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Using your refrigerator correctly, efficiently, and saving energy is always a concern for consumers. Follow this article from Mytour to learn the best ways to use your refrigerator!
1. Considerations for Newly Purchased Refrigerators
For a newly purchased refrigerator, take note of the following:
1.1. Placement of the Refrigerator
For a newly acquired refrigerator, choose a flat, stable location for permanent installation to avoid vibrations during operation. Avoid damp, windy, or direct sunlight areas. Also, refrain from placing it near heat sources such as microwaves, ovens, etc., to prevent damage to components and reduce its lifespan.
In addition, it's essential to position the cabinet at least 10 cm away from the wall and leave approximately 5 cm on each side to ensure proper air circulation and cooling of the condenser.
1.2. Temperature and Duration of Fridge Usage
After transportation, refrain from plugging in and using the fridge immediately to avoid thermal shock. It's advisable to wait for about 2 hours before connecting the power and setting the temperature to the lowest, allowing the fridge to run without a load for about 1 day. This method helps the refrigerator gradually adapt to its operating mode, preventing damage to the fridge and ensuring that food doesn't absorb the plastic odor.
After 4 hours, open the fridge door to let the cold air escape along with the scent of new plastic. After running without a load for a day, proceed to clean the entire fridge compartment before starting to store food normally.
>>> Read more: Common Mistakes in Fridge Usage Leading to High Electricity Consumption
2. Efficient and Energy-Saving Guide to Using a Refrigerator
2.1. Use a Separate Power Source for the Refrigerator
When operating a refrigerator, it's crucial to plug it into a dedicated electrical outlet to ensure stable and efficient performance while minimizing the risk of malfunctions or explosions. Refrigerators typically consume a specific amount of electrical energy and need to operate continuously. Therefore, make sure the power socket for the fridge is used exclusively.
2.2. Regularly Check the Rubber Gasket on the Door
The rubber gasket plays a vital role in preventing cold air from escaping. However, after prolonged use, the rubber gasket can become worn, brittle, or develop holes, compromising the tight seal of the door. This can not only reduce the efficiency of food preservation but also increase energy consumption.
Therefore, when using a refrigerator, regularly inspect the rubber gasket. If damaged, promptly replace it with a new one. Additionally, perform routine cleaning to ensure they remain clean
2.3. Adjusting Temperature - Tips for Proper Fridge Usage
Adjusting the refrigerator temperature is crucial and should be tailored to each compartment. Lowering the temperature does not necessarily result in better food preservation. In fact, it can lead to increased energy consumption without ensuring the freshness of the food.
For example, for the fresh compartment, you should only set the temperature between 1 to 4.5 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, the frozen compartment is suitable at -15 degrees Celsius. Additionally, the refrigerator temperature depends on the quantity of stored food and weather conditions.
2.4. Categorize and Wrap Food Securely
Many users have the habit of placing recently purchased food in the fridge without categorizing or securely wrapping it. This is a leading cause of cross-contamination and rapid spoilage of food.
Therefore, whether it's vegetables, meat, or fish, categorize and place them in sealed containers to minimize food spoilage and prevent harmful bacterial contamination.
>>> Learn more: Foods You Shouldn't Store in the Refrigerator - Things You Might Not Know
2.5. Organize Food Scientifically - Tips for Proper Fridge Usage
Organizing food in a scientific manner is crucial when using the refrigerator. The interior is divided into trays, compartments, and separate shelves for users to organize and store their food:
- Fresh Compartment: Store vegetables in a dedicated tray, and meat or fish in a separate one. Cooked foods should be placed on the top shelf of the fresh compartment. As for the door, you can utilize it to store dry foods, sauces, spices, or various beverages.
- Freezer Compartment: Typically used for frozen foods, fresh produce, or ice. However, make sure to place frozen or fresh items in sealed containers or wrap them tightly in plastic bags
Additionally, evenly distribute the food when storing to ensure uniform cooling throughout. You can also label the time for each food bag or container for easy tracking of usage.
2.6. Avoid Putting Hot Food into the Fridge
Never put hot foods directly into the fridge. Doing so will increase the temperature inside the refrigerator due to the heat released from the hot food. As a result, the compressor has to work at a higher capacity to meet the set temperature, leading to not only a reduced lifespan of the fridge but also increased energy consumption.
>>> Read more: Why is the Fridge Not Cold? and Effective Troubleshooting
2.7. Minimize Frequent Opening and Closing of the Fridge Door
Frequent opening and closing of the fridge door or leaving it open for extended periods are factors that cause cold air to escape. In such cases, the compressor has to work harder to restore the balance of humidity and temperature inside the fridge.
To save energy, avoid continuously opening and closing the fridge door or leaving it open for too long!
2.8. Regularly Clean the Refrigerator
One important tip when using the refrigerator is to clean it regularly, ideally on a weekly basis. This helps remove dirt and eliminate bacteria both inside and outside the fridge.
During the refrigerator cleaning process, it's essential to disconnect the power and remove all food items. Avoid using sharp objects to scrape or clean stains; instead, opt for a soft cloth. Additionally, refrain from using strong cleaning chemicals on the fridge.
The condenser coils also need regular cleaning, ideally every 6 months to 1 year. The condenser plays a role in expelling heat from the refrigerant. When the condenser operates efficiently, the compressor functions stably, leading to energy savings.
So, this article from Mytour has shared tips on using the refrigerator correctly and saving energy. Save and apply them right away! Thank you for following the article!
