Energy Saving Tips: Large
Appliances - Refrigerator
TIP
Don't let refrigerator
freezers build up more than 6 mm of frost. Defrost regularly to
keep refrigerators working their best.
Tips
Set the temperature for only
as cold as you need; check manufacturer's recommendations.
Don't keep that old,
inefficient refrigerator running in the basement for occasional
refreshments. It could cost you $150 or more per year in
electricity.
Don't overfill the
refrigerator, as this blocks air circulation. Conversely, a full
freezer will perform better than an empty one.
Check your refrigerator's
door seal by closing the door on a $5 bill. If it's held tightly
in place, the seal's OK; if not, the door should be adjusted or
the seal replaced.
Clean your refrigerator's
coils (back) and air intake grill (below the doors) every 3
months.
Keep refrigerators away
from all sources of heat, including direct sunlight, furnace
vents, radiators, and appliances such as ovens and dishwashers.
Allow at least 5
centimeters all around your refrigerator (or as recommended by
the manufacturer) to allow heat to escape from the compressor and
condensing coil.
Allow hot foods to cool
before putting them in the refrigerator.
Frozen foods should be
allowed to defrost in the refrigerator; the cool air from the
packages will help maintain coolness.
Energy Facts
The refrigerator is one of
the biggest electricity guzzlers in most homes. While efficiency
has improved a lot in recent years, even top-of-the-line models
can use more electricity than ENERGY STAR-qualified
refrigerators.
Looking to buy a new
refrigerator?
Be sure to check the
EnerGuide label on every fridge, and consider energy savings in
your buying decision. Invest a little more and buy an ENERGY
STAR®-qualified model. ENERGY STAR® - qualified refrigerators
exceed minimum federal energy efficiency standards for energy
consumption by at least 10%, which will save you more money in
the long run.
