How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators come in an range of shapes and sizes. They can be fitted into small spaces, including dorm rooms.

Certain models also sync with smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may occur. You can also utilize voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Refrigerators can produce various sounds when operating, some of which are more prominent than others. Before calling a repair company, try to determine the source of any sounds you hear.

Rattling

The fridge may rumble when there's not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it is positioned at an unlevel angle. This is a simple fix - all you have to do is make sure there's at least a couple of inches of space on each side and then adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it accordingly.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a squealing sound. This is a typical sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you are worried, keep track of how often the compressor runs. Contact a repair service immediately if this happens more than usual.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can sound raucous when the fan or coils are dirty. If you notice your fridge making noises, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment, a rag and water or just use dish soap and water. It is recommended to do this twice every year or more often in the case of older refrigerators or Fridge deodorizer heavily used.

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 could recur unless a professional is called to assist.

If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker connected to your fridge deodorizer, this sound could be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when you aren't using ice regularly.

The hum of your fridge is normal, but it may be louder at certain times of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster to keep your food cool, but it is not an indication of a problem with the fridge larder or its performance.

Dust

Household dust attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, as well as traces of daily exposures to chemicals in the home. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions as well as inhalation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that could cause infection when they come into contact with an open cut.

Cleaning a refrigerator is not easy but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and ensure the temperature at a constant level. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If you suspect that your fridge is making louder noises than normal, or is running out of power due to overworking it, it might be time to call in the experts.

Dust doesn't float into the air from outside as it is thought to be. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, as well as pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT, which was banned more than 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority substances found in dust come from objects that are thrown off, for example, 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 smoky fridge can also negatively affect your health. It can contain allergens like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions for many people. It can also contain bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions can be traced to contaminated dust, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance are supposed to disperse heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. This is why it's crucial to regularly clean the coils.

Before starting, disconnect and shut off the power source of your refrigerator. This will reduce the risk that you or your family may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it's recommended to wear a mask for your face. Then, you'll have to locate the coils. The coils are typically located at the back of the refrigerator or, in some cases, at the front and at the base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if don't know where they are.

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

You can employ an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to keep up the cleaning routine in order to avoid the issue.

Maintenance

Fridges are hard-working appliances that keep running all day and night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to enable them to do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for years to come.

One simple thing to do is clean the door seals. Gaskets can get filled with jelly and other sticky foods which allows cool air to escape through tiny openings. Every few months, wipe them clean using a baking soda solution and warm water with a sponge or toothbrush.

The fan in the back of the refrigerator is another location to look at. It may be noisy if it's been clogged up with insulation, paper or even a mouse. Unplug the refrigerator, take out all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners that have hose attachments can be used to clean the coils as well as the surrounding area. Make sure that you switch the fridge back on when you're done.

It is recommended to consult your owner's manual for details on how to locate the coils and the fan and what cleaning tools you may require. It is also recommended to review the warranty to be sure you are aware of the coverage.