Refrigerator & Freezer Tips

1. Like other appliances that hear and cool, refrigerators are big energy users. IF your refrigerator door does not shut tightly, check the door seal to see if it needs to be cleaned or replaces. A door leak allows cool air to escape, forcing your refrigerator to use more energy to keep food cold. 

2. Cleaning the condenser coils found in the back or bottom of the refrigerator will maximize its efficiently. A brush or vacuum can be used. Be sure to unplug the refrigerator before you start cleaning. 

3. Keep the refrigerator away from heating appliances (ovens and dishwashers), windows, and heating ducts. Direct exposure to heat forces the unit to work harder and use more energy. If you have a freezer or refrigerator in your garage, remember that the garage is not cooled and it will run more to keep cool. 

4. When purchasing a new refrigerator consider a high efficiency model. Compare yellow Energy Guide labels and choose the unit that uses the least amount of electricity. 

5. A freezer’s efficiency is increased by keeping its compartment full. Be careful not to block the fan that allows cold air to circulate. 

6. Although automatic defrost refrigerators are convenient, their defrosting features use a lot of electricity. A manual defrost refrigerator typically uses 36% less energy. 

7. Check temperature settings for the most efficient appliance operation. Refrigerator temperature should be 36-38 degrees and freezer temperature should be 0-5 degrees.