Does a Refrigerator Run More or Less When It Is Full?
Because it requires a constant power supply, your refrigerator costs you money every minute of every day. While this can be a discouraging thought, you can take steps to reduce the amount of energy your appliance consumes. Knowing whether your refrigerator runs more or less when full and reviewing other energy-saving tips can help you keep utility bills in check. Does this Spark an idea?
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Fullness Levels
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A refrigerator that is mostly full should run less than one that is more empty. When stocking your refrigerator, be sure to leave room for air to circulate around its contents. GE Appliances notes that adding a large amount of warm or hot foods to your fridge prompts it to run more. The manufacturer also advises customers to keep their freezer at least 75-percent full to reduce running time.
Temperature and Use
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The amount of contents in your refrigerator is not the only factor that affects how often it runs. If your refrigerator receives direct sunlight, expect it to run more than one out of the reach of sunbeams. Using the ice maker and opening the refrigerator's doors often also prompt it to run more. Opening the door allows cool air to slide out, and warm air gets pulled in. Maytag points out that the motors in its refrigerators will run 40 to 80 percent of the time at normal room temperatures.
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Maintenance Issues
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Heavy frost buildup or blocked air vents in the freezer can cause your refrigerator to run more frequently. Dirty condenser coils and door gaskets that don't seal properly can also take the blame for longer running times.
Energy-Saving Tips
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GE Appliances recommends covering foods and wiping moisture from bottles and cartons before placing them in the refrigerator. Avoid placing refrigerators near a stove, dishwasher or heating vent; this can create warmer air temperatures around the appliance. First Choice Power advises customers to thaw frozen items in the refrigerator instead of on the counter because this helps keep the fridge cool.
Buying Advice
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If you're shopping for a new refrigerator, look for the bright yellow Energy Star label to compare how much energy it uses annually versus other models. The Energy Star program says appliances with a freezer on top use less electricity than other designs, and the most energy-efficient models are usually those with 16 to 20 feet of capacity. Appliances that dispense water and ice through the door use more power than other models.
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References
- Horizon Services, Inc.: Frugal Fridge Maintenance Can Save You Energy...and Cold Hard Cash!
- First Choice Power: Refrigerator/Freezers
- GE Appliances: Refrigerator - Normal Run Time
- GE Appliances: Refrigerator - Energy-Saving Tips
- Maytag: Refrigerator Runs Too Much
- Electrolux: Frequently Asked Questions
Resources
- Photo Credit eggs and milk image by Jeffrey Zalesny from Fotolia.com
