Searching around for the best energy efficient freezer for your home? Good idea.
If you’re considering buying a new freezer, look for an Energy Star-approved model. They use less energy to power them, so they help the environment and save you money on your utility bills.
The Energy Star program recommends that when you purchase a new freezer, you choose a manually-defrosting model, as they use less energy than automatically-defrosting models. Also, buy an appropriately-sized model that fits your needs. Larger-capacity freezers need more energy to keep cold, so if you don’t need a lot of space, get a smaller model. Freezers also use less energy when they are full than when they are empty. And choose a chest freezer over an upright freezer, as the top-mounted door allows less cold air to escape.
This list was compiled in May 2011 from data on the Energy Star website, and models were ordered by percentage of less energy each consumes, compared to the mandated energy usage for a unit that size. Some of the most efficient are small, refrigerator/freezer combos, but we only list dedicated freezers here.
Please note that entries with asterisks (*) denote characters in the model codes that deal with color, or other factors that have nothing to do with energy use.
10. Danby DCFM425WDD** freezer
This is a 14.8-cubic-foot model with an insulated cabinet and lid. It will defrost manually and has an easy-access drain. Energy Star estimates that it will use 354 kwh of power a year. This model is 11% more efficient than standard units of this size. It costs $580.