free tool for share families

Freezer & light-bill sketch

Pick a share size for a rough chest-freezer target and example retail gear. Prices and stock change — always check Home Depot / Lowe’s before you buy. Not an energy audit.

Suggested chest size

5–7 cu ft class

Quarter share + a little produce

Compact chest

Texas garages run hot — prefer garage-rated freezers and a dedicated outlet when you can. Rough power: many chests use on the order of a few hundred kWh/year; check the EnergyGuide on the model you buy.

Pasture cattle — bulk beef needs a real chest freezer

Example gear (verify live)

Home Depot

Chest freezer ~7 cu ft class

Fits a quarter share with room for veggies. Garage-rated models preferred for Texas heat.

Typical street ~$250–$400 (verify)

Check Home Depot →

Lowe's

Chest freezer ~9–10 cu ft class

Comfortable for a half share for a family of four.

Typical street ~$350–$550 (verify)

Check Lowe's →

Home Depot

Chest freezer ~14–16 cu ft class

Whole-cow territory or half + bulk produce. Measure door width before delivery day.

Typical street ~$500–$800 (verify)

Check Home Depot →

Either

Vacuum sealer + bags

Re-pack after thaw or portion ground. Beats freezer burn on long holds.

Starter kits often ~$60–$150

Check Either →

Gear shopping list

Edit, then share to your phone before you hit HD / Lowe’s.

Home Depot: Chest freezer ~7 cu ft class — Typical street ~$250–$400 (verify)

Lowe's: Chest freezer ~9–10 cu ft class — Typical street ~$350–$550 (verify)

Home Depot: Chest freezer ~14–16 cu ft class — Typical street ~$500–$800 (verify)

Either: Vacuum sealer + bags — Starter kits often ~$60–$150

Cook from the freezer → How long will a share last?