Top 5 Eco Friendly Refrigerator For Sustainable Kitchen
Sustainability is a big deal. So much so that people are redoing entire homes from top to bottom to be more eco-friendly. If you were ever wondering what the sole focus was of these efforts, it’s your fridge!
Yep, that hefty appliance you move food into and out of is said to be responsible for an astounding 5% of household emissions. To combat this, there are many companies out there whose sole purpose is to find ways to make more eco friendly refrigerators.
What’s Wrong With Traditional Refrigerators In The Market?
In today’s fast-paced life, we need everything to be quicker. In today’s busy life, we need time at best. The fridge is one appliance that plays an essential role in our lives. These Refrigerators have come a long way since their conception, and it saves us from a lot of the hustle and bustle.
It helps us store the food for a longer duration without compromising its freshness or quality. Whenever we go shopping, it becomes challenging to purchase the best fridge that suits our needs and requirements. With every passing year, there is a wide variety of refrigerators.
However, where refrigerators are concerned, traditional models are making a comeback in the market. These fridges are cheap and do exactly what they need to do—keep food fresh for long periods.
With rising energy consumption from us consumers, though, can these fridges be considered “green?”
Hence, to choose the best eco-friendly fridge for our home, we should have an idea about the different types of fridges available in the market, and here they are:
- Top-Freezer Refrigerator: Classic design; most budget-friendly.
- Side-by-Side Refrigerator: Budget-friendly; efficiently sized.
- Bottom-Freezer Refrigerator: Generous storage; convenient layout.
- French Door Refrigerator: Energy-efficient with generous storage and small swing space.
- Counter-Depth Refrigerator: Low-profile build to maximize kitchen space.
- Mini Fridge: Compact refrigerator for smaller-scale storage.
Nonetheless, the following are some significant features to consider while buying the best eco-friendly refrigerator.
- Electricity Cost
- Size of Refrigerator
- Noise Levels
- Best Value.
We also advise a look into several other important factors, including
- Style
- Performance, and
- Overall customer satisfaction.
Best Eco Friendly Refrigerator In The Market
There is a lot of information out there when it comes to eco-friendly fridges. Some people will say that there is no such thing as an eco-friendly refrigerator and other people swear by the benefits of these products.
The truth is most likely somewhere in the middle, but some great products are out there. Some of which are:
Best Overrall: Liebherr Monolith MRB3000
Features
- Cutting edge German Engineering
- ENERGY STAR®
- Smart fridge
- Super Quiet operation
- Touch control
Sophisticated refrigeration technology packed into a compact design: the Liebherr Monolith MRB3000 refrigerator. This monoblock model with an integrated display is slim but still spacious and offers a sizeable 4-star freezer section that can easily accommodate meat and other frozen foods.
Integrated sensors control the temperature inside, staying at the optimum level for your food.
The Liebherr Monolith MRB3000 refrigerator is part of the latest generation of Liebherr fridges which save up to 15 percent electricity compared to previous models with optimum refrigeration performance guaranteed in ambient temperatures up to 40°C environmentally-friendly powder coatings and solvent-free sheet metals.
Pros
- Perfect climate
- Sound absorbing compressors
- User-friendly
Cons
- Prone to hacking
- Consumes more energy
Why We Love The Monolith MRB3000
The Monolith MRB3000 has been designed with many features to ensure optimal convenience and be a highly energy-efficient fridge freezer while being smaller than a typical 20 to 25 cubic foot fridge.
Plastic components in this eco-friendly refrigerator feature labels which indicate that they can be recycled easily if a replacement becomes necessary.\
An internal water dispenser and BioFresh preservation system make these environmentally conscious fridges an excellent choice for any modern home.
Available at: Liebherr
Best Energy Efficient: Smeg 24-Inch 50’s Style
Features
- Tripartite Glass Shelves (Modifiable)
- One Bottle Storage Shelf
- Freezer Compartment
- Ice Cube Tray:
- Dimensions (HxWxD): 60 x 24 x 30-Inches
- Weight: 156 lbs
This Smeg refrigerator is a popular style that’s perfect for smaller spaces. It has two glass shelves and a freezer section, both of which are adjustable, as well as a full-width door shelf.
The 24-inch size fits its name perfectly—ideal for small spaces like apartments or dorm rooms where you don’t have much room for waste. And with its retro styling, it’s sure to look great in any kitchen regardless of the décor.
Pros
- Automatic defrost
- ENERGY STAR®
- High Efficiency
- Quiet operation
- HFC-free refrigerator
Cons
- Out of stock on Amazon
Why We Love The Smeg 24-Inch 50s Style Refrigerator
Smeg’s Style refrigerator offers a retro aesthetic and is one of the most energy-efficient refrigerators. The model complies with the Restriction of Hazardous Substances directive by using materials that do not threaten health and safety if released into the environment.
When you replace your Smeg refrigerator, recycle its steel, glass, aluminum, and brass components to increase this unit’s sustainability factor.
