Aluminum Foil in the Freezer: A Simple Money-Saving Tip

Ouadie Rhabbouron

Aluminum is an excellent conductor of thermal energy. By lining the walls of your freezer with foil, you create a surface that helps distribute cold more evenly. More importantly, when it is time to clean, the ice sticks to the foil rather than the plastic walls of the appliance, making removal a 5-minute task instead of a 5-hour ordeal.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. The Final Deep Clean: Perform one last traditional defrost. Turn off the unit, melt the ice, and—most importantly—dry the walls completely.
  2. Measure and Cut: Cut sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil to fit the back and side walls of your freezer compartments.
  3. Apply the Lining: Smooth the foil against the dry walls. The natural moisture in the air will eventually create a slight seal, holding it in place. Ensure you do not cover the air intake vents or the light.
  4. Organize: Place your drawers and food back in.

The Result: Maintenance Made Easy

The next time you notice a bit of frost, you won't need a hairdryer or a scraper.

  • Simply pull out the sheet of foil.
  • The ice will come off with the foil in one large piece.
  • Wipe the wall with a dry cloth and replace it with a fresh sheet of foil.

Pro-Tips for Maximum Savings:

  • Check the Seal: While the foil helps the inside, a leaky door gasket is often the cause of the frost. Place a dollar bill in the door; if you can pull it out easily when the door is closed, your seal needs replacing.
  • Keep it Full: A full freezer stays cold better than an empty one. If you don't have much food, fill empty milk jugs with water and freeze them to act as "cold anchors."
  • The 2/3 Rule: Don't pack food tightly against the back wall. Leave a little space for the air to circulate around your new foil lining.

Conclusion

By spending ten cents on aluminum foil and ten minutes of your time, you can extend the life of your appliance, protect your food, and keep your hard-earned money from "melting" away into the electric company's pocket.

Love this life hack? Share it with your friends and family to help them save on their next energy bill!

«« Previous