How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can be a perfect fit in small spaces including dorms.

Certain models also sync with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues in the event of an issue. You can also use voice commands to control them.

Noise

Fridges can make a variety of sounds while operating, some of which are more prominent than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, try to identify the source of any noises you hear.

Rattling

The sound of a refrigerator rattling could be caused by there's no space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it's placed at an uneven angle. This is a simple repair - all you need to do is make sure there's at least a few inches of space on either side, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to lower or raise it in line with.

Hissing

The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is normal, and it's caused by the compressor oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge freezer small when it happens more frequently than usual.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, use an attachment for a vacuum cleaner or a rag along with water or dish soap and warm water to wash the fan and coils. It is recommended to do this twice every year or more often if your refrigerator is older or used a lot.

Clicking

A clicking sound may also be heard from a fridge. It is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. This can be solved by a manual defrost but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a service professional.

It 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 also be caused by the Ice maker if you have one, so it's important to make sure that it's switched off when you aren't using an ice maker that is constantly running.

The hum of your fridge is normal, but it can be a bit louder at certain times of the day or after heavy stockings or intense freezing operations. This is because the refrigerator needs to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cold, but it is not a sign of a problem 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 and respiratory irritation and are an ideal surface for microbes, which includes those that may cause an infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.

It's impossible to clean a fridge completely however, regular cleaning can help reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature more stable. A dirty fridge also wastes energy as it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than normal or when you suspect it's running out of energy due to overworking it might be time to have it checked out.

Dust does not drift into the air from outside as is commonly thought. It's made up of resuspended soil from the house that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants as well as pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also retains the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned a century ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority substances found in dust originate from objects that are knocked off, like electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

Aside from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dirty refrigerator can also affect your health. It could harbor allergens such as pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It also contains bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a variety of health conditions are linked to dust pollution, ranging from cardiovascular disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study revealed that the homes of children who were diagnosed with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators function properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered with pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor has to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator and wears down the unit. That's why it's so important to clean the coils regularly.

Before you begin, unplug and turn off the refrigerator's power source. This will decrease the chance that you or your family members may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust it is recommended to wear a face mask. You will then need to find the coils. The coils are typically located at the back of the refrigerator or, in some cases, at the front and at the base. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where to find them.

After you have located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel if there is one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils with an hose attachment that is narrow and rubbing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. It's important to take your time when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel or put the refrigerator in the correct position, and then connect it to the electrical outlet.

You can engage an expert if you're not at ease doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the cleaning routine to prevent the problem.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. To ensure they do their jobs well, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running efficiently for a long time.

One simple thing to do is to wipe down the door Refrigerators seals. Gaskets can get blocked by jelly and other food items that stick and allow air to escape through tiny holes. Clean them by putting baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every few months.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different location to look at. It can be noisy if it's clogged by paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the fridge remove all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with an air cleaner and a hose attachment. Make sure to turn off the fridge back on after you're done.

You should check your owner's guide for information about where to locate the coils, the fan and the tools to clean it with. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully, to be sure you understand what is and isn't covered.