We have always wasted electricity without knowing it

Refrigerators are one of the few household appliances that never take a break. Running day and night, they keep our food fresh and safe. But because they operate non-stop, they’re also among the biggest contributors to your home’s electricity bill.

What many people don’t know is that a simple adjustment inside your fridge — often just the turn of a small dial — can help you save a surprising amount of energy, especially during the colder months.

How a Simple Setting Can Reduce Power Use

Most refrigerators allow you to adjust their cooling level, usually on a scale from 1 to 5 or 1 to 6, depending on the model. In the summer, when temperatures rise, it makes sense to keep your fridge on a higher setting. However, in winter, you can safely lower the cooling level — and your electricity consumption — without compromising food freshness.

Setting the control to level 2 or 3, or even level 1 during winter, is often enough.
At level 1, the internal temperature typically stays between 2°C and 5°C, which is ideal for keeping food fresh while using less energy.

You can apply the same logic to the freezer. Lowering the freezer’s cooling intensity during colder months helps reduce power usage without affecting food safety. This small tweak can make a noticeable difference on your monthly bill.

Adjusting Temperature Based on Food Quantity

The right temperature also depends on how full your refrigerator is:

• Less food: Lower the cooling level to prevent energy waste.
• More food: Increase the cooling level to maintain proper preservation.

For the freezer, if you’re storing large quantities of fresh items like meat or seafood, keep the temperature around -18°C. This prevents bacterial growth and maintains freshness longer.

Extra Tips to Maximize Energy Efficiency

In addition to adjusting temperature settings, adopting a few smart habits can help your refrigerator run more efficiently:

1. Choose the Right Location

• Keep your refrigerator at least a few inches away from walls to allow proper ventilation.
• Avoid placing it near ovens, stoves, or direct sunlight — excess heat makes the compressor work harder and shortens its lifespan.

2. Don’t Leave the Door Open

• Every time the door stays open, cold air escapes and the compressor must compensate.
• Close the door promptly after use to maintain stable cooling and save power.

3. Use Glass or Ceramic Containers

• These materials retain and distribute cold air better than plastic.
• They help the fridge stay cool more efficiently and maintain consistent temperatures.

4. Clean and Maintain Regularly

• Wipe down and clean your refrigerator every 1–3 months.
• Dust and dirt buildup around vents or coils can block airflow and force the motor to use more energy.
• Regular cleaning ensures better performance and a longer appliance life.

Final Thoughts

By simply adjusting the cooling level during winter and following a few maintenance tips, you can cut your refrigerator’s electricity consumption without sacrificing freshness.

Small changes — like setting the temperature correctly, organizing food wisely, and keeping the fridge clean — can translate into noticeable savings on your energy bills over time.