Clean the dirty coils on the back or bottom front of your refrigerator to improve efficiency. Check your owner’s manual for maintenance instructions.
Get rid of any older refrigerators or a second refrigerator. It costs you up to $120 a year to operate.
If you are thinking about buying a new refrigerator, check the annual energy cost on the Energy Guide Label. Side-by-side refrigerators use approximately 7-13% more energy than similarly sized models with the freezer on top.
Keep your refrigerator temperature between 36 degrees Fahrenheit and 40 degrees Fahrenheit and your freezer between 0-5 degrees Fahrenheit. A lower setting can increase energy use.
Leave enough space between the refrigerator and the walls. Trapped heat increases energy consumption because the air cannot circulate.
Purchase an ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerator and apply for a rebate from Anaheim Public Utilities.
Refrigerators at least 10 years old use much more electricity than newer models do. Though a new model will cost you money up front, it will save a great deal of money in the long run because of its increased efficiency.
Refrigerators operate most efficiently when they are full, but not overloaded. Over-packing the freezer can prevent cold air from circulating properly.
Use the power saver switch found on many 5- to 10-year-old refrigerators, unless the humidity is high.
When going on a vacation of 3 days or more, set temperatures higher if control is possible.