If you aren’t ready to replace your fridge with an Energy Star model, you may want to make sure you are getting your money’s worth with your current one:

• If your fridge temperature is lower than 37 to 40 degrees, you are losing money. Your freezer temp should be 0 – 5 degrees. To check the temp, put a thermometer in a glass of water at the center of your refrigerator and another between packages in the freezer. Read them after 24 hours.
• Keep that refrigerator and freezer defrosted for added efficiency.
• Check the door seals on both your fridge and freezer. You don’t want to leak any of that cool air.
• Unplug that second refrigerator. It can cost you between $100 and $200 a year to operate that one in your garage.