UPDATE: A critical warning has emerged from consumer watchdog Which?, revealing that a common freezer error may be driving up your energy bills significantly. This urgent advisory highlights that improper storage and handling of food can lead to increased electricity costs and inefficiencies in your freezer.
When freezers are not loaded or organized appropriately, they must work overtime to maintain a consistent temperature. Specifically, placing hot food directly into the freezer can create a serious problem. Which? stresses that freshly cooked meals should cool for 1-2 hours on the kitchen counter before being stored. Ignoring this advice may cause the freezer temperature to spike, resulting in not only higher energy costs but also potential deterioration in the quality of other frozen food.
The consumer advocacy group warns, “the warmth will send the temperature in the freezer skyrocketing.” This extra strain forces your freezer to exert more energy, thereby pushing up your bills. The recommended setting for your freezer is between -18C and -20C, which effectively inhibits bacterial growth and slows spoilage.
Moreover, when it comes to defrosting frozen food, adherence to safety guidelines is essential. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) specifies that your fridge should be maintained between 0C and 5C. It warns against placing hot or warm food directly into the fridge, stating, “Instead, cool cooked food at room temperature and place in the fridge within one to two hours.” For faster cooling, experts recommend dividing food into smaller portions in containers or freezer bags.
The impact of these common mistakes can be profound, affecting not only your energy expenditures but also food safety. Proper organization and awareness can help mitigate these issues.
As households face rising energy costs, the advice from Which? and the FSA is clear: take immediate action to improve your freezer habits. Ensure that your food is cooled adequately before freezing and stored correctly. This simple adjustment can lead to substantial savings on your energy bills while maintaining the quality of your food.
Stay informed and make sure to share this urgent information with friends and family to help them avoid unnecessary costs!
