Winterize Your Home: Take the Fridge Outside

The weather outside may be getting frightful, but home should still be delightful — and green. This week’s tips will help you get cozy while reducing your environmental footprint.

Tip #3: Take the Fridge Outside

Even as outside temperatures dip below freezing in many places, the refrigerator accounts for 14% of a household's energy consumption. Skip the costs by building an outdoor fridge using this simple guide. The project requires some plywood, two small computer fans, and an enthusiasm for basic carpentry.

Keeping the fridge indoors? Place your hand by its door to test whether cold air is escaping, and replace the door seal if needed. A full fridge uses less energy than an empty one, so stock up on some feel-good soup before the next storm.  

Tell us: How do you prepare your kitchen for winter?