How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges & freezers come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They can be tucked away in tight spaces, including dorm rooms.
Some models can also connect to smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems when they arise. You can also control them via voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators emit a wide variety of sounds when they’re operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. If you hear any of the sounds below identify the source and look for a quick fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
The fridge can rattle if there is not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it’s sitting at an unlevel angle. This is easy to repair – all you need to do is make sure there’s at least a few inches of space on each side, and adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it in line with.
Hissing
The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you’re concerned, note how often the compressor is running and contact a refrigerator repair service immediately in the event that it occurs more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
The refrigerator may sound loud when their fans or coils are filthy. If you notice that your fridge freezer deals is making noises, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or water and a rag, or just use dish soap and water. It is important to clean the fridge every two years or more frequently if your fridge is older or frequently used.
Clicking
A clicking sound may also be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. Defrosting by hand can fix the problem but it could recur unless a professional is called in.
Clicking can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to switch it back on in the event that this happens. This sound could be caused by the ice maker if there is one attached to your fridge, so be sure to ensure that it’s turned off when you don’t require an ice maker that is constantly running.
The hum from your fridge is normal. It may get louder during certain times of day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cold however it isn’t necessarily a sign of trouble with the refrigerator or its performance.
Dust
Household dust attracts dirt, bacteria, and other microorganisms and traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions as well as inhalation, and they are an ideal surface for microbes, such as those that can cause infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator isn’t easy however regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and ensure a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your refrigerator is making more noise than normal or if you think it’s wasting energy by overworking, it may be time to have it checked out.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn’t just drift in from outside, as is commonly believed. It’s made up of resuspended dust from your home and can be contaminated with lead or other toxic substances. It also contains mold, pollen, and car exhaust. It also has pollutant residues from the past, such as DDT that were banned 100 years ago.
Some compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to volatilize and enter the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust from homes are transferred from one thing to another like by smashing fibers and small pieces of plastic off of electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It could harbor allergens like pet dander and cockroach droppings that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacterial spores such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have found that contaminated dust is associated with a wide range of health problems, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. A recent study revealed that homes of children who were diagnosed with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils that are on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to disperse the heat produced by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered in pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor has to work harder trying to cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. That’s why it’s so important to regularly clean the coils.
Before you begin, unplug and turn off the power source of your refrigerator. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself and your family members when working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. The next step is to find the coils. These are typically at the rear of the fridge or at the front across the base in certain models. Consult your fridge’s manual or contact the manufacturer if aren’t sure where to find them.
After you’ve located the coils, remove the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the narrow hose attachment or brushing them with condenser cleaning brushes. It is important to take your time while doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or push the refrigerator into position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.
If you’re not confident doing this by yourself, Fridges you could always seek out a professional. It’s cheaper and easier to keep up the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are durable appliances that are running all day and at night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to help them do their job effectively. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run smoothly for many years.
Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can cause a buildup and stop gaskets from sealing properly, allowing cool air to leak out of tiny openings. Wipe them down using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every few months.
Another spot to look for problems is the fan at the back of the fridge. It can become noisy when it’s clogged with paper, insulation or even mice (gasp). Unplug the fridge and take it off all the shelves and take out any removable parts. Clean the coils and the area around them with a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Make sure to turn off the fridge off when you’re finished.
It is recommended to consult the owner’s manual to find out more about where to find the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you’ll need. It’s recommended to read the warranty carefully to make sure you know what is and isn’t covered.