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Ice buildup in the freezer is not only annoying, it also wastes energy. The thicker the layer of ice, the less efficiently the appliance works—and defrosting takes time and effort. There’s a surprisingly simple trick circulating online.
Why ice forms in the first place
Every time the freezer compartment is opened, warm, moist air enters. When this air comes into contact with the cold interior surfaces, the moisture condenses and freezes.
Moist foods also contribute to this.
How the aluminum foil trick works
The method is simple: aluminum foil is cut to size and placed on the shelves in the freezer compartment or stuck to the interior walls—but without touching the cooling fins or electrical parts.
The foil should be as smooth as possible and free of wrinkles so that it can work effectively.
What aluminum can do in theory
Aluminum has two properties that could be useful in the freezer compartment: it conducts cold very well and reflects radiation.
This could distribute the temperature more evenly in the compartment, reducing so-called “heat islands” – areas where condensation forms more easily and then freezes.
Less condensation – less ice?
Another possible effect: if the inner surfaces do not cool down as much or return to temperature more quickly due to the foil, moisture from the air settles more slowly.
This could delay ice formation overall—although it cannot be completely prevented.
A practical side effect when cleaning
Ice sticks less easily to smooth aluminum foil than to rough plastic.
So if ice does form, it is often easier to remove it along with the foil.
This can make defrosting easier and ensure that the compartment is ready for use again more quickly.
Not a miracle way—but worth a try
The effectiveness of this trick has not been scientifically proven, and ice will continue to form if the freezer is opened frequently or if the humidity is high.
Condensation can also collect under poorly laid foil.
Nevertheless, it requires little effort, costs very little, and the effect may be enough to keep the freezer compartment ice-free for a little longer.
- source: dagens.com/picture: hpascua
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