Energy Star Ratings Explained: How This Certification Helps You Choose the Right Refrigerator Why an Energy-Efficient Fridge Matters Learn...
Why an Energy-Efficient Fridge Matters
Have you ever noticed your electric bill going up even if you didn’t really use any extra appliances? One big reason could be your refrigerator. Unlike most appliances that you can turn off when not in use, your fridge runs 24/7.
That’s why if you're planning to buy a new refrigerator, it's important to choose one that’s energy-efficient. This is where the Energy Star rating comes in.
What Is an Energy Star Rating?
Energy Star is an international certification awarded to appliances that use less electricity while still performing effectively. It was developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and is now recognized in many countries, including the Philippines.
If a refrigerator has an Energy Star label, it means:
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It uses less electricity
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It’s eco-friendly
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And often, it’s built to last longer
But not every appliance gets this label. It must pass strict energy efficiency standards and testing to qualify.
How Does It Help You Choose the Right Refrigerator?
1. Save Money on Electricity
Let’s be real—everyone wants to save money. Energy Star-rated refrigerators typically use 10–20% less electricity than standard models.
Example:
If your old fridge costs you around $12 per month in electricity, an Energy Star model might only cost around $8 or less.
That’s around $33 to $36 in savings per year!
2. Smaller Impact on the Environment
The less electricity your appliance uses, the less energy needs to be generated by power plants—which means lower carbon emissions.
So by simply choosing an energy-efficient fridge, you're already helping protect the environment.
3. Clear Standards for Smarter Buying
You no longer need to guess which brand is more energy-efficient. If it has the Energy Star logo, it has passed performance and energy-saving tests.
This makes shopping easier and more reliable.
4. Possible Rebates or Discounts (Depending on Your Area)
In some countries, there are rebate programs or discounts for buying Energy Star appliances. In the Philippines, similar programs are being developed with support from the Department of Energy (DOE).
You can also check the Energy Labeling Program, which gives energy ratings to appliances sold in the local market.
How Do You Know If a Fridge Is Energy-Efficient?
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Look for the Energy Star logo — it’s a blue label with a star.
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Check the Energy Guide label — it shows the estimated annual energy consumption.
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Look for the EEF (Energy Efficiency Factor) — a higher number means better efficiency.
Pro Tip: If you're shopping online, check the product description for the energy rating. If you’re in a store, ask the sales rep if the fridge has an energy rating label.
Other Tips When Buying a Refrigerator
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Don’t overbuy. A larger fridge uses more energy. If there are only three people in the household, a 7–9 cu. ft. fridge may be enough.
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Top freezer models are generally more energy-efficient than side-by-side ones.
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Don’t overload or underfill your fridge. Balanced airflow helps maintain efficiency.
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Avoid frequent door opening — yes, even just staring into the fridge while thinking about what to eat uses extra energy!
Conclusion
Choosing an Energy Star-rated refrigerator isn’t just about saving money. It’s a smart move—both for your wallet and for the environment. With rising electricity costs and the growing impact of climate change, every small action counts, including your choice of appliances.
So the next time you go fridge shopping, don’t just look at the price or the design. Look for the Energy Star logo — because it’s the choice that truly makes sense and brings long-term benefits.
Back to main Guide on refrigerators, visit our Ultimate Refrigerator Guide.
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