In every household, the refrigerator stands as the cool heart of the kitchen, tirelessly preserving fresh groceries, delectable leftovers, and refreshing beverages. It’s a staple appliance that we often take for granted, but its importance cannot be overstated.
However, while a refrigerator is a common presence in the kitchen, not a lot of people actually know how to maximize it and thus miss out on a lot of benefits. These include having your foods stay fresher for longer, significant energy savings, and a longer lifespan of the appliance.
To make the most of your fridge and enhance its efficiency, here are a few expert tips:
Choose an Inverter Refrigerator
If you’re in the market for a new refrigerator, it’s smart to opt for an inverter model. This type of refrigerator utilizes a variable-speed compressor that adjusts its output based on the cooling demands, which results in substantial energy savings. With precise temperature control and quiet operation, an inverter refrigerator is an investment that pays off over time.
Upgrade to a Refrigerator with a High Energy Efficiency Ratio
When shopping for a new refrigerator, pay close attention to the Energy Efficiency Ratio (EER). A higher EER rating means that the appliance consumes less electricity while maintaining its cooling performance. This translates to lower energy bills, which is a benefit that resonates with a lot of consumers. In the Philippines where the cost of electricity makes up a large chunk of monthly bills, this is an important factor when choosing an appliance such as the refrigerator.
Position Your Refrigerator in a Cool and Dry Location
Where you place your refrigerator in your kitchen can have a significant impact on its efficiency. Ideally, you should position it in a cool and dry location away from direct sunlight and heat sources. This will reduce the workload on the compressor and help your fridge operate optimally. This advice is even more important for people living in tropical climates like the Philippines.
Ensure Your Refrigerator Has Enough Space Around the Perimeter
Your fridge needs room to breathe, quite literally. Adequate ventilation around the refrigerator is essential for dissipating the heat generated during the cooling process. Allot about 5 cm of space around all sides of your refrigerator. Keep this in mind when planning your kitchen or when deciding where to put your refrigerator.
Remember to Shut the Door of Your Refrigerator
This might sound like a no-brainer, but it’s important to keep your refrigerator door tightly closed to make it run as efficiently as possible. Every time you open your refrigerator, warm air rushes inside the compartment. If you fail to close the door properly, the warm air lingers and prevents the air from cooling down. This causes the compressor to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
To maximize efficiency, check that the door gaskets or seals are in good condition and remind family members to refrain from unnecessarily opening the fridge.
Keep Your Refrigerator Clean and Organized
A clean and well-organized refrigerator not only looks good but also functions better. That’s why it’s important to regularly clean spills and remove expired items from your fridge. This will prevent odors and maintain optimal airflow. You also need to organize your groceries to make it easier to find what you need. When you’re able to find items faster, you can reduce the time the refrigerator door is open. While it may not seem like much savings now, repeated good habits can mean significant savings in the long run.
Clean the Refrigerator’s Condenser Coils
Maintaining the cleanliness of your refrigerator’s condenser coils is essential for efficient cooling. Accumulated dust and debris can strain the condenser and even shorten the lifespan of your fridge. Fortunately, it’s easy to clean the condenser coils using a vacuum or a suitable brush. Make sure that the appliance is unplugged while cleaning for your safety.
Fill Up Your Refrigerator
Surprisingly, a fuller refrigerator is more energy-efficient. This is because the thermal mass of stored items helps maintain a stable temperature, thus reducing the need for the compressor to cycle frequently. That said, be sure not to overfill the refrigerator space because it can block airflow and hinder cooling.
Avoid Keeping Hot Food in the Refrigerator
We all love leftovers, but storing hot food in the refrigerator is a big no-no. It not only strains the compressor but also raises the internal temperature. This could potentially affect the safety and quality of the stored food. As such, you should allow hot dishes to cool down at room temperature first before refrigerating them.
Monitor Your Refrigerator’s Actual Interior Temperature
Remember that your refrigerator’s dial may not precisely reflect the actual temperature inside. Your refrigerator could slightly deviate from the set temperature, being either warmer or cooler. Ideally, aim for a range between 3°C and 5°C. If your thermometer indicates the lower end of this spectrum, adjusting your appliance’s temperature dial slightly upward can result in noticeable energy efficiency gains.
Your refrigerator completes the beating heart of your home—the kitchen. It works hard 24/7 and is sure to be sorely missed when it breaks down. So, be kind to your refrigerator and give it the proper care it deserves. In return, it will serve you and your family well for years to come.