Is your fridge working harder than it should?
If your energy bills are creeping up or your food isn’t staying cold enough, your refrigerator might be quietly struggling behind the scenes. Fortunately, with a few simple habits, you can keep it running smoothly—and save money while you’re at it.
Here are seven practical, easy-to-follow tips to boost the efficiency of one of the hardest-working appliances in your home.
1. Set the Right Temperature
Your fridge works best when set between 37–40°F (3–4°C), and your freezer should stay at 0°F (-18°C). These settings help prevent food spoilage and reduce energy use. Setting the temperature too cold doesn’t make your food last longer—it just makes your fridge work harder than it needs to.
2. Don’t Overstuff It
A packed fridge might seem like a sign of good planning, but too much food blocks air circulation. This leads to uneven cooling and puts extra strain on the compressor. Aim to keep your fridge about 70–80% full for the best performance.
3. Clean the Coils Every 6 Months
The condenser coils on the back (or underneath) of your fridge can get clogged with dust, pet hair, and debris. When that happens, your fridge has to work overtime. Use a coil brush or vacuum to gently clean them twice a year.
4. Check the Door Seals
If cold air is leaking out, your fridge is using more energy to stay cool. A quick test: close the door on a dollar bill. If it slides out easily, your gasket might need replacing.
5. Let Food Cool Before Storing
Placing hot leftovers directly in the fridge causes the internal temperature to rise, forcing the compressor to work harder. Let food cool to room temperature first—your fridge will thank you.
6. Control Odors with Baking Soda
Place an open box of baking soda on a shelf to absorb odors and keep things smelling fresh. Replace it every 3 months for best results.
7. Don’t Forget Underneath
Over time, dust and crumbs can collect under your fridge and block airflow. Carefully slide the appliance out and vacuum underneath every few months.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your refrigerator running efficiently doesn’t take much time, but it pays off in a big way—longer appliance life, lower energy bills, and safer food. If you’re ever unsure about maintenance or think your fridge isn’t working like it should, don’t hesitate to reach out to a qualified appliance technician.