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How to save energy with a fridge-freezer combination

15 January 2025

The fridge-freezer combination is one of the biggest energy consumers in the house. Your fridge and freezer are always running, using energy to keep food cool and frozen. Fortunately, there are several ways to reduce the energy consumption of the appliance. With simple adjustments and habits, you can not only save on your energy costs, but also contribute to a more sustainable household. We share 8 useful tips to make your fridge-freezer more energy-efficient!

Tip 1: Set the temperature of your fridge and freezer correctly

Did you know that the temperature in your fridge-freezer has a big impact on energy consumption? The ideal temperature for the fridge is 4°C and for the freezer, it’s -18°C. Don’t set the appliance too cold, as this increases energy use. The correct temperature is also crucial for the shelf life of your products. Check the temperature regularly and adjust if necessary.

Tip 2: Don’t overload your fridge-freezer

If your fridge or freezer is too full, it can obstruct air circulation. The appliance will then need more energy to maintain the desired temperature. By leaving enough space between items, air can circulate freely, allowing the appliance to use less energy and perform better.

Tip 3: Ensure proper ventilation around your appliance

Don’t place your fridge with freezer too close to the wall or in a corner where air can’t circulate properly. It’s important to leave enough space around the appliance so the heat it generates can escape easily. Also, make sure the ventilation grilles are not blocked.

Tip 4: Don’t leave the door of your freezer or fridge open unnecessarily

Do you often spend a long time looking for that one item in your fridge or freezer? We’ve all been there, but it’s not ideal if you want to save energy. Opening the fridge or freezer door frequently or for too long leads to energy loss. Keep your refrigerator and freezer organized so you know exactly what you have, where it is and can quickly close the door. 

Also, make sure the door closes properly. If the door doesn’t seal properly, cold air escapes and the appliance has to use extra energy to return to the correct temperature. Regularly check the door seals for wear and tear and make sure the door always closes securely.

Tip 5: Defrost your freezer regularly

A thick layer of ice in your freezer takes up space and can also lead to higher energy costs. The appliance won’t work efficiently when ice builds up. It’s important to defrost your freezer regularly, about twice a year. This is also a good opportunity to clean it. Read here how to defrost your freezer quickly without turning it off.

Tip 6: Clean the condenser

The condenser removes heat from your fridge with freezer and keeps the appliance cool. Clean the condenser at least once a year to remove dust and dirt. It is usually located at the back of the appliance.

Tip 7: Don’t put hot food in the fridge or freezer

When you’ve just cooked a meal, you may want to put the leftovers straight into the fridge or freezer. However, hot food raises the temperature in your refrigerator or freezer. This is not only bad for your energy costs, but also for the shelf life of your products. The risk of bacteria increases significantly. Let hot dishes cool before storing them.

Tip 8: Choose an energy-efficient fridge-freezer

If your appliance is already a bit older, it may not be as energy-efficient as newer models. In that case, it may be worth investing in an energy-efficient appliance. But what if you don’t want to make a large investment? With Homie, you can rent an energy-efficient fridge-freezer through an affordable subscription. This way, you don’t have to pay a high purchase price, but you can still benefit from a new, energy-efficient appliance. Discover the benefits of renting and check out our models on our website.

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