To reduce the cost of powering your refrigerator or freezer, you can take three key steps: First, replace the gasket, which is the rubber door seal that prevents warm air from entering; you can find the specific gasket for your model here. Second, ensure you regularly clean the condenser coils, as dust and dirt can hinder their efficiency; use a long-handled bristle brush and a vacuum for this task. Finally, minimize the time the doors remain open, as opening them frequently forces the appliance to consume more energy to maintain its set temperature.
1. Replace the gasket (rubber door seal).
A gasket is the rubber seal that outlines your refrigerator and freezer doors. It’s an often overlooked part that has the critical job of sealing out warm air.
Over time, gaskets wear and no longer seal the way refrigerators/freezers need it to do. In fact, it’s common for gaskets to weaken, loosen and tear within just a few years. When this happens, warm air enters the interior of the refrigerator or freezer. It must work harder to remove the heat. That means more energy consumed and higher bills for you.
Fortunately, gaskets are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Find the gasket specifically for your refrigerator model by entering it here.
2. Clean off the condenser coils.
Condenser coils are responsible for removing heat from refrigerators and freezers. They’re the large, radiator-like coils located at the back or beneath the unit. When dust and dirt cling to the coils, it’s harder for the refrigerator to remove heat. The result is increased energy consumption. Without regular cleaning, this can lead to problems and costly repairs. Use this long-handled bristle brush and a vacuum to easily and efficiently clean off the coils.
3. Know what you want before you open your refrigerator/freezer.
Yes, your mother was right. The longer you keep your refrigerator or freezer doors open, the more money you’re spending. Every time you open its doors, your refrigerator or freezer has to use more energy to remove the heat and return the interior to its set temperatures.
You’ll conserve energy by making a decision on what’s for dinner before opening the doors.
Some people report a noticeable dip in their monthly energy bills after completing these steps. Monitor changes in your refrigerator’s energy consumption by plugging in an energy usage meter.
Anything you’d add to this list? Please share in the comments below!
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