Refrigerator in Chicago — $219/yr to Run (16.6¢/kWh)
Your refrigerator in Chicago costs about $18/month at 16.6¢/kWh. See daily, monthly, and yearly costs, plus tips to cut your bill.
Chicago, IL Electricity Rate
16.6¢/kWh
Utility: ComEd (Commonwealth Edison)
+28% vs national avg
National avg: 13.0¢/kWh
Daily Cost
$0.60
3.6 kWh/day
Monthly Cost
$18.22
109 kWh/mo
Annual Cost
$219
1,314 kWh/yr
Lifetime (14yr)
$3,061
energy only
Monthly Cost Breakdown in Chicago
| Period | kWh | Chicago Cost | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Daily | 3.6 | $0.60 | $0.47 | +$0.13 |
| Weekly | 25.2 | $4.19 | $3.28 | +$0.92 |
| Monthly | 109.5 | $18.22 | $14.23 | +$3.99 |
| Quarterly | 328.5 | $54.66 | $42.70 | +$11.96 |
| Annual | 1314.0 | $218.65 | $170.82 | +$47.83 |
Customize Your Refrigerator Cost
Adjust usage hours and electricity rate to calculate your exact cost in Chicago.
Daily
$0.60
Monthly
$18.22
Annual
$219
14-Year
$3,061
Energy Saving Tips for Refrigerator in Chicago
- ✓Chicago electricity rates are 28% above the national average — energy efficiency matters more here.
- ✓An ENERGY STAR Refrigerator in Chicago saves ~$33/year compared to standard models.
- ✓A smart Refrigerator with scheduling optimization can save ~$22/year at Chicago rates.
- ✓Set temperature to 37F fridge, 0F freezer
- ✓Clean condenser coils yearly
- ✓Keep it full for efficiency
ENERGY STAR Savings: Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR Refrigerator in Chicago saves approximately $33/year at local rates — $459 over the appliance lifetime.
Highest-Cost Appliances in Chicago, IL
See which appliances cost the most to run at Chicago's 16.6¢/kWh electricity rate.
Level 2 EV Charger (240V)
Transportation · 7,200W
$2,157/yr
$179.71/mo
Electric Furnace
HVAC · 10,000W
$1,498/yr
$124.80/mo
Electric Tankless Water Heater
Water Heating · 18,000W
$1,093/yr
$91.10/mo
EV Charger (Level 2)
Garage · 7,200W
$1,078/yr
$89.86/mo
Boiler (Electric)
HVAC · 6,000W
$899/yr
$74.88/mo
Electric Water Heater (Tank)
Water Heating · 4,500W
$820/yr
$68.33/mo
Water Heater (Tank Electric)
Water Heating · 4,500W
$820/yr
$68.33/mo
Heat Pump
HVAC · 2,400W
$639/yr
$53.25/mo
Refrigerator Cost in Other Illinois Cities
| City | Rate | Annual Cost | vs Chicago |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago (current) | 16.6¢ | $219 | — |
| Aurora | 15.0¢ | $197 | $-22 |
| Joliet | 14.4¢ | $189 | $-29 |
| Naperville | 14.6¢ | $193 | $-26 |
| Rockford | 17.0¢ | $224 | +$5 |
| Elgin | 13.6¢ | $178 | $-40 |
| Springfield | 15.9¢ | $208 | $-10 |
| Peoria | 16.9¢ | $221 | +$3 |
| Waukegan | 14.3¢ | $188 | $-31 |
Refrigerator Energy Cost FAQ — Chicago, IL
Understanding Refrigerator Energy Costs in Chicago, IL
In a major metro like Chicago, electricity demand is high and rates reflect the cost of maintaining infrastructure for 2.7 million residents. Running a low-draw appliance like the Refrigerator (150W) at Chicago's rate of 16.6¢/kWh costs approximately $219 per year — $48 more than the national average of $171.
Electricity in Chicago is significantly more expensive than the national average — 28% higher. For a Refrigerator used 24 hours per day, this rate premium adds up to $48 in extra annual costs. Energy-efficient models and usage habits have an outsized impact in high-rate markets like this.
Chicago's cost of living index of 87 is below the national average, and electricity costs reflect that affordability. The Refrigerator adds $18.22/month to a typical bill of $141. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR Refrigerator can cut energy use by up to 15%, saving approximately $33 per year at Chicago rates.
Chicago's moderate climate (avg 45°F) helps keep seasonal energy cost swings manageable for most appliances. A Refrigerator produces approximately 0.36 tons of CO2 annually at typical usage. Chicago residents can reduce this footprint by choosing an ENERGY STAR certified unit, optimizing usage patterns, or investing in solar — see our solar savings calculator for Chicago.
Compare All Energy Costs in Chicago
See energy costs for 168+ household appliances at Chicago's local electricity rate.