How Much Electricity Is Consumed by a Fridge — And How to Reduce It
Your fridge runs 24/7, keeping food fresh and safe. But have you ever wondered how much electricity it actually uses? Understanding the electricity consumed by your fridge can help you take control of your energy bills and make smarter, greener choices. In this guide, we’ll break down how fridge electricity consumption works, how much it costs in Spain, and simple ways to make your fridge more energy-efficient — all while supporting a more sustainable future.
How Much Electricity Does a Fridge Use?
A fridge’s energy consumption depends on factors like size, age, efficiency rating, and temperature settings. On average:
| Appliance type | Average power consumption | Estimated annual cost in Spain* |
|---|---|---|
| Standard fridge-freezer | 100–200 kWh/year | €25–€50 |
| Large family-size fridge | 300–500 kWh/year | €75–€125 |
| Older models (>10 years) | 600+ kWh/year | €150+ |
*Based on an average electricity price of €0.25/kWh.
That means your fridge could account for 10–15% of your total household electricity usage.
Factors That Affect Fridge Electricity Consumption
- Energy efficiency rating — An A+++ fridge uses up to 60% less electricity than a D-rated one.
- Age of the appliance — Older fridges consume more power due to outdated compressors and insulation.
- Room temperature — A fridge in a hot kitchen works harder to keep cool.
- Door opening frequency — Every time you open the door, cold air escapes and the compressor kicks in.
- Maintenance — Dusty coils or faulty seals can increase energy use.
How to Reduce the Electricity Consumed by Your Fridge
✅ Check the temperature settings — Keep your fridge at 4–5°C and freezer at -18°C for optimal efficiency.
✅ Avoid overloading or underloading — Both extremes make your fridge work harder.
✅ Clean condenser coils regularly — Dust can increase energy use by 15–20%.
✅ Replace old appliances — A new A+++ fridge can pay for itself in energy savings.
✅ Position wisely — Keep fridges away from ovens, dishwashers, or direct sunlight.
Related Energy-Saving Tip: Avoid Standby Power Waste
Did you know your other appliances might be quietly consuming electricity even when turned off?
Standby power, or “phantom energy,” can account for up to 10% of your bill.
We explain how to spot and eliminate it here: Unplug and Save: How Standby Power Affects Your Electricity Bill
Related Guide: Building Your Energy Savings Trust
If you want to make smarter, greener energy decisions, start by building your own energy savings trust.
Learn how to choose the right provider, use renewable energy, and reduce costs in our guide: Building Your Energy Savings Trust: How to Make Smarter, Greener Choices
Why Fridge Energy Efficiency Matters
Cutting the electricity consumed by your fridge not only saves you money, it also:
- Reduces demand on the power grid.
- Lowers your carbon footprint.
- Supports a cleaner energy system — especially when you choose 100% renewable electricity.
At Evergreen Eléctrica, we provide homes and businesses in Spain with transparent, competitive pricing and 100% green power. We’re here to help you make informed, sustainable choices.
Contact Us for Personalised Energy Advice
📩 Get a free consultation — We’ll help you understand your energy consumption, optimise your appliances, and switch to a green electricity plan that fits your needs.
Discover More on Our Blog
Our blog is full of expert energy-saving tips to help you cut costs and live sustainably. Explore more guides like this and start lowering your electricity bill today.
