If you're like most people, chances are your refrigerator/freezer is one of the largest energy users in your home, gobbling up about 20% of your household's annual energy costs. Why? Because it requires electricity to operate, and it's on 24 hours a day (costing from $7.55 to $24.00 per month).
A refrigerator works best when it's kept in good condition. So check the door seals. If a seal is cracked, or you feel cold air leaking out, the seal should be replaced.
A 19-year old, 22-cubic-foot side-by-side refrigerator/freezer costs about $283 per year to operate. But a brand new high-efficiency refrigerator costs only $178 per year to operate -- a savings of $105 each year on your energy bill.
If you have an extra refrigerator or freezer and don't keep it full, you could save $283 a year simply by unplugging it.
Check your thermostat controls. To work most efficiently, your refrigerator should be set between 38°F and 40°F. The freezer temperature should be set at 0°F.
Newer refrigerators use half as much energy as older models of the same size, so they cost half as much to run. Be sure to compare cubic footage and purchase price, as well as estimated operating costs. The yellow EnergyGuide label can help you in your decision-making process.
The yellow EnergyGuide label on new appliances can be a valuable resource in helping you select a new appliance. It will show you the estimated annual operating cost, which can help you make the decision that's right for you.
If you have a manual defrost freezer, don't forget to defrost regularly. More than 1/4 inch of frost makes your freezer work harder to keep your food (and the frost) frozen.
Dirty condenser coils could lead to higher operating costs. Coils, found on the back or bottom front of your refrigerator, should be checked and cleaned at least twice a year.
A refrigerator that's not level may cause the door gasket to seal improperly, letting cold air leak out. Set a glass of water on top to check. Adjust the legs until the water looks level.
Keep it in a well ventilated, dry and cool space. Refrigerators and freezers near ovens, stoves, water heaters, clothes dryers or other crowded or warm places have to work harder.
A refrigerator works more efficiently when you open its door as little as possible. So make your decisions before opening the door and get everything you need quickly and at one time.
To check door seals on your refrigerator and freezer, place a flashlight inside and close the door. If you can see light with the door closed, it's time to replace the seal.
Covering foods will reduce moisture buildup on the inside of the refrigerator. Also, wipe moisture from bottles and other containers before placing them back in the refrigerator.
Before you store leftovers in the refrigerator or freezer, allow them to cool slightly. That way, your refrigerator or freezer won't have to work to cool them off.
You can save energy by keeping the Energy-Saver Switch turned on (which actually turns the anti-sweat heater off). Anti-sweat heaters prevent moisture build-up on the outside of a refrigerator, which is generally not needed in areas of low humidity like Southern California. Check your owner's manual for directions on your model's switch.
Refrigerators operate most efficiently when they are full, but not overloaded. While it's true that frozen foods help to keep the air cool, over-packing food in either compartment can prevent cold air from circulating properly. Refer to your owner's manual for the correct capacity.
Why cool something you'll probably throw out anyway? If you're going away for a few days, get rid of foods that are likely to spoil. If you'll be gone for more than a month, consider cleaning out your refrigerator, unplugging it and leaving the doors open.*
* Caution: Some older models are impossible to open from the inside, a hazard for children and pets. Also, older models may have difficulty restarting.