LCEC – Lee County Electric Cooperative

More than one refrigerator in your home could be pricey

October 28, 2021 – In a day and age where an ENERGY STAR®-rated refrigerator can cost you as little as ten cents a day to operate, it is wild to think that an estimated 35 million households own at least two refrigerators. Even more shocking is that it is estimated that there are more than six million households that own more than two refrigerators! Whatever the reason you are hanging onto that second (and even third) refrigerator, now is the time to consider buying the perfect fridge to fit all your needs. There are so many options when it comes to energy efficient refrigerator models which offer ample space while not making a huge dent in your electric usage. For those wanting more bells and whistles, there are even fridges that boost digital doodle pads on the door while still keeping your energy costs low.

According to the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy, the average “second refrigerator” is likely between 15 to 25 years old and uses about 750-1000 kilowatt-hours every year which amounts to between $97 to $130 on your electric bill. In contrast, today’s ENERGY STAR® refrigerators cost about $40 a year to run.

If you are ready to bid your second fridge farewell, consider the following valuable information from ENERGY STAR®:

• Refrigerators and freezers contain refrigerants, oils, and other compounds that, by federal law, must be removed and recovered. Then the steel, other metals, and selected parts can be recycled.
• Some recycling programs also capture the foam insulation inside the refrigerator doors for added environmental benefits.
• On average, a 10+ year old fridge contains more than 120 pounds of recyclable steel!

Ways to recycle your fridge:

• When you buy a new ENERGY STAR® refrigerator, consider buying from a retailer than has an EPA Responsible Appliance Disposal (RAD) program. The sales associate should be able to tell you if their store has this program.
• Contact your city’s waste management division to see if they pick up appliances such as fridges and their policies on recycling these types of appliances.
• Call your local scrap metal recycler.

For those who aren’t to part with your second fridge, please remember these tips for the future. By getting rid of that second refrigerator, you will save on electricity while freeing space in your home!