Older large refrigerator<\/td> 2,000<\/td> \u00a3340<\/td> \u00a328.33<\/td> \u00a30.94<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\nIn the UK, the difference in running costs between the refrigerator types are even more noticeable – the costs are quite a lot more compared to the US. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
But the good thing here is that the consumption amounts noted above are averages, so more modern energy efficient appliances will cost less to run. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Taking the same 325kWh Amazon.com best seller, in the UK, if running an older large refrigerator, the return on investment could be experienced in just over 1 year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is, however, an example of extremes. You\u2019re not likely to be running an older large fridge and looking to upgrade to a smaller more energy efficient appliance. But in general, you should consider upgrading as you’ll likely save money in the long term. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, what other cost saving opportunities are there when it comes to refrigerators? Let\u2019s take a look.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
9 simple tips to reduce the cost of running your refrigerator<\/h2>\n\n\n\n\nKeep your refrigerator away from heat sources<\/strong>. Fridges next to heat sources need to use more power, and therefore money, to keep their internal temperature low. So keep your refrigerator away from cookers, microwaves, radiators, and even windows in hotter climates.<\/li>\n\n\n\nGive your fridge some space<\/strong>. We\u2019ve all seen it. The top of the fridge becomes a shelf, pilled with cereal, tea bags and fruit. Unfortunately, it\u2019s even a tempting spot to put a microwave. Don\u2019t do this. While it is practical, try not to stack items on the top of your refrigerator. And try to give at least an inch of space around it. Ensuring a good airflow around your fridge will help keep your costs low.<\/li>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t put warm food in your fridge<\/strong>. Let it cool first so your refrigerator doesn\u2019t have to work so hard. Putting warm food in a fridge will increase the internal temperature. This will cause your refrigerator to consume more power as it works brings the temperature back down again. Leaving warm food out to cool beforehand will help you avoid increased running costs. <\/li>\n\n\n\nCheck the seals on your doors<\/strong>. Over the weeks, months and years, wear and tear can cause refrigerator door seals to crack, warp and lose effectiveness. Cool air can then escape, which means your refrigerator may be using more power than it should when trying to maintain a set temperature. So check the seal around your fridge to ensure that cool air is not escaping.<\/li>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t over-cool your fridge<\/strong>. Find the temperature that keeps your items sufficiently cool for you. Overcooling is a waste of energy and money.<\/li>\n\n\n\nKeep the coils clean<\/strong>. Check the coils at the back for dirt or dust. The coils transfer heat away from the fridge. So any build up on the coils will limit heat transfer. Build up on the coils reduces the efficiency of your appliance and, as a result, increases costs.<\/li>\n\n\n\nDon\u2019t open the door unnecessarily<\/strong>. Most of us have been there. Regularly checking the fridge mindlessly, hoping that something new has appeared. Everytime you open the fridge, warm air enters, and the fridge needs to use more power to reach the set temperature.<\/li>\n\n\n\nJust power what you need<\/strong>. If you\u2019re considering upgrading get a fridge that is appropriate to your needs. Don\u2019t waste money on an oversized refrigerator or a separate fridge and freezer that are half empty. Reducing the size of your refrigerator will reduce your running costs. If you\u2019re considering downsizing, top mounts (freezer on top) tend to be more energy efficient. <\/li>\n\n\n\nConsider switching energy provider<\/strong>. Reducing the cost per unit of electricity will reduce the cost of running your refrigerator. If you\u2019re out of contract, consider shopping around for a cheaper kWh rate. Energy providers typically have great offers aimed at enticing new signups.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\nEco impact<\/h2>\n\n\n\n You may be surprised that it\u2019s so cheap to run an average refrigerator for a day. At just 18c, it costs more to run a space heater<\/strong><\/a> for just 1 hour.<\/p>\n\n\n\nThis 18c per day adds up to a considerable amount over the years, so be sure to use the energy saving tips to help keep your costs low. This will help the environment too.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If everyone in the US alone used refrigerators that are more efficient (according to Energy Star), 9,000,000,000 pounds of greenhouse gas emissions would not enter our atmosphere each year<\/mark>.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\nThat\u2019s equivalent to 10,129,854,417 miles<\/strong> driven by a standard passenger vehicle. <\/p>\n\n\n\nOr, to put it another way, it would take 5,331,335 acres<\/strong> of US forest 1 year to remove the emissions produced by inefficient refrigerators.<\/p>\n\n\n\nSo a more efficient fridge is not just better for your pocket, it\u2019s better for the environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Related: <\/em>Mini Fridge Wattage [1,494+ Units | Most Efficient Revealed]<\/em><\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\nDon’t miss this 6 Quick Wins Cheat Sheet<\/strong> can help you reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint, fast<\/strong>:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/div>
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