As the UK braces for another sweltering heatwave, a heating expert has unveiled a remarkably simple and cheap trick to keep your fridge running efficiently and your food fresher for longer—all for just 65p.
Martin Lewis isn't the only money-saving genius in town. With energy bills still a major concern for households nationwide, this clever hack targets one of the most power-hungry appliances in your home.
The Simple 65p Solution Hiding in Your Fridge
The secret isn't a complex gadget or a costly upgrade. According to the expert, it's a humble, refillable plastic water bottle. The advice is to fill an empty bottle with water and place it in any empty space inside your fridge or freezer.
"This is a fantastic tip for anyone looking to cut down on their energy use," the expert explained. "A full fridge retains cold air much more effectively than an empty one."
Why This Genius Hack Works
The science behind it is simple yet effective. When you open the door of a half-empty fridge, the cold air escapes rapidly and is replaced by warm, humid air from your kitchen. The appliance then has to work much harder to cool back down again, guzzling electricity in the process.
By placing a bottle of water in the gaps, you are essentially adding thermal mass. These cold items act like ice packs, helping to stabilise the temperature and reducing the amount of cold air lost when the door is open. This means the compressor kicks in less frequently, leading to significant energy savings over time.
Maximising Your Savings During the Heatwave
This hack is particularly potent during a heatwave. As ambient kitchen temperatures rise, your fridge has to fight harder to maintain a cool interior. Implementing this simple step can ease the strain on the appliance.
For optimal savings, experts also recommend:
- Checking the door seal: Ensure it is tight and free from gaps to prevent cold air leakage.
- Defrosting regularly: A build-up of ice forces the freezer to work harder.
- Positioning matters: Keep your fridge away from direct sunlight and ovens or radiators.
Adopting these small habits, especially the 65p bottle trick, can lead to noticeably lower energy bills and a reduced carbon footprint—a win for your wallet and the planet.
