Compact fridge: how much does a C energy label save compared to F?

Written by Caitlin

Edited on

14 October 2025

·

11:15

Compact fridge: how much does a C energy label save compared to F?

When you're looking for a new fridge, a C compact fridge may seem more expensive than an F model. But with a C energy label, you spend less on energy costs thanks to the low energy consumption. This way, you save € 130 on energy costs during the lifespan of the appliance. In addition, you save the CO2 emission of a flight to Crete.

Good for the environment

C saves the CO2 emission of a 2360km flight

C saves the CO2 emission of a 2360km flight

With an energy-efficient compact fridge, you can save an amount of CO2 emissions similar to the emissions of a 2360km flight. To give you a better idea of this comparison, that's the distance between Schiphol and Crete in Greece in a straight line. That means a C compact fridge saves as much emission as a one-way trip to a reasonably far-away vacation destination. How many CO2 is that exactly? That's 514.56kg.

View all energy-efficient compact fridges
F needs 26 trees to grow for 1 year

F needs 26 trees to grow for 1 year

The amount of emissions you save with a C compact fridge is emitted by the less energy-efficient F model. Trees absorb these CO2 emissions. To absorb the full 514.56kg of CO2, 26 trees must grow for 1 year. This comparison only applies to gray energy. Do you have green energy? You don't have to worry, because green energy doesn't leave a CO2 footprint.

Savings for you

C saves € 120

C saves € 120

When you buy a C compact fridge, you save € 130. This may sound strange, because the average purchase price is higher than that of an F model. But per year, you'll save € 19 on energy costs. After a little over 9 years, you've earned back the difference in purchase price. The fridge lasts 15 years on average, so you'll save € 130 over the next 6 years.

Top 5 tips: save energy with your fridge
F costs € 120 more

F costs € 120 more

An F compact fridge seems more affordable when you purchase it. That's because the average retail price is about € 181 cheaper. But it'll cost you more in the end, because you'll spend more on energy costs each year. Per year, it'll cost you € 19 more compared to an energy-efficient model. And when it's time for a new fridge after 15 years, you'll have spent € 130 more.

Cost comparison

CF
Average consumption per year72kWh136kWh
Annual energy costs (€ 0.30)€ 22€ 41
Average purchase price€ 580€ 399
Total costs after 15 years (purchase price + energy costs)€ 910€ 1040

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Article by Caitlin

Fridge Expert.

Caitlin