Energy Saving Tips: Large Appliances - Refrigerator

• Don't let refrigerator freezers build up more than 6 mm of frost. Defrost regularly to keep refrigerators working their best.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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