How to save £113 a year by using your freezer efficiently

Brits are trying to seek cheaper alternatives when it comes to staying warm, cooking and using general household appliances.

Recently, the Office for National Statistics revealed that “almost half (47%) of adults in Great Britain are using less fuel such as gas or electricity in their homes because of the rising cost of living.”

But did you know it’s estimated that a more efficient freezer (one of the only household appliances that needs to be left on 24 hours a day), could save you £113 a year?

@baby_cravings Freeze Rice Hack! #parenthack #parenthacks #toddlerhacks #parentingtips #parentinghacks #mumlife #newmum⁣ #newmummy ⁣⁣ #scottishbloggers #scottishmum #scottishmums #mumlife #mummyblogger #mummybloggeruk #mumbloggeruk #glasgowmummy #glasgowmum #ukmum #ukmums #ukmummyblogger #ukmummy #ukmumsquad #rice #freezerstash #batchcooking #batchcook #freezercooking #freezermeals #freezerfriendly #freezerice #ukmummyblogger #scottishbloggers #mumlifeontiktok #mumsoftiktokuk ♬ original sound - baby_cravings

Omar Idrissi, refrigerator expert and owner of ADK Kooling, has provided insight into how to ensure your freezer runs as efficiently as possible, saving you money in the process.

6 ways to use your freezer efficiently that could save you £113 per year 

Regular defrosting: Regularly defrosting your freezer will improve its performance. The accumulation of ice hinders the appropriate cooling of the area, therefore try to defrost at least once a year or when the ice reaches a thickness of about a quarter of an inch. The operation of the freezer can be greatly enhanced by performing this easy maintenance task.

Use sealed containers: To stop air from entering and causing freezer burn, store food in airtight, sealed containers or freezer bags. This keeps your food fresher longer and makes it easier for the freezer to keep its ideal temperature.

Did you know using sealed containers can help you save money when it comes to using your fridge properly? (Image: Getty)

Temperature monitoring: Using a thermometer meant for freezers, check the freezer's temperature on a regular basis. Maintain it continuously at or below -18°C, which is the ideal temperature for storing food safely. To keep the temperature at this level, adjust the parameters appropriately.

Mindful loading: Think carefully about what you put in your freezer. Items that are warm or hot raise the freezer's internal temperature and make it work harder to chill down. To preserve ideal conditions, let hot food cool to room temperature before putting it in the freezer.

Keep it full, but not packed: An overly full freezer restricts ventilation, even if a fuller freezer uses less electricity. Keep it half filled or less to ensure optimal cold retention without packing too much within and stifling airflow or decreasing effectiveness.

Regular maintenance: Regularly clean your freezer's surrounding area and coils. Accumulation of dust and dirt may impair its functionality. Proper heat exchange is ensured by vacuuming or cleaning the coils, which helps the freezer maintain its temperature more effectively.