The exergy method, based on the maximum exergetic efficiency criterion, has been applied to an irreversible inter-cooled refrigeration cycle. The exergetic efficiency defined as the ratio of the rate of exergy output to the rate of exergy input is taken as the objective function to be maximized. Multi-irreversibilities include finite-rate heat transfer, internal dissipation of the working fluid, and heat leaks between heat reservoirs. The maximum exergetic efficiency can be determined analytically by introducing the internal irreversibility parameter, which represents the degree of internal irreversibility. The corresponding performances of the irreversible refrigeration system are obtained simultaneously. The results show that the exergy method can be used as an effective criterion in designing an irreversible inter-cooled refrigeration system.