Fridge efficiency tips

· New refrigerators can be as much as 50% more efficient then older refrigerators; therefore, if you have a second fridge that is older and not being used as much you can save up to $100.00 per year in energy bills by unplugging the older fridge.

· The temperature reading in a fridge should be about 38 degrees fahrenheit in fresh food section and 0-5 degrees in freezer section. Any cooler means your fridge will be running longer and using more energy.

· Refrigerators are more efficient with air circulation, so do not overload it. If there is a lot of empty space use a jug of water or loaf of bread which will retain the coolness of the fridge better than empty space.

· Have the refrigerator away from any heat source such as a dishwasher, range or direct sunlight.

· Test the door seal to make sure that it is sealing properly.

· Try to limit how often the refrigerator door is opened.

· Do not place hot items into the refrigerator until they have cooled down.

· Cover liquids and wrap foods that are stored in the refrigerator - uncovered foods release moisture and can cause the unit to run longer.

· For refrigerators with a manual defrost, they should be defrosted whenever ¼ of an inch of frost builds up on the walls of the freezer.

· Refrigerator models that have a moisture switch will cost you approximately 5% more to run if left on all year; this switch needs to be on only when moisture is present on the exterior.

· Have the condenser coils on the back or bottom of the refrigerator cleaned every six months - 1 year (the crevice tool on a vacuum works). Your refrigerator will run for shorter periods with cleaner coils.