Refrigerator Energy Ratings 2025 Explained: Star Ratings, Savings & Sustainability

In 2025, if you have a plan to buy a new refrigerator, understanding the energy ratings before purchase is crucial. The energy rating of a refrigerator provides a rough estimate of its power consumption. It helps to calculate the annual electricity bill amount at a glance.

This blog about refrigerator energy ratings is a detailed guide to star ratings, electricity bills, and their impact on the environment. It can help you save money even after purchasing a refrigerator.

What are Refrigerator Energy Ratings?

Refrigerator energy ratings are a scale that defines how efficiently a refrigerator uses electricity during its operation. The ratings are given as stars from 1 to 5. In India, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is responsible for rating the energy efficiency of the refrigerator. 1 represents the highest power-consuming appliance, and 5 represents the lowest power-consuming appliance.

According to BEE, an appliance with more stars significantly reduces power consumption costs and carbon emissions. To put it in simple terms, the more stars, the lower the power consumption, annual electricity bill, and carbon emission.

Do Energy Ratings Really Matter in 2025?

With population growth and rising energy demand, electricity prices rise. Also, in Indian households, a large portion of the electricity is consumed by refrigerators. This makes energy-efficient models more important than ever.

Below is the star rating depending on the refrigerator's energy consumption.

Key Features of a Refrigerator with Higher Ratings

Here are some key features to look for:

1. Inverter Compressor: With this type of compressor, the motor speed is adjusted based on the cooling demand, hence reducing the energy consumption.
2. Convertible Compartments: Recent advancements offer flexibility to switch between freezer and fridge as per needs.
3. Enhanced Insulation and Multi-airflow Technology: Better insulation, better cooling retention, and multi-airflow minimise the compressor run-time.
4. Smart Monitoring Feature: The user can track energy consumed by the refrigerator and its status using apps created for them. Also, they can optimise efficiency utilising the app.
5. Built-in Stabilisers: Modern refrigerators come with built-in stabilisers. Hence, leading to stabiliser-free operation, ensuring protection even during voltage fluctuations.
6. Eco Mode: In this mode, the cooling within the refrigerator is reduced when the usage is low. Some even offer an auto power-down feature.

How Would an Energy-efficient Refrigerator Operate?

An ideal energy-efficient refrigerator would result in lower electricity bills and have comparatively low carbon emissions. In 2025, the major features of refrigerators are inverter compressors, multi-airflow cooling, and eco-modes.

In addition to lower energy consumption, they provide consistent cooling, lower operational noise, a reduced carbon footprint, and lower running costs. One may save about Rs. 2,100 per year by replacing an inefficient refrigerator with an efficient model (may vary based on usage patterns, local tariffs, and appliance age).

Impact of a Refrigerator With a Higher Rating on the Environment

An efficient refrigerator model with advanced smart features helps reduce energy consumption, thereby decreasing the use of fossil fuels. Lower fuel use lowers carbon emissions.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), using energy-efficient appliances can significantly lower household CO₂ emissions. Greenhouse gases are the primary contributors to global climate change, with CO₂ being a major culprit. By choosing the right appliance, you help improve environmental conditions.

In refrigerators, refrigerant leakage is a common issue that can further harm the environment. However, models with efficient compressors help minimise this risk. By opting for a refrigerator with higher star ratings, you actively contribute to sustainable energy use and a healthier planet.

Example of an Energy-efficient Refrigerator Model in 2025

Let’s look at the specifications of a Samsung 215L 5-star Direct Cooling Single Door Refrigerator, an energy-efficient refrigerator model.

Pros and Cons of High Energy-Rated Refrigerators

Even though refrigerators with higher energy ratings offer several advantages, there are a few trade-offs to consider. Every coin has two sides; let’s explore both. User feedback also highlights a mix of positive and negative experiences.

Pros

• Save Money: Lower electricity bills help owners save more over time.
• Efficient Performance: Energy-efficient models deliver better and more consistent cooling compared to less efficient ones.
• Quiet Operation: These refrigerators operate smoothly with minimal noise while maintaining optimal performance.
• Eco-friendly: With reduced greenhouse gas emissions, they contribute positively to the environment.

Cons

• Higher Initial Investment: Quality comes at a price; these models require a higher upfront cost.
• Reduction in Efficiency: - Like all appliances, refrigerators may experience a slight decline in performance as they age. However, regular maintenance, such as cleaning condenser coils, checking door seals, and defrosting when needed, can help preserve efficiency and extend lifespan.

Also Read: 3-Star vs 5-Star Refrigerators in India (2025): Energy Savings, Annual Cost & ROI Comparison.

