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How much energy does a freezer use?

Amina19 APRIL 2026
A modern kitchen with white cabinets, a stainless steel fridge, a black countertop island, and a stove under a patterned backsplash.

Several factors affect a freezer’s energy consumption. Think of the freezer’s energy label and model, its size and age, and the temperature of both the freezer itself and its surroundings. On this page, we explain what to look out for to save energy and share the average consumption of a freezer, based on its energy class and model.

How can you check a freezer’s energy consumption?

A kitchen scene with a stainless steel refrigerator displaying a color-coded energy efficiency label (A-G), shelves, and cooking utensils.

You can find a freezer’s theoretical energy consumption on the appliance’s energy label. It uses a letter to indicate roughly how energy efficient the freezer is. Freezers with an A label are the most efficient, while appliances with an energy class G use the most energy. The energy label also states the average annual consumption in kilowatt-hours (kWh). If you multiply that figure by the current energy tariff per kWh, you’ll immediately know what energy costs you can expect for the freezer.

How much energy does a fridge use?

Differences in consumption between an old and a new freezer

Hand holding euro notes (5, 10, 20) in front of a turquoise fridge with two silver handles.

A freezer has a long lifespan. If you maintain it well and use it correctly, it can easily last more than 10 years. But is it smart to keep using your old freezer for that long? In general, older freezers use more energy than newer models. Newer models use updated technologies and more energy-efficient materials. You can also often set the thermostat less precisely on a freezer that’s around 10 years old, which causes the appliance to use more energy. So, if you have an older model and want to save money, it’s definitely worth considering a new freezer.

Is there a difference in consumption between different types of freezers?

A black refrigerator features a screen with colorful app icons and a water dispenser. Silver handles adorn the fridge's doors.

Not only the freezer’s energy label determines its consumption. The type of freezer and its dimensions also play a role. For example, mini freezers and tabletop freezers generally use less energy than large upright freezers and chest freezers. Compact freezers have a smaller capacity than larger models, which means they can maintain the temperature with less effort. So, if you want to keep your freezer’s consumption as low as possible, a tabletop model is usually your best option. Do bear in mind that you’ll have less space for frozen products.

What is the most energy-efficient freezer?

In theory, a recent, small freezer with an A energy label is the most energy efficient. This means you’ll use the least energy and save on your energy bill. However, because of the limited capacity, it isn’t always practical for every household to choose a tabletop model or another compact freezer. That’s why we’re sharing a few practical tips to reduce your freezer’s energy consumption, regardless of the model and size.

Close-up of a refrigerator control panel, showing freezer set to -18°C and fridge to 3°C, with water, cubed, and crushed ice options.
  • Keep to the recommended freezer temperature of -18°C. If your freezer is colder, you’re using more energy than necessary.
  • Defrost your freezer once or twice a year to remove ice build-up from the walls. Or choose a freezer with No Frost technology.
  • Let food cool down before freezing it, to prevent the freezer from warming up and having to work harder to maintain its temperature.
  • Don’t place your freezer right next to a heat source, such as an oven or radiator, or directly in front of a window.
  • Leave enough space between the freezer and the wall so that it can ventilate properly.

Conclusion

Your freezer’s energy label shows how energy efficient it is and what its average annual energy consumption is. Consumption is also linked to factors such as the appliance’s size and type, as well as its age. So, if you want to save energy, keep the above points in mind when choosing a new freezer.

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