Guide To Most Energy Efficient Fridge Freezers 2023 [Plus Best Eco Models]

Fridge freezers are hard workers. They’re one of the few household appliances that are on constantly.

Think about it – when was the last time you turned your fridge freezer off?

With this in mind, fridge freezers can be big hitters on your household energy bill too. Older models can be expensive to run and you’ll probably read many articles stating that fridge freezers consume masses of energy.

This isn’t the case anymore. This is because we now have much more energy efficient fridge freezers.

A good eco fridge freezer will significantly reduce your energy consumption while keeping your food and drinks nicely chilled or frozen. Over the course of a year, you can save £100s using a more energy efficient appliance.

This guide to more environmentally friendly fridge freezers will take a look at how much energy fridges use, what to look out for when buying a new energy efficient model and finally take a look at some of the most energy efficient fridge freezers rated as A or B.

How much energy do fridge freezers use?

As fridge freezers are on 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, you’d expect them to use quite a lot of energy.

And compared to other kitchen appliances, such as an energy efficient kettle, fridge freezers do use a lot of energy.

So, how much energy do fridge freezers use exactly?

On the new Energy Label rating system, a good A rated energy efficient fridge freezer will use around 100-115kWh of electricity per year.

Compare this to a fridge freezer with an energy label D rating that will use around 200-250kWh of electricity annually.

Drop down to an energy rating of F and you’ll be close to 300kWh of electricity use per year.

Big, old fridge freezers will consume way more energy than this anywhere from 500 to 2,000kWh.

In terms of comparisons to other household appliances, the most costly is the tumble dryer which eats up the energy during a cycle!

An electric or gas oven will use more energy than a fridge, but less than an energy efficient kettle.

Very similar to fridges in terms to energy use are the latest energy efficient TVs.

How much do fridge freezers cost to run?

The average unit cost of electricity in the UK is 34p per kWh (right as of November 2022).

Let’s take a look at the examples above to see how much the fridge freezers cost to run across the year. It’s a case of simply multiplying the annual kWh usage by a rate of 0.34p.

Fridge Freezer Energy Rating	Annual Energy Use	Annual Cost To Run
A energy label	115kWh	£39.10
D energy label	225kWh	£76.50
F energy label	300kWh	£102
Old Fridge Freezer	1,500kWh	£510

As you can see from the table above, an eco fridge freezer will save you significant amounts of money across the year. With a fridge freezer lasting for a decade and more, it’s important to get this right.

Breaking it down a little further, the Centre for Sustainable Energy estimate that a standard 300 watt fridge freezer will cost around 10p an hour to run. This will depend on the Energy Label rating of course.

One thing to note however, is that fridges and freezers are smarter now and turn themselves off when they reach the required temperature. With good insulation and all seals in good condition, these appliances can maintain a desired temperature whilst not using much energy.

This is why if you have the fridge or freezer door open for a while, you’ll here the cooling mechanism kick in.

How to spot the energy rating on a freezer

Generally speaking, most fridges and freezers will have an A+ to A+++ energy rating. It was a silly rating system as half of appliances in 2014 had a rating of A++ or A+++!

The confusing older rating system has now been replaced by a new Energy Label rating.

All models made after March 2021 have more accurate energy ratings, which range from A to G. This new labelling also applies to other kitchen appliances including washing machines, washer dryers and dishwashers.

This new system brings with it higher environmental and efficiency standards.

The highest energy efficient rating is ‘A’, whereas the lowest is ‘G’.

Unfortunately, many manufacturers have had a difficult time meeting the newer energy criteria. As a result, most fridge freezers available on the market have a energy rating of D, E or F. Models that were previously rated as A++ are now F rated (like my current fridge freezer!)

You can identify the energy rating of a unit by looking for the coloured sticker, which is mandatory on new appliances.

As there is quite a bit of difference between an A rated fridge fridge and F rated, there’s also a difference in price.

The good news is that competition is tough in this industry. So, we’ll be more likely to see more models with better energy ratings in the future.

