Using Your Freezer Efficiently – Frugal Tip

Making and freezing meals ahead of time is a great way to save both time and money. You do however need to make sure you’re using your freezer efficiently to get the most bang for your buck. Part of that means making and freezing dishes your family will enjoy eating. The other part of the equation is making sure the freezer itself is running as well. Here are some tips.

Temperature                

Keep your freezer temperature set at 0-5 degrees F. Only open it when needed and close it again as quickly as possible. A chest shaped freezer is usually more efficient than one with a door. Less cold air escapes when you open it.

It also helps to keep the freezer in a spot that doesn’t get too hot or cold. If you can help it, don’t have your freezer outside. Very low temperatures can keep the freezer from working properly.

Check The Seals

Periodically whip and check the seals on your freezer. Getting crumbs or dirt stuck in there can prevent the freezer doors from sealing properly. Replace the seals as needed.

Fill It Up

A full freezer uses less energy than an empty one. If you don’t have enough frozen food to fill your freezer, fill some gallon jugs with water and stick them in there. The volume of frozen things will help keep the temperature even.

It also helps to allow the freezer meals you’re cooking to cool completely before sticking them in the freezer.

Last but not least, don’t forget to label everything you put in there along with the date you’re freezing it. Not only does it make it easier to find what you need, it also keeps you from tossing things out because you either can’t figure out what it is or aren’t sure if it’s still good.