Fridge FAQ
- — 17 August, 2011 16:53
A high-end fridge from LG.
Does a side-by-side fridge use more or less energy than an upright fridge/freezer?
A side-by-side fridge will generally use more energy than upright fridge/freezer of a similar capacity. However, it is possible for a side-by-side fridge that is more energy efficient to use less energy than an upright fridge/freezer which is less energy efficient.
So make sure you look carefully at the energy consumption number in kilowatt-hours (kWh) per year on the Energy Rating label. The fridge with the smaller number will use less energy.
Is there a way to reduce running costs and save energy?
Aside from choosing an energy efficient and low energy consumption fridge, there are some simple things you can do day-to-day to reduce running costs and save energy.
Install the fridge away from direct sunlight and away from hot areas like ovens, dishwashers and heaters. Make sure the recommended gaps are left around the fridge.
Try to minimise the number of times the door is opened, and also don't leave the door open for a long time. Refrigerators with a drink hatch reduce the amount of times you need to open the entire door for frequently used items like milk or juice. Refrigerators with door alarms that alert you when the fridge has been left open also help to reduce energy waste. If you have small children who like to raid the fridge, then a fridge with a child lock feature will help to stop kids from getting up to no good in the kitchen.
Keeping the fridge and freezer reasonably full will also help reduce the temperature loss when the door is opened, saving energy.
Can I place my fridge next to my oven or dishwasher?
Placing a fridge next to an oven, dishwasher or another hot appliance is not recommended as the fridge will need more energy to keep cool. This will increase the cost of running the fridge and may cause a fire.
What is a frost-free fridge?
A frost-free refrigerator is one that does not need manual defrosting.
How does an ice cube maker in a fridge work?
Water is added to an ice tray and then frozen over time. The ice tray is then emptied and the process repeated.
How long will my fridge last?
Many years. The actual length of time a fridge will last will depend on the specific model. For normal domestic use, a fridge can last up to 20 years.
Does my fridge require regular maintenance?
Most fridges do not generally require maintenance. If the fridge is not frost-free, it will require defrosting at regular intervals. As a general rule you should clean your refrigerator once a month.
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