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submitted 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago) by ptz@dubvee.org to c/zerowaste@slrpnk.net

Curious if this would have any noticeable energy savings. Basically thinking of taking old semi-disposable plastic containers (the ones that like deli meat, butter, etc come in), freezing them outdoors, and letting them defrost (absorb heat) in the fridge/freezer. Basically back to the "ice box" model.

Anybody doing that and/or have any results to share? Mostly curious if it would be worth the effort.

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[-] jol@discuss.tchncs.de 10 points 3 weeks ago* (last edited 3 weeks ago)

Fridges are some of the most efficient appliances in the home but I always think it's funny that in the winter we keep the house warm and the fridge cold, when we could just harness the cold from outside.

[-] ptz@dubvee.org 11 points 3 weeks ago

Lol, yeah. Though the exhaust heat from the refrigerator does warm the house (good in winter, not good in the summer).

Definitely have had the thought about a thermostat controlled vent that would utilize outdoor air when the temperature permits. Might be one of those ideas that's nice but impractical.

[-] jol@discuss.tchncs.de 7 points 3 weeks ago

I think the next level of after heat pumps is complete heat management. Waste heat from kitchen exhaust? Heat pump. Hot water down the drain? Heat pump.

[-] nokturne213@sopuli.xyz 5 points 3 weeks ago

You keep your house warm? I love winter because I can keep it cold.

[-] jol@discuss.tchncs.de 5 points 3 weeks ago

I assume you can guess that my winter is likely colder than yours then.

[-] nokturne213@sopuli.xyz 1 points 3 weeks ago

I assume you can guess that my comment was being silly.

[-] jol@discuss.tchncs.de 2 points 3 weeks ago

Actually I wasn't sure. Hard to tell on the Internet. Some people really forget others exist who live in different circunstances than themselves.

[-] wildflowertea@slrpnk.net 2 points 3 weeks ago

Earth is a big place with different types of climates. I can imagine some people not only want but need to warm their homes.

this post was submitted on 11 Jan 2025
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