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Have You Checked Your Fridge Lately?
Turning off the lights when you leave a room, unplugging appliances when they’re not in use, replacing air filters regularly and installing a programmable thermostat often lead the list when the topic is conserving energy at home. But, what about your refrigerator? Routine refrigerator maintenance is painless and not at all pricey. Here are a few tips to keep your fridge running like new.
Test the Seals with a Dollar Bill
The seals around your refrigerator door are probably not something you think about every day, but if they are not in good shape, they could keep your fridge from maintaining an ideal temperature. To get rid of dirt and debris, be sure to clean your seals with a toothbrush and mixture of baking soda and water every six months.
Loose seals mean cool air is escaping, which wastes energy needed to keep your food cool or frozen. Not sure if your fridge is sealed tight? Try the dollar bill test: close the bill in the door so that half is in and half is out. If it slips out easily, you may need to replace them. You can purchase new seals from just about any home improvement store.
Clean the Coils
Dusty coils hinder your refrigerator’s efficiency. These coils store coolant that your fridge uses to keep the inside temperature cold. Biannually, pull your fridge from the wall to take a look at the coils in the back. If they are in need of dusting, unplug the fridge and vacuum them with a brush attachment.
Fill it Up
The fuller your fridge, the cooler it gets. Cold foods and drinks help absorb warm air that flows in when you open the door. So, even if you eat out more often than you cook, store as many items in your fridge as possible to keep it full.
Be sure that your refrigerator is set at the right temperature – between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit for the fridge and 0 degrees for the freezer. The right temperature will help you conserve energy, but also preserve your food longer and keep it safe to eat.
