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How Much Electricity Does a Refrigerator Use? Cost Per Month and Year

Find your refrigerator's yearly kWh on its EnergyGuide label, turn it into a monthly cost with your rate, and learn what helps it use less power.

Published: 2 min read
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Photo by Zac Gudakov on Unsplash

Quick answer: the best number is on your refrigerator's EnergyGuide label, which lists estimated kWh per year. Multiply by your price per kWh for the yearly cost, then divide by 12. Do not multiply watts by 24 hours: the compressor cycles on and off, so that gives a number that is too high.

Step by step

  1. Find the yearly kWh on the EnergyGuide label (or look up your model number).
  2. Yearly cost = kWh per year × price per kWh.
  3. Monthly cost = yearly cost ÷ 12.

Calculate with your label

Refrigerator electricity calculator

Enter the kWh per year from the energy label (or the model's spec sheet). You do not need the wattage.

Example with assumed numbers

These are hypothetical: $0.17 per kWh. Use your own rate.

Yearly use Cost per year Cost per month
300 kWh $51.00 $4.25
450 kWh $76.50 $6.38
700 kWh $119.00 $9.92

Older or larger units can use noticeably more. If you cannot find a label, an inexpensive plug-in power meter can measure real use over a few days.

What makes it use more

Heat nearby, dirty coils, worn door seals, a very full or very empty fridge, and lower temperatures than you need can all raise consumption. The Department of Energy has tips on settings and maintenance.

Ways to use less

  • Keep it away from the oven and direct sun, with space around it.
  • Check that the door seals tightly.
  • Let hot food cool before storing it.
  • Vacuum the coils if your model has them exposed.
  • Avoid setting it colder than needed.

Is replacing it worth it?

Compare the yearly kWh on the old and new labels, multiply the difference by your rate, and compare that with the price of the new unit. ENERGY STAR certified models are a good place to start. For other devices, use our guide to how much electricity an appliance uses.

FAQ

How much does a refrigerator cost to run per month? Use the table above with your rate and your label's kWh.

Do bigger fridges use more? Usually, but efficiency varies by model, so check the label.

Next steps

Find the label, note the yearly kWh and do the math. For bigger savings, see how to lower your electric bill.

Keep reading

To compare other appliances:

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