How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an variety of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight places like dorms.
Some models can be used with smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge remotely and troubleshoot any problems that may occur. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators produce a variety of noises when they're operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. Before contacting a refrigerator repair company, try to identify the source of any sounds you hear.
Rattling
The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's not enough space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's placed at an uneven angle. This is easy to repair - all you need to do is ensure that there's at least a few inches of space on each side, and adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to lower or raise it accordingly.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a hissing sound. This is a normal sound and it is caused by the compressor's oil or refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, time how often the compressor runs and call a fridge repair service immediately when it happens more often than normal.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy when the fan or coils are dirty. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your refrigerator, you can use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner along with a rag and dish soap or water along with warm water to clean the coils and fan. This should be done twice each year, or more often when your refrigerator is old or is heavily used.
Clicking
Frigs can also produce an ear-piercing sound typically caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the problem however it is likely to recur in the event that a professional is not called in.
If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. This sound can also be caused by the Ice maker if you have one to the fridge, so it's crucial to make sure that it's switched off when you don't require an ice maker that is constantly running.
The hum of your fridge is normal, and it may be louder at certain times of the day, or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it is working faster. This is not an indication of any issue.
Dust
Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, as well as the traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and inhalation and are an ideal surface for microbes, such as those that may cause infection when they come into contact with an open cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator is not easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and keep the temperature at a constant level. A dirty refrigerator also consumes energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your refrigerator is making more noise than usual or when you suspect it's running out of energy due to overworking it might be time to have it checked out.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just come into the air from outside it is believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, in addition to pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also has legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned half a century ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. But the majority of substances found in dust come 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.
Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dusty refrigerator can also affect your health. It can harbor allergens, like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergies for many people. It also contains bacteria spores, like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they make their way into a wound.
Researchers have discovered that dust pollution can be linked to a broad range of health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study found that the homes of children who were diagnosed with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor is forced to work continuously trying to cool the fridge but eventually wears down the unit. It's important to clean your coils regularly.
If you're planning to tackle the task yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to starting. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself or family members while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it's a good idea for you to wear a face mask. The next step is to find the coils. They are usually located at the back of the refrigerator, or in some instances, at the front and at the base. Consult fridge for sale near me or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where they are.
After you've located 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 cleaner brush. It's important to take your time when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or move the refrigerator to its the correct position, and then plug it in.
You can employ an expert if you're at ease doing it yourself. However, it's a lot cheaper and less hassle to just keep up with the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue from happening in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that keep running throughout the day and night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to ensure they do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance will ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.
One easy thing to do is clean the door seals. Gaskets can get clogged with jelly and other sticky foods, allowing air to escape through tiny gaps. Clean them off by putting baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
Another place to check for issues is the fan at the back of the fridge. It can get noisy when it's blocked with paper, insulation and even mouse (gasp). Unplug the refrigerator and take it off all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the area surrounding them using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Make sure that you turn the fridge on again when you are finished.
You should check the owner's manual for information on where to find the coils, the fan and what cleaning tools you may need. It's also a good idea to read through the warranty carefully to make sure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.