In the age of rising energy costs, Australians are always on the lookout for practical ways to save money and reduce household expenses. One of the most significant energy consumers in our homes is an appliance we can’t simply switch off—the refrigerator. It’s a vital kitchen staple, preserving our food and keeping our drinks chilled, but it also contributes to our electricity bills running higher than we’d like.
Appliance expert Colin Jones from Appliances Online has shared some invaluable advice that could help you slash hundreds off your electricity bill, and it all starts with a simple 5cm rule.
Understanding the importance of appliance efficiency is key. Every bit of extra effort your fridge has to make to maintain its temperature translates into more electricity used, which, in turn, affects your electricity bill. One of Jones’ most straightforward tips to enhance your fridge’s efficiency is to check the space around it.
‘Ensure there is at least a 5cm air gap around the fridge for proper ventilation,’ Jones advises. This gap allows for adequate airflow, which helps the fridge dissipate heat more effectively and operate smoothly without overexerting itself.
But the placement of your fridge is just as crucial. If you have the luxury of choosing where to position your fridge, Jones suggests keeping it away from heat sources such as ovens or areas that receive direct sunlight. The additional heat from these sources forces the fridge to work harder to keep its contents cool, thus using more energy.
Temperature settings also play a pivotal role in energy consumption. For optimal efficiency, Jones recommends setting your fridge to 3°C and your freezer to -18°C. These temperatures are sufficient to preserve your food without causing the fridge to overwork.
A clean fridge isn’t just about hygiene; it’s about energy savings, too. While wiping down interior shelves is essential for cleanliness, focusing on the door seals and fridge coils is crucial for efficiency. Dirty coils can add a significant amount to your electricity bill each month, with Fast Fridge Repairs noting an increase of $15 to $20 due to reduced efficiency. Dusting these coils at least once a year can prevent this unnecessary expense.
Door seals are another component that can impact your fridge’s energy usage. A poor seal can increase the running cost by up to 20 per cent, according to Fridge Seal. To test your seal’s effectiveness, Jones suggests the paper trick: ‘Place a piece of paper in the door and close it; if the paper stays firmly in place, the seal is working.’
Daily habits also contribute to your fridge’s energy consumption. Avoid opening the door too frequently or leaving it open for extended periods. Cool food before placing it in the fridge, and be mindful not to overfill it, as this can restrict airflow and make the fridge work harder.
For those with a second fridge that’s only used occasionally, Jones has a simple solution: ‘Turn it off when not in use and only power it on when needed.’ This can lead to significant savings over time.
By following these expert tips, you can ensure your fridge isn’t a silent drain on your finances. Remember, small changes can lead to big savings, and in times like these, every dollar counts.
Have you tried any of these tips to lower your energy costs? Do you have other clever tricks for keeping your bills down? Share your experiences with us in the comments section below—we’re all in this together—helping each other save!
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