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Cool Refrigerator Tips

We love our refrigerators. They protect and store all of the yummy things we love to eat so they last longer and taste better. But these appliances can also use up some energy. Follow these easy tips for improving the performance of your fridge.

Know What You Want

Decide what you want before you open the door. Less time with an open door, means more cold stays inside reducing the need for the compressor to run.

Check the Temperature

Refrigerator temperatures should optimally be set between 37-40 degrees F and your freezer should be 0-5 degrees F. To test them, place a thermometer in a glass of water in the refrigerator and check after 24 hours. Adjust the thermostat where necessary. Do the same test with your freezer by placing the thermometer for the same amount of time between packages of food.

Keep Free of Frost

Manual defrost refrigerators and freezers must work harder when frost builds up inside them. Defrost them whenever you notice a buildup of frost begin.

Cover Your Food

Unwrapped foods and open liquid containers release moisture, which makes a refrigerator work harder. It also causes foods to dry out quicker making them less tasty.

Replace Worn Door Seals

Worn door seals allow cold air to escape. Test them by placing a piece of paper half in and half out of a closed door. If you can easily pull the paper from the closed door, you probably want to adjust the door latch or replace the seals for a tighter fit.

Buy New

Check the ENERGY STAR rating for the most efficient model refrigerator that meets your household needs. According to Project Energy Saver, just replacing a refrigerator purchased in 1990 with a new ENERGY STAR model can save enough energy to light the average home for more than four and a half months.

For more green tips and news, click here.