Fridges & freezers
Discover simple ways to reduce refrigeration costs, find personalised ways to save with our calculators, and learn what to look for when you're buying a new fridge or freezer.
Quick tips to help chill your bill
Give your home an Energy Health Check
Take our free Energy Health Check to see how much your large everyday appliances could be costing to run and uncover opportunities to save.
Tell us how you use appliances like your fridge, freezer, air conditioner, washing machine, dryer, and we'll give you full cost breakdowns and personalised saving tips.
A few minutes today could help you uncover savings for tomorrow.
Only have 60 seconds?
Start with our Fridges and Freezers Calculator.
Your fridges and freezers run 24 hours a day, every day of the year, making them some of the hardest-working appliances in your home. We'll show you what they could be costing to run and provide practical tips that may help reduce your energy use.
Buying a new fridge or freezer
A little planning now can help you save on running costs for years to come.
1. Consider the size and type
Bigger isn't always better. Choose a fridge or freezer that suits your household size and lifestyle. Buying more storage than you need can increase energy use and running costs.
Types of fridges & freezers
Here’s a quick guide to what’s out there. Just make sure whatever you pick suits your space and your household size.
Top mount fridge/freezers
- Classic fridge below, freezer on top.
- Usually cheaper to buy
- Generally more energy‑efficient
- Freezer stays cooler because it’s further from the compressor.
Bottom mount fridge/freezers
Fridge on top, freezer below.
- Easier access to your everyday items
- Usually less energy efficient because the freezer sits closer to the warm compressor.
French door fridge/freezers
Wide shelves, big space, lots of convenience.
- Great for families
- Typically less energy‑efficient than top‑ or bottom‑mount models.
Side by side fridge/freezers
Tall fridge and freezer next to each other.
- Often include ice and water dispensers
- Dispensers use extra energy
- Freezer sections can be narrow.
Pigeon pair fridge and freezer
A separate full‑size fridge and full‑size freezer.
- Very efficient as separate units
- Lots of space needed
- You can place them together or apart.
Upright freezers
Tall, cabinet‑style freezers with shelves or drawers.
- Easy to organise
- Most are frost‑free (more convenient but less energy‑efficient).
Chest freezers
Deep tubs that open from the top.
- Very energy‑efficient
- Usually cheaper to buy
- Cold air doesn’t escape when opened
- Harder to organise and usually require manual defrosting.
2. Reach for the stars
Energy star ratings make it easy to compare appliance efficiency.
Generally speaking, more stars means lower energy use and lower running costs. Compare the Energy Rating Label when shopping and visit energyrating.gov.au for more information.
3. Be sure to ask the experts
Retailers can help you compare models and features. Before buying, consider:
✅ Is this the right size for my household?
✅ How energy efficient is it?
✅ What will it cost to run each year?
✅ Do I really need extra features such as ice or water dispensers?
Compare more than just the purchase price. Look at the Energy Rating Label, capacity and features like ice makers, water dispensers and smart connectivity. While convenient, extra features can increase energy use and running costs.