Contents[Hide]

Freezers

Similar to refrigerators,  it's important to look for energy star ratings when shopping for a freezer.  This is especially important for Australian consumers, many of whom live most of the year in a warm climate and experience frequent power outages. This means it's extra important to try to keep the cool air from seeping out of the unit. It's also wise to buy a freezer that is not too big for your needs -- because this will waste money in running costs and in the event of a power outage lasting several days, you'll find you have a lot of spoiled food on your hands. Read this guide to learn more about the freezers available in Australia.  

Energy Star Ratings

The Australian government tests and rates freezers for energy efficiency based on an international energy star rating system. Below are top picks for energy efficiency based on these ratings -- stars go from one to six, with six being the maximum energy efficiency.

Upright Freezers 

  • More day-to-day convenience.
  • Looks like a refrigerator.
  • Uses more electricity, because cold air spills out when the door is opened.
  • Smaller footprint, but more difficult to hold large items (like large cuts of meat).

Top Upright Freezer Picks 

Chest Freezers 

  • Good for long-term storage.
  • More energy-efficient because the cold air stays in when the top opens.
  • Requires more floor space, but can hold larger items.
  • Some frost-free models available -- others need manual defrosting.

Top Chest Freezer Picks 

Energy Efficiency

  • Frost vs. Frost-Free Freezers: Although frost-free freezers are more efficient, the difference in energy use may not be that large.  A high-efficiency frost-free model may only cost $10 to $15 more to run per year.
  • Seasonal Freezer Use: If you find that you only enter your freezer in certain seasons, consider a frost-free freezer. They're more efficient, and since you turn it off anyway, not too difficult to defrost.
  • If you fill the unused portion of the freezer with blankets or containers of water, they will insulate and the freezer will use less electricity.
  • New freezers, while often more expensive, are usually more efficient and can save you money in the long run.   

Size

  • How much storage space do you need?
    • Most food gets dehydrated after several months.
    • Each household member takes up, on average, 0.5 cubic metre of freezer space. Multiply accordingly.
    • A cubic metre of freezer spaces holds about 45kgs of food.
  • How much room do you have for this freezer?
    • The "footprint" is how much floor space the model will take up in your shed or under your house.
    • Keep in mind that the storage capacity refers to the inside of the freezer. The outside will be larger.

Other Features

  • Manual Defrost  vs. Frost-Free Freezers 
    • Manual: Coated with a layer of ice; Ice insulates the freezer and makes it more efficient, saving you money on your electricity bills; and must be defrosted every 6 to 8 months, which can be a hassle. 
    • Frost-Free: More common and do not develop layers of internal ice; never need to defrost, but require a bit more energy (and money) to cool; and can dry out food more quickly.
  • Internal Organization
    • Many chest freezers are just one big empty space, and food can be lost or forgotten at the bottom.
    • Some of the better models have sliding shelves or adjustable compartments so that things stay organized as well as frozen.
    • You can also look for storage options from another manufacturer, but be sure that they will fit.
  • Comprehensive Warranty
  • Adjustable Thermostat
  • Built-In Alarm
  • Quick-Freeze Option
  • Locking Door to keep children out.
  • Added Drawers for different temperatures.
  • Ice Maker

Freezer Manufacturers

External Links