I like my organic lettuces bright green or red and very crispy. I like my strawberries covered in dew just as if they were fresh picked. Can the economics of going organic be found in my icebox or to use the more appropriate vernacular refrigerator? Let's address the factors necessary to answer this question.
How old is my refrigerator and does it matter?
Do I need to purchase a newer model and can I afford the purchase?
What percentage of my home's electricity is being used by the refrigerator?
Does a truly green/organic icebox exist?
If you currently own a "fridge" that was purchased from 1993-2001, it's pretty safe to say that your appliance is not energy efficient. It matters that you have an older model as you can decrease your energy consumption through the purchase of a newer, more energy efficient model. By selecting a top freezer, manual defrost model, it is possible to save up to two-thirds of your appliance's energy usage. Your refrigerator currently uses about 14% of a home's electricity. Forgo a side/side model, 10% increase in energy use, and eliminate the through door water/ice dispenser, which saves another 20% in energy. Choose a manual defrost which uses 35%-40% less electricity, costs less to run and is better at storing food than the auto defrosters which zap moisture, dehydrating foods and causing those ice crystals called "freezer burn".
Purchasing any new appliance can be costly but keep in mind that the Federal government allows for tax rebates on energy efficient models, and your local utility companies are regularly offering rebates for the replacement of older model appliances. As mentioned in a previous article, check this years Federal guidelines and contact your local utility company. Doing a little research is also beneficial; Consumer Reports rates kitchen appliances regularly. Shopping locally will also reward you with savings.
Sun Frost Energy Star refrigerators are truly a green/organic choice. The unit is powered either through solar or other low output energy sources and all models are available in 12/24 volt DC or 110/220 volt AC. Each model is custom made, offering many finishes using high pressure laminate or natural wood finish. Prices range from 00 - 00, but the payoff is immediate and the return on investment is a unit that will last 15-20 years providing excellent service and is incredibly economical. Sun Frost specifications include:
top mounted cooling system
slow frost buildup as there is no air circulating between the freezer and the main compartment
maintains a high level of humidity, thus preventing freezer burn and wilting caused by water loss, while keeping your veggies colorful and crisp
Replacing your "energy hog icebox" to quote Martha Stewart is "a good thing". You are taking one more step in fostering the efficient and sustainable use of resources that continue to impact your family, friends and neighborhood.
