ApplianceRanked

TCL MR221S

Compact Refrigerator · 2.7

Summary

The TCL MR221S is a compact refrigerator with 2.7 capacity that uses 214 kWh per year, costing approximately $34.24annually to run at the US average electricity rate. Over 10 years, that's $342.40 in energy costs alone. It uses 11% less energy than the federal minimum standard. It meets ENERGY STAR certification but isn't among the top performers.

Ranked #489 out of 4363 refrigerators by annual running cost, it costs $27.76 less per year than the category average of $62. At 18.7" wide, it fits in tight spaces where a full-size unit won't.

$34.24
per year to run
61
efficiency score /100
$342.40
10-year energy cost

How This Compares to Other Refrigerators

Ranked #489 out of 4363 in the refrigerators category (by lowest annual cost).

Annual Cost
$34.24 vs avg $62
$27.76/yr cheaper
Energy Use
214 kWh vs avg 385
171 kWh less
Efficiency Score
61 vs avg 63
Below average

Energy Details

Annual Energy Use214 kWh/year
Federal Standard240 kWh/year
Better Than Standard11%
Annual Cost (at $0.16/kWh)$34.24
Monthly Cost (estimated)$2.85
Capacity2.7
Width18.7"
Height27.4"
BrandTCL
TypeCompact Refrigerator
Date Certified2022-05-27

Running Cost Breakdown

Estimated electricity costs at different time horizons (based on $0.16/kWh US average rate):

Monthly
$2.85
1 Year
$34.24
5 Years
$171.20
10 Years
$342.40

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 TCL MR221S is cheaper to run than the average refrigerator in its category. At $34.24/year, you'll save approximately $277.60 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.

Energy cost estimated at $0.16/kWh (US national average). Your actual cost depends on your local electricity rate and usage patterns. Data from ENERGY STAR certified product database.