Freezer Running Cost Calculator
Instantly estimate how much it costs to run your chest or upright freezer based on wattage, daily usage, and your local electricity rate.
Estimate Your Freezer’s Running Cost
Enter your freezer’s wattage, average daily run hours, and electricity rate below to get an instant, accurate breakdown of your daily, monthly, and yearly energy costs.
Cost Estimator
Enter appliance details to see the estimated electricity cost
Compressors cycle on/off. 6-10 hrs is typical.
UK average is currently ~24p per kWh.
Estimated Running Cost
Based on your input parameters
Average Freezer Energy Consumption
Typical baseline wattage and estimated yearly running costs for common freezer types (based on 8 hours of compressor run time per day at 24p/kWh).
| Freezer Type | Avg. Wattage | Avg. Daily kWh | Est. Yearly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Chest Freezer (100-150L) | 100 W | 0.8 kWh | ~ £70 |
| Large Chest Freezer (200-300L) | 150 W | 1.2 kWh | ~ £105 |
| Small Upright Freezer (100-150L) | 130 W | 1.04 kWh | ~ £91 |
| Large Upright Freezer (200-300L) | 200 W | 1.6 kWh | ~ £140 |
| Older / Inefficient Models (Any) | 250+ W | 2.0+ kWh | ~ £175+ |
Freezer Energy Cost FAQ
Everything you need to know about calculating and reducing your freezer’s electricity consumption.
On average, running a standard, modern freezer in the UK costs between £70 and £140 per year, depending on its size, energy efficiency rating, and your specific electricity tariff. Older, less efficient models may cost significantly more.
Yes, chest freezers generally use 10% to 25% less electricity than upright freezers of the same capacity. This is because cold air is denser and sinks; the top-opening design of a chest freezer prevents cold air from spilling out when the lid is opened.
You can find your freezer’s wattage on the manufacturer’s rating plate or energy sticker, usually located on the back, bottom, or inside the door frame. Alternatively, check the user manual or the manufacturer’s website. If only amps and volts are listed, multiply them together to get watts.
Keep your freezer well-stocked (frozen items act as thermal mass and help maintain temperature), ensure the door seals are clean and tight, defrost regularly if it is not a frost-free model, and place it in a cool, well-ventilated room away from direct sunlight or heat sources like ovens and radiators.