 Refrigerator Maintenance Keeps Costs Cool
One of the largest consumers of energy in a home is the refrigerator. Even the most efficient brands use about 700 kWh per year and most homes do not have a top of the line model. Improve a refrigerator's overall efficiency while saving money and energy at the same time with these tips.
Keep it Clean
It's a good idea to clean the refrigerator about once a month with a vacuum or broom. Behind and underneath the refrigerator are metal coils. These heat-condenser coils transfer heat from inside the unit to the outside air. Because dust acts as an insulator, dusty heat exchange coils cannot get rid of heat as easily and the refrigerator has to work harder to keep the inside cool.
Thermostat Settings
If the unit has an energy-saver setting, use it. If it doesn't, try keeping the thermostat between 37 and 42 degrees F in the refrigerator and at 0 degrees F in the freezer. If the temperature dial only has numbers on it, consult the owner's manual, or use a thermometer to determine the temperature of each setting.
It is also important to consider the effect of outside temperatures on the unit. Don't place the unit in direct sunlight or near any heat source, such as an oven or a heat register. The cooler the surrounding temperature, the easier it is for the refrigerator to maintain a cold temperature inside.
Good Habits
Good habits will also save money. For example, don't stand in front of an open refrigerator and window shop. It wastes energy. Decide what you want before you open the door. The interior temperature of the unit can shoot up 10-20 degrees F each time the door is open. Also, get into the habit of checking the door to make sure it is completely closed after opening.
Check for Leaks
Over time, the vinyl or rubber seals on refrigerator doors tend to harden or become twisted. Check the door gasket periodically and replace it if it's worn or leaking. To find air leaks, pass the back of your hand around the closed door to detect escaping cool air. Or insert a piece of paper at various points between the seal and the edge of the door when its closed. If the paper can be easily pulled out, it's time to replace the seal. Replacement seals are inexpensive and are sold at hardware and appliance stores.
One vs. Two
Finally, many families have a refrigerator and a freezer. Simply said, it is more efficient to use a single larger refrigerator than operate two or more small ones.
More Information and Additional Resources:
Some information in this press release was adapted from the American Council on an Energy Efficient Economy's publication, "Consumer Guide to Home Energy Savings, 7th Edition:as well as "Homemade Money" by Richard Heede and staff of the Rocky Mountain Institute.
Additional information on home energy savings can be found in the Home Series: Home Cooling booklet available on the Iowa Energy Center’s Web site, www.energy.iastate.edu or by calling (515) 294-8819.
The Iowa Energy Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving Iowa's energy efficiency and the use of renewable fuels.
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