Maegan-Leigh JacobsYour refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, running around the clock to keep your food fresh and cool. But this essential appliance can also be a significant contributor to your monthly electricity bills if not properly maintained.
Explore six must-do fridge maintenance tasks that will not only extend the life of your refrigerator but also help lower your electricity bills:
1. Keep the coils clean
The coils on the back or underneath your refrigerator play a crucial role in dissipating heat and ensuring efficient cooling. Over time, these coils can accumulate dust and dirt, making your fridge work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Regularly vacuum or brush off the coils to keep them clean and functioning optimally.
2. Check the door seals
A tight seal on your refrigerator door is essential to prevent cool air from escaping and warm air from entering. To check if the seals are working properly, place a dollar bill on the door and close it. If you can easily pull the dollar out, it’s time to replace the seals. Faulty seals can significantly impact the energy efficiency of your fridge.
3. Maintain proper temperature
Keeping your refrigerator and freezer at the right temperatures is crucial for energy efficiency. The recommended temperature for the refrigerator is around 3°C, and the freezer should be set at -18°C. Ensure that you don’t over-cool, as this can consume unnecessary energy.
Pexels
4. Defrost your freezer
Frost buildup in the freezer can reduce its efficiency and make it work harder to maintain the desired temperature. Regularly defrost your freezer to keep it running efficiently. Some modern fridges come with self-defrosting features, but manual defrosting may still be required occasionally.
5. Organise and clean
A cluttered and disorganised fridge can hinder airflow and make it difficult for your refrigerator to cool food properly. Regularly clean and organise your fridge, and ensure that there is enough space for air to circulate around the items inside.
6. Use energy-saving features
Many modern refrigerators come with energy-saving features such as energy-efficient compressors and LED lighting. Take advantage of these features and consider upgrading to an energy-efficient model if your fridge is more than a decade old. Energy-efficient refrigerators can significantly reduce your electricity consumption.
By following these six must-do fridge maintenance tasks, you can keep your refrigerator in top shape and lower your electricity bills. Regular cleaning, temperature monitoring, and maintaining proper seals are key to achieving better energy efficiency. A well-maintained refrigerator not only saves you money but also helps protect the environment by reducing your carbon footprint.
Feature image: Pexels
