Refrigerator Savings Guide
Fact:
Refrigerators are the single biggest power drains
in most households—accounting for 9%_25% of a household's total energy
consumption! A typical refrigerator made around 1990 uses about 900 kilowatt_hour
per year.
Best Features:
Look for the Energy Guide label to see how much electricity, in kilowatt_hours,
the refrigerator or freezer will use in one year. The smaller the number,
the less energy it uses. When purchasing your appliance, look for the
following:
_ ENERGY STAR® labeled units—they
exceed federal standards by at least 20%. _ Top freezer models because
they use 7%_13% less energy than side_by_side models.
_ 16_20 cubic foot size (maximum energy_efficient models).
_ Models without automatic icemakers and through_the_door dispensers because
these features increase energy use by 14%_20% and add $75_$250 to the
purchase price.
_ Models that do not have an anti_sweat heater unless you want to consume
5% to 10% more energy.
Save Money:
Operating one large refrigerator/freezer
is less costly than operating two smaller refrigerators/freezers. You
can save more money if you...
_ Replace
a refrigerator that is 15 years or older with a new, more efficient unit.
_ Keep frost build_up to ¼ inch or less by defrosting manual_defrost refrigerators
and freezers regularly.
_ Make sure your refrigerator and freezer door seals are airtight.
_ Keep the doors closed as much as possible, and make sure they are closed
tightly.
_ Avoid overcrowding, since too many dishes obstruct air circulation and
reduce cooling capabilities.
_ Set your temperature gauge to 37_40°F for fresh food and 0_5°F for frozen
food.
