How Much Electricity Does a Fridge Freezer Use Per Day

For most households in the UK, the fridge freezer is one of the few appliances that runs continuously. Unlike a washing machine or tumble dryer, which only operate when in use, a fridge freezer is always on, working day and night to keep food fresh and safe. Because of this, many homeowners and landlords want to understand how much electricity a fridge freezer uses per day and what factors can affect its running costs. By looking at the typical energy ratings, power consumption, and real-life usage patterns, it is possible to get a clear picture of how much energy this essential appliance consumes.

Average Energy Use of a Fridge Freezer

Most modern fridge freezers in the UK use between 100 and 300 kilowatt hours of electricity per year. This translates to around 0.3 to 0.8 kilowatt hours per day, depending on the size and energy efficiency rating of the model. In practical terms, this means that running a fridge freezer costs somewhere between 8 pence and 22 pence per day based on the average electricity price of 28 pence per kilowatt hour. Older models, particularly those over 10 years old, often use much more electricity, sometimes double the amount of a newer appliance.

Factors That Influence Daily Consumption

Several factors determine how much electricity a fridge freezer uses in a day. Size is a major factor, as larger American-style fridge freezers naturally consume more energy than small under-counter models. The age and condition of the appliance also play a big role, since worn door seals, old compressors, or outdated insulation make the unit less efficient. Location and usage habits matter too. A fridge freezer placed in a warm kitchen next to an oven or radiator will work harder to stay cool. Frequent door openings, leaving the door ajar, or overloading with food can also increase energy use because the appliance needs to cycle more often to maintain temperature.

Energy Efficiency Ratings

Every fridge freezer sold in the UK must display an energy label that shows its efficiency rating. These ratings range from A to G under the current system, with A being the most efficient. An A-rated fridge freezer may use less than 0.4 kilowatt hours per day, while a G-rated model could consume more than 1 kilowatt hour daily. Choosing an energy-efficient appliance can save tens of pounds each year and reduce overall household energy consumption. For landlords, ensuring appliances provided with rental properties meet modern efficiency standards can also help tenants manage their bills.

Daily Cost Examples

To put the numbers into perspective, a fridge freezer using 0.5 kilowatt hours per day would cost around 14 pence daily, adding up to about £51 annually. A less efficient model consuming 1 kilowatt hour per day would cost about 28 pence daily, which works out to over £100 a year. While these costs may seem small compared to other large appliances, it is important to remember that the fridge freezer is running constantly, which is why choosing an efficient model makes a noticeable difference over time.

Comparisons with Other Household Appliances

When compared with other common household appliances, fridge freezers are relatively low in daily energy use. A tumble dryer, for example, can consume over 2 kilowatt hours in a single cycle, while an electric oven may use a similar amount in an hour of cooking. The difference is that these appliances are only used occasionally, whereas the fridge freezer operates 24 hours a day. This means its energy use, though modest per day, becomes one of the largest contributors to overall household electricity consumption across the year.

Smart Features and Modern Technology

Modern fridge freezers often come with features designed to save electricity. Some models include holiday modes that maintain safe temperatures while using less power when the fridge is not being opened regularly. Inverter compressors are another improvement, as they adjust cooling power gradually rather than switching on and off at full strength, which reduces energy use. Frost-free technology helps prevent ice build-up that can make the compressor work harder, improving efficiency further.

How to Reduce Electricity Consumption

Although a fridge freezer must run all the time, there are ways to keep daily electricity use lower. Placing the appliance in a cool, ventilated space away from direct heat sources prevents it from overworking. Defrosting when necessary, ensuring doors close properly, and keeping the fridge at the recommended temperature of 5°C all improve efficiency. For the freezer compartment, setting the temperature at -18°C is generally sufficient. Overfilling the fridge or leaving large gaps can both affect performance, so maintaining a steady, balanced load is best for consistent cooling.

Environmental Considerations

The daily electricity use of a fridge freezer also has an environmental impact. Appliances that consume less electricity reduce demand on the national grid and help lower household carbon emissions. Upgrading from an older, inefficient model to a modern energy-efficient fridge freezer not only saves money but also supports more sustainable living. Many local authorities encourage responsible disposal of old appliances so that harmful refrigerants can be safely managed and valuable materials recycled.

Final Thoughts

On average, a fridge freezer in the UK uses between 0.3 and 1 kilowatt hour of electricity per day, costing between 8 pence and 28 pence depending on the model and efficiency rating. While this makes it one of the more constant contributors to energy bills, modern designs with energy-saving features can reduce consumption significantly. For households looking to cut costs and reduce environmental impact, investing in an efficient fridge freezer and maintaining good usage habits is one of the most effective steps to take.