How to choose the right energy efficient fridge freezer?

Energy efficient freezers use less electricity, making them the better choice when choosing an appliance that’s environmentally friendly.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can choose the right environmentally friendly fridge freezer for your more sustainable kitchen:

Step 1: Determine the size you need

The first thing that you should consider is size. Since fridges come in different sizes, you’ll have plenty of options.

The bigger the fridge and freezer, the more energy required to cool the air inside.

A well-stocked fridge is more efficient as there’s less volume of air circulating. However, if you overfill a fridge or freezer, your appliance will have to work harder to reach the desired temperatures, which increases the risk of damage and can even reduce its lifespan.

Step 2: Measure the space for the fridge

Another thing to consider is how much space the fridge freezer will take up. Usually, the fridge needs to be at least three inches away from other home appliances.

Plus, fridge freezers require air circulation to avoid overheating.

You have to make sure that the back of the fridge is at least four inches away from the wall to let the coils function properly.

Also, that little shelf at the top of the fridge? Don’t use it as a shelf! This is to help air circulate efficiently.

Step 3: Consider your budget

You need to know your budget before you decide which model to get.

Freezers with lower energy ratings are more affordable. However, keep in mind that they consume more electricity, which means you pay more each month. So, what you save initially ends up going into your monthly bills.

Not only that, but low-rated fridges increase your carbon footprint.

You will pay a premium for newly rated A or B fridges and freezers but they will save you money in the long term. Plus, you’re also helping the environment.

Step 4: Keep your fridge freezer at the right temperature

Where you intend to keep your fridge freezer can contribute to its efficiency.

Fridges near windows or in the line of direct sunlight may be negatively impacted. Although some models are designed to maintain the recommended temperature, some of them might not be able to do so.

Generally, it’s recommended to keep the temperature of your freezer around -18 degrees Celsius to keep food safe and prevent bacterial build-up.

Your fridge will have a dial from 1-5 to adjust the temperature. The higher the number the colder the fridge will be. Get this right to keep your food chilled but also to prevent ice build up which impacts the efficiency of the appliance.

Step 5: Opt out of ice makers and dispensers

Ice makers and dispensers are convenient features. Yet, in order for them to do their job well, they can use as much as 14% to 20% more energy, which drives up the amount on your electricity bill and harms the environment as well.

On top of that, an ice maker and dispenser add to the retail price of the fridge freezer.

So, if you’re looking to save money and reduce energy consumption, it might be a smart idea to skip these features altogether.

Step 6: Choose a freezer with excellent blackout performance

Having the right freezer during a power failure can make a big difference. So, even though many consumers overlook the blackout performance of fridge freezers, it’s still worth considering.

Good fridge freezer models will keep food adequately frozen within 24 hours of a power outage.

This might be needed if we’re to believe the potential power cut news headlines coming our way!

Step 7: Opt for self-defrosting freezers

Fridge freezers decrease their efficiency when they accumulate ice around the edges. The best way to avoid this is to defrost them once every six months.

If you defrost them manually, you’ll have to remove everything from the unit and store them somewhere cold enough to keep them preserved until you’re finished.

Keep in mind that it can take anywhere from two to 24 hours for the ice to melt fully. Then, you’ll need to clean the freezer thoroughly before putting the food back in.

In contrast, a self-defrosting fridge freezer can save you a lot of time and effort. They also offer improved energy efficiency and added convenience. Its only downside is its noise level.

Normally, manual-defrost freezers are a lot quieter than self-defrosting ones. However, if the noise level doesn’t bother you, a self-defrosting fridge is your best bet.

4 most energy efficient fridge freezers 2023

I’ve been searching through online retailers to find the best A rated models. Surprisingly, they are few and fair between now with the new rating label.

In a way this is good as it’s a truer reflection. Hopefully it’ll drive manufacturers to create truly energy efficient appliances going forward.

Here are my most energy efficient fridge freezers, rated as an A or B on their energy label.

