When a refrigerator is switched off or in standby mode, it still consumes some electricity to power certain components like the control panel, internal lights, and any other electronic features. The amount of electricity consumed in this state is typically lower than when the refrigerator is actively running, but it can still contribute to your overall energy consumption.
The standby power consumption of refrigerators varies depending on the model and make. On average, modern refrigerators in standby mode may consume anywhere from 2 to 10 watts. Over time, this can add up to a small amount of energy usage, resulting in a slight increase in your electricity bill.
To reduce or avoid this standby power consumption (except unplugging the power cord), you can consider the following options:
Use a power strip: Connect your refrigerator to a power strip and turn off the power strip when the refrigerator is not in use, such as when you're going on vacation or not planning to use it for an extended period.
Smart plugs: Some smart plugs allow you to remotely control the power to the refrigerator using a smartphone app. You can turn off the smart plug when the refrigerator is not in use.
Energy-saving mode: Some refrigerators have an energy-saving mode that you can activate to reduce power consumption during standby.
Adjust settings: Check your refrigerator's manual to see if there are any settings related to standby power consumption. You might find options to minimize power usage during periods of inactivity.
Upgrade to an energy-efficient model: If your refrigerator is old and inefficient, consider upgrading to a newer, more energy-efficient model. Modern refrigerators are designed to be more energy-efficient, even in standby mode.
While these measures can help reduce standby power consumption, keep in mind that they might not entirely eliminate it. If you want to completely avoid any power consumption, unplugging the refrigerator when not in use is the most effective method. However, keep in mind that doing so will require extra effort, and you'll need to wait for the refrigerator to cool down again when you plug it back in. Additionally, check if there are any food safety concerns if you leave the refrigerator unplugged for an extended period.