household appliancesDid you know you could save money on your energy bill by simply keeping your appliances clean? It’s true! Any appliance will work less efficiently if it is dirty. Cleaning will ensure energy is not lost and you’ll save on costs in the long run. Let’s talk about how by each major appliance.

The Fridge

The role of the fridge is to keep your precious food cold and retain freshness for as long as possible. Therefore the seal of the fridge door is very important. If the magnetic seal is compromised by things like food particles or residue, cool air will escape at a constant pace. The unit will need to work overtime to keep your food cool. In order to prevent such energy loss, clean the seal of your fridge door frequently. You can test the magnetic seal by placing a piece of paper in the closed door. If it slides out easily, your seal needs additional cleaning.

Keep the inside of your fridge clean too! Monitor the contents so you are not unnecessarily storing expired food. Do not pack your fridges too full so that it disrupts air distribution. Do not block the fan cool air is pushed through or you may have items that are too cold and some that are not cool enough.
Avoid frost in your freezer compartment as often as you can. Frost destroys food and forces the compressor to use more energy to operate. When you see frost build up in your freezer, defrost it.

Check the back of the fridge for dust buildup. If the fridge has coils in the back, gently wipe or vacuum the dust once or twice a year. Dust prevents the coils from working efficiently and your fridge will use more energy to operate as a result.

HINT: Many newer models have a “vacation mode” feature. If you are expecting to be away from home for a period of time, the “vacation mode” will allow the fridge to operate on an even more energy efficient level. Save some money! Don’t forget to unplug smaller appliances, like microwaves, little ovens, coffee makers and toaster, while you’re away to ensure extra safety.

The Microwave

Open your microwave door to check for spills and leftover food. Such residue will absorb energy waves and it will take longer to cook your items. Wipe the interior completely including the turntable plate so ensure all air wave vents are clean.

The Oven

Ovens work best when air circulation flows freely, so clean your oven of any over spilled food and excess trays before cooking. Clean the seal of the oven door to ensure heat is not escaping when you cook. By cleaning burners and reflectors heat can be properly reflected to the bottom of a pan for cooking. Also you’re making your cooking space safe against potential fires that can be caused by heating spilled over food particles.

Furnaces and Air Conditioners

Clean your furnace and air conditioner filters every other month. Your unit will work harder to push air through filters clogged with dust and pet hair than clean ones. You can purchase filters in multi-packs or re-useable filters that you can clean yourself.

Dryers

It is very important to clean out lint from the basket after every dryer use. This will not only make your dryer run more efficiently, but it is a safety issue. Fires can start if the lint basket is too full or if the exhaust vent is not properly installed. Check your exhaust vent every year to ensure it has not shifted over the seasons.

The Barbecue

There are many types of barbecues – gas, propane, charcoal and wood pellet types. Whatever the type you own, it is important to clean the inside of your barbecue after each use. You want the heat to be directed to the meal you are currently cooking – not burning leftover food from your last use. If you have a clean interior, any barbecue will operate efficiently.

** Remember, whatever appliance you are using, if you clean it and maintain it regularly, it will be energy efficient and you won’t end up wasting money with overuse or repair.

Learn more ways to save money and receive debt management tips check out our blog – visit www.occa.ca/blog.

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