DOE issues tips on refrigerator use

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Energy (DOE) has provided some saving tips on refrigerator use in its advocacy to promote energy conservation.

In a seminar on “electricity conservation in schools and households” conducted recently, Engr. Jan Ramos, science research specialist II of the DOE, said the refrigerator is one of the largest energy users in the household and accounts for as much as 15 to 20 percent of the total energy consumption in the home.

 As part of its household energy conservation tips, Ramos presented nine ways to conserve electricity on the use of refrigerator. It starts with buying refrigerator with a higher Energy Efficiency Factor (EEF).

DOE also reminds people not to leave the refrigerator door open longer than necessary. It is also important to defrost the refrigerator regularly. Frost acts as an insulating blanket, which causes the motor to work overtime, resulting in an increase in power consumption.

Other tips include cooling food to room temperature before storing these in the refrigerator as placing warm food in the fridge increases the temperature inside. Also, cover liquids and wrap food stored inside the fridge, otherwise, moisture released inside will cause the motor to work harder than normal because moisture is the source of frost.

Place the refrigerator far from stove so that it will not be affected by the heat while cooking. Install it where air can circulate freely around it; do not overcrowd your refrigerator as this interferes with air circulation and overworks the compressor. Check also the refrigerator if it is not losing its cool because of a leaking gasket. Test the gasket by closing the door on a peso bill. If the bill slips out when you pull on it, either the gasket needs a replacement or the door needs adjusting, and clean the compressor units and condenser of the refrigerator periodically following manufacturer’s specifications.    

“If your refrigerator is more than 15 years old already, you can better save on your electric bills if you replace it with a more efficient unit,” Ramos said.

 A priority program of the DOE, Ramos said that the National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Program aims to educate the public on the critical importance of saving electricity not only to cut down on electric bill costs but more significantly, to contribute in fighting climate change which is the bigger issue worldwide. — Garry B. Lao/JPM (THE FREEMAN)