One Tiny Twist That Cools Your Energy Bills—and the Planet
The next time you open your fridge, do this: reduce the temperature by just 1 °C (about 2 °F). That’s it. This small, single action helps your refrigerator run more efficiently, lowers your electricity bill, and supports global efforts toward cleaner, more sustainable energy.
It’s an effortless adjustment that directly contributes to SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy.
Why This Small Action Matters
Refrigerators are often the most energy-hungry appliances in our homes—they run 24/7. In many households, they account for 13–20% of total electricity use, especially if they’re older or set too cold (Source: U.S. DOE).
Studies show that reducing the temperature by just 1 °C can improve overall efficiency and reduce energy consumption by 3–5% without compromising food safety (Source: Carbon Trust).
Now imagine if millions of households worldwide made the same adjustment.
How to Build the Habit
- Find the temp setting inside your fridge. Most units use a dial or digital display.
- Aim for 4 °C (39–40 °F)—the optimal balance between food safety and energy savings, according to food safety agencies like the USDA and WHO.
- Turn the dial or adjust the display to reach that target. If your fridge is currently colder than 4 °C, just increase it by one step.
- Bonus: Place a fridge thermometer inside to track and stay within the safe zone.
Many people unknowingly keep their fridges between 1–2 °C—colder than necessary and more power-consuming.
How This Supports SDG 7
- Reduces household electricity demand, which in turn decreases fossil-fuel-based power generation.
- Frees up energy capacity in local grids, helping ensure equitable energy access.
- Helps reduce indirect emissions, since electricity use contributes significantly to global CO₂ levels.
- Encourages smart energy habits that scale easily—to homes, schools, offices, and more.
Bottom Line
One degree warmer in your fridge = one step closer to a cooler planet.
Make the switch today. It takes 5 seconds, saves energy for years, and costs absolutely nothing.