Price and Variants of High Energy-rated Refrigerators in 2025

Depending on the refrigerator type, technology, capacity, colour, and patterns, there are many options:

• Technology: Almost all high-energy rated refrigerator types come with inverter technology. Some are combined with direct-cool technology, and some with frost-free technology.

Examples: Whirlpool Protton 300L Frost-Free Three-Door Refrigerator, Samsung 189 L Horizontal Curve Design Single Door Refrigerator RR21C2H25DX

• Type: Refrigerators come in various types to suit different household needs, from compact energy-efficient models to large-capacity premium units.

Examples: Single-door models like the Haier 190 L 5‑Star Direct-Cool and double-door options like the Samsung 350 L Bespoke AI. Side-by-side refrigerators such as the Samsung 653 L Convertible 5‑in‑1.

• Capacity: There are several high-rated refrigerator types with capacities ranging between ~150L and ~650L.

Examples: Samsung 183 L Stylish Grandé Design Single Door Refrigerator RR20D2825HV, Samsung 653 L Convertible 5-in-1 Side by Side Refrigerator RS76CG8115B1

• Colour and Pattern:  Depending upon colour and finish type, there are a variety of options available.

Examples: 183 L Single-Door – RR20D2825HV (Blue Arctic), 809 L French-Door – RF71DB9950QDTL (Stainless Steel)

• Pricing: Depending upon the capacity and type, high-energy refrigerators are priced from Rs. 16,000 to over Rs. 1,20,000.

Smarter Option to Buy High Energy-Rated Refrigerators in 2025

A considerable upfront cost is required before you make the lifestyle investment. However, this process can be simplified with a Consumer Durable Loan. Financial institutions now offer loans specifically designed to help you purchase essential household goods. The loan amount can be repaid in convenient monthly instalments, thereby easing financial pressure and making your purchase more manageable.

For example, an individual purchases their favourite high-energy-rated refrigerator for Rs. 65,000. They opt to take a Consumer Durable Loan from Poonawalla Fincorp at an annual interest rate of 12%* and a 24-month tenure. Now, they pay just Rs. 3,060 per month for 2 years and own a refrigerator without any hassle.

*Always verify current interest rates and eligibility before applying.

Grab up to Rs. 5 Lakh at Poonawalla Fincorp’s Consumer Durable Loan with affordable EMIs and online application.

How to Apply for a Consumer Durable Loan?

At Poonawalla Fincorp, applying for a Consumer Durable Loan is quick and hassle-free. Follow these simple steps:

1. Check Eligibility: Check your eligibility to get qualified for the loan.
2. Choose Your Product: Visit any partnered dealer or online platform associated with Poonawalla Fincorp and select your desired high-energy rated refrigerator.
3. Prepare for Documents: Provide your digital Aadhaar-based KYC documents and repayment mandate setup details as required by Poonawalla Fincorp.
4. Apply for the Loan: Fill out the loan application form, either online or through the dealer’s offline channel, and submit your documents.
5. Loan Approval & Disbursement: Once your application and KYC details are verified, the loan amount is approved and directly disbursed to the dealer for your refrigerator purchase.

To Conclude

Choosing an energy-efficient refrigerator is no longer just about comfort. It's also about saving money, energy, and the earth. Finding the proper model is easier now that the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) provides standardised star ratings to help consumers.

Refrigerators today are both innovative and eco-friendly. They have features like inverter compressors, smart monitoring, and eco settings. Models with high ratings may cost a little more up front; however, they save money over time and have a lower environmental impact.

You can also avail of an online Personal Loan from Poonawalla Fincorp to purchase an energy-efficient refrigerator. Get up to ₹50 Lakh at competitive interest rates with minimal documentation.

FAQs

Which star-rated refrigerator is best to save electricity?

Go for a 4- or 5-star-rated inverter-based model. This saves more power in the long-term perspective.

Why do inverter refrigerators perform better?

Inverter-based models adjust cooling based on usage and temperature, unlike other models. Hence, they perform comparatively better.

Do BEE update energy ratings, or are they always the same?

In line with technological advancements, the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) periodically revises energy efficiency standards. Refrigerator models are then evaluated against these updated benchmarks and rated accordingly.

Does climate affect refrigerator energy consumption?

Yes. If the ambient temperature is high, the compressor runs longer, resulting in higher power consumption. Keep the fridge away from sunlight or other heat sources to increase efficiency.

How often should I service my refrigerator?

It is best to service the refrigerator annually. Clean coils and good door seals can reduce energy wastage and maintain efficiency.