Don't run on empty

Have you looked at what's in your second fridge lately?

If there's only half a tub of ice cream in the freezer compartment and a few beers in the fridge, it makes sense to move these to your main fridge and turn the second one off. Especially when you consider the high cost of running a second fridge - to the environment and to your wallet.

Did you know that fridges and freezers use more power when they're nearly empty than when they are full? Remember, your fridge and freezer will work best when they're filled (but not overfilled!) to their optimal capacity.

If you are giving your second fridge a rest, switch it off, clean it out and leave the door ajar. To get rid of the second fridge or freezer contact the Fridge Buyback Program, you will not only save money but may also get paid $35 in the process.

Switch off the second fridge until it's really needed – if you turn your second fridge off for at least six months of the year, you can save up to $130 off your power bill - and you'll be reducing your household carbon pollution by more than 500kg.

If you have to run two fridges, try to only use your second fridge when you really need it, like in summer.

To keep costs down when running two fridges follow the tips on helping your fridge run on less power, or if you are buying a new fridge, choose an energy efficient model.

Download Refrigeration fact sheet (PDF, 691kb) to learn more ways to save electricity.