In terms of quality, cost and energy efficiency, Kenmore refrigerators get high ratings from Good Housekeeping and Consumer Reports. They make many “no-frills” refrigerators which are Energy Star compliant. Kenmore fridges have factory-installed ice makers, which are less prone to break down than those built into the door. For example, a reasonably priced, mid-sized Kenmore fridge is available from Sears for about $430. In my experience as an owner, however, I’ve found that Kenmore shelves and drawers tend to break very easily.
Top-freezer and bottom-freezer refrigerators are more energy efficient than “side-by-side” models, and they are less expensive. See this report from the Green Guide, for a list of the best Energy Star compliant refrigerators.
If you are looking for highly efficient refrigerator, look for models from Avanti and Sunfrost. These fridges are best if you are looking for great energy savings, or if you are off-grid and using solar power.
“Man Retrofits Freezer to Make an Ultra-Efficient Fridge”
.1KWH/day
So how come the “best” commercial chest refrigerator used nearly 600% as much power? (.585KWH.day)