Refrigerators are an essential appliance in every household, not only for preserving food but also for providing relief during hot summer days with various delicious cooling treats. However, the continuous operation of refrigerators also translates to a significant amount of electricity consumption.
According to EVN, refrigerators consume more electricity than washing machines, TVs, and dryers due to their constant operation. The cost of running a refrigerator can account for 16-22% of a household’s annual electricity bill.
So, how can we ensure the efficient operation of refrigerators while optimizing energy savings?
1. Place Paper Towels in the Refrigerator
Who would’ve thought that a humble paper towel could be a powerful tool in reducing electricity wastage in refrigerators? The reason lies in the fact that food emits moisture during storage. This moisture condenses into water droplets, which, over time, form a layer of frost on the refrigerator walls. This frost then forces the refrigerator to work harder to maintain its temperature, resulting in increased electricity consumption.
Paper towels, with their excellent absorbency, can help soak up excess moisture, preventing the formation of frost. It is important to replace the paper towels regularly, ideally once a day, to ensure optimal moisture absorption.
2. Utilize Dry Tea Leaves
In addition to paper towels, you can also use disposable masks to absorb moisture and deodorize your refrigerator. Cut one side of the mask, fill it with a handful of dry tea leaves, and securely tie it shut with the mask’s ear loops.

Dry tea leaves are excellent at absorbing moisture and eliminating odors. When combined with the mask, they create a fragrant sachet that keeps the refrigerator fresh and subtly scented.
3. Use Plastic Bottles
Another effective tip for saving electricity is to use plastic water bottles. Fill a plastic bottle almost to the top with water and place it in the freezer compartment of your refrigerator. Once the water has frozen, remove the bottle and place it in the cooling compartment.
The bottle of frozen water helps maintain a stable temperature in the cooling compartment, reducing the refrigerator’s operating time and, consequently, saving energy. It is recommended to have two bottles and rotate them; when the ice in one bottle melts, place it back in the freezer and replace it with the other frozen bottle.
4. Regularly Check the Door Seal
One of the main reasons for increased electricity consumption in refrigerators is a faulty door seal. If the refrigerator’s gasket is not sealing properly, cold air can escape, causing the machine to work harder, reducing its lifespan, and increasing electricity usage.
To prevent cold air leakage and reduce electricity costs, regularly inspect the rubber gasket on the door to ensure a tight seal. Additionally, maintain the cleanliness of your refrigerator by removing dust and dirt from the condenser coils and the exterior. Also, ensure that the frost buildup in the freezer compartment does not exceed 5 mm in thickness.

Additional Tips
While some newer refrigerator models offer automatic ice-making features, these can consume a significant amount of electricity. Unless necessary, consider turning off this feature. Additionally, perform periodic defrosting, especially for frost-covered refrigerators, to prevent the buildup from blocking the air vents.
If your refrigerator is more than ten years old, consider replacing it. Older models tend to be less energy-efficient due to outdated technology and worn-out parts. In contrast, newer refrigerators are designed with improved efficiency, enhanced insulation, and precise temperature control, resulting in lower electricity consumption. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term energy savings will offset the expense.
Source: Sohu