In the summertime you may have used an extra freezer to store those hot-weather treats—ice cream, ice pops and frozen yogurt. But now winter is approaching, and your freezer may have space to spare.
If your freezer sits empty most of the winter, it’s using more energy than it does during the summer. A full freezer uses less energy than an empty one because the frozen food in it keeps the unit’s temperature low.
One way to save some money and energy is to unplug your extra freezer if you don’t use it during the winter. If you have just a few items in it, transfer them to your main freezer.
Another option is to stock your empty or half-full freezer with water filled plastic milk jugs or 2-liter bottles or bags of ice. This will keep your freezer running efficiently.
The water-filled containers—filled to 4 inches from the top—will ease the strain on the freezer’s motor and help keep food cold longer during a power outage. Another advantage is that you can drink the water in an emergency.
Remember to set the freezer’s temperature to zero. Lower temperatures waste energy without extending the shelf life of your frozen food. Place an appliance thermometer in the freezer to make sure the temperature is optimally set, and check it regularly to ensure it stays constant.
A chest-style freezer is cheaper to run than upright models because cold air stays in the unit when you open the top. When you open an upright freezer, all the cold air escapes.
When buying a freezer, look for the Energy Star logo. These freezers are at least 10% more efficient than the minimum federal standard.
Defrost a freezer if frost builds up to one-quarter of an inch. This frost can become ice that causes your freezer to work harder because air vents and temperature sensors are covered.