M: I’ve heard that more cold air skates when you open a refrigerator door then if you just leave it open. Is this true? If so, how long can you leave the average refrigerator door open before it starts being less efficient than closing the door and opening it again?
G: Yes, cold air can "escape" faster when you repeatedly open and close a refrigerator door, compared to just leaving it open. Each time the door opens, cold air flows out, and warmer air from the room flows in. This process causes the refrigerator to work harder to cool back down after each cycle.
As for how long you can leave the door open before it becomes less efficient than closing it and opening it again, the exact time can vary based on factors like the size and efficiency of the fridge, the temperature difference, and the ambient environment. Generally, if the door is left open for more than 30 seconds to a minute, it may start being less efficient than quickly opening and closing it. For optimal efficiency, it’s best to minimize both the time the door is open and the number of times you open it.