How to Make Your Refrigerator Energy Efficient

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By Arathi
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Making a refrigerator energy efficient makes total sense, because the power guzzling appliances account for 20% of a household's energy bill. Save money, and become eco-friendly by making these simple modifications in the way you use your refrigerator.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

A piece of paper
A thermometer

Step 1

Check the seal of your refrigerator to make sure that it is air-tight. Replace the gasket if a piece of paper easily slips out of the seal when the refrigerator door is closed.
Step 2

Adjust the temperature setting for optimal energy efficiency by setting the thermostat between 35 F to 38 F for your refrigerator, and between 0 F-5 F for your freezer. Refrigeration experts suggest using your own thermometor for better accuracy.
Step 3

Keep the condenser coils at the back of the refrigerator clean by vaccuming them often. The condenser coils may be in a different position depending on the make of your refrigerator. See the resource section for additional tips on how to clean them.
Step 4

Putting hot food in the refrigerator, makes it work extra hard to cool it down. Also covering your food makes your refrigerator energy efficient by reducing moisture condensation on the interior surfaces.
Step 5

Keep your refrigerator, and freezer packed for making them more energy efficient. If you have a smaller family, and packing up the refrigerator with food is not an option, consider storing some of your pantry essentials (like bread) to extend their shelf life. You can always store extra jugs to water to fill in empty spaces.
Step 6

Keeping the refrigerator door open for a long time reduces its energy efficiency. Thinking about what you need before opening the door, and keeping the refrigerator organized minimizes the time a refrigetor door is left open.