Every refrigerator includes a ‘power-saving switch’: Easy to spot, yet many people don’t know about it.
Adjusting the refrigerator temperature appropriately not only keeps food fresher for longer but also saves energy.
Refrigerators perform an important function in food preservation, particularly during the hot months. However, many users underestimate the need to set the proper temperature. Incorrect temperature settings might diminish efficiency while increasing electricity use.
Most refrigerators today feature temperature settings ranging from 0 to 7, as shown on the temperature control knob. Each number denotes a different cooling level:
- Level 0 indicates that the refrigerator is switched off.
- Level 1 is the least effective cooling level.
- Level 7 is the most powerful cooling level.
Many people believe that adjusting the refrigerator’s cooling level to the maximum (6 or 7) in the summer will help preserve food. However, in practice, this compels the compressor to run continuously at high power, resulting in increased energy consumption and shorter appliance lifespan.
Tips for Using Your Refrigerator Efficiently and Saving Energy
1. Adjust the Temperature Properly
Many modern refrigerators include a digital temperature display, which allows for accurate adjustments based on specific conditions. However, you can manually tweak the settings to improve accuracy.
In the summer, set the refrigerator to levels 2–4 to maintain a steady internal temperature while saving energy. To freeze food rapidly and keep it fresher for longer, set the freezer compartment temperature to below -18°C.
In the winter, when the temperature outside lowers, you can slightly raise the fridge temperature. This helps to maintain food freshness while minimizing electricity consumption. Adjust the temperature according to the weather, the amount of food stored, or the addition of additional supplies.
2. Clean the Refrigerator Regularly
Refrigerators require regular cleaning and maintenance because they are always in use. Defrosting the freezer is especially critical in older refrigerators, which accumulate thick layers of ice.
A buildup of ice not only takes up space but also obstructs airflow, lowering cooling effectiveness. Therefore, it is advised that you defrost and clean your refrigerator at least twice a year.
Also, do not overlook the condenser coils and compressor. If too much dust accumulates, heat dissipation is reduced, resulting in higher energy use. To eliminate dust, use either a vacuum cleaner or a soft-bristle brush. Also, inspect and clean the door seals; if they become dusty or loose over time, the refrigerator’s sealing efficacy will suffer.
3. Minimize Unnecessary Door Openings
A refrigerator operates like a giant icebox. When you open the door, chilly air exits, and warm air rushes inside. The device, therefore, has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature, which consumes more electricity.
To save energy:
Only open the refrigerator door when required. Avoid leaving the door open too long.
4. Organize Food Neatly
Another helpful idea is to categorize food and return it to the appropriate compartments after use. This way, you can easily find what you need without having to rummage inside the fridge, reducing the time you spend opening the door.
How you organize your food has a direct impact on the refrigerator’s cooling efficiency. To maximize energy savings:
- Ensure that cold air circulates uniformly throughout the refrigerator. To keep fruits and vegetables fresh, store them in humidity-controlled drawers.
- Place meat and seafood on the lowest shelf to avoid cross-contamination.
- Proper organization not only keeps food fresher for longer, but also promotes even air circulation throughout the refrigerator.
