Every Refrigerator Has a 'Power-Saving Switch': Easy to Spot, Yet Many People Don't Know About It

Adjusting the refrigerator's temperature properly not only helps keep food fresh for longer but also reduces energy consumption.

 

 

Refrigerators play a crucial role in food preservation, especially during hot summer months. However, many users still overlook the importance of setting the right temperature. Incorrect temperature settings can reduce efficiency and increase electricity consumption.

Generally, most refrigerators today have temperature settings ranging from 0 to 7, which you can see on the temperature control knob. Each number represents a different cooling level:

• Level 0 means the refrigerator is turned off.
• Level 1 is the weakest cooling level.
• Level 7 is the strongest cooling level.

Many people mistakenly believe that setting the refrigerator to the highest cooling level (6 or 7) in summer will better preserve food. However, in reality, this forces the compressor to run continuously at high power, leading to increased energy consumption and reduced appliance lifespan.

Tips for Using Your Refrigerator Efficiently and Saving Energy

1. Adjust the Temperature Properly

Many modern refrigerators come with a digital temperature display, allowing for precise adjustments based on specific conditions. However, you can also manually adjust the settings for better accuracy.

• In summer, set the refrigerator between levels 2 and 4 to maintain a stable internal temperature while saving energy. The freezer compartment should be set below -18°C to freeze food quickly and keep it fresh longer.
• In winter, when the surrounding temperature drops, you can slightly increase the fridge temperature. This helps preserve food freshness while reducing electricity usage.
• Adjust the temperature according to changes in weather, the amount of stored food, or when adding new groceries.

2. Clean the Refrigerator Regularly

Since refrigerators operate continuously, regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary. Defrosting the freezer is particularly important, as older refrigerators tend to accumulate thick layers of ice.

A buildup of ice not only takes up space but also blocks airflow, reducing cooling efficiency. Therefore, it’s recommended to defrost and clean the refrigerator at least twice a year.

Additionally, don't neglect the condenser coils and compressor. If too much dust accumulates, heat dissipation will be poor, leading to higher energy consumption. You can use a vacuum cleaner or a soft-bristle brush to remove dust. Also, check and clean the door seals—if they become dirty or loose over time, the refrigerator’s sealing effectiveness will be compromised.

3. Minimize Unnecessary Door Openings

A refrigerator functions like a large icebox. Every time you open the door, cold air escapes, and warm air rushes in. The appliance then has to work harder to maintain the desired temperature, consuming more electricity.

To save energy:

• Open the fridge door only when necessary.
• Avoid keeping the door open for too long.

4. Organize Food Neatly

Another helpful tip is to categorize food and place it back in the correct compartments after use. This allows you to find what you need quickly without rummaging through the fridge, which minimizes door-open time.

How you organize food directly affects the refrigerator's cooling efficiency. To optimize energy savings:

• Ensure cold air can circulate evenly throughout the fridge.
• Store fruits and vegetables in the humidity-controlled drawers to maintain freshness.
• Place meat and seafood on the bottom shelf to prevent cross-contamination.

Proper organization not only keeps food fresher for longer but also ensures even air circulation throughout the refrigerator.