Chill Out Your Fridge With Help From EarthEasy

We're in the midst of winter, and many of us are bracing for higher utility bills. These tips can help you minimize your refrigerator’s electric appetite:


Tip #1: Temperature settings need to be adjusted for different season.

To check the refrigerator setting, place a thermometer in a jar of water and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning, the temperature should read 34 to 40 degrees F. The freezer should be between 0 and 5 degrees F. Adjust settings if necessary. Temperature settings usually need to be reduced in winter.


Tip #2: Fill the freezer

During winter, freezer space often goes unused. Fill empty milk jugs, or other plastic containers, with water and put them in your freezer. By filling the empty space you reduce the amount of energy needed to keep the freezer cold.


Tip #3: Check the energy saver switch

If your refrigerator has an energy-saver (anti-sweat) switch, it should be on during the summer and off during the winter.


Tip #4: Buy with energy conservation in mind

If you’re looking for a new refrigerator, make energy efficiency part of your selection criteria. The most efficient refrigerators are 16-20cu ft, with a freezer on the bottom or the top rather than the side. Foregoing features like auto defrost, ice makers, and heaters to control condensation not only saves up to 60% more on energy costs and consumption, but lowers the purchase price as well.


Get suggestions for the rest of your home at www.eartheasy.com.