Winter is right around the corner. As we continue to dredge through the cold weather, it is important to seek out ways that we can conserve energy and save on costs without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. Perhaps the refrigerator is not the first appliance you think of when it comes to curbing your energy use, but, actually, it is critical that you reassess how you use it — especially during the holidays when leftovers are hosting duties run rampant.

If your appliance is over 15 years old, you might want to consider shopping for a new refrigerator, as ENERGY STAR® certified models have become more widely available. While the initial cost for a newer unit may be high, you will save more money in the long run when it comes to energy use. Here are other ways you can protect your refrigerator from overworking not just during the holiday season but beyond.