How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Fridges come in a wide array of shapes and sizes. They can be a perfect fit in small places like dorms.

Some models are compatible with smart devices. They let you monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues that might occur. You can also control them using voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators can emit a variety of sounds while running, some of which are more noticeable than others. If you hear any of the sounds below identify the source and look for a quick fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.

Rattling

The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's not enough space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or when 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 couple of inches of space on each side and then adjust the legs of your noiseless fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it according to.

Hissing

The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is normal, and it's caused by the compressor's oil or refrigerant through the system. If you're worried, count how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge when it happens more frequently than normal.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can be noisy if their coils or fans are dirty. If you notice a fridge making a squeaking sound clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment, Narrow Fridge water and Narrow Fridge a rag, 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 is heavily used.

Clicking

Frigs can also produce click sounds, which is generally caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. This can be resolved with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.

The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so be sure to turn it back on when you hear this. If you have an ice maker installed to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Be sure to turn it off when you are not making use of ice frequently.

The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It may get more pronounced during certain times of the day, or following heavy stockings or intense freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator needs to work harder and faster to keep your food cold, but it is not an indication of a problem 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 be inhaled and elicit allergic reactions, and can provide a great surface for microbes to colonize and, in some cases, cause infections when they come into contact with an open wound.

Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible, but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and ensure the temperature at a constant level. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and operates inefficiently. If you suspect that your fridge is producing louder sounds than normal, or is running out of power due to overworking it, it might be time to call in the professionals.

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, which is often tainted with lead and other toxic substances, in addition to pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned a century ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenyl ether can be dissolved and released into the air, but the majority of chemicals in dust from homes are transferred from one object to another like by throwing fibers and tiny bits of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

A dirty refrigerator can adversely impact your health, in addition to contaminating food. It can contain allergens, such as pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a variety of health issues are linked to dust pollution, ranging from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. A recent study revealed that the homes of children diagnosed with leukemia had higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy kids.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils that are on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered with pet hair, dust or lint the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator and wears down the appliance. It is important to clean your coils regularly.

If you're looking to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and switch off the power source prior to starting. This will lower the chance that you or your family members could be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. You'll then have to locate the coils. They are usually located at the back of the refrigerator, or in certain cases, on the front and at the base. If you are unsure where to locate them, consult your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.

After you've found the coils, take down the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose's Narrow Fridge attachment or brushing them with a condenser cleaning brush. Take your time to avoid damaging or bending the coils. When finished you can replace the kick panel or push the fridge back into place and plug it in.

If you're not confident doing this by yourself, you can always employ an expert. But it's much cheaper and less trouble to keep up with the cleaning routine to prevent the problem from arising in the first place.

Maintenance

Fridges are powerful appliances that work all day to cool down your food. To ensure they do their job well they require regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance will keep them running efficiently for many years to come.

Clean the 4 door fridge seals. Gaskets can get clogged with jelly and other sticky food items and allow air to escape through tiny holes. Wipe them down using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.

The fan in the back of the refrigerator is a different location to look at. It can get noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation or even mice (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for a hose. Be sure to turn the fridge back on when you're finished.

It is recommended to check your owner's guide for information about where to locate the coils, the fan, and the cleaning tools you may need. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you understand what is and isn't covered.