Refrigerators and freezers operate 24 hours a day, all year round. Proper use of these appliances not only helps to reduce their energy consumption, but also preserve their lifespan, which represents long-term savings.
In this article, Frigelux shares with you best practices to adopt to avoid energy loss, improve the performance of your devices, and keep them running smoothly for many years.
1. Setting the right temperature
A setting that is too cold unnecessarily increases power consumption. Conversely, setting the temperature too high can result in inadequate food preservation.
- Refrigerator: 4°C in the middle
- Freezer: constant -18°C
Check the actual temperature with a thermometer in the right place, and adjust if necessary.
2. Avoid prolonged opening
Every time a door is opened, warm air is drawn in. The appliance must then compensate by producing additional cooling.
- Open the fridge or freezer as short as possible
- Avoid opening several times in a row to take a single food
- Remember to organize the compartments to find what you're looking for quickly
3. Do not overload the device
An overstuffed fridge or freezer makes it difficult to cold air circulation, this forces the motor to work harder.
- Always leave a little space between foods
- Do not stick products to walls
- Store food in stackable boxes for easy access optimize volume without blocking air
4. Allow dishes to cool before storing
Placing a still-warm dish in the fridge or freezer raises the temperature inside, forcing the compressor to work harder.
- Leave your dishes cool to room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before storing
- Do not exceed 2 hours at room temperature to avoid health risks
5. Regular cleaning and defrosting
A clean, well-maintained machine works better, longer.
- Defrost your freezer as soon as the frost layer reaches 5 mm (excluding No Frost models)
- Clean your refrigerator shelves and bins once a month
- Apply a damp cloth to the door seals to keep them flexible and watertight
- Don't forget the rear grille (condenser): removing dust helps dissipate heat more efficiently
6. Check condition of door seals
Worn or clogged seals allow hot air to pass through, impairing preservation and increasing consumption.
- Check that the door closes properly: if a sheet of paper slips easily, the seals need to be cleaned or replaced
- Clean joints with a damp cloth and mild soap to prevent hardening
7. Placing the appliance in the kitchen
The direct environment of your device has a strong influence on its efficiency.
- Install it away from heat sources (oven, hotplates, radiator, exposed window)
- Leave at least 5 cm between back of unit and wall
- Ensure that ventilation grilles are not obstructed
8. Give preference to well-packaged products
Moisture from poorly packaged products promotes frosting in the freezer, forcing the appliance to work harder.
- Use hermetically sealed boxes or bags
- Limit bulky packaging that impedes air circulation
- Wrap foods individually if freezing in large quantities
9. Avoid storing unnecessary food
The more the appliance is loaded, the more it consumes to maintain temperature.
- Sort your products regularly
- Don't store condiments or dry foods that don't require refrigeration
- Freeze in portions rather than storing everything in bulk
FAQ - Maintenance and consumption of refrigeration appliances
How often should a freezer be defrosted ?
As soon as the frost layer reaches 5 mm. This makes it possible toAvoid up to 30% over-consumption.
Does my appliance consume more power in summer ?
Yes, in hot weather. It is recommended to monitor indoor temperature and reduce prolonged openings.
Does an old fridge consume more energy ?
Yes. Older models are often less well insulated and equipped with less efficient motors. A refrigerator over 10 years old can consume up to twice as much as a recent model.
In a nutshell
For reduce energy losses and extend the life of your appliances Frigelux :
- Set the right temperature (4°C / -18°C)
- Avoid prolonged opening
- Don't overload storage space
- Allow food to cool before storing
- Clean and defrost regularly
- Check door tightness
- Place the device in a suitable location
Simple, effective and sustainable ways to protect your food, your appliance and your electricity consumption.