You’ve replaced your light bulbs with energy-saving options, you’ve lowered your thermostat, and you’ve insulated your home. But you still want to shave a few dollars off your energy bill. Look behind or under the fridge for a common culprit. You’ll have to get a little dusty to complete this task, but it’s worth it.
Find out where your fridge condenser coils are located. They’re usually on the back of the fridge or underneath it, behind a small grate. These coils release heat from the unit so your food stays cold in the fridge. If your condenser coils are covered in dust, pet hair, or cobwebs, your fridge has to work harder to chill your groceries.
Take a vacuum attachment to the coils (you may have to remove a cover) for a quick cleaning; check the instruction manual for your model for specific instructions and maintenance tips. Do this every six months to keep your refrigerator running efficiently.
While you’re at it, take a peek at the vents in your freezer. They blow out cold air and can get blocked up with frozen condensation. Wipe these vents with a damp cloth once a month or so to keep them clear. When you’re done, you can reward yourself with some ice cream.
These two tasks take just a few minutes a couple of times each year but can do a lot to keep your food cool—and your power bill pretty chill too.