A compact refrigerator may not be more energy efficient than a regular-size one.
Dormitory or compact refrigerators might seem like an energy saver as a second basement or garage refrigerator. But they may not save much, especially if you have room for a larger, newer refrigerator. The actual energy efficiency of a unit depends on the age and brand. Newer regular-size models, especially Energy Star-rated units, provide energy efficiency and storage space. If you do need the compact size of a dorm refrigerator, look for an Energy Star-rated unit, so you save energy as well as space.
Energy Usage
The typical dorm or compact refrigerator uses an average of 280 kWh per year and gives 2 cubic feet of space. This figure doesn't seem too bad compared to older, less-efficient compact models. However, when compared to a full-size unit's 18 cubic foot of space and 390 kWh/year rating, the compact refrigerator does not offer much storage space for the energy use. For home use where the space for a regular-size refrigerator exists, the best choice would be the full-size unit.
Dorm Savings
The typical college dormitory contains multiple mini refrigerators. The University of Texas at Austin came up with a plan to save energy in the dorm. Students there received new combination refrigerator/microwave units. The savings come in because the new units are Energy Star rated. The old units used 419 kWh per year. The new units use only 290 kWh per year. This adds up to a savings of $4,352 per month, proving that it pays to buy new, energy-efficient appliances.
Energy Star Ratings
All refrigerators have to meet federal standards for energy use. The Energy Star-rated units actually exceed these standards. All new refrigerators have to have a sticker detailing energy usage. If the unit is Energy Star rated, it will be noted on the sticker. This makes it easy to comparison shop for a dorm refrigerator. You can compare purchase price, energy costs over time and features.
Tips to Save Energy
If you decide that a compact refrigerator meets your needs, use it in a way that saves energy. Keep the temperature between 35 and 38 degrees F for food safety and the best energy efficiency. Don't hold the door open while you decide what to pull out. Don't place the compact refrigerator near a heat source. A heat source could be a window, a dishwasher or heat vent. The refrigerator will use less energy in a cool spot.
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