How Much Unit of Electricity Consumed by a Refrigerator Per Day

Gain insights into electricity consumption by a refrigerator. Learn how to calculate usage and tips to save on energy bills with our guide.
Explore Refrigerators on Easy EMIs
3 min
08-Oct-2025

The electricity consumption of a refrigerator varies based on its size, efficiency, and usage patterns. On average, a standard refrigerator consumes between 1 to 2 units (kWh) of electricity per day. This can increase if the refrigerator is frequently opened or if it operates in a warmer environment. Energy-efficient models with higher star ratings typically consume less power, making them a cost-effective choice.

If you are thinking of buying a refrigerator, check your loan eligibility first. It helps you understand your budget and narrow down your options. Once you have a budget in mind, explore the latest models on Bajaj Mall. Simply visit any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores in over 4,000 cities, choose the model you want, and convert your purchase into Easy EMIs of up to Rs. 5 lakh. With Easy EMIs and zero down payment on select models, bringing home the right fridge is simple and stress-free.

How to measure refrigerator electricity consumption

Measuring your refrigerator's electricity consumption helps you understand its energy efficiency and manage electricity bills. Here is a simple method to do it:

  1. Use a power meter: Plug a power meter between your refrigerator and the power socket. It measures real-time electricity usage.

  2. Record usage: Leave the meter plugged in for 24 hours to get an accurate daily consumption reading.

  3. Calculate monthly/annual consumption: Multiply the daily usage by 30 for monthly or by 365 for yearly consumption.

Time period

Consumption (kWh)

Daily

1.2

Monthly

36

Yearly

438

When choosing energy-efficient models, consider 5 Star refrigerators for optimal performance.

Why spend more when you can save more on your next electronics purchase? Use the Maha Bachat savings calculator to combine dealer offers, brand offers, and Bajaj offers to bring down your purchase cost. Calculate your extra savings today!

How to select the right refrigerator size while saving on electricity

Depending on the multiple factors, the consumption rate of the refrigerator differs. The factors which determine the consumption range are the size of the refrigerator, star rating, age of the refrigerator and so on.

The following table below will help you understand how the size of the refrigerator impacts the annual power consumption.

Size of refrigerator

Annual power consumption (On average)

200 Litres

720 kWh

300 Litres

900 kWh

400 Litres

1080 kWh

500 Litres

1440 kWh

600 Litres

1800 kWh

A domestic refrigerator is likely to consume less than commercial refrigerators. It consumes around 1 to 2 kWh over a day.

To calculate the yearly cost,

Total yearly cost = how much kWh/day used x 365 days x price per kWh.

Now, this is just an average rate, which will depend on certain facts (here we discussed one factor, i.e., size of the refrigerator) that we are going to study next, in detail.

Factors affecting refrigerator energy use

  • Temperature settings: Lower settings increase energy consumption.

  • Frequency of door opening: Frequent opening lets warm air in, making the compressor work harder.

  • Room temperature: Higher ambient temperatures cause the fridge to use more energy.

  • Refrigerator load: Overloading reduces air circulation, causing the fridge to work harder.

  • Maintenance: Clean coils and seals to ensure efficient operation.

To learn more about the latest energy-efficient models, consider the LG double door fridge or explore various other double door refrigerators.

Tips to reduce refrigerator energy bills

  • Optimal temperature: Set the fridge to 35°C and the freezer to 18°C.

  • Limit door opening: Open the door only when necessary and close it quickly.

  • Proper ventilation: Ensure that there is enough space around the fridge for air circulation.

  • Regular maintenance: Clean the coils and check the door seals regularly.

  • Defrost regularly: If your fridge is not frost free, defrost it to avoid ice build up.

To enjoy greater energy savings, explore the benefits of a 5 star side by side refrigerator.

Energy saving features in modern fridges

Modern refrigerators are equipped with various energy saving features that help reduce electricity consumption and minimise environmental impact. Here are some notable features:

  • Inverter technology: This feature adjusts the compressor speed according to the cooling needs, ensuring minimal energy wastage.

