Homeowners rely on their large refrigerator to keep their food cool and fresh. These large appliances use up a lot of energy, because they operate 24/7. Many homeowners also have smaller mini-fridges in their garage or even in the basement to keep snacks and drinks in a convenient location.

While homeowners can look for many energy-efficient large refrigerators, what is the most energy-efficient mini fridge? Can homeowners find energy-efficient options for these small appliances?

Why Choose an Energy-Efficient Mini Fridge?

A mini fridge is a compact refrigerator. It is used to store a small amount of food and drinks, and they are typically placed in a rec area of the home or sometimes in a teenager’s bedroom. Their small size makes them easy to place.

Like a large refrigerator, though, they are always on. Since a mini fridge needs to stay cool all day every day, it could zap energy. ENERGY STAR certified refrigerators meet specific requirements for energy-efficiency; mini fridges also include the ENERGY STAR label when they meet the criteria.

Energy-efficient refrigerators might also be referred to as ‘coolers,’ and, according to ENERGY STAR, “…certified coolers are 10-30% more efficient than models that meet the federal minimum energy efficiency standard.”

While smaller refrigerators won’t use nearly as much energy as a larger model, choosing an energy-efficient mini fridge can still help homeowners save money and cut their energy use, too.

What Mini Fridge is the Best Option?

ENERGY STAR offers a simple search query tool to help homeowners find the best energy-efficient appliances for their needs. To find mini fridge models, homeowners can use the toolbar to select cooler, compact cooler or compact refrigerator.

After selecting their options, homeowners can review the different models to find the one that meets their budget and space needs. Some refrigerators might be large enough to include food and drinks, while others might be designed as a cooler space just for beverages.

ENERGY STAR also denotes the most efficient models with the “Most Efficient 2022” label. Models with this label save the most energy.

While ENERGY STAR doesn’t provide prices, homeowners can review the different models and then search for them via popular home stores or online retailers to find the lowest price.

Does an Energy-Efficient Mini Fridge Really Make a Difference?

Homeowners might shop around for mini fridges and wonder if choosing an energy-efficient model will really make an impact on their bill or their energy use. Ultimately, any energy-saving appliance is beneficial.

Not only will a standard model consume more energy (electric), but it will also cost homeowners more money. If homeowners need a mini fridge, the most economical option for the long-term would be the most energy-efficient models.

How Much is an Energy-Efficient Mini Fridge?

An energy-efficient mini fridge isn’t a large investment. While buying a new standard-size refrigerator could cost thousands, a mini fridge is budget-friendly. These small appliances are only designed to hold a few snacks and beverages.

For example, a MicroChill mini fridge model is noted to be among the most efficient for 2022. These models can range from around $212 to more than $400. The size of the mini fridge can add to its cost.

Homeowners can review different models to find the one that best fits their needs and their price preferences.

Does the Home Need a Mini Fridge?

A mini fridge isn’t always necessary; some homeowners just like them for the convenience. College students also could add a mini fridge to their dorm room to keep drinks and some snacks cold.

Ultimately, though, adding another appliance to the home will add to the utility bill. A mini fridge will remain plugged in 24/7. Homeowners might need to decide if they really need that extra fridge.

While the smaller mini fridge doesn’t use nearly as much energy as a larger model, if homeowners don’t need the appliance, they could be wasting electricity. Even if the model is energy-efficient, the fridge still consumes energy.

If teens want a mini fridge in their room to keep snacks and drinks, parents might think about other options. Some homeowners want a small refrigerator in the basement for convenience. Yet, they might need to think about the price of this convenience.

While a mini fridge provides a small space for drinks and snacks, it’s one more added appliance that will constantly consume electricity. If homeowners determine that they can’t live without the mini fridge, choosing an energy-efficient mini fridge can help them save money and cut energy waste.