A refrigerator is an indispensable component in any Indian kitchen. It is also the device that consumes power throughout the day because it functions 24x7x365. However, calculating the energy consumption in units is not as easy as you do for other appliances.
The refrigerator power consumption depends on various factors.
- The size or capacity of the refrigerator
- The type of compressor in the refrigerator, inverter, or non-inverter
- The type of refrigerator, Direct cool, or Frost-free
Generally, the power output of a refrigerator is between 100W to 400W for the smaller refrigerators. The fridges with a capacity of more than 300L have a higher power output.
Secondly, manufacturers do not provide the rated power capacity of the refrigerator on the specification sheet. Even if they do, it can give you an inflated value for the power consumption of your refrigerator because of the following reasons.
- The refrigerator keeps running for 24 hours, but the compressor (non-inverter) does not run continuously. Instead, it switches on and off at regular intervals. Usually, it functions for around 40 minutes and switches off for the next 20 minutes on average.
- Similarly, the inverter compressors do not run at full speed throughout. As the refrigerator interior temperature reaches the set level, the compressor slows down considerably, consuming less power.
Therefore, using the rated power capacity of the refrigerator does not give you accurate results.
Today, you get Star-rated refrigerators compulsorily with the BEE Star label affixed on the appliance. Under such circumstances, it is easy to calculate the consumption per annum because the BEE Star Label contains the information ‘Units Consumed Annually.’
Tips to Reduce the power consumption of the refrigerator
Do not open the refrigerator unless necessary
One should refrain from frequently opening and closing the refrigerator door. As you open the door, warm air enters the fridge to unnecessarily load the compressor. Therefore, you can save power by not opening the refrigerator door frequently.
Keep the refrigerator full.
Leaving open spaces inside the refrigerator can cause overcooling of the food and put more load on the compressor. Therefore, it is better to keep the refrigerator full. However, you should not overstuff the refrigerator as it can affect the air circulation inside the fridge and put unnecessary load on the compressor.
Optimize the refrigerator settings.
Generally, we like to keep the refrigerator temperature as low as possible. The ideal temperature should be between 2 and 5 degrees Celsius. The freezer compartment should have temperature settings between -10 and -15 degrees Celsius. Many refrigerators have numbered settings on the temperature regulator knob.
Place the refrigerator strategically.
You should keep your refrigerator away from sunlight. Secondly, there should be sufficient space between the wall and the refrigerator. It allows proper ventilation and the heat to dissipate comfortably.
Choose a 5-star refrigerator to save power.
It is advisable to choose a 5-star refrigerator than settle for a fridge with lesser stars. It is because the 5-star fridges are the most fuel-efficient of all refrigerators. Of course, they are expensive initially, but they save power over the refrigerator’s lifespan in the long run.