How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

fridges & freezers come in a wide array of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight spaces, including dorm rooms.

Some models are compatible with smart phones. You can monitor your fridge from afar and fix any issues if they arise. You can also control them with voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators can produce various sounds when running, some of which are more prominent than others. If you notice any of the noises below find out the cause and look for a quick fix before calling a fridge repair company.

Rattling

The fridge can rattle when there's not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. It's not difficult to solve. It's just a matter of ensure that there is at least a couple of inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling legs or screws to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a squealing sound. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you are concerned be aware of how often the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair company right away when this occurs more frequently than usual.

Squeaking

Fridges can be noisy if the coils or fan are dirty. If you notice your fridge making noises clean the coils and fan using a vacuum with a brush attachment or a rag and water or use dish soap and water. It is essential to do this twice a year and more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or used heavily.

Clicking

Frigs may also make an ear-piercing sound, which is generally caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can resolve the issue, but it will return until a professional is brought in.

It can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so make sure to restart it when you hear this. This sound can be caused by the ice maker if you have one to your fridge, so be sure to ensure this is switched off when you aren't using continuous ice.

The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It may get more intense during certain times of day, or following heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it has to work faster. This isn't an indication of a problem.

Dust

Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, as well as traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can be inhaled and trigger allergic reactions and provide a perfect place for microbes to grow including those that could cause infections when they come into contact with a wound.

Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and ensure an even temperature. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If you suspect that your refrigerator is making louder noises than normal, or is operating at a high rate of energy consumption due to its overwork It's probably time to call the experts.

Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just drift in from the outside as is often believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, in addition to pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half a century ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. However, the majority chemicals found in house dust come from objects that are knocked off, for example, electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

A dusty refrigerator can negatively affect your health, in addition to contamination of food. It could harbor allergens, like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions for many people. It also can contain bacteria spores, like staphylococcus aureus, that can cause infection if they make their way into an open wound.

Researchers have discovered that contaminated dust can be linked to a broad variety of health issues that include cardiovascular disease, cancer, leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should be able to dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which wears down the unit. This is why it's crucial to regularly clean the coils.

If you're planning to do the work yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to beginning. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. It is also a good idea to wear a mask if are sensitive to dust. Then, you'll have to locate the coils. These coils are usually located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and base. If you're not sure where to locate them, consult your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.

After you've found the coils, remove the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the hose attachment that is narrow or brushing them using a condenser cleaning brush. Be cautious not to risk damaging or bent coils. Replace the kick panel or put the refrigerator in the correct position, and then plug it in.

If you aren't comfortable doing it yourself, you can always hire an expert. It's cheaper and less hassle to keep up with the cleaning routine to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are durable appliances that run throughout the day and night to cool your food. To ensure they do their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running efficiently for a long time.

A simple task is clean the door seals. Gaskets can get blocked by jelly and other sticky food items, allowing cool air to escape through tiny openings. Clean them with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is another place to check. It can be noisy if it's blocked with insulation, paper and even a mouse (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all removable parts. Vacuum cleaners with attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils and the area around them. Make sure to switch the fridge freezer for Sale back on when you're done.

It is recommended to consult the owner's manual to find out more about where to find the coils and the fan and what kind of cleaning tools you might need. It's also a good idea to read the warranty thoroughly to make sure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.