UK households have been issued a warning that a simple £20 fix for their fridge could prevent energy bills from skyrocketing during the summer heatwave. Experts at Utility Bidder have highlighted that worn seals on fridge and freezer units can cause cool air to leak out, forcing the appliance to work harder to maintain its temperature, especially during hot weather.
Why Your Fridge Costs More in Summer
According to Utility Bidder, fridges and freezers "work harder during hot weather" due to warmer temperatures seeping into the unit. This increased workload leads to higher energy consumption. The main culprit is often a worn or damaged door seal, which can be replaced for as little as £20, with easy DIY installation.
Madeleine Porter, Head of Marketing at Utility Bidder, explained: "Many households focus on keeping heat out during a heatwave, but it's equally important to consider the heat being generated inside the home. Almost every electrical appliance produces heat when it uses energy, and many devices continue drawing power even when they're not actively being used."
She added that appliances left on standby, older electronics, gaming equipment, and household devices can act as hidden energy drains, quietly consuming electricity while contributing to indoor heat. "While the impact of a single device is often minimal, the combined effect of multiple appliances running unnecessarily can make rooms feel warmer and increase reliance on fans or other cooling devices," Porter said.
DIY Seal Replacement Saves Money
The cost of a replacement fridge seal starts at around £20, though prices can vary depending on the make and model. The Seal Company has noted that replacing the seal yourself is significantly cheaper than hiring a professional. They stated: "Replacing a fridge seal yourself is not just cheaper but also surprisingly simple. You can change a full upright fridge door seal in under 3.5 minutes, whether it’s a commercial or domestic fridge. Any person or member of staff can do it with no special tools or expertise needed."
In contrast, hiring a professional introduces higher fixed costs, making the DIY approach far more economical. The Seal Company added: "On the other hand, hiring a professional to fit your fridge door seal introduces higher fixed costs, which are often the biggest difference between doing it yourself and paying for a service visit."
Broader Energy Saving Tips
Utility Bidder advises households to review which appliances are left plugged in or running in the background during hot weather. This simple step can help keep homes cooler, reduce avoidable energy consumption, and keep electricity bills under better control. With energy prices remaining a concern for many, this £20 fix could offer significant savings over the summer months.
