What a freezer costs to run in each state
The table uses a freezer with a label figure of 300 kWh a year, running all year.
| State | Rate | A month | A year |
|---|---|---|---|
| TasmaniaAurora Energy | 24.75c | $6.19 | $74 |
| QueenslandEnergex | 27.97c | $6.99 | $84 |
| Victoriaaverage of five networks | 28.2c | $7.05 | $85 |
| Northern TerritoryJacana Energy | 31.68c | $7.92 | $95 |
| New South WalesAusgrid | 33.14c | $8.28 | $99 |
| Western AustraliaSynergy | 33.26c | $8.32 | $100 |
| Australian Capital TerritoryEvoenergy network | 36.95c | $9.24 | $111 |
| South AustraliaSA Power Networks | 41.91c | $10.48 | $126 |
Running costs by label figure
Freezers vary widely, so the most reliable way to price yours is to read the energy rating label or look up the model on the Energy Rating website. Enter the kWh a year in the calculator above, or use the table.
| Type | Energy | Cost a day | A year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Label figure 200 kWh a year | 200 kWh/yr | 18c | $66 |
| Label figure 300 kWh a year | 300 kWh/yr | 27c | $99 |
| Label figure 450 kWh a year | 450 kWh/yr | 41c | $149 |
| Label figure 600 kWh a year | 600 kWh/yr | 54c | $199 |
Chest or upright freezer?
Chest freezer
- Usually lower energy use for the size
- Cold air stays in when you open the lid
- Harder to organise
- Most need manual defrosting
Best for: Bulk storage in a garage or laundry.
Upright freezer
- Easy to see and reach food
- Frost-free models need no defrosting
- Cold air spills out each time the door opens
- Frost-free models use extra energy
Best for: Everyday use in the kitchen.
How to cut freezer running costs
Keep it full
A full freezer holds its temperature better. Fill gaps with bottles of water if it is half empty.
Defrost manual models
Ice build-up insulates the cooling surfaces and makes the compressor work harder.
Keep it out of the heat
A freezer in a hot garage runs longer. A cooler, shaded spot with room for air around it is best.
Measure an old freezer
An older freezer may use far more than its original label figure. A plug-in power meter left on for a week shows its real use. See our measuring energy use guide.
Questions about freezer running costs
Multiply the kWh a year on its energy label by your rate. A 300 kWh freezer costs about $99 a year on the Ausgrid reference rate, and a 450 kWh freezer about $149.
Generally yes, for the same size. Cold air sinks, so it stays in a chest freezer when the lid opens, while it spills out of an upright. Frost-free uprights also use extra energy for automatic defrosting.
energy.gov.au recommends -15°C to -18°C.
A full freezer holds its temperature better, so the compressor runs less after the door is opened. Bottles of water can fill empty space.
Sources
Every rate on this page comes from the regulator or the regulated retailer. Last checked October 2026. Prices include GST unless we say otherwise.