How Much Does It Cost to Run a Freezer?
The cost to run a freezer depends on size, type, and energy efficiency. On average, it adds $30 to $120 per year to your electric bill. Here's what to expect and how to choose a budget-friendly model.
The short answer: running a typical upright freezer costs about $30 to $120 per year in electricity, depending on its size, age, and energy efficiency. For a compact 1.1 cu ft model like the Whynter CUF-112SS, expect closer to $20-$35 annually, while a larger 13.8 cu ft unit like the Whynter UDF-139SS may run $80-$120 per year. These numbers come from published Energy Guide labels and average U.S. electricity rates around 14 cents per kWh.
But the real question isn't just how much does it cost to run a freezer today. It's about long term satisfaction: what do buyers still appreciate months later? Lower electricity bills, consistent temperature, and reliable performance matter more than the purchase price alone. In this article, we break down the costs by freezer type and recommend models that keep your food cold without freezing your budget.
Annual Running Cost by Freezer Type
Chest freezers are generally more energy efficient than uprights because cold air doesn't spill out when you open the door. An upright freezer, however, is easier to organize. For a typical upright freezer, annual energy consumption ranges from 200 to 600 kWh. At the U.S. average of 14 cents/kWh, that's $28 to $84 per year. Compact uprights like the Whynter CUF-112SS (1.1 cu ft) use around 150-200 kWh annually ($21-$28). Larger models like the Whynter UDF-139SS (13.8 cu ft) may use 400-600 kWh ($56-$84). The exact cost also depends on your local electricity rate and the freezer's Energy Star rating. Always check the yellow Energy Guide label before buying.
Factors That Affect Freezer Electricity Usage
Several variables determine your actual running cost. Size is the biggest factor: a larger freezer simply has more space to cool. Efficiency matters too: Energy Star certified models use about 10-15% less energy than standard models. Placement in a hot garage or direct sunlight forces the compressor to work harder, increasing costs by 20-30%. Manual defrost freezers are generally more efficient than frost free models because they don't have fans and heating elements. Your local climate and how often you open the door also play a role. In general, a well placed, Energy Star rated upright freezer will cost $4-$10 per month to run.
Comparing Two Popular Upright Freezer Costs
Let's look at two real upright freezers on the market. The Whynter CUF-112SS (1.1 cu ft, 4.5 stars from 6,818 reviews) is one of the most popular compact freezers. It costs about $195 upfront and roughly $2-$3 per month to run, based on its estimated 185 kWh annual consumption. The Whynter UDF-139SS (13.8 cu ft, 4.2 stars from 313 reviews) is a full size upright costing about $976. Its estimated annual energy use is 430 kWh, translating to about $5-$6 per month at average rates. Over 10 years, the smaller model saves over $300 in electricity alone. Both are well reviewed for long term reliability.
How to Estimate Your Freezer's Electricity Cost
To estimate your own cost, find the annual kWh consumption on the Energy Guide label or in the product specs. Multiply that by your local electricity rate (in dollars per kWh). For example, if your freezer uses 400 kWh/year and your rate is $0.14/kWh, the cost is $56/year. You can also use a plug in power meter (like a Kill A Watt) to measure actual usage over a week and multiply by 52. Many utility companies offer free or discounted meters. Remember that older freezers (pre 2000) can use twice as much energy as modern Energy Star models. If you have an old freezer, replacing it with a new one can pay for itself in electricity savings.
Long Term Value: What Buyers Still Like Months Later
When reading reviews for upright freezers, look for patterns about energy efficiency and reliability. The Whynter CUF-112SS has 6,818 reviews with a 4.5 star average, and buyers consistently mention low electricity bills and quiet operation even after a year. The Magic Chef MCUF3S2 (2.6 cu ft, 4.2 stars from 550 reviews) is another budget friendly option at $383, with many reviews noting it runs quietly and keeps food frozen without high energy costs. On the other hand, the Summit Appliance SCFF1842SS (2.7 cu ft, 3.3 stars from 4 reviews) has limited feedback, but its higher price and lower rating suggest it may not offer the same long term value. The best long term satisfaction comes from well reviewed models that combine low purchase price with low operating cost.
Tips to Reduce Freezer Running Costs
Keep your freezer full (use jugs of water if needed) because frozen items help maintain temperature when the door opens. Place the freezer in a cool, ventilated area away from ovens, direct sunlight, and heating vents. Defrost manual defrost freezers before ice buildup exceeds 1/4 inch, as frost reduces efficiency. Check door seals regularly: a loose seal can increase energy use by 10-20%. Set the temperature to 0°F (not colder), which is cold enough for safe food storage. Finally, consider buying an Energy Star certified model: they use less energy and often have better insulation. Even a small investment in efficiency can save $10-$20 per year.
When to Choose a Chest Freezer Over Upright
Chest freezers are typically more energy efficient than uprights because cold air stays trapped when you open the lid. They also have simpler designs with fewer mechanical parts, which means lower repair costs over time. However, upright freezers win on convenience: shelves make organization easy, and you don't have to dig to find items. If your priority is the lowest running cost and you have floor space, a chest freezer is the better choice. But if you value accessibility and frequent use, an upright freezer is worth the slightly higher annual cost. For most households, the difference is about $10-$30 per year, so choose based on your lifestyle.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to run a freezer per month?
On average, an upright freezer costs $3 to $10 per month to run. A compact model like the Whynter CUF-112SS costs around $2-$3 per month, while a larger 13.8 cu ft unit may cost $5-$6 per month at average electricity rates.
Do old freezers use a lot of electricity?
Yes, older freezers (pre 2000) can use twice as much electricity as modern Energy Star models. Replacing a 20 year old freezer with a new one can save $50-$100 per year in electricity costs.
Is a chest freezer cheaper to run than an upright?
Generally yes. Chest freezers are more energy efficient because cold air stays inside when opened. They cost about $20-$50 less per year to run than comparable uprights, though the exact savings depend on size and usage.
How can I calculate my freezer's exact running cost?
Find the annual kWh consumption on the Energy Guide label, then multiply by your electricity rate (in $/kWh). For example, 400 kWh x $0.14 = $56/year. You can also use a plug-in power meter for real measurement.