Refrigerators
Consumers today have many choices in refrigerators, from various sizes with a variety of features, all of which affect energy consumption. Today’s new refrigerators use about 30 per cent less energy than the average of those models in homes today. More efficient compressors, improved cooling coil design, increased insulation values and tighter door seals all contribute to higher efficiency models.Energy Star®, an international program adopted by Natural Resources Canada, is a simple way for consumers to identify products that are among the most energy efficient on the market. Energy Star® qualified refrigerators are available in all sizes of standard and compact models. To qualify for the Energy Star label, appliances must exceed the minimum federal energy performance standard in Canada's Energy Efficiency Regulations by specific percentages. For standard-size refrigerators larger than 7.75 cubic feet, the threshold is 15 per cent.
The average life of a refrigerator is 17 years, so a little energy efficiency research can be a good investment. There are two labels to look for when purchasing any new appliance. First, look for the Energy Star® label to ensure the appliance meets the energy performance standard. Second, look for an EnerGuide label, which indicates the annual electricity that particular model would use under normal operating conditions. The EnerGuide label allows you to compare electricity use for different models.
Over 77 per cent of Alberta’s electricity is generated by non-renewable fossil fuels, a major source of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Refrigerators have the highest appliance saturation rate in Canada at 1.24, which means that on average, 25 per cent of Canadian households have more than one refrigerator. Therefore energy efficient freezers can contribute to the province’s overall efficiency and GHG reductions.
Energy Savings Tips
- Refrigerator motors and compressors generate heat, so allow enough space for continuous air flow around your refrigerator. If heat can't escape, the refrigerator's cooling system has to work harder and uses more energy.
- Ensure the rubber door seals are clean and tight, as they can deteriorate over time. A simple test is to insert a piece of paper between the door and fridge. If the paper slips out easily, replace the seals. Another method is to put a light inside the refrigerator to check for leaks. If you can see light around the door gasket, the seals need replacing.
- Maintain your refrigerator at 3° Celsius (C) for optimum efficiency and food safety. This is usually the mid-level setting on the temperature controls on most refrigerators. The freezer compartment setting should be at -18° C. Use a thermometer to check the temperature and adjust accordingly.
- Clean any dust from the back or bottom coils twice a year. Make sure there is at least 8 cm (three inches) of air space between the back of the refrigerator and the wall, and at least 2.5 cm (one inch) on both sides of the refrigerator to allow for good air circulation.
- Keep the door closed; decide what you want from the fridge before you open the door.
- Keep refrigerator away from heat vents, sunlight and the oven.
