How to Keep Your Fridge Running Efficiently: 10 Simple Tips

Your refrigerator runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Small improvements to how you use and maintain it can significantly reduce its energy consumption and extend its lifespan. Here are 10 practical tips.

1. Set the Right Temperature

The fridge section should be set to 3–5°C. The freezer should be set to -18°C. Many people keep their fridge colder than necessary, which wastes energy without any food safety benefit.

2. Keep It Away from Heat Sources

Place your fridge away from the oven, dishwasher and direct sunlight. Heat sources make the fridge work harder. Leave adequate clearance around the sides and back for ventilation (usually 50–100mm per the manufacturer's guidelines).

3. Clean the Door Seals

Inspect the rubber seals around the fridge door. If they're cracked, dirty or not sealing properly, cold air leaks out and the fridge runs harder. Clean them with warm soapy water. Test the seal by closing the door on a piece of paper — it should grip the paper firmly.

4. Don't Overfill or Underfill

An overfilled fridge blocks airflow and can cause uneven cooling. An almost-empty fridge also loses more cold air every time you open it because there's less thermal mass to maintain temperature. Aim for about 75% full.

5. Let Hot Food Cool Before Refrigerating

Putting hot food directly in the fridge forces it to work hard to bring the temperature down. Let cooked food cool to room temperature first (within 2 hours for food safety), then refrigerate.

6. Cover Food and Containers

Uncovered food releases moisture into the fridge, which the compressor then has to remove. Use lids, wraps or airtight containers to store food.

7. Keep the Condenser Coils Clean

Condenser coils at the back or base of the fridge release heat. Dust buildup reduces efficiency. Vacuum or brush the coils every 6–12 months (you may need to pull the fridge out to access them).

8. Check That It's Level

A fridge that isn't level can cause the door to not seal properly and can affect the compressor over time. Use adjustable feet to level the fridge from side to side. A slight backwards tilt (so the door swings shut on its own) is intentional on most models.

9. Open the Door Less Frequently

Every time you open the door, cold air escapes and the compressor has to work to restore the temperature. Decide what you want before opening, and close the door as quickly as possible.

10. Defrost Your Freezer Regularly (if not frost-free)

If your freezer builds up frost, defrost it when the ice is about 1cm thick. Ice buildup reduces usable space and forces the fridge to work harder. Most modern fridges are frost-free, but older models are not.

When to Replace Your Fridge

Even well-maintained fridges eventually decline in efficiency. If yours is more than 12–15 years old, a modern 4–5 star replacement will likely save money on running costs within a few years.

Shop Fridges at Oceania Appliances

We carry a wide range of energy-efficient fridges. Free Sydney delivery, 3–6 month warranty on every purchase. Browse online or visit our Wetherill Park showroom.