Put These in the Fridge to Save on Your Energy Bill!

With a few simple tricks, you can significantly reduce your monthly electricity bill.

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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

Frequently asked questions

No, it is not advisable to put a refrigerator in the garage, as it can be inefficient and even harmful to the appliance. Garages are often uninsulated and experience extreme temperature fluctuations, which can cause the fridge to work harder and consume more energy. Additionally, garages can be damp and humid, creating an environment that promotes mold growth and affects the fridge’s performance.

There are several simple yet effective strategies to reduce energy consumption and lower your energy bill. Firstly, ensure your refrigerator is set to the optimal temperature; 37-40 degrees Fahrenheit for the freezer and 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit for the fridge are ideal. Also, regularly defrost your freezer and clean the coils at the back or underneath to ensure efficient operation. Keep your fridge well-stocked, as a full fridge is more efficient than an empty one, and consider using a refrigerator thermometer to monitor temperatures.

The temperature settings of your fridge play a significant role in energy consumption. If the temperature is set too low, the compressor will work harder and use more energy to maintain that temperature. Conversely, if the temperature is too high, food safety could be compromised. Finding the optimal temperature range for your fridge and freezer, as mentioned earlier, helps balance energy efficiency and food preservation.

Yes, absolutely. Maintaining the correct temperature in your refrigerator is crucial for food safety and preserving the quality of your food. By keeping the temperature within the optimal range, you prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses, and extend the shelf life of your perishables. This not only saves you money on energy bills but also reduces food waste and keeps your family healthy.

In addition to temperature settings and maintenance, there are a few other simple practices to consider. Ensure proper ventilation around your fridge, allowing at least an inch of space on all sides for air circulation. Regularly check the door seals to ensure they are tight and effective, preventing cold air from escaping. Also, avoid keeping the fridge door open for extended periods, as this causes temperature fluctuations and wastes energy. Lastly, plan your meals to minimize frequent opening and closing of the fridge door.
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