As UK Summers grow increasingly warmer, finding efficient refrigeration solutions is essential for keeping your food fresh and your drinks perfectly chilled. Whether planning a Summer barbecue or simply trying to survive the heatwave; here are some top tips to help your food stay cool & save energy.
1. Choose Energy-Efficient Models
When shopping for a new refrigerator, energy efficiency should be a top priority. High-efficiency models consume less power, which not only reduces your energy bills but also helps protect the environment. Look for refrigerators with high energy ratings or the ENERGY STAR label, indicating they meet stringent energy efficiency guidelines set by the European Union. These appliances are designed to keep your food at optimal temperatures without using excessive power.
Tip: Consider the long-term savings when purchasing an energy-efficient refrigerator. Although the initial cost may be higher, the reduced energy consumption over the appliance’s lifespan can lead to significant savings.
2. Proper Placement
Where you put your fridge matters! It can actually use more energy if it’s stuck in a hot spot. To keep your fridge running smoothly and efficiently, place it in a cool, shaded part of your kitchen. Avoid direct sunlight and appliances that give off heat, like ovens, dishwashers, and radiators. The reason? Extra heat makes the fridge work overtime to stay cool, which means using more energy and costing you more money.
Tip: Ensure there is adequate space around the refrigerator for proper air circulation. This helps the appliance expel heat more efficiently, further enhancing its performance.
3. Keep It Full
A well-stocked refrigerator operates more efficiently than an empty one. The reason is simple: the more items there are inside, the less air needs to be cooled when you open the door. This helps maintain a consistent temperature, crucial for keeping your food fresh.
Tip: If your fridge is running low on contents, fill the gaps with bottles of water. Not only will this help maintain the temperature, but you’ll also have a supply of cold water ready for those hot summer days.
4. Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your refrigerator in top condition. Here’s a checklist to ensure your fridge stays efficient:
– Clean the Coils: Dust & dirt on the coils can cause your refrigerator to overheat and work harder. Clean them every six months with a vacuum or brush.
– Check Door Seals: Ensure the seals are tight and free from cracks. Faulty seals allow cool air to escape, making your fridge less efficient.
– Correct Temperature Settings: Adjust your fridge to the recommended temperature settings—37°F to 40°F (3°C to 4°C) for the refrigerator and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer.
– Defrost When Necessary: If your refrigerator doesn’t have an automatic defrost function, make sure to manually defrost it to prevent ice build-up.
Tip: Schedule a routine maintenance check every few months to keep your appliance running smoothly & efficiently.
5. Use a Thermometer
A fridge thermometer is a handy tool for keeping an eye on the internal temperature. It helps ensure your fridge stays within the ideal range, which is important for both food safety and saving energy. With a thermometer, you can avoid your fridge being too warm, which could lead to food spoilage, or too cold, which might freeze items unnecessarily.
Tip: Place the thermometer in the centre of the refrigerator for the most accurate reading. Regularly check the temperature & adjust the settings as needed.
Additional Tips for Staying Cool
While efficient refrigeration is crucial, there are other ways to keep your kitchen cool and comfortable during the summer:
Limit Appliance Use: Use your oven & stove less frequently. Instead, opt for grilling outside or preparing no-cook meals.
Ventilation: Ensure your kitchen is well-ventilated. Use exhaust fans to expel hot air and keep windows open to allow for natural airflow.
Curtains & Blinds: Keep them closed during the hottest parts of the day to block out direct sunlight.
Following these tips will make your fridge a summer hero, keeping your food fresh and your energy bills under control, even during the hottest UK heatwaves.
Comments are closed