From 1970 and 2011, our domestic electricity consumption from refrigeration appliances doubled, but technology is making new fridges and freezers more efficient. If you bought a fridge freezer today for example, it would use on average 50% of the energy of a model available in 1990.

Fridges and freezers are one of the appliances that use the most energy in our homes. They account for about 20% of the electricity used by all home appliances, according to consumer adviser Which?. It's worth thinking about how to ensure that you’re getting the most out of yours and that when the time comes, you buy a new one that will keep those bills down.

Here are some things to consider:

Look at the energy label

The current EU energy label for fridges and freezers ranges from A+++ (most efficient) to D (least efficient). Any new models coming on to the market need to be of A+ rating or above. So if you come across a fridge or freezer rated A or lower in the shops, you can be sure that this is old stock, manufactured before July 2012, and now represents the lower end of what’s available in terms of energy efficiency. Aim for something A++ or higher and you can be certain you are getting a better performing product.

Size and features matter

As you might expect, a bigger appliance will generally use more energy, so consider the size you actually need. A 200-litre fridge freezer will be about right for a couple, and a 250-litre model will serve a family of four well. Features also affect how much energy your appliance will use. For example, a freezer with a NoFrost feature will never need defrosting, and will perform more efficiently.

Whether you are considering buying a new fridge or freezer, the way you use it can have a significant impact on how much energy it uses:

Location, location, location

Try not to put your appliance next to a heat source such as a cooker or radiator, or in direct sunlight as this will make it work harder to stay cool. Cold environments such as an unheated garage in winter aren’t good either as the low ambient temperature will signal to the appliance that it doesn’t need cooling and you may find your frozen foods defrosting. Wherever it is, make sure air can circulate around the back easily.

Mind the gap

Check for gaps in door seals that could let warm air in. Place a piece of paper in the door. If you can easily remove the paper with the door closed, it is not sealed properly and will be letting warm air into the fridge, making your appliance work harder to stay cool.

Keep it clean

Regularly clean any dust from the back of the fridge or freezer – accumulated dust increases energy consumption.

Don’t overfill

Air needs to be able to circulate freely otherwise your appliance will have to work harder and use up more energy.

For more advice on getting the most from your appliances and suggested models, visit the Top10 website.

Lizzie Kenyon is from Keep Britain Tidy.

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