how much does a second fridge cost to run

Daniel Parker

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06-02-2025

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How Much Does a Second Fridge Cost to Run?

Running a second refrigerator can significantly impact your electricity bill. The exact cost depends on several factors, including the fridge's size, energy efficiency rating, usage, and electricity prices in your area. This article breaks down the cost, helping you decide if a second fridge is worth the expense.

Understanding Your Refrigerator's Energy Consumption

The first step in calculating the cost is understanding your refrigerator's energy consumption. This information is usually found on an energy guide label or the manufacturer's specifications. The label displays the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh).

Where to Find the Information:

• Energy Guide Label: Look for a yellow sticker on the appliance. It will clearly state the annual energy consumption.
• Manufacturer's Website: Check the product specifications on the manufacturer's website.
• Owner's Manual: The manual may also contain this information.

Calculating Your Monthly Cost

Once you know the annual energy consumption, you can calculate the monthly cost:

1. Annual kWh: Find the annual energy consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh) from the energy label or specifications.

2. Daily kWh: Divide the annual kWh by 365 to get the daily energy consumption.

3. Monthly kWh: Multiply the daily kWh by 30 (or 31, depending on the month) to get the monthly energy consumption.

4. Electricity Price: Determine your electricity price per kWh from your utility bill.

5. Monthly Cost: Multiply your monthly kWh by your electricity price per kWh.

Example:

Let's say your second refrigerator consumes 400 kWh annually, and your electricity costs $0.15 per kWh.

• Daily kWh: 400 kWh / 365 days = 1.096 kWh/day
• Monthly kWh: 1.096 kWh/day * 30 days = 32.88 kWh/month
• Monthly Cost: 32.88 kWh/month * $0.15/kWh = $4.93/month

Factors Affecting Running Costs

Several factors can influence the actual cost of running a second fridge:

• Size: Larger refrigerators consume more energy.
• Energy Efficiency Rating: Look for refrigerators with high energy star ratings (more stars mean greater energy efficiency and lower running costs).
• Usage: A refrigerator used frequently (e.g., for a home bar or a garage for frequently used items) will consume more energy than one primarily for storage.
• Climate: In warmer climates, refrigerators work harder to maintain the desired temperature, increasing energy consumption.
• Age: Older refrigerators are generally less energy-efficient than newer models.

Is a Second Fridge Worth the Cost?

The decision of whether to get a second refrigerator depends on your individual needs and budget. Weigh the convenience and benefits against the added monthly expense. Consider these questions:

• How often will you use it? A rarely used fridge increases costs without offering much value.
• What are the alternatives? Could you optimize your existing fridge space?
• Can you afford the extra cost? Factor the monthly expense into your budget.

Saving Energy with Your Second Fridge

To minimize the running costs of your second refrigerator:

• Choose an Energy-Efficient Model: Opt for a refrigerator with a high energy star rating.
• Keep it Properly Maintained: Ensure proper ventilation and regular cleaning to maintain peak efficiency.
• Adjust the Temperature: Maintain the appropriate temperature for the food stored inside.

Conclusion

The cost of running a second refrigerator is a variable expense that depends on various factors. By understanding your refrigerator’s energy consumption and using the calculation method above, you can determine the approximate monthly cost. Carefully weigh the advantages against the expense before making a decision. Remember that choosing an energy-efficient model and maintaining it properly can significantly reduce the long-term costs.