Saving energy when using refrigerators and freezers

There are some simple things you can do to save energy when installing or using a refrigerator or freezer:

Choose a cool position. Placing a fridge or freezer in direct sunlight or next to an oven or other heat source can increase energy consumption substantially.
Allow food to cool before putting it in the fridge (but don't let it sit at room temperature for too long – this could be a health risk).
Make sure there's plenty of air flow around the back (>80 mm gap); if the fridge is installed in a specially built alcove or cupboard, make sure there's good ventilation out of the top as well. Restricting ventilation could add 15% or more to the energy bill. Some refrigerators have condensors (which get warm) built into their walls - in this case follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding a minimum clearance (generally > 25 mm).
Never put a refrigerator or freezer in an unventilated cupboard.
Clean the condenser coils on the back occasionally (if there are any) - it makes a difference to the performance!
Defrost regularly if you don't have a frost free model. Ice insulates and if it isn't removed before it becomes thick, the unit will become less efficient. With freezers, defrost whenever the frost grows to around 5mm thick.
Don't open the door more frequently than you need to; and make sure the door seal is clean and tight. Don't leave the door open, especially if you are indecisive!
Don't set the temperature too low. A change of one degree can effect energy consumption by 5%. Use a thermometer to check the temperature. Freezers should operate at -15°C to -18°C while fresh food compartments should be held at around 3°C to 4°C. But warm internal temperatures can mean that food will not keep as long. Remember that the temperature will vary depending on whether the compressor is operating or not.
In freezers, food packages should be scattered and should never be grouped or stacked together until they are completely frozen.
When away for a longer period, turn off, empty and clean the refrigerator and leave the door ajar.
If you're going to throw out your old fridge, see if there's a chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) recycler in your area. The government department which looks after the environment in your area may be able to help you.
If you have a second refrigerator that is surplus to your needs, make sure that this is stored with the power off and the door left ajar, until it is actually required. Unfortunately, many people keep their old refrigerators (which can be old and very inefficient) but leave these plugged in and operating when they are not required. This can be expensive (in terms of electricity) and means that savings achieved by a new efficient refrigerator or freezer can be more than wiped out.

This page last modified 27 June 2007