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Cost to run a fridge (400–500 l frost-free) in South Australia (2026–27)

SA reference tariff · 41.9c/kWh

$0.06 per hour at 150 W

Typical use (running continuously (450 kWh/year)) ≈ $189/year on the SA Power Networks rate.

Source: AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8), effective 1 July 2026

Fridge cost in SA at 4 h/day, 365 days/year (41.9c/kWh)
Model bandPer hourPer dayPer monthPer year
Efficient (80 W)$0.03$0.13$4.08$49
Typical (150 W)$0.06$0.25$7.64$92
High (250 W)$0.10$0.42$12.74$153

The headline annual figure uses this appliance's measured energy per use (450 kWh per year) rather than a constant draw — the table shows constant-draw costs at your chosen hours.

Appliance running-cost calculator

SA

Fridge: 80–250 W typical range.

Runs continuously; the compressor cycles at roughly one-third duty.

$0.06 per hour · $92/year at your settings
Per day (4 h)
$0.25
Per month
$7.64
Per year (365 days)
$91.78

Tariff: 41.9c/kWh — AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8) for the SA Power Networks network, effective 1 July 2026. Wattage basis: Reduction Revolution — fridge power consumption. Full fridge costs in SA →

The same appliance in other states

Cutting the cost

Keep it out of direct sun and away from the oven, and leave a gap behind it so the coils can shed heat. A full fridge holds its temperature better than an empty one, but don't pack it so tightly that air can't move. Check the door seals close cleanly, and vacuum the rear coils now and then. A spare beer fridge in the garage is often the quietest money-drainer in the house.

Frequently asked questions

What does a fridge cost per hour in SA?
$0.06 at the typical 150 W draw on SA's reference rate of 41.9c/kWh (SA Power Networks network). Efficient models run $0.03, high-draw models $0.10.
How is this calculated?
Watts ÷ 1,000 × the tariff = cost per hour, then × hours × days for the period figures. Every figure on this page uses SA's 2026–27 reference rate — change the assumptions in the calculator above.
Is the tariff here what I actually pay?
It's the AER Default Market Offer 2026–27 (DMO 8) usage rate for the SA Power Networks network — the government reference. Your market offer may be a little under it; your zone may differ. See SA rates by zone.

Related

Sources — figures current as at 17 July 2026.

Runs continuously; the compressor cycles at roughly one-third duty.