Maintain your fridge and save
To maximise the efficiency of your refrigeration equipment, you need to keep it properly maintained and cleaned. This will ensure that it’s running to its optimum potential.
Is it airtight?
Your fridge and freezer units need to be airtight, so check that the seals, hinges, catches and door gaskets are working properly. If not, replace them as needed.
You can check the door seals by placing a clean sheet of paper between them. If the paper falls out, this indicates that the fridge is leaking cold air and you’ll need to replace them. This should only cost about $60, so this action will pay returns.[1]
Keeping your fridge level on the floor also helps to ensure that the doors are tightly sealed and can help prevent the cool air from getting out.
Research shows that businesses can obtain a 10% energy efficiency increase simply by replacing poorly-performing seals on refrigeration equipment.[2]
Defrosting
As has already been mentioned, defrosting your refrigeration equipment will help to maximise its efficiency and reduce running costs.
Oil levels, leaks and general running checks
When it comes to installing, repairing or maintaining your refrigeration equipment, you should always use a qualified technician.
Get them to:
- check for leaks
- check the compressor oil levels to ensure there is adequate and efficient lubrication
- check that the motors are okay. In the lead up to their visit, listen out to see if a fridge motor is running continuously or making a strange noise. If it is, let them know.
To find an authorised technician in your area, check out this searchable database from the Australian Refrigeration Council (ARC) at: EnergyCut.info/arc-search
When you book a technician to install or fix your fridge or freezer, you can also check that they hold a valid licence by visiting this website: EnergyCut.info/arc-tick
If you need to save on costs, you could hire an EcoSmart Electrician and have them look at your refrigeration equipment when they’re looking at other energy-related issues within your business.
How keeping your fridge clean can save money
Periodically clean the condenser coils on the back of your refrigerators, as a build-up of dust will inhibit their operation and add to energy costs (not all units have these coils placed externally, so don’t be worried if you can’t see them).
Le Breton Patisserie, NSW
Le Breton Patisserie achieved savings of 20% per annum with energy efficiency measures that included the overhaul of refrigeration systems. Following an audit, they replaced five old refrigerators with one energy efficient unit.[3]