Available at: Amazon
Best Energy Saving: Bosch B11CB50SSS 500
Features
- Triple Glass Shelves (Modifiable)
- Two Adjustable shelves
- Freezer Compartment
- Three ice Cube Tray
- Weight: 167.000 lbs
The Bosch 24-Inch Refrigerator delivers high-performance, energy-efficient storage for all your cold food items. It features four full shelves and two half shelves, as well as a large crisper drawer where you can store fresh vegetables and fruits.
This refrigerator is easily adjustable to fit any space and comes with an IceAlert system that notifies you every time the ice maker runs out of ice or has a problem with it. You can even conveniently adjust the temperature through Eco mode, which saves energy while keeping your food cold at the same time.
Pros
- Dual Evaporator
- Energy Star™ Qualified
- High Efficiency
- Silent running
- Electronic Controls for Precise Temperature Management
Cons
- Not available on Amazon
Why We Love The Bosch B11CB50SSS 500 Series 24-inch Refrigerator
The Bosch B11CB50SSS offers a HydroFresh drawer that helps keep food fresher for twice as long by limiting humidity, a concealed door hinge that provides solid support while allowing for easy opening, and continuous stainless steel luxury that is unbroken.
This eco-friendly fridge’s Electronic controls allow for precise temperature control, and an open door alarm helps save electricity while storing.
Available at: Bosch Home
Best Economical: Blomberg BRFB1312SS
Features
- Two-door apartment size refrigerator
- iso-butane refrigerant
- Energy Star compliant
- Door gaskets are removable for easy cleaning
- Interior fresh food compartments are adjustable
If you’re looking for something slightly larger, this 28-inch GE will store more food without compromising the planet’s health. Like Samsung’s 26-inch model, this brand relies on climate-friendly iso-butane to refrigerate the interior.
It’s also energy-star compliant and features removable door gaskets, adjustable shelves, and fresh food compartments for maximum adaptability. Plus, it’s the cheapest option on this list, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious shoppers who love a good deal.
Pros
- Cheap
- Iso-butane is climate-friendly
- Energy Star compliant
Cons
- It May was not as energy-efficient as some other models
Why We Love The Blomberg BRFB1312SS 24-Inch Refrigerator
The Blomberg BRFB1312SS is a great budget-friendly option for those looking for a larger refrigerator. It is Energy Star compliant and features iso-butane refrigerant, which is more climate-friendly than other options.
The interior fresh food compartments are adjustable, and the door gaskets are removable for easy cleaning.
Available at: Blomber Appliances
Best Eco Mini Fridge: Sub-Zero BI-30UG
Features
- Water and ice dispenser inside
- Storage compartments preserve food longer
- Rigorously tested for longevity
- 20-year warranty
Got cash to blow? Spend it well by purchasing one of the Sub-Zero BI-30UG eco-friendly fridges. At just 30 inches wide, this fridge is small and compact, offering just over 13 cubic feet of interior space. The water and ice dispenser are located inside, and separate storage compartments preserve food longer to minimize waste.
Each fridge undergoes rigorous testing to maximize longevity, with many lasting 20 years or longer. Thus, you’ll be less likely to repair or replace it before then
Pros
- Expensive but worth it
- Eco-friendly design
- Long-lasting
Cons
- Not available on Amazon
Why We Love The Sub-Zero BI-30UG
The Sub-Zero BI-30UG is an eco-friendly refrigerator that is rigorously tested for longevity. It features a water and ice dispenser inside the fridge, as well as storage compartments that preserve food longer.
The Sub-Zero BI-30UG comes with a 20-year warranty, making it an excellent investment for those looking for a long-lasting refrigerator. It would even pass as the best low-energy refrigerator.
Available at: Suubzero Wolf
Eco-friendly Energy Efficient Refrigerator Buying Guide
When you hear about being “green,” the first thing that comes to mind is likely the color green. But the benefits of this color can go beyond what meets the eye. Learning how to green your lifestyle isn’t just a new trend.
It’s becoming a necessity as we know more and more about harmful toxins in our surroundings. We may feel like there’s no haven from worrying about how our habits impact the world around us, but that’s not true for how we live.
Green products have become quite popular in recent years, with governments and manufacturers offering products that help consumers save the environment. Green refrigerators are responsible for preserving the most energy and reducing the number of chemicals that would otherwise be released into the air or water supply, as well as being safe for use by children.
Green refrigerators come with several features, such as reduced energy consumption and the use of helium instead of chlorine to sanitize water filters, which makes them eco-friendly and highly recommended from an environmental perspective.
One way you can help improve your impact on the environment is through your refrigerator. When buying a new refrigerator this year, keep these tips in mind to ensure you’re getting one that makes an eco-friendly difference.
For Efficiency, Buy it New
New refrigerators and freezers use significantly less energy than older models, so if your refrigerator is more than 10 years old, or if you have a separate freezer, you may save money on your electric bill by buying a new one.
Choose from renowned energy-efficient fridge-freezer brands
Select from a list of brands that have earned positive reviews and recommendations.
The key to energy consumption
In addition to the energy efficiency class, the energy label lists how much electricity an appliance uses each year, its volume of freezer space and chilled space, and its noise level. Hence, maximize the information in your decision-making.
