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Refrigerator
From TipThePlanet
- When shopping for a new refrigerator, choose energy efficient refrigerators. Check the yellow labal attached to the refrigerator. Units that have a higher Energy Efficiency Factor are more energy efficient and cost less to operate. New refrigerator models use 30% less electricity than those built 10 years ago (before 1999).
- Choose the refrigerator size appropriate for your household's needs. An 8- to 10- cubic foot ref generally holds a food capacity for wo people, while an extra cubic foot should be added for each aditional person in the household. If the ref is too big and you don't keep it filled, it wastes energy and costs more to operate; if too small, you waste energy by keeping and making the content fit.
- Place refrigerators at least 4 inches away from the wall so as not to overwork the motor and to allow efiecinet heat release from the condenser coils.
- Don't position your refrigerator in direct sunlight or near heat-producing appliances like stove.
- Avoid putting in too many items in the refrigerator. Overcrowding obstructs the air circulation inside your refrigerator and reduces cooling capabilitites.
- On the other hand, it is better to keep the freezer full. The more air you displace with food and beverage, the less cold air you lose when you open the freezer door.
- Allow hot food to cool to room temperature before putting them in the refrigerator. Otherwise, the refrigerator works even harder to bring the temperature down.
- Cover liquids, wrap food, and wipe off moisture from containers before putting them in the refrigerator. Uncovered food release moisture and moisture makes the compressor work karder. It may also cause excessive build up of ice in your freezer.
- Defrost regularly. When there is already ΒΌ inch frost build up, defrost your refrigerator. Too much frost makes your unit operate inefficiently.
- To optimize the temperature setting of your refrigerato, store the most perishable items in the coldest part of your refrigerator which is usually th back or top shelf.
- Open the refrigerator doors only when necessary.
- Don't store paper bags or any material behind the refrigerator. They can cut airflow, making the unit work harder.
- Clean the condenser coils at least twice a year using a vacuum cleaner or broom. The coils at the back of the unit remove heat.
- Check door gasters. Make sure refrigerator doors sealed tightly to prevent cold air from escaping. Place a sheet of paper between the door. If you could pull it easily, it is a sign that it is not airtight and makes cold air leak.