  • Frost free operation: Automatic defrosting prevents ice build-up, maintaining optimal efficiency without manual intervention.

  • Energy star rating: Appliances with higher star ratings are certified to be more energy-efficient, providing the same cooling with less electricity.

  • LED lighting: LED lights consume less power and generate less heat compared to traditional bulbs.

  • Smart features: Some fridges come with smart sensors and connectivity options to monitor and adjust cooling settings automatically based on usage patterns.

  • Eco mode: This setting optimises the cooling process to use less energy during low demand periods.

  • Dual or multi-channel cooling: These systems ensure even temperature distribution, preventing the compressor from overworking.

Incorporating these features can significantly reduce your refrigerator's energy consumption. For more information, check out the latest side by side door refrigerators.

Get electronics and appliances on Easy EMIs with Bajaj Finserv

Upgrading your home with the latest electronics and appliances is now easier and more affordable with Bajaj Finserv’s flexible financing options and latest offers. You can also maximise your savings by using the Maha Bachat Savings Calculator—a smart tool that combines brand offers, dealer offers, and EMI offers, all in one place, helping you lower the overall cost while still paying in small, bite-sized instalments. Follow these steps to get started:

  • Explore products on Bajaj Mall: Browse a wide range of electronics and appliances from trusted brands. Compare features like energy ratings, storage capacity, performance settings, and design to choose the right product for your home.

  • Visit a partner store: Once you shortlist a model, step into any of Bajaj Finserv’s 1.5 lakh partner stores across 4,000 cities in India. See the product in person, talk to experts, and make a confident decision.

  • Choose the Easy EMI Loan option: At checkout, select the Bajaj Finserv Easy EMI Loan. Avail financing of up to Rs. 5 lakh and split the cost into convenient monthly instalments. Some products also come with a zero down payment option.

  • Check your loan eligibility online: Plan better by checking your loan eligibility in minutes. Simply enter your mobile number and OTP to know your pre-approved limit.

  • Use the EMI Network Card for purchases up to Rs. 3 lakh: Already own the Bajaj Finserv EMI Network Card? Use it for instant, paperless checkout and convert your purchases of up to Rs. 3 lakh into Easy EMIs.

You can also explore:

Refrigerators by top brands

LG Refrigerator

Liebherr Refrigerator

Hitachi Refrigerator

Panasonic Refrigerator

Blue Star Refrigerator

Bosch Refrigerator

Voltas Refrigerator

Voltas Beko Refrigerator

Midea Refrigerator

Haier Refrigerator

Whirlpool Refrigerator

Western Refrigerator

Croma Refrigerator

Motorola Refrigerator

Hisense Refrigerator

Refrigerators by type

Frost Free Refrigerator

Mini Refrigerator

Smart Refrigerator

Inverter Refrigerator

 

 

Refrigerators brands by type

Blue Star Deep Freezer

Lloyd Deep Freezer

Godrej Deep Freezer

Whirlpool Deep Freezer

Samsung Frost Free Refrigerator

Samsung Smart Refrigerator

Bosch Mini Fridge

LG Smart Refrigerator

Blue Star Mini Refrigerator

Kelvinator Mini Fridge

LG Deep Freezer

Voltas Deep Fridge

Samsung Mini Fridge

Samsung Deep Freezer

Godrej Mini Refrigerator

Western Deep Fridge

LG Mini Refrigerator

 

Refrigerators by door type

Smart Refrigerator

French Door Refrigerator

Triple Door Refrigerator

Single Door Refrigerator

Side By Side Door Refrigerator

 

