Frequently Questions

1. How long can freezers work?

On average, freezers last 10 to 14 years. Typically, a freezer that manually defrosts lasts slightly longer than one that automatically defrosts. This is because there are less moving parts that can suffer wear and tear over time. To increase the lifespan of your appliance, be sure to maintain it properly. Remove any ice build-up, install it in the correct location (especially if it's not garage-ready), and make sure to not overfill or underfill the appliance as this can make the appliance work significantly harder.

2. Why do freezers frost up?

Frost builds up on the inner surfaces of your freezer because moisture from your fresh food attaches to the appliance's coils. This process is sped up if your door isn't sealed tight, or your appliance's self-defrosting technology is unreliable and need repairs. The result will be frost and ice chunks that grow in size, until they've been chipped or drained away, and less storage space for your food.
To prevent a lot of frost from building up in your freezer, be sure to never leave the door open for long periods of time, and close it tightly when you're done. In addition, occasionally check the temperature of your freezer to ensure it's consistent and stable.

3. Do freezers work better when full?

Typically, you don't want to fill a freezer—whether it's a chest, upright, or attached model—to the brim. You want to pack in your meats, fruits, and vegetables, but leave a little bit of space for the cold air to circulate. A half-empty freezer will use a lot of energy, and an overfilled one will exhaust its parts. Try to find a happy medium, by filling the included storage bins and baskets, but not making it impossible to grab items for dinner with ease.

4. Do freezers consump a lot of electricity?

An energy-efficient large freezer with more than 25 cubic feet will consump about 956 kilowatt-hours per year, according to EnergyStar.gov. That equates to about $10 a month. When you reduce the size of your freezer, your costs go down. ... Monthly costs for these units average about $67 per year or a little over $5 a month.

5. What key facts should I check when buying a chest freezer?

Before you decide, you'll want to decide whether a chest freezer or an upright model would best meet your needs—and your available floor space. Next, consider size, capacity, and energy use. The good news is you don't have to spend a lot to get a good freezer. We found some impressive freezers for $600 or less.