The main difference between an ENERGY STAR refrigerator and a regular refrigerator is that the former is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than the latter. An ENERGY STAR refrigerator meets the strict energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), while a regular refrigerator only meets the federal minimum energy efficiency standard. In this article, we will explore the benefits, features, and types of ENERGY STAR refrigerators, and how they compare to regular refrigerators in terms of performance, cost, and environmental impact.
According to the EPA, refrigerators are one of the most energy-consuming appliances in the average American household, accounting for about 13% of the total energy use. By choosing an ENERGY STAR refrigerator, you can save energy, money, and the environment. Here are some of the benefits of ENERGY STAR refrigerators:
They use about 9% less energy than regular refrigerators, which means lower electricity bills and fewer greenhouse gas emissions.
They can save you about $230 over the 12-year lifetime of the product, compared to a regular refrigerator of the same size and configuration.
They have high-performance features such as high-efficiency compressors, improved insulation, and temperature and defrost mechanisms that help the refrigerator operate more efficiently and maintain optimal food freshness and quality.
They may qualify for rebates, tax credits, or other incentives from utility companies, state or local governments, or retailers, depending on your location and eligibility.
Features of ENERGY STAR refrigerators
ENERGY STAR refrigerators come in various styles, sizes, and configurations to suit different needs and preferences. Some of the common features of ENERGY STAR refrigerators are:
They have a yellow EnergyGuide label that displays the estimated annual energy consumption, operating cost, and energy efficiency rating of the refrigerator, as well as the range of energy use for similar models. This helps you compare different options and choose the most energy-efficient one for your needs.
They have a blue ENERGY STAR logo that indicates that the refrigerator has been certified by the EPA and the DOE to meet the energy efficiency requirements for its category. The energy efficiency requirements vary depending on the type, capacity, and features of the refrigerator, such as the presence of a through-the-door ice dispenser or a bottom-mounted freezer.
They have a lower global warming potential (GWP) refrigerant, such as R-600a (isobutane) or R-290 (propane), that has less impact on the climate than the conventional refrigerant R-134a (hydrofluorocarbon). Some ENERGY STAR refrigerators also use a natural refrigerant called R-744 (carbon dioxide), which has a GWP of 1, the lowest possible value.
There are several types of ENERGY STAR refrigerators available in the market, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most popular types of ENERGY STAR refrigerators:
French door refrigerators: These refrigerators have two doors that open outward to reveal a spacious refrigerator compartment, and a bottom-mounted freezer drawer. They offer easy access to fresh and frozen foods, and have a sleek and modern appearance. They are also more energy-efficient than side-by-side refrigerators, especially if they have a door-in-door feature that allows you to access frequently used items without opening the main refrigerator door. However, they tend to be more expensive and require more clearance space than other types of refrigerators.
Side-by-side refrigerators: These refrigerators have two doors that split the refrigerator vertically, with the refrigerator on one side and the freezer on the other. They offer convenient access to both fresh and frozen foods, and have more storage options and features, such as through-the-door ice and water dispensers. However, they are less energy-efficient than other types of refrigerators, especially if they have a large capacity or a dispenser. They also have less usable space and may not accommodate large or wide items well.
Top-freezer refrigerators: These refrigerators have a freezer compartment on the top and a refrigerator compartment on the bottom. They are the most common and affordable type of refrigerator, and have a simple and classic design. They are also more energy-efficient than bottom-freezer refrigerators, as they keep the cold air from escaping when the refrigerator door is opened. However, they have less storage space and flexibility than other types of refrigerators, and may require you to bend down to access the refrigerator compartment.
Bottom-freezer refrigerators: These refrigerators have a freezer drawer on the bottom and a refrigerator compartment on the top. They offer more space and convenience for storing fresh foods, as they keep them at eye level and within easy reach. They are also more energy-efficient than side-by-side refrigerators, as they have less surface area exposed to the warm air8. However, they are more expensive and less energy-efficient than top-freezer refrigerators, and may require you to bend down to access the freezer drawer.
Compact refrigerators: These refrigerators are smaller and more portable than standard refrigerators, and are ideal for small spaces, such as dorm rooms, offices, or apartments. They are also more energy-efficient than standard refrigerators, as they have a smaller capacity and use less electricity. However, they have limited storage space and features, and may not keep food as cold or fresh as standard refrigerators.
Comparison of ENERGY STAR refrigerators and regular refrigerators
To illustrate the difference between an ENERGY STAR refrigerator and a regular refrigerator, let us compare two models of the same type and size: a 19.2 cubic feet top-freezer refrigerator. The ENERGY STAR model is the Whirlpool WRT519SZDM, and the regular model is the GE GTS19KGNRWW. Here are some of the key differences between them:
Energy efficiency: The Whirlpool model uses 390 kWh per year, while the GE model uses 430 kWh per year10 . This means that the Whirlpool model is about 9% more energy-efficient than the GE model, and can save you about $18 per year on your electricity bill.
Environmental impact: The Whirlpool model has a lower GWP refrigerant, R-600a, while the GE model has a conventional refrigerant, R-134a. This means that the Whirlpool model has less impact on the climate than the GE model, as R-600a has a GWP of 3, while R-134a has a GWP of 1,430.
Features: The Whirlpool model has a built-in produce preserver that extends the freshness of fruits and vegetables by absorbing ethylene gas, a ripening agent that causes them to spoil faster. The GE model does not have this feature. The Whirlpool model also has a reversible door that can be installed to open left or right, while the GE model has a fixed door that can only open right.
Conclusion
An ENERGY STAR refrigerator is a smart choice for anyone who wants to save energy, money, and the environment, while enjoying high-performance features and a variety of styles and sizes. An ENERGY STAR refrigerator is more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly than a regular refrigerator, and can offer better food preservation and convenience. By comparing different models and types of ENERGY STAR refrigerators, you can find the best one for your needs and preferences.
