By Blythe Copeland | Tue Aug 11, 2009 14:57
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Buy Green: Compact Refrigerators
Chill your produce with these small refrigerators, using minimal space and electricity.
Cold storage has come a long way since the days of daily ice delivery?now, whether you want a bottom-freezer, side-by-side, or even a solar-powered refrigerator, there's a model for you. But perhaps the best refrigerator is the smallest—which uses less energy, lets out less cold air on opening, and keeps you shopping for fresh produce. These five models—in five different sizes—keep your cool no matter what. All electric bill estimates are based on the $.11 per kilowatt national average for 2008.
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RM3250W Counterhigh Refrigerator From Avanti
Why We Like It: The slim profile and reversible door help the 3.1 cubic foot RM3250W Counterhigh Refrigerator from Avanti slip into just about any space, while the extra-high rack holds 2-liter bottles and a freezer compartment allows for short-term storage.
Eco-Factor: This Energy Star-rated refrigerator is 27 percent more efficient than the federal standard, and the interior chills enough drinks and dips for a small group (without going overboard).
Estimated Annual Electric Bill: About 242 kilowatt-hours per year, or $27
Where: A.J. Madison
How Much: $150
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2.9MFRS Refrigerator/Freezer From MicroFridge
Why We Like It: The sleek stainless steel outer of the 2.9MFRS MicroFridge Refrigerator/Freezer dresses up your décor, while the detached freezer insures easy access to pizzas, ice cream pints, and popsicles.
Eco-Factor: The separate freezer keeps cold air from escaping every time you open the fridge, while the unit as a whole uses about two-thirds as much energy as non-Energy Star models.
Estimated Annual Electric Bill: About 290 kilowatt-hours per year, or $32
Where: MicroFridge
How Much: $320
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700BR Refrigerator Drawers From Sub-Zero
Why We Like It: 700BR Refrigerator Drawers from Sub-Zero are installed under counters (among your other cabinets) keeping fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and pre-made lunches stylishly hidden away in an organized, compact fashion.
Eco-Factor: Opening the small drawers one at a time means less cold air escapes on the hunt for the last yellow pepper. Energy Star rates the 5.3-cubic-foot drawers as 52 percent more efficient than comparably sized models.
Estimated Annual Electric Bill: About 204 kilowatt-hours per year, or about $23
Where: Designer Appliances
How Much: About $3,300
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WAR488BSL Compact Refrigerator From Whirlpool
Why We Like It: The no-fuss design of Whirlpool's WAR488BSL Compact Refrigerator fits right into an office or dining room, and the interior wine rack keeps five bottles of your favorite organic Pinot Grigio ready for impromptu soirees.
Eco-Factor: This 4.4 cubic foot refrigerator uses 20 percent less energy than other models, and boasts a produce crisper, can storage, and mechanical thermostat to make all your bartending duties easier.
Estimated Annual Electric Bill: About 329 kilowatt-hours per year, or $37
Where: Costco
How Much: $230
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DAR195BL Countertop Compact All Fridge
Why We Like It: The smallest unit on this list, the 1.8 cubic foot DAR195BL Danby Countertop Compact All Fridge promises a quiet motor, automatic defrost, and room inside for a two-liter bottle, small snacks, and a six-pack.
Eco-Factor: The petite interior means you won't waste energy chilling empty space or drinks you don't need, while the freezer-less design prevents unnecessary cold leaks.
Estimated Annual Electric Bill: About 302 kilowatt-hours per year, or $34
Where: Walmart
How Much: $99
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