How to Make Your Refrigerator More Efficient
Posted on: 18 October 2017
If your energy bills are higher than those of your neighbours, the problem could be as close as your kitchen. An inefficient refrigerator can cause your energy bills to spike, and that could be costing you money every month.
You do not have to buy a new energy-efficient refrigerator to save money, although that is certainly a viable option. Energy-efficient appliances can pay for themselves over the years, but sometimes a new purchase is simply not in the budget.
With a little bit of planning, you can improve the efficiency of the refrigerator you already own. The savings from that increased efficiency can really add up, and before you know it you will have enough to buy a brand new and even more energy-efficient model.
Set the Right Temperature
Setting the temperature too low is one of the best ways to waste energy and money. Set the refrigerator temperature to 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer at 0 degrees. Those settings will keep your food cold and prevent spoilage while improving the overall efficiency of the appliance.
Keep It Clean
Dust and dirt accumulate around the coils of the refrigerator, and that creates a build-up of heat that makes the appliance work harder. Regular vacuuming and dusting will eliminate this problem, improve efficiency and lower energy costs. Do not forget the back of the fridge; dust and dirt build up there as well. Placing the refrigerator on casters will make cleaning behind the unit faster and easier.
Watch the Location
If you are building a new home or remodelling your kitchen, pay careful attention to the location. Keep the refrigerator well away from all sources of heat, including the oven and even the dishwasher. Anything that heats up the area will reduce the efficiency of an appliance whose job is to keep food cold.
Keep It Well Stocked
A full refrigerator is an efficient refrigerator. Keep your refrigerator and freezer as fully stocked as possible to help it run more efficiently. Keeping milk and other perishables in the back of the fridge can also improve efficiency while extending the shelf life of its contents.
Cool Your Leftovers on the Counter
Never place hot food in the refrigerator. Doing so just makes the appliance work harder and runs up your energy bills. Allow all leftovers to cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator.
Keep It Covered
Cover your leftovers before placing them in the fridge. Cooling an exposed surface requires more energy than cooling a covered container. If you can't find a suitable lid, cover the bowl with plastic wrap or aluminium foil.
These tips can improve the efficiency of your refrigerator and lower your energy costs. Whether you use the savings to buy a newer model or just put it in the bank, the money you save will be well worth the effort.
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