As the UK swelters under another heatwave, experts are warning that many households are using their fridges incorrectly, leading to food spoilage and inefficiency. Electrical retailer AO reports that 40% of Brits admit hotter weather makes food harder to store, yet nearly half (48%) do not alter their fridge habits during warmer months.
The Hidden Kitchen Problem
Jade Golding-Gault, refrigeration expert at AO, explains: "Summer highlights the pressure we put on our fridges without realising it. When temperatures rise, your fridge must work harder to keep food cool, but being overfilled makes it less efficient." The survey found that only 30% of Brits consistently organise their fridge and store food in designated areas, a practice that becomes critical during a heatwave.
Rising temperatures cause fridges to work overtime, yet many households fill them with more drinks and food for summer gatherings, creating a perfect storm. Overcrowding restricts airflow, leading to uneven cooling and faster spoilage.
Four Tips to Maximise Fridge Efficiency
Golding-Gault advises the following changes to keep food fresh and reduce waste:
- Don’t overfill: Avoid cramming your fridge with unnecessary items. A less crowded fridge maintains a consistent temperature throughout.
- Leave space around food: Arrange items so there is even space between them, allowing cool air to circulate effectively and keep food fresh longer.
- Invest in a smaller fridge: If overfilling is a concern, consider a second, smaller fridge for beverages and snacks. This also makes them easily accessible for summer parties.
- Rotate food items: Use older food before opening newer packages to reduce waste and make room for items that need longer chilling.
Wider Impact of Poor Fridge Management
The findings suggest UK households face a mismatch between fridge use and summer demands. All respondents reported experiencing at least one seasonal challenge, from limited space to fluctuating temperatures. Golding-Gault notes: "Warmer weather is magnifying existing issues. Limited space restricts airflow, overcrowding impacts cooling performance, and temperature fluctuations make it harder to keep food fresh."
With more warm weather expected, now is the time to check how you use your fridge and ensure it is set up to cope with higher temperatures. Simple adjustments can prevent food spoilage, save money, and reduce waste.
