The coolant systems of most refrigerators, freezers, dehumidifiers and other condenser devices were almost exclusively designed to use the CFC most commonly known as Freon. Between the 1950s and its phase out in the late 1990s, this otherwise initially non-toxic material made its way into nearly every home in North America.
Newer models use a different type of coolant that is less harmful (though potentially greenhouse gas emitting) to the ozone layer. While new machines are far more energy efficient, significant energy savings are also achieved by recycling your existing model. This can be done with relatively minor changes to the system that shouldn’t cost much at all compared to the cost of a new machine.
While freon coolant isn’t a concern while the refrigerator is running properly, its leaks that allow it to escape into the larger atmosphere – it’s not “consumed” any way during operation. More extensive modifications, including replacing the seals with more efficient ones and increasing the insulation value of the surrounding housing, can significantly increase the energy efficiency of an older ‘fridge that’s otherwise working well.
