How much does it cost to run a refrigerator?
How much does it cost to run a refrigerator?
$0.10 – $0.44 average daily electricity cost
$3 – $13 average monthly electricity cost
$36 – $160 average annual electricity cost
How much electricity does a refrigerator use?
Running a refrigerator costs $0.10 to $0.44 daily, $3 to $13 monthly, or $36 to $160 annually. Most refrigerators use 300 to 800 kWh per year in electricity, depending on their size, age, and efficiency. A mini or small refrigerator costs less to run than a full-sized model.
| Period | Estimated energy usage | Average cost to run* |
|---|---|---|
| Daily | 0.8 – 2.2 kWh | $0.10 – $0.44 per day |
| Monthly | 24 – 66 kWh | $2.88 – $13.20 per month |
| Annually | 300 – 800 kWh | $36 – $160 per year |
*Based on average electricity rate of $0.12 to $0.20 per kWh
While a refrigerator runs 24/7, it doesn’t run at full power constantly; instead, it cycles on and off to maintain temperature, which affects overall energy consumption.
Average cost to run a refrigerator
The cost to run a refrigerator can be as little as $25 to more than $200 per year, depending on its size. An average-sized fridge costs $36 to $160 per year for electricity. Larger refrigerators cost more due to the increased capacity and energy requirements.
The following table provides estimated annual energy usage and costs for different refrigerators and household sizes. Actual costs vary depending on your specific model, local electricity rates, and your household’s usage patterns.
| Refrigerator size (cubic feet) | Estimated annual kWh use | Average annual running cost* | Recommended household size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mini / Compact (< 7) | 200 – 300 | $24 – $60 | 1 person |
| Small (7 – 15) | 300 – 450 | $36 – $90 | 1 – 2 people |
| Medium (15 – 20) | 450 – 580 | $55 – $116 | 3 – 4 people |
| Large (20 – 25) | 580 – 800 | $70 – $160 | 4 – 5 people |
| Extra-large (25+) | 800 – 1000+ | $87 – $200+ | 5+ people |
*Based on average electricity rate of $0.12 to $0.20 per kWh
Mini refrigerators are typically used for one person, often seen in dorm rooms. This is also a suitable size for a secondary or wine fridge. These compact units consume the least power, making them cost-effective to run.
Small refrigerators are often found in apartments or small kitchens, with top freezer models being the most common. They are best for individuals or couples, providing minimal storage while maintaining low energy consumption.
Medium-sized refrigerators provide more storage for average-sized households, with a moderate increase in energy usage compared to smaller models. They also offer more variety in styles, including the introduction of side-by-side models.
Large refrigerators provide ample food storage for a larger household but at the cost of higher energy usage. These units often feature French door designs, which have become increasingly popular.
Extra-large refrigerators use the most energy, typically 800 kWh or more annually. They provide maximum storage capacity but have the highest running costs due to their size and energy requirements.
What affects the cost of running a refrigerator?
The cost to run a refrigerator depends on several factors:
Energy consumption: Refrigerators typically use between 300 to 800 kWh of electricity per year, or roughly 1 to 2 kWh per day, depending on the size and age.
Electricity rates: Some areas have lower utility rates averaging $0.12 per kWh, while other areas pay as much as $0.20 per kWh or more. Rates in your area will affect your total cost.
Size & age: Larger refrigerators and older models tend to consume more energy and cost more to operate. Newer fridges are more energy efficient, often allowing you to upgrade to a larger model without increasing the energy costs compared to your older, smaller model.
Energy efficiency: ENERGY STAR-certified models are more efficient and can lead to significant savings.
Usage patterns: Frequent door opening, poor ventilation, and improper temperature settings can increase energy consumption.
Location & ambient temperature: Placing the refrigerator in a warm area or poorly ventilated space can cause it to work harder and use more energy.
How to calculate the cost to run your refrigerator
While not the biggest energy consumer in a home, refrigerators typically use more electricity than dishwashers or ovens due to their continuous operation. To calculate the specific cost for your refrigerator or other home appliances:
Find the annual kWh usage on the Energy Guide label or search your model number online.
Locate your electricity rate per kWh from your utility bill.
Multiply the annual kWh usage by your electricity rate.
For example, if your appliance uses 500 kWh annually and your electricity rate is $0.16 per kWh, your annual cost would be: 500 kWh x $0.16/kWh = $80 per year.
Energy-saving tips for your fridge
Refrigerators are one of the most important household appliances, accounting for around 10% of a typical household's electricity usage. To keep your fridge running efficiently and your utility bills in check, follow these and other home energy cost-saving strategies:
Choose an appropriately sized refrigerator for your needs. Larger models consume more energy, so avoid oversizing.
Set the refrigerator temperature between 35°F and 38°F and the freezer at 0°F for optimal efficiency and food safety.
Keep your refrigerator full but not overcrowded. A full fridge retains cold better, but overcrowding can obstruct air circulation.
Clean the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the refrigerator annually to ensure efficient operation.
Check and replace door seals if they're worn or damaged to prevent cold air from escaping.
Allow hot foods to cool before placing them in the refrigerator to reduce the cooling load.
Minimize door openings and duration to maintain internal temperature and reduce energy consumption.
Defrost manual-defrost freezers regularly to maintain efficiency.
Position your refrigerator away from heat sources like ovens, dishwashers, or direct sunlight.
Upgrade to an ENERGY STAR-certified model, which can use up to 15% less energy than non-certified models. A new refrigerator costs $600 to $2,300 plus installation, depending on the energy efficiency and model.
Use the power-save mode if available and turn off features like ice makers when not needed.
Ensure proper ventilation around the refrigerator by leaving space between the appliance and walls or cabinets.
FAQs about fridge running costs
How much does it cost to run a mini refrigerator?
A mini refrigerator costs $0.06 to $0.16 per day to run, depending on its energy efficiency and the local utility rates. Mini fridges are often used in a dorm room, office, or as a wine fridge.
How much does it cost to run a small refrigerator?
A small fridge, common in apartments or RVs, costs less than 25 cents per day in electricity, depending on local utility rates. A large fridge costs nearly 50 cents per day in comparison.
Is a refrigerator more expensive to run than other home appliances?
Refrigerators are significant energy consumers in households, but they are not necessarily the most expensive appliance to run compared to some other common household appliances:
The cost to run a dishwasher is $35 to $72 per year.
The cost to run an electric range is $60 to $120 per year.
The cost of running a washer and dryer is $70 to $140 per year.
The cost of running a space heater is $180 to $360 per year or winter season.
The cost of using a hot water heater is $400 to $600 per year.
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.