Your break room refrigerator is probably a magnet for forgotten lunches and old condiments. Wiping interior surfaces and removing expired or spoiled items not only cuts down on odors and frees up space, but also improves refrigerator efficiency and performance by increasing airflow.
Blocked airflow causes the compressor to work harder and longer to maintain safe temperatures, not only wasting energy but also shortening the fridge’s lifespan. So, regularly cleaning out those packed shelves keeps food fresh and saves energy.
Dirty condenser coils, located beneath or behind the fridge, can cause the same problem. Dust, lint or debris buildup prevents proper heat exchange, making the appliance less efficient.
Smart moves that save energy (and keep everyone’s lunch fresh)
- Purge old food weekly.
- Leave space between items so cold air can circulate freely.
- Clean the condenser coils once or twice a year.
- Wipe down door seals and interior surfaces to maintain tight seals and a fresher environment.
- Avoid keeping the door open too long. Frequent or prolonged openings let cold air escape and waste energy.
A well-kept fridge can only stay efficient for so long. If your break room refrigerator is more than 10 to 15 years old, struggles to keep food cold or needs frequent repairs, it may be wasting energy despite your best efforts. Upgrading to an ENERGY STAR®-certified model can make a real difference. These units are nearly 10% more energy-efficient than standard models, helping you shrink your energy bills.
Additional ways to save in the break room
- Upgrade lighting. Switch out incandescent and fluorescent lights with LED bulbs and fixtures. LEDs offer high efficiency, long life and excellent light quality.
- Install controls. Your breakroom is used for only part of the workday. Don't waste energy lighting it all day long. Occupancy sensors save energy by automatically turning lights on only when someone enters a room and turning them off when they leave.
- Go low-flow. Water from your breakroom sink flows right onto your utility bills. Water-efficient faucet aerators are an inexpensive way to help conserve water and save money.
- Fix leaks. Faucet leaks waste water and the energy used to heat that water. By fixing leaks quickly, you can save thousands of gallons of water a year and reduce your energy bills.
With just a little extra effort, you can reduce energy waste in your lounge area and give your operating budget a break.