Tech Brand Talk

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Refrigerators aren’t given too much thought, except when they stop working. But the fact is that older units are some of the largest consumers of electrical energy within a home.

So if you’re looking for a new refrigerator, why not put some thought into getting one that is energy efficient too. Upgrading to an efficient fridge could save you $40 or more each year.

Check the EnerGuide Label

When shopping for a new refrigerator, it’s important to look for the EnerGuide label.  This label gives youan indication of how the unit ranks for energy efficiency - the lower the kWh usage per year shown, the more efficient the refrigerator will normally operate.

Learn more about how to read the EnerGuide label

Use the Power Smart rebate

BC Hydro Power Smart offers a rebate of $50 on the most efficient refrigerators out there.  

Not all refrigerator models are created equal, so before you start shopping for a refrigerator, it’s a good idea to check the Appliance Rebate Product Eligibility tool. You can then search for a model that qualifies for a BC Hydro rebate.

It really is cool technology

Now we come to the exciting part, the technology of more efficient refrigerators. While much of the technology is fairly simple -  better insulation and sealing of the doors, etc. -  there are some products with unique solutions.

The Samsung RF4267 French Door refrigerator utilizes what Samsung calls “Twin Cooling”, allowing for the refrigerator and freezer compartments to have very specific temperature control. 

Standard refrigerators have one cooling system that cycles the cool air between the too, so one side benefit with this Samsung model is that odours don’t move between the compartments.

Samsung also uses LED lighting inside the refrigerator, reducing the amount of energy used when the door is open.

Do you leave the door open sometimes?  Well, the Samsung RS265 Side-by-Side refrigerator is equipped with a door alarm to let you know it’s time to check that you closed it all the way.

Time to replace that old fridge?

When it’s time to replace your older refrigerator, make sure to use that EnerGuide label to help you choose an energy-efficient replacement.  And don’t forget to recycle your old refrigerator through the BC Hydro Fridge Buy Back program, which offers pickup of the old fridge and pays you $30 for it.

Even if you don’t purchase a new refrigerator, but have an old one in the garage or in the basement, it may be a good time to consider getting rid of it through the Fridge Buy Back program. Unplug and remove an old, second fridge or freezer and you could save up to $85 a year

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