Refrigerators and freezers consume considerable electricity. In fact, next to an air conditioner or pool pump, a refrigerator is often a home’s heaviest electricity user. Manufacturers of refrigerators have tackled this issue head-on in recent years. As a result, modern Energy Star-rated refrigerators tend to be much more efficient than their predecessors. A new model will often pay for itself in a few years through energy savings.
Whether or not you have an energy-efficient refrigerator, you can take advantage of some of the following tips and tricks to boost efficiency:
Don’t keep your refrigerator or freezer too cold. Recommended temperatures are 37-40 degrees for the fresh food compartment and 5 degrees for the freezer section. To check temperature, place an appliance thermometer in a glass of water in the center of the refrigerator. Read if after 24 hours. To check the freezer temps, place a thermometer between frozen packages. Read it after 24 hours.
Keep the refrigerator and freezer doors closed as much as possible. Of course, the “don’t stand with the refrigerator door open” rule has been around since your dad was yelling it from the living room, but now it is more important than ever. The cold air that escapes when the door is opened is replaced by warm air that must be cooled all over again.
Make sure your refrigerator door seals are airtight. Test them by closing the door over a piece of paper or a dollar bill so it is half in and half out. Is you can pull the paper or bill out easily, the latch may need adjustment, the seal may need replacing, or you might consider buying a new unit.
Keep the freezer stocked. Frozen items in the freezer help keep neighboring items frozen. You can also add containers or bags of ice if you are unable to keep your freezer full of food.
Cover liquids and wrap foods stored in the refrigerator. Uncovered foods release moisture and make the compressor work harder.
