How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a vast variety of shapes and sizes. They can be fitted into small spaces, such as dorm rooms.
Certain models are compatible with smart phones. You can monitor your fridge from afar, and troubleshoot problems in the event of an issue. You can also utilize voice commands to control them.
Noise
Refrigerators can produce a variety of sounds while operating, and some are more prominent than others. If you hear any of the below sounds, determine its origin 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 its sitting at an unlevel angle. This is easy to repair - all you need to do is make sure there's at least a couple of inches of space on either side and then adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it according to.
Hissing
The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you're concerned be aware of the frequency at which the compressor cycles. Contact a refrigerator repair service immediately when this occurs more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are filthy. If you notice a fridge making a squeaking sound clean the coils or fan using a vacuum cleaner using a brush attachment, a rag and water, or simply use dish soap and water. This should be done twice every year or more often in the case of older refrigerators or used a lot.
Clicking
A click sound can be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually caused by frozen air around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the problem however it is likely to recur in the event that a professional is not called in.
If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. This sound can be caused by the ice maker if you have one attached to your fridge, so be sure to ensure this is switched off when you aren't using an ice maker that is constantly running.
The hum coming 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 due to the fact that the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster 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 as well as traces from everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions as well as inhalation and provide a perfect surface for microbes, including those that could cause infection if they come into direct contact with a cut.
It's impossible to completely clean a fridge, but cleaning regularly can help reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature more consistent. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If your refrigerator is making more noise than usual, or if you think it's working too hard it might be time to get it checked out.
Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't just drift in from the outside, as is commonly believed. It contains resuspended soil from your home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants in addition to pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also has the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned 100 years ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. However, the majority of chemicals in dust come from objects that have been knocked off, such as 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 smoky fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It can contain allergens like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in a lot of people. It also can contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they find their way into a wound.
Researchers have found that contaminated dust is linked to a wide variety of health issues such as cancer, cardiovascular disease leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children who had leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are functioning correctly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should be able of dispersing the heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which wears down the unit. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.
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 an excellent idea to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to locate the coils. These are typically at the rear of the fridge, or in front of the base in certain models. If you are unsure where to find them, consult your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.
Once you've located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel if you have one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and rubbing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. It is essential to be patient when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. After that take the kick panel off, replace it or move the fridge to its place and plug it into.
If you're not comfortable doing this by yourself, you can always hire a professional. But it's much cheaper and less of a hassle to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue from happening in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that are running all day and at night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to enable them to accomplish their task effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.
A simple task is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can accumulate and block the gaskets from securing tightly, allowing cool air to leak through tiny gaps. Clean them with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
Another spot to check for problems is the fan in the back of the fridge. It can be loud if it's blocked up with insulation, paper or even mouse. Unplug the refrigerator, take out all shelves and then take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners equipped with hose attachments can be used to clean the coils and the area around them. Make sure to switch the fridge back on after you have finished.
It's Best Fridges to check your owner's manual for details about where to find the coils and the fan and what sort of cleaning tools you may require. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully, to be sure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.