 3 weeks and we love it so far. Great features and the craft ice maker is awesome."
GE Profile 36 in. 27.6 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
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If you’re focused on energy savings and kitchen organization, this GE fridge is one of the best options available.
The bonus drawer is perfect for holding deli meat and cheese or child-friendly snacks. The external water dispenser makes deliciously cool water easy to access.
The interior has LED lighting that uses minimal energy while providing a bright experience.
⭐Featured GE Energy Refrigerator Review:
"We absolutely love the design of our new GE Refrigerator! We are using the ‘deli’ drawer for easy access to drinks like bottled water, soda, etc. The swing-out shelf on the door is great for condiments and similar items."
Whirlpool 36 in. 24.5 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
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This appliance balances the In-Door-Ice® and Water dispenser with enough space in the refrigerator compartment for all of your groceries.
It is another high-efficiency fridge from Whirlpool that comes with a bonus drawer.
No other model holds more ice, storing 3.7 pounds of ice cubes when you need them. This is also an Energy Star refrigerator.
⭐Featured Whirlpool Energy Refrigerator Review:
"We love this Refrigerator, especially the exterior small drawer. It is great for cheese, butter, jelly - things that we use at every meal. We use a lot of ice, and the ice maker keeps up."
Samsung 36 in. 31.0 Cu. Ft. Fingerprint Resistant Matte Black Steel Freestanding French Door Refrigerator
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Maximize storage without sacrificing efficiency—this Samsung fridge is perfect for busy households
Not only is it one of the largest appliances on the consumer market, but it is also smart. This model has Wi-Fi connectivity and creates four types of ice depending on your preferences.
The 10-year compressor warranty leads the industry, giving families long-term peace of mind and reliable performance year after year.
⭐Featured Samsung Energy Refrigerator Review:
"This refrigerator is huge. I have more than enough room for all our refrigeration needs. I like that I can turn off the ice on the bottom and turn it back on when I need it."
Bosch 100 Series 36 in. 26.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel French Door Refrigerator
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Bosch combines energy efficiency with luxury in its high-end refrigerators.
The UltraClarityPro® filter delivers crisp, clean water by removing sediment and impurities.
With sleek handles and anti-fingerprint stainless steel, this smart Bosch fridge elevates any kitchen with a premium, modern look.
And the advanced smart features allow seamless control and monitoring from your smartphone.
➜ Learn More: Our 5 Favorite 30” Refrigerators for Small Kitchens
KitchenAid 36 in. 27.0 Cu. Ft. Stainless Steel with PrintShield Finish French Door Refrigerator
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KitchenAid is another high-end brand, and this is the best energy-efficient refrigerator for home cooks and bakers.
The pull-out tray is ideal for platters, whether you are chilling cookie dough or preparing a charcuterie board.
Its adjustable shelving and thoughtful layout make the KitchenAid fridge easy to organize ingredients and leftovers without wasting space.
The ExtendFresh™ temperature system is ideal for protecting your produce. These models come in either stainless steel or black stainless designs.
⭐Featured KitchenAid Energy Refrigerator Review:
"It’s great. Love the size. There is a great deal of room in both the fridge and freezer. I like the sliding shelf and the adjustable one."
Café 36 in. 23.2 Cu. Ft. Matte Black Counter Depth French Door Refrigerator
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This model by Café is a great conclusion to the list of most energy-efficient refrigerator options.
The matte black finish feels high-end, and the bonus drawer makes organization easy. The LED light wall stands out in the industry, along with the luxurious drawers.
This Café refrigerator comes with both a water dispenser and a removable pitcher to bring to your kitchen table.
Crunching the Numbers: Energy Costs and Long-Term Value
Wondering if upgrading to an energy-efficient refrigerator is worth it? Let’s break it down.
Estimate Your Savings
Start by visiting the Energy Star Flip Your Fridge tool. It calculates how much you could save annually by replacing an older fridge with an ENERGY STAR® certified model.
Or, if you want to run the numbers manually, use this simple formula:
(Wattage × Hours Used Per Day) ÷ 1,000 × Days Per Year × Electricity Rate ($/kWh)
Most refrigerators run 24/7, all year long—so:
- Hours/Day = 24
- Days/Year = 365
You’ll just need two numbers:
- Wattage of your fridge (check the back label or user manual)
- Your utility rate (check your power bill)
Real-World Example
- Old fridge (20 years old): ~1,700 kWh/year
- New energy-efficient fridge: ~450 kWh/year
- Estimated savings: $100–$200/year (based on average U.S. utility rates)
Long-Term Payoff
Over 10–15 years, those savings can add up to $1,000–$2,000, often enough to cover the cost of the new fridge. Plus, better temperature regulation can reduce food waste—another money-saver.
Ready to Save? Upgrade to a More Efficient Fridge
Switching to an energy-efficient refrigerator can provide homeowners with valuable savings opportunities while helping them live more sustainable lifestyles.
The best energy-efficient refrigerator is one that meets the needs of your family and makes food storage easy.
Research counter-depth and French-door refrigerators online or visit your nearest Spencers showroom to speak with a customer experience expert.
You can see these appliances in person and ask about their efficiency ratings. A new refrigerator can make your household easier to run and make cooking more enjoyable. Stop in today.
➜ Learn More: Your Ultimate Guide to Energy Star Appliance Shopping
Frequently Asked Questions
Top-freezer refrigerators are the most efficient because the coldest section is furthest from the motor, which gives off the most heat. However, the energy savings are nominal, and you don’t need to base your entire refrigerator purchase on these designs. A French-door model can be efficient and easy to use.
This number depends significantly on the refrigerator model. On average, refrigerators use 25 kWh per month, which costs about $20 in the United States. These costs will vary depending on your regional utility rates.
Yes, these compressors are typically more efficient because they adjust their speed based on need. If it is a cool part of the year or you are traveling on vacation, your refrigerator doesn’t have to work as hard. This means the compressor doesn’t work as hard, either.
Energy Star refrigerators can lower your cooling bills, but the impact varies depending on what appliances you replace. Swapping a 20-year-old refrigerator with a brand new one will have a bigger impact than replacing a five-year-old model. This is because modern technology has advanced so significantly over the past few decades.
There are a few leading brands that can support your energy-savings goals. GE is a popular option that is known for creating affordable appliances. Samsung and LG are tech-forward and focus on efficiency. Know what brands to trust as you research Energy Star ratings.
Why Trust Spencers TV & Appliance?
Since 1973, Spencers TV & Appliance has grown to 10 locations throughout the Phoenix Metropolitan Area. The secret to our longevity is simple: personal service. Customer satisfaction has always been the focus of our business, and throughout the years, we have been able to work hard with our suppliers to bring you the best prices. After all, getting customers the best price and personal attention is how we compete with big-box stores, day in and day out.
Not only do we offer top-rated appliances, name-brand electronics, and the best mattresses on the market but we also provide water treatment solutions and perform kitchen design services. Stop by your nearest Spencer’s and see what you’re missing!
Shop Energy Efficient Refrigerators at Spencers
At Spencers TV & Appliance, we provide high-quality, name-brand products at great prices — check out our catalog to shop refrigerators online today. Your friends in the business are always happy to help you find the perfect energy-efficient refrigerator for your home. Call us, or better yet, stop by at one of our locations in the Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Glendale regions. Visit us today!