Which type of freezer is more energy efficient: upright or chest?

In real kitchens, chest freezers are often the more energy efficient format because cold air stays in the cabinet when you lift the lid, while an upright loses more cold air each time the door opens.

That said, the biggest energy driver is usually how the unit is used, not just the format. To keep consumption down:

Reduce door open time by zoning products (ready to use items at eye level in uprights, bulk stock in a chest).

Avoid overfilling air needs space to circulate.

Keep seals clean and intact and make sure the lid or door closes fully every time.

Defrost when ice builds up, as ice acts like insulation and makes the system work harder.

If your operation needs frequent access, an upright may still be the better choice operationally, even if a chest can be cheaper to run in theory.

Read the full guide: Unifrost Upright Freezer vs Chest Freezer: Model Comparison Guide for Irish Kitchens.