Frigidaire EFR397-MERLOT
Compact Refrigerator · 3.1
Summary
The Frigidaire EFR397-MERLOT is a compact refrigerator with 3.1 capacity that uses 215 kWh per year, costing approximately $34.40annually to run at the US average electricity rate. Over 10 years, that's $344.00 in energy costs alone. It uses 12% less energy than the federal minimum standard. It meets ENERGY STAR certification but isn't among the top performers.
Ranked #526 out of 4363 refrigerators by annual running cost, it costs $27.60 less per year than the category average of $62. At 17.8" wide, it fits in tight spaces where a full-size unit won't.
How This Compares to Other Refrigerators
Ranked #526 out of 4363 in the refrigerators category (by lowest annual cost).
Energy Details
Running Cost Breakdown
Estimated electricity costs at different time horizons (based on $0.16/kWh US average rate):
Actual costs vary by location. States like Hawaii ($0.43/kWh) pay significantly more while Idaho ($0.11/kWh) pays less. Use our energy calculator to estimate costs at your local rate.
What This Means for You
The Frigidaire EFR397-MERLOT is cheaper to run than the average refrigerator in its category. At $34.40/year, you'll save approximately $276.00 over 10 years compared to a typical model in this category.
Its efficiency score is moderate — solid but not top-tier. It balances upfront cost with reasonable energy savings.
Energy costs are just one factor in choosing a refrigerator. Consider the purchase price, features, reliability, and how the total cost of ownership (purchase price + energy costs over its expected lifespan) compares to alternatives.