Refrigerator brands by door type

Whirlpool Single Door Refrigerator

Electrolux Double Door Refrigerator

Samsung 4 Door Refrigerator

Haier French Door Refrigerator

Videocon Double Door Refrigerator

Samsung Double Door Fridge

Panasonic Single Door Refrigerator

Lloyd Side By Side Refrigerator

Siemens Double Door Refrigerator

Electrolux Single Door Refrigerator

Haier Double Door Refrigerator

Lloyd Double Door Refrigerator

LG French Door Refrigerator

Godrej Double Door Refrigerator

Panasonic Double Door Refrigerator

Voltas Beko Double-Door Refrigerator

Voltas Beko Side-By-Side Refrigerator

LG Double Door Fridge

Kelvinator Single Door Refrigerator

Hitachi Double Door Refrigerator

Godrej Side-By-Side Refrigerator

Siemens Side-By-Side Refrigerator

Hitachi Side-By-Side Refrigerators

Bosch Side-By-Side Refrigerator

Voltas Double Door Refrigerator

Samsung side-by-side Refrigerator

Samsung Single Door Refrigerator

LG Single Door Refrigerator

LG Side-By-Side Refrigerator

Whirlpool Triple Door Refrigerator

Haier Side By Side Refrigerator

Kelvinator Double Door Refrigerator

Haier Triple Door Refrigerator

Whirlpool Double Door Refrigerator

Godrej Single Door Refrigerator

Haier Single Door Refrigerator

Refrigerators by capacity

180 Litre Refrigerator

165 Litre Refrigerator

Kelvinator 95 Litre Refrigerator

Lloyd 200 Litre Refrigerator

Kelvinator 190 Litre Refrigerator

LG 185 Litre Refrigerator

LG 235 Litre Refrigerator

LG 308 Litre Refrigerator

Samsung Refrigerator 198 Litre

Samsung 255 Litre Refrigerator

Western 500 Litre Freezer

Godrej 300 Litre Freezer

LG 165 Litre Refrigerator

Blue Star 100 Litre Freezer

Voltas 320 Litre Freezer

Voltas 400 Litre Freezer

Blue Star 300 Litre Freezer

Blue Star 400 Litre Freezer

Voltas 500 Litre Freezer

Blue Star 200 Litre Freezer

Voltas 200 Litre Freezer

Godrej 500 Litre Freezer

 

 

Refrigerators by star rating

LG 5 Star Refrigerator

LG 3 Star Refrigerator

Kelvinator 5 Star Refrigerator

Panasonic 5 Star Refrigerator

Whirlpool 5 Star Refrigerator

Samsung 5 Star Refrigerator

Refrigerators by budget

Refrigerators Under Rs. 50,000

Refrigerators Under Rs. 10,000

Refrigerators Under Rs. 15,000

Refrigerators Under Rs. 20,000

Refrigerators Under Rs. 25,000

Refrigerators Under Rs. 30,000

Brand refrigerators by budget

Samsung Fridges Under Rs. 10,000

Whirlpool Refrigerators Under Rs. 10,000

LG Refrigerators Under Rs. 10,000

Samsung Refrigerators Under Rs. 15,000

LG Refrigerators Under Rs. 15,000

Whirlpool Refrigerators Under Rs. 15,000

Pro tip

Celebrate Diwali the smarter way – bring home appliances and gadgets at up to 60% off

Bajaj Finserv app for all your financial needs and goals

Trusted by 50 million+ customers in India, Bajaj Finserv App is a one-stop solution for all your financial needs and goals.

You can use the Bajaj Finserv App to:

  • Apply for loans online, such as Instant Personal Loan, Home Loan, Business Loan, Gold Loan, and more.
  • Invest in fixed deposits and mutual funds on the app.
  • Choose from multiple insurance for your health, motor and even pocket insurance, from various insurance providers.
  • Pay and manage your bills and recharges using the BBPS platform. Use Bajaj Pay and Bajaj Wallet for quick and simple money transfers and transactions.
  • Apply for Insta EMI Card and get a pre-qualified limit on the app. Explore over 1 million products on the app that can be purchased from a partner store on Easy EMIs.
  • Shop from over 100+ brand partners that offer a diverse range of products and services.
  • Use specialised tools like EMI calculators, SIP Calculators
  • Check your credit score, download loan statements and even get quick customer support—all on the app.

