Not to scare you, but
refrigerators are everywhere. At least, they're present in a staggering 99.9 percent of households, according to a
study by the Department of Energy. Couple that with refrigerators being the most energy-intensive kitchen appliance, and it's particularly important to use them efficiently and invest in an energy-saving one when you can.
Refrigerators carrying the Energy Star label must exceed federal efficiency standards by at least 20 percent, and some are 40 percent more efficient than the federal standards. Fridge configuration makes a difference: Refrigerators with the freezer on top or bottom—as opposed to side-by-side models—are the most efficient. How much energy you save varies based on the fridge brand and its bells and whistles, but top- or bottom-freezer refrigerators use roughly 15 percent less energy than side-by-side refrigerators.
1. Check Energy Star's
list of refrigerator models to find specs on refrigerators that qualify for the Energy Star rating. The chart details where the freezer is located on the fridge, if it has an ice dispenser, its energy use, and more.
2. Find an Energy Star refrigerator or a premium-efficiency model you like at an appliance store or online.
3.
Read the EnergyGuide label on a refrigerator before purchasing it. This label has the scoop on the refrigerator's features, how much energy it'll use, and estimated yearly operating costs. More info on reading the label is at
How to Use the EnergyGuide Label.
4. Arrange to have the refrigerator delivered and installed in your home. Or, to DIY, follow the steps below.
5. Before sliding the new refrigerator into place, position it on strips of carpet. Important: A refrigerator should always stay in an upright position—avoid moving it onto its side or back.
6. Read and follow the instructions that came with your new refrigerator. (This will not harm your street cred.)
7. Slide the refrigerator into place, and plug it in when you can reach the outlet with the cord.
8. Place a level on top of the refrigerator. If it isn't level, take off the grille at the base of it and then put the wooden block under the front edge of the refrigerator to hold it in place.
9. Screw the leveling legs on the front corners of the refrigerator up or down as needed to level it, and then remove the wooden block from under the refrigerator.
10. Confirm that the refrigerator is level by opening the door about 45 degrees and making sure the door swings shut on its own.
11. Run the refrigerator for at least four hours to ensure that it's cold enough before you put your grub inside.
Choose the right size. Too large a refrigerator wastes space and energy. One that's too small is frustrating. Decide which size fits your needs, and then compare the EnergyGuide label on each so you can purchase the most energy-efficient make and model. The most efficient refrigerator size is 16-20 cubic feet.
About ice makers and water dispensers. Through-the-door icemakers and water dispensers are shnazzy, convenient, and reduce the need to open the door (which can save energy by helping maintain a more constant temperature). But they up the refrigerator's energy use by 14 to 20 percent—and bump up the price by $75 to $250.
Avoid heat sources. Your refrigerator should be located away from anything hot like an oven, direct sunlight, or visiting supermodels.
Check the temperature. Make sure to keep your refrigerator between 35 and 38 degrees Fahrenheit. Colder can make your milk icy; warmer can be unsafe for food.