Small is beautiful
To minimize energy use, it is most important to purchase a refrigerator appropriate for your family’s needs. While it may seem appealing to buy a large refrigerator to store more food, doing so could result in wasted food if you over-purchase or fail to use what is already in your refrigerator.
Side-by-side American-style fridges
The side-by-side American-style fridges are not only relatively larger than the conventional top and bottom styles, but they also consume more power?
Smart fridges
It takes more energy to power its intelligent features.
Commercial fridges and freezers
Like their domestic counterparts, commercial appliances will soon be subject to a new energy label system. This will push efficiency improvements and incentivize users to purchase more efficient models.
Even now, though, the difference in energy consumption between the most and least efficient models is significant.
How Can I Make My Refrigerator More Environmentally Friendly?
Refrigerators throughout the world are a necessity. This means that they are used daily by millions of people and are not going anywhere anytime soon. Refrigerators, traditionally, have been designed to increase in size with just a simple sweeping of the hand to fill it with anything from fruits and vegetables to fish and fowl.
As time progressed, so has the refrigerator into an entirely different beast. More technological advances come with more environmentally friendly approaches to everyday household items. The refrigerator is no exception.
The world is becoming more and more concerned about the environment. People are making efforts to become more eco-friendly, and your refrigerator can be part of that movement.
Here are some tips for making it more environmentally friendly.
Maintain the temperatures around the fridge
If the room a refrigerator is in is too warm, it will have to work harder. Aside from the age of a fridge, room temperature is the most significant factor affecting energy use.
To make this easier for your refrigerator, keep 10 cm (4 inches) between it and any wall, and keep its air escape route above unobstructed by stored items or shelves.
Maintain the temperature inside the fridge
It is essential to ensure that your refrigerator is set at approximately 5°C (fridges should be maintained at -18°C in freezers).
Replace worn-out Seals
The seals on the doors should also be maintained and can be replaced if they wear out and are no longer keeping your refrigerator properly closed.
Defrosting and draining
Do not let ice build-up in your freezer. Self-defrosting freezers have become more common, but if yours is not one of them, you should turn off the power and defrost it every six to twelve months.
This can be a tricky process, so be patient and do not hack at the ice—you may damage your appliance and risk leaking refrigerant, potentially flammable.
Regular Cleaning
The drainage hole at the back of your refrigerator, if clogged, can result in the compressor using more energy.
Cautious use of the fridge
For optimal food storage, allow hot or warm foods to cool down before placing them in the refrigerator. The less you open the door, the better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the R22 refrigerant environmentally friendly?
Yes. The R22 refrigerant used in many of today’s refrigerators has been deemed environmentally friendly by the EPA and other agencies. The harmful effects of R-22 have been greatly reduced, and modern absorption equipment like that used in all Bosch refrigerators rarely needs servicing.
Are our ENERGY STAR refrigerators worth it?
Yes, they are. ENERGY STAR models deliver reliable performance year after year, and a combination of technology, design, and innovation will help you save money and conserve energy.
Do mini-fridges waste a lot of energy?
No, mini-fridges are an energy-efficient way to keep your favorite beverages and snacks cool when you’re on the go. Compared to a traditional full-size refrigerator, the average mini-fridge uses one-third less energy because its compressor only has to operate as needed.
What is the most energy-efficient refrigerator style?
The most energy-efficient refrigerator style is a side-by-side model with an Energy Star rating. Experts say top freezers are more efficient than bottom freezers, but it all comes down to the size of your fridge’s freezer compartment.
In general, the more freezer space you need and the stronger your local utility company’s incentives for efficiency (and personal preference) will determine which style works best for you.
Can I make my refrigerator eco-friendly?
The short answer is. Yes, you can make your refrigerator eco-friendly. It might seem like an overwhelming task, but there are many simple things you can do to help reduce your environmental impact. Given above are some steps to take to make your refrigerator more environmentally friendly.
Which refrigerator brand consumes less electricity?
The refrigerator market offers a wide selection of energy-efficient models, such as top-freezers and side-by-sides. According to Energy Star ratings, consumers can choose between refrigerators that consume less than 280 kWh/year and those that use less than 150 kWh/year.
Are inverter refrigerators good?
Yes, they are good. Inverter refrigerators use energy-efficient DC motors that operate at a lower speed, which allows for a more simple, more reliable, and quieter operation compared to traditional AC motors. When in process, inverters produce less noise than standard refrigerators and have the potential to save between 1% – 30% of overall electricity consumption.
Conclusion
An eco-friendly refrigerator is among the greenest items you can buy for your home. Compared to standard models, eco-friendly refrigerators use less energy, produce less waste and cost a lot less to run. The best thing about it? Eco-friendly refrigerators will outlive those old standards by -20 years or more.
The bottom line is that efficiency becomes one of the most critical factors when selecting a refrigerator. The above products can reduce the amount of electricity they consume while also saving you space inside your kitchen.
Of course, there’s no way to know whether a particular fridge will fit into your home and serve your purposes until you have it in hand. So before making a critical purchasing decision, make sure to research any models you’re considering.
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