1. Samsung Bespoke RL38A776ASR (A Rated)

The Samsung Bespoke is one of the most energy efficient fridge freezers on the market. It comes with the best A energy efficiency rating.

It’s an innovative kitchen appliance that combines sleek design with customisable colour options and advanced cooling technology. This eco fridge freezer has a decent capacity of 336 litre yet takes up minimal space with a width of just 700mm.

The fridge section features Samsung’s Twin Cooling Plus technology, with independent airflow and precise temperature control to keep foods fresher for longer.

Inside, the fridge contains two adjustable shelves, a dairy compartment and a foldable shelf for tall bottles. The freezer section has three transparent drawers, as well as No Frost technology to prevent ice buildup.

Other highlights include a built-in ice maker, LED lighting for visibility and an energy-efficient Digital Inverter Compressor that adjusts cooling power based on usage.

2. LG Centrum GBB92MCBAP (A Rated)

Sleek and spacious, the LG Centrum GBB92MCBAP is another A rated eco friendly fridge freezer. It offers ample storage and innovative features to keep food perfectly chilled.

This stylish French-door refrigerator has a total capacity of 687 litres, providing the flexibility of a large fridge and freezer in one streamlined unit.

The refrigerator section features LG’s Linear Cooling system, designed to maintain a consistent temperature throughout, while the bottom freezer includes handy storage baskets and drawers. The Full-Convert Drawer gives you the option to use the bottom compartment as either a fridge or freezer as needed. Very handy.

Inside the refrigerator, enjoy features like Humidity Fresh Zone drawers that help foods stay crisp and Door Cooling+ that reduces cold air loss when the doors are opened. The sleek grey and black exterior includes a bright LED interior light.

Additional conveniences include an ice and water dispenser, boxed shelf for tall items, slide-out shelves and door bins.

3. Samsung Bespoke RB38A7B6BB1 (B Rated)

The Samsung Bespoke RB38A7B6BB1 is a B rated fridge freezer. It’s still energy efficient but not quite at the same level as its sibling above. For this, you’ll pay less money.

The Samsung Bespoke RB38A7B6BB1 has a very good 354 litre capacity to keep food fresh while providing flexible storage.

The Twin Cooling Plus system maintains optimal humidity and temperatures for food preservation. The Cool Select Pantry provides customisable temperature zones to store meat and fish perfectly. The Berage Center lets you chill drinks quickly.

Features like Auto Open Door and Recess Handles make accessing the fridge seamless. The fingerprint-resistant finish keeps doors looking pristine. With a streamlined built-in look and modern touches like its sleek touch panel, this Samsung Bespoke fridge combines customisable style and smart functionality.

4. LG NatureFRESH GBB72MCVBN (B Rated)

Keep it nice and fresh with the B rated LG NatureFRESH GBB72MCVBN eco fridge freezer.

This spacious fridge with a massive 591 litre capacity fridge is designed to optimise food preservation with innovative features like LinearCooling and DoorCooling+.

The unique NatureFRESH system actively controls temperature and humidity within the refrigerator to keep fruits and vegetables farm-fresh for up to 14 days. The Fresh Balancer Crisper drawers have independent climate controls, adjustable humidity sliders and Greens Keeper technology to maintain optimal conditions.

Inside, enjoy conveniences like adjustable slide-out tempered glass shelves, humidity-controlled vegetable and fruit drawers, and the bonuses of an ice and water dispenser. The minimalist flat steel finish and recessed handles complement any modern kitchen.

Wrap up on best energy efficient fridge freezers

There you have it – the guide to the best energy efficient fridge freezers UK.

Eco friendly fridge freezers are here and they’re here to stay. The major benefit to a sustainable fridge freezer is that they don’t use much energy at all. With these models, the old saying that fridge freezers are one of the costliest appliances to run is now a myth.

Remember however that a more energy efficient fridge comes at a higher price, but you will save on running costs – sometimes up to £100s a year.

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