The energy label is one of the most important factors (if not the most important) when purchasing a refrigerator (as well as any other electrical appliance), as it shows how much electricity it will consume, and therefore the long-term costs you will have. The refrigerator naturally consumes the most electrical power in a household, since it is the only electrical appliance that works continuously, almost throughout the entire year. Therefore, its efficient operation, in terms of electricity consumption, is expected to be a key selection criterion.

The energy label, then, is a mandatory marking that shows:

• How efficient a refrigerator is
• What its annual energy consumption is
• Its size and capacity for refrigeration and freezing
• Its noise level

Since 2021, the new EU energy label has been simplified and applies to all major appliances.

Below you can see what such a label looks like and how to decode it:

1️⃣ Energy efficiency scale (A to G)

The energy efficiency scale shows the energy class values that an appliance can receive, with the value A indicating higher efficiency, therefore a much more economical refrigerator, and the value G indicating the lowest possible efficiency, therefore a much more energy-consuming appliance.

2️⃣ Energy class 

The energy class value shows how efficient the appliance is. Based on the new energy label, even a refrigerator with class "B" or "C" can be extremely efficient, given that the new scale is much more demanding.

3️⃣ Annual energy consumption (kWh/year)

This value shows how many kilowatt-hours the refrigerator consumes in 1 year, and with the corresponding price list from the energy provider you can estimate approximately how much money your appliance will spend in one year. For example, if the kWh costs €0.20 and the appliance has an annual energy consumption of 150 kWh/year you will spend approximately €30 per year.

✅ Useful for comparing models of the same category!

4️⃣ Freezer capacity & 5️⃣ refrigerator capacity

On the energy label you can separately see the capacity for the refrigerator compartment and the freezer compartment, so you can choose the right appliance based on your needs. The refrigerator compartment capacity is usually larger than the freezer capacity, as cooling needs are greater.

6️⃣ Noise level & class 

Finally, you can identify the noise level, which is measured in decibels (dB). Values below 40db, make the refrigerator quiet. The noise level is also accompanied by the noise class, which can range from A (quiet) to D (noisy).

➡ Useful advice & tips

• The refrigerator doesn't need to have an energy class A to be efficient. The new scale is very strict.
• Compare different refrigerators based on their annual energy consumption (kWh/y). This way, you will have a clearer picture, as it shows the actual consumption.
• Check the capacities (individual & total), as energy differences often stem from size.
• Opt for a refrigerator with an inverter motor, as it automatically adjusts its operating power, offering more stable temperature, lower power consumption, and less noise, while also combining with a high energy class.

If you need more help, you can also take a look at the detailed buyer's guide for Refrigerators!