Why You Shouldn't Constantly Open Your Refrigerator Door

If you are like millions of Americans, you are always looking for ways to cut costs – especially on your electricity bill. In an attempt to reduce your energy consumption, you may have already tried things like unplugging all of your unused devices or drying your laundry on a clothesline, but there is an easier way which you aren't considering: limiting the amount of times you open your refrigerator's door.

Your refrigerator is the most-used appliance in your home – it runs around-the-clock and is used dozens of times throughout the day. Every time you open your refrigerator door, cold air escapes and warm air enters. This causes the compressor, which is trying to maintain a cool temperature, to go into overdrive, raising your electricity bill and shortening your refrigerator's lifespan. In fact, opening the door can account for nearly 10% of the appliance's total energy consumption, according to Good Housekeeping.

If you are looking for some ways to minimize how long you keep your refrigerator door open, try using the following tips:

• When preparing a meal that calls for multiple ingredients, get them all out of your refrigerator in one trip instead of repeatedly going back for one thing at a time.
• Know where everything in your refrigerator is located so you can get in and out as quickly as possible.
• Avoid standing in front of your open refrigerator and blankly staring for long periods of time – we all do it!

For more expert tips about refrigerators, energy efficiency, and the kitchen, connect with Speedy Subzero online – we are active on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+.