14 Ways to Reduce Fridge Energy Consumption
1. To maximise fridge efficiency, it is important to ensure that there is space at the back, sides and top of fridges to allow excess heat to escape. Restricting aeration can add approximately 15% to the energy use of the fridge.
2. Try and place refrigerators in cool places i.e. avoid placing them in direct sunlight or other heat sources (such as next to an oven or dishwasher) which would increase energy consumption.
3. Try not to leave fridge doors open for extended periods of time.
4. If you do not own a defrost model, try to defrost freezers regularly as the fridge will become less efficient if thick, insulating ice coatings exist.
5. Regularly check that fridge seals are clean and close properly, as if they are not closing properly, energy will be wasted. Seal effectiveness can be checked by placing a piece of paper over a seal and closing the door. If the paper slides easily when it is gently pulled the seals may need to be replaced.
6. Instead of regularly opening and closing the fridge before cooking, try to conserve energy by getting all of the ingredients out at once.
7. When thawing frozen foods, place it in the fridge. This will help to keep the rest of the fridge cool and reduce electricity consumption.
8. Allow hot foods to cool before putting them in the fridge.
9. Try filling a thermos with chilled water and have it on the bench instead of regularly opening and closing the fridge to get out drinking water. The thermos technique can also be continued throughout winter to keep boiled water warm.
10. Try to be conscientious about how fridge space is managed to best conserve energy. Keeping a fridge full is best as it means there is less space to cool. However, it is also important not to over pack a fridge as this will cause it to work harder and air circulation can be obstructed. If a fridge has a lot of free space, try putting some bottles of water in it to use the space, or consider buying a smaller more energy efficient fridge. If a fridge is getting over full, try to clean it out regularly and plan for meals to avoid excess wastage.
11. In winter, remember to increase the temperature of the fridge by 1-2 degrees. A change of one degree can change energy consumption by around 5%. If you are unsure of the fridge and/or freezer temperatures, they can always be tested using a thermometer.Fridge temperatures should be set to approximately 3-4 degrees Celsius and freezers between -15 and -18 degrees Celsius for the best efficiency.
12. Keeping foods and liquids covered will reduce moisture which can cause the refrigerator compressor to work harder.
13. Anti-sweat and automatic ice making features of refrigerators are incredibly inefficient and can increase electricity consumption by 5-10% or 14-20% respectively. Switching off these features can dramatically decrease the cost of running the fridge.
14. Before going away for extended trips, empty and clean fridges and leave them open. Alternatively, some fridges have a vacation mode which can be used.