Refrigerators

Investing in a high-efficiency refrigerator can have a big impact on your utility bills - on average, a new model will use 42 percent less electricity than one manufactured 30 years ago. In fact, a new ENERGY STAR-certified refrigerator uses less energy than a 75-watt light bulb!

The first step is to determine what size your family needs. According to the Home Appliance Manufacturer's Association , a good rule is eight to 10 cubic feet of refrigerator space for two people, and one cubic foot for each additional family member . If you freeze large quantities or entertain frequently, add a few more cubic feet.

Door style is another important factor. Side-by-side models use more energy than top/bottom doors, but can be more convenient in a small kitchen and easier for children and people who use wheelchairs.

Several manufacturers are offering refrigerators with special drawers for keeping food at different temperatures. For example, one drawer holds meats at 31 degrees, another holds fruits at 39 degrees. Food stays fresher longer - in some cases, up to two weeks longer.

Many manufacturers are now offering bottom-freezer units. This arrangement places the more-used refrigerator foods in clear view, reducing the amount of time the refrigerator door is open. Many bottom-freezer models also feature pullout drawers, which prevents food from falling out.

Optional features can also help reduce energy use. In-the-door water and ice dispensers eliminate the need to open the freezer door frequently. Mini-doors allow easy access to items like milk, juice and soda. Another good feature is glass shelves, which hold spills better and prevent cold air from escaping.

If you're building a new home or remodeling your kitchen, refrigerator drawers are another option. They're fitted into standard cabinets; drawers can be placed vertically or horizontally. This new technology frees up space in the rest of the kitchen, puts food items in clear view and, because food is contained in several smaller units, loses less cold air when opened.

Once you've chosen your new refrigerator, be sure to dispose of your old properly. In most cases, the dealer installing your new unit will haul away the old one. Don't keep a second refrigerator in your basement or garage - it can add more than $100 to your electricity bill. And never leave an old refrigerator or freezer where kids might get at it - they can climb inside and quickly suffocate.

Looking for an energy-smart appliance retailer? Try Alliant Energy's online Dealer Locator to find experts in your area.

      
 
Easy energy savers

• As your mother always told you, don't leave the refrigerator door open. Every time it's opened, up to 30 percent of the cooled air can escape. The same rule holds for the oven, too.
• Keep the refrigerator temperature about 36-38 degrees, and the freezer at 0-5 degrees.
• Don't overload the refrigerator or freezer. The cold air needs to circulate freely to keep foods at the proper temperature.
• Make sure the refrigerator is level, so the door automatically swings shut instead of open. If the floor isn't level, use shims to prop up the front of the refrigerator.
• Don't worry about placing hot leftovers in the refrigerator. It won't affect energy use significantly, and cooling food to room temperature first can increase the chance of food-borne illnesses.

Maintaining your refrigerator

• Vacuum the condenser coils regularly to remove dust and debris. Once a year is the minimum; if you have pets, two or three cleanings a year will help keep it running efficiently. Coils will be in the back on older models, underneath on newer models.
• Check the seal on the gaskets by closing the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, replace the gaskets. To keep gaskets pliable, rub them with oil or petroleum jelly occasionally.
• If you have a manual-defrost model, don't let the frost build up more than a quarter inch.
• If you have a built-in icemaker or water dispenser, replace the filter every six months. Be sure to turn off the water source before disconnecting the line.

Are you an Alliant Energy customer?

• Iowa customers: Eash $50 cash back when you buy a new ENERGY STAR refrigerator or freezer - AND get a check for $35 when you recycle your old models.
• Wisconsin customers: Alliant Energy partners with Focus on Energy to offer cash rewards on ENERGY STAR refrigerators and freezers.

Learn more:

• PowerHouse "Choosing & Using Appliances" Brochure [pdf]
• PowerHouse "Appliance Operating Costs" Brochure [pdf]