No, a chest freezer is not overworked by being stuffed to the top. In fact, keeping a chest freezer well-stocked and full is generally beneficial for its energy efficiency. Here's why:
Better insulation: When a chest freezer is packed with items, it reduces the amount of empty space inside. This means there is less air that needs to be cooled every time the lid is opened, resulting in less cold air escaping and warm air entering. The items act as insulation and help maintain the cold temperature more effectively.
Reduced air circulation: With a full freezer, there is less room for air to circulate. This helps prevent warm air infiltration and reduces the amount of cold air that escapes when the lid is opened. It leads to more stable temperatures and less energy required to cool the freezer back down.
Thermal mass: The frozen items themselves act as thermal mass, which helps retain the cold temperature when the power goes out or when the freezer is opened. The more thermal mass present (i.e., the more items in the freezer), the longer it takes for the temperature to rise during power outages or frequent lid openings.
However, it's important not to overfill the freezer to the point where airflow is significantly restricted. Air should still be able to circulate to maintain proper cooling throughout the freezer. Additionally, make sure not to overload the freezer beyond its recommended capacity, as it can strain the compressor and affect its efficiency.
Always refer to the manufacturer's guidelines for your specific chest freezer model regarding recommended maximum capacity and any other usage instructions.