Download the Bajaj Finserv App today and experience the convenience of managing your finances on one app.

Do more with the Bajaj Finserv App!

UPI, Wallet, Loans, Investments, Cards, Shopping and more

Disclaimer

While care is taken to update the information, products, and services included in or available on our website and related platforms/websites, there may be inadvertent inaccuracies or typographical errors or delays in updating the information. The material contained in this site, and on associated web pages, is for reference and general information purpose and the details mentioned in the respective product/service document shall prevail in case of any inconsistency. Subscribers and users should seek professional advice before acting on the basis of the information contained herein. Please take an informed decision with respect to any product or service after going through the relevant product/service document and applicable terms and conditions. In case any inconsistencies observed, please click on reach us.

*Terms and conditions apply

Frequently asked questions

How many units of electricity does a refrigerator use per day?
A refrigerator typically uses between 1 to 2 units of electricity per day, depending on its size, age, and energy efficiency rating. This can vary based on usage patterns and ambient temperature.

How much energy does a fridge use in 24 hours?
In 24 hours, a refrigerator can use between 1 to 2 kWh (units) of electricity. Energy consumption depends on factors such as the fridge's size, energy rating, and how frequently the door is opened.

How many kWh is 1 unit?
1 unit of electricity is equal to 1 kilowatt hour (kWh). This means that if an appliance consumes 1 kW of power in one hour, it uses 1 unit of electricity.

How many units of power does a 165-litre refrigerator use per day?
A 165-litre refrigerator typically uses about 0.8 to 1.2 units of electricity per day. The actual consumption can vary based on factors such as energy efficiency, usage, and ambient temperature.

How many units does a 5-star refrigerator consume per day?

A 5-star refrigerator typically consumes 0.5 to 1 unit (kWh) of electricity per day, depending on its size and usage. Energy-efficient models are designed to minimise power consumption, helping reduce daily electricity usage while maintaining optimal cooling performance.

Is it expensive to run a refrigerator all day?

Running a refrigerator all day isn't overly expensive, as it's designed to operate continuously. Energy-efficient models, such as 5-star-rated refrigerators, consume less power, reducing costs. On average, it may cost between Rs. 10 to Rs. 20 per day, depending on local electricity rates and usage.

Does keeping the fridge door open increase electricity consumption?

Yes, keeping the fridge door open increases electricity consumption. It allows warm air to enter, causing the compressor to work harder to restore the internal temperature. This additional cooling effort consumes more energy, leading to higher electricity usage and potentially increasing utility costs.

What is the daily electricity consumption of a frost-free refrigerator?

A frost-free refrigerator typically consumes between 1 to 2 units (kWh) of electricity per day, depending on its size and energy rating. These models use fans and compressors to prevent frost buildup, which can slightly increase energy consumption compared to conventional fridges.

How much does it cost to run a refrigerator per day?

The cost to run a refrigerator per day typically ranges between Rs. 10 to Rs. 25, depending on the refrigerator's energy efficiency, size, and local electricity rates. Energy-efficient models with higher star ratings tend to have lower daily running costs compared to older or less efficient units.

Can I buy refrigerators on EMIs?

Yes, you can purchase refrigerators with Bajaj Finserv’s Easy EMI options.

If you are an existing user of the Bajaj Finserv Insta EMI Card:

  • Explore a wide range of refrigerators on Bajaj Mall

  • Choose the preferred model and visit a Bajaj Finserv partner store to check it out in person

  • Use your EMI Network Card and avail of Easy EMIs for affordable monthly payments

  • Enjoy your new fridge on Easy EMIs

If you do not have one, there is no need to worry. Check your eligibility for an Insta EMI Card and take the first step towards enjoying the affordability and convenience of Easy EMIs.

Show More Show Less