Tips to Optimize the Energy Use of a Fridge
Refrigerators are one of the biggest contributors of a typical residential electricity bill with about 15%, but if operated efficiently, it can be significantly reduced. Although buying a 5-star rated refrigerator is the first thing one should do, there are several other ways to cut down the energy consumption of the appliance.
How to Cut down the Energy Consumption of a Refrigerator
- Check that the back of the fridge is ventilated and free of dust. Vacuuming this area 2 to 3 times per year can reduce your energy consumption by up to 6%.
- Avoid frequent opening of the door or leaving it open for a long time.
- Don’t place the food inside while still warm.
- Don’t place the refrigerator or freezer where it receives direct sunlight or near other sources of heat. Leave about 5 cm of space from the wall for air circulation.
- Don’t overfill the refrigerator or freezer, as the highest efficiency is obtained at 3/4 of its capacity.
- Defrost the fridge at least once a year. Layers of ice that covering the freezer increase energy consumption by 30%.
- Check that the doors are well sealed and have old gums replaced. If a paper on the door slides down when you close it, they need to be changed.
- The recommended temperatures are 3 to 5 ºC for a refrigerator and -15 ºC for a freezer.
- Disconnect them only if you are going to be absent more than 15 days (not recommended for shorter absences), clean it, and leave the door open.
All Appliance Repair in Denver
Your refrigerator is something you can’t live without, so we understand the frustration you feel when such a vital appliance stops working. We are CFC state licensed for Freon, repair sealed systems, and compressors and work on all brands of refrigerators, electronics, and computer systems. We’ll do a diagnostic and get your fridge fixed as soon as possible. Contact us today!