If your fridge is too big for your current needs and you find yourself opening and closing it frequently, it's a good idea to consider ways to improve its energy efficiency and maintain a more stable temperature inside. Here are some suggestions for dealing with the excess space:
Thermal Mass (Bottles of Water): Filling the excess space with thermal mass, such as bottles of water, can help stabilize the temperature inside the fridge. The water bottles act as a buffer, absorbing and releasing cold air when the fridge door is opened and closed. This can help reduce temperature fluctuations and energy loss. Additionally, having some cold water bottles readily available can be convenient.
Styrofoam: While styrofoam can provide some insulation, it may not be the most practical solution for this purpose. Styrofoam can be challenging to clean, and it may not have the same thermal mass benefits as water bottles.
Leave It Empty: Leaving the excess space empty will result in more frequent air circulation inside the fridge when the door is opened and closed. This could lead to slightly more significant temperature fluctuations and energy loss. However, if you do not have a lot of items to store in the fridge, leaving it empty might not have a significant impact on energy efficiency.
Reorganize Contents: Instead of filling the extra space with water bottles or styrofoam, consider reorganizing the contents in your fridge. Arrange items in a way that reduces the amount of air space, making it more efficient to cool and maintain a stable temperature.
Consider Upgrading or Downsizing: If the size of your fridge is a persistent issue, you might consider upgrading to a more energy-efficient model or downsizing to one that better suits your needs. Modern refrigerators often come with energy-saving features and better insulation, which can help reduce energy consumption and keep your food fresher for longer.
Ultimately, the best approach depends on your specific situation and needs. Experiment with the options above and see which one works best for you in terms of maintaining the fridge's temperature, reducing energy consumption, and ensuring the freshness of your stored items.