How do smart fridges save energy?

Their smart features do more than just tell you when to buy milk.

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If you’re thinking of investing in one of these pieces of smart home tech, you might want to know how smart fridges save energy.

Well, have no fear. We’re here to lay out exactly how smart fridges save energy – and bills.

The principal way most smart fridges save power is through the use of AI technology. This tech learns what time you tend to open the fridge the most. It then keeps energy intense cooling functions to times when you won’t be opening the fridge. This optimises energy usage, saving money.

Many smart fridges also have the option to connect to a local or national electricity grid. The grid can alert the fridge at peak times, letting it lower power usage for that period and saving you money. They do this through an internet connection.

Some fridges come with features which allow you to see energy usage in real time. You’ll know sooner if you are about to strike out your budget this way, and it is useful if you’re trying to lower your carbon footprint!

Which smart fridges will save energy?

Most of Samsung’s Family Hub smart fridge range comes with ENERGY STAR certification, as do LG’s smart fridges. So does the Profile range from GE. This means they meet energy efficiency guidelines put in place by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy.    

If you’re looking for particular examples, check out the LG 27 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Smart Refrigerator with Craft Ice and InstaView. We also love the Samsung 26.7 Cu. Ft. Side-by-Side Refrigerator with 21.5″ Touch-Screen Family Hub. Both options are currently in the sale at Best Buy for under $2,000.00.

How can I save electricity with my refrigerator?

There are several ways you can save electricity when using your refrigerator. A common mistake people make is putting warm food in the fridge. If you do this, it will heat up the interior of your refrigerator meaning more energy is required to cool it back down. Also, it is a good idea to set your refrigerator at the optimum temperature, which is roughly around 41°F.

What are the disadvantages of smart refrigerator?

If you are considering purchasing one of these high-tech appliances, you’ll definitely be interested in its disadvantages. Of course, a clear drawback to one of these appliances is that they are more expensive than your average refrigerator.

Alongside their expensive price tag, you’ll also be subject to expensive repair costs too. This is not surprising – smart appliances have more technology features which will, of course, hike up the price.

PC Guide Expert Opinion

Smart fridges save energy through AI technology, the energy-efficient materials they are built from and a connection to the electricity grid.

Although there might be other less expensive ‘dumb’ fridges which also save lots of energy, smart fridges are super efficient options which pose a great benefit for the planet. They also come with a lot of cool features which help you to organise your groceries, cooking and many other parts of your life.

If you want to know more about smart fridges, check out our guide here.

Gloria is a tech and AI writer for PC Guide. She is interested in what new technology means for the future of digital and broadcast journalism.