In ‘A cool investment’, I wrote about how important it is to buy an energy efficient fridge, since fridges can be responsible for up to 20 percent of a household’s power bill. However, an energy efficient fridge can only deliver so much if it’s left neglected in the corner.

To get the most out of your fridge

• keep it insulated,

A fridge is essentially a well-insulated pantry. Its weakest link is the door. Whenever the door is opened, cool air leaks out while moist, warm air creeps in and the fridge has to work harder to maintain the right environment. Only open the fridge door when you know what you want, and close it again as soon as you’re done. Keep your fridge contents organised so that you don’t have to play five-minute hide and seek whenever you want <insert tasty item here>.

A closed fridge door will still leak if its seal isn’t intact. Check the seal by closing the door on a currency bill or a shopping docket. If the door stays shut, then the seal works; if it doesn’t, the seal is faulty and needs to be replaced. Extend a fridge seal’s life by keeping it clean. A wipe down with a rag and some warm, soapy water should do the trick. Continue reading →