Regular defrosting of the freezer is an important operation to maintain the efficiency of the appliance and avoid high energy consumption. This operation, if done correctly, would save 30% of consumption for every half centimetre of frost removed. Here are the reasons.
- Reduce energy consumption
The layer of ice that forms inside the freezer is several centimeters thick and can reduce the efficiency of the engine, making it work harder and thus consume more energy. This is because the layer of ice acts as a barrier to the flow of heat from the outside environment to the engine, causing it to increase the speed to maintain the desired temperature in the freezer. In addition, the thermal resistance of the freezer walls increases, making it more difficult to transfer heat from the outside environment to the inside of the appliance. By removing excess ice, the motor runs more efficiently and consumes less electricity.
- Avoid
overheating Because the layer of ice inside the freezer prevents proper heat exchange with the outside environment, the engine can overheat. If the engine overheats, its efficiency decreases and energy consumption increases. In addition, overheating can damage the motor and shorten the life of the device. Therefore, by defrosting the freezer, you prevent the engine from overheating and protect the appliance from damage that can occur due to excessive heat.- Improve storage efficiency
The layer of ice inside the freezer can hinder the circulation of cold air, thus reducing the ability to absorb food. If the cold air does not circulate properly, some areas of the freezer can become warmer than others, creating ideal conditions for bacteria to grow and food to spoil. Removing the accumulated ice ensures better circulation of cold air and therefore better preservation of food, thus avoiding waste.
How often should you defrost the freezer?
The ideal time to defrost the freezer depends on the layer of ice that has formed inside the appliance. In general, it is recommended to carry out this process when the ice layer has reached a thickness of about 3-4 millimetres, as energy consumption can increase by up to 30% at this stage. If the device is used frequently and a layer of ice forms quickly, it will need to be defrosted more often. On the contrary, with less frequent use, the ice layer forms more slowly and the defrosting frequency can be reduced.
