Refrigerators are the workhorses of the home — running 24/7, year in and year out.
1. Clean the condenser coils twice a year
Dust on the condenser coils is the #1 reason fridges overwork and die early. A 10-minute vacuum every six months can cut your energy use by up to 25%.
2. Don't overpack — and don't underpack
Air needs to circulate. Aim for about 75% full for best efficiency.
3. Check the door seals monthly
Bad seals can double your fridge's running cost.
4. Mind the temperature
- Fridge: 3–4 °C
- Freezer: −18 °C
5. Leave a gap behind it
Always leave at least 5 cm clearance behind and on the sides.
6. Defrost manual freezers when ice gets thick
Once ice buildup exceeds 1 cm, efficiency tanks.
7. Listen for the small sounds
A new clicking, humming or buzzing sound usually means something is starting to fail.