In the heat, your fridge can become the villain on your electricity bill. Discover 7 tricks to save energy in summer
Summer arrives and, along with the heat, comes that frightening electricity bill. And the fridge is one of the big villains at this time of year: it works double time to keep food cold while the room is hot - especially if it's opened frequently. But is it possible to ease the burden on your pocket without letting your kitchen down? The answer is yes - and with tips you can apply today.
1. Don't put hot food straight into the fridge
This forces the motor to work harder to cool the environment. Wait for food to cool down before storing.
2. Avoid opening the door all the time
Every time you open the door, cold air comes out and hot air goes in. Organize food in a practical way so you can find everything quickly.
3. Check the door rubber
A dry or loose rubber causes cold air to escape, increasing energy consumption. Replace if necessary.
4. Set the temperature correctly
In summer, it's common to put the fridge on full blast - but it's not always necessary. Check that the thermostat is set to the ideal setting for the season.
5. Don't overload with too many items
A refrigerator that's too full hinders the circulation of cold air. Leave space between the food to allow the air to circulate freely.
6. Defrost frequently (for models without frost-free)
Ice build-up on the walls of the freezer hampers the appliance's efficiency.
7. Position the fridge away from heat sources
Avoid leaving it next to the stove, windows with direct sunlight or in stuffy corners. The ideal place is airy and shaded.
Extra: use technology to your advantage
Some modern models have an "economy" or "vacation" function. Activate when you're going to be away for longer or during the night.
Conclusion
With a little care in your day-to-day kitchen life, you can keep your fridge running smoothly without turning your electricity bill into a summer nightmare. And the best thing is that you can preserve food better and avoid waste.
Mirella Mendonça
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