Refrigerators
10 small tips for lessening your fridge's power draw
Minor changes can add up to major savings
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Your refrigerator is a power hog, running 24 hours a day, 365 days of the year. Even small changes in the way you use your fridge will add up over time. Whether you recently bought a new fridge or inherited your mom's old one from 20 years ago, here are some practical steps to improve energy efficiency and extend your fridge's lifespan.
| Tip | Why? |
|---|---|
| 1. Clean the coils | The metal coils on the back of your fridge remove heat from the compressor. Keeping them free of dust and debris helps the compressor work more efficiently. |
| 2. Cover your food | Covered food releases less moisture. Since compressors work harder to cool moist air, covering items reduces energy use and preserves freshness. |
| 3. Keep the door closed | Leaving the door open lets warm room air in, forcing the compressor to cycle more often. Open the door as briefly as possible to reduce energy waste. |
| 4. Smaller fridges for smaller families | More interior space requires more energy to cool. Choose a fridge size appropriate for your household to increase overall efficiency. |
| 5. Set the right temperature | Keep the fridge between 35°F–38°F and the freezer at 0°F per Department of Energy guidance. Use a thermometer to confirm accuracy by leaving it in place for 24 hours. |
| 6. Check the door seals | Warped or damaged seals let warm air leak into the fridge. Replace damaged seals or repair them to maintain proper cooling efficiency. |
| 7. Keep your fridge full | Cold items help maintain a stable internal temperature. A well-stocked fridge cools more efficiently. |
| 8. Don’t put hot items in the fridge | Hot dishes raise the internal temperature, forcing the compressor to work harder and risking bacterial growth. Let food cool before refrigerating. |
| 9. Turn off the ice maker | An unused ice maker can still draw power. Turn it off when the bin is full or if you rarely use ice. |
| 10. Keep your fridge away from heat | Avoid placing the fridge next to ovens, ranges, or in direct sunlight. Ambient heat forces the fridge to use more energy to stay cool. |
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