How to Improve the Energy-Efficiency of Your Old Fridge

 

Appliances these days are designed to be more energy-efficient. They are equipped with features such as smart technology that also helps reduce energy consumption; however, along with their advanced features is the expensive price tag attached to them. This is especially true when it comes to household appliances like a fridge. While it is very enticing to experience how new fridges work and how they can impact your energy bill, the actual cost of buying a new fridge might give you second thoughts.

If you don’t have the budget yet to buy an energy-efficient refrigerator, it’s okay to hold off your plans. In the meantime, you can try some foolproof ways to maximise the energy efficiency of your old fridge. Here are some of the tips to guide you.

 

 

Tips to make your old fridge more energy-efficient

 

1. Ensure proper placement.

Have you ever thought of the importance of location for your fridge to become more energy-efficient? Location matters. If you place your fridge in a corner where there is a lot of sun, it will have to work harder most of the time. Make sure that it is positioned in a shady place so that it can stay cool without having to work harder.

Moving your fridge to an ideal location would be necessary, especially if you want to reduce your energy bills. As a guide, ensure that its location will not be under direct sunlight and not positioned next to the stove or dishwasher, as these appliances tend to affect its capacity to keep cool.

 

2. Use correct temperature settings.

The right temperature settings can help your fridge function more efficiently. Ideally, your fridge’s temperature should be lowered a bit to compensate for the warmer air that comes in during warmer months. In winter, it should be the other way around. This will help reduce your energy bills.

Aside from energy efficiency, the right temperature will also help keep foods properly chilled so that they may last longer and stay fresher. This is also an effective way to prevent foodborne illnesses, too.

According to The Australian Standard on fridges, the average temperature of the fresh food compartment should be 3°C. This is the ideal temperature as it will prevent foods from freezing while keeping them below 4°C.

 

3. Keep it well-stocked.

A full fridge doesn’t only make a happy household, it also makes your fridge ‘happy.’ The thermal mass of its contents affects its capacity to maintain the ideal temperature. Keeping it well-stocked also means that its compressor won’t work as hard, as it doesn’t need to cycle on and off as much. As a result, you will be able to extend the life of the compressor and reduce the running costs of your fridge. 

NOTE: Make sure that when keeping your fridge stocked you still leave room to allow proper air circulation. 

 

4. Inspect door seals

Just like when weather stripping your windows, you also have to ensure that the door of your fridge is properly sealed. Fridge doors need to be sealed so that they can trap air and prevent it from escaping the fridge. When a door seal fails, energy bills could soar.

TIP: Do the dollar note test. Put a $5 dollar note in the door as you close it. Try to slide the note out with the door closed. If you can do it easily, your door seal may need replacement.

 

5. Avoid unnecessary opening.

It is important to keep the door of your fridge closed most of the time. Remember that every time you open it, you are causing your fridge to work harder and drive an increase in electricity costs. When preparing food, make it a habit to take all of the food or ingredients out that you need in one go. Avoid the habit of opening your fridge without really knowing what you want to get from it.

 

6. Don’t stuff it with hot food.

You may not know it, but you are already harming your fridge by putting hot leftovers in it. Allow food to cool off a little until it is no longer producing steam before putting it in the fridge. This way you can prevent it from working harder and using more energy.

 

ALSO READ: Common Household Appliances in Australia that Consume the Most Electricity

 

Aside from the above-mentioned tips, it is also important to find the right electricity provider in Australia that can offer energy plans that are suited to your needs. With the right plans and deals, you could save more on energy costs. Do your research and compare. Electricity Wizard has a list of top electricity providers so that you can choose from some of the best options in the market.

 

Visit Electricity Wizard’s website or use its FREE energy comparison tool to be guided in choosing an electricity provider near you.