Operational Costs — Is a Converted Freezer Cheaper to Run?

Energy Consumption Comparison

When comparing a converted chest freezer to a standard fridge, consider the initial energy consumption. Chest freezers, like the 7.5 cu. ft. chest freezer, have an average power consumption of around 150-200 watts. In contrast, a standard fridge, like a 18 cu. ft. model, consumes around 250-400 watts. To calculate the daily energy consumption, assume an average usage of 8 hours per day. For the chest freezer, this translates to 1.2-1.6 kWh per day, while the standard fridge uses 2-3.2 kWh per day.

Conversion and Upgrades

Converting a chest freezer to a fridge requires upgrading the compressor, temperature control, and insulation. This process can be costly, with prices ranging from $500 to $2,000, depending on the complexity and materials used. However, the long-term energy savings can offset these initial costs. To minimize energy consumption, consider installing a more efficient compressor, upgrading to a digital temperature control, and adding insulation to the conversion.

Real-World Example

Consider a chest freezer conversion example: a 7.5 cu. ft. chest freezer with an initial power consumption of 150 watts was converted to a fridge using a more efficient compressor and digital temperature control. The new power consumption is around 120 watts, resulting in a daily energy consumption of 0.96 kWh. Over a year, this translates to a significant energy savings of around 300 kWh, equating to $30-$40 in reduced energy costs.