How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators come in an array of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight spaces, such as dorms.

Some models can also connect to smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues when they arise. You can also use voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Refrigerators emit a wide variety of noises while they're operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. Before calling a refrigerator under counter integrated Fridge repair service, you should identify the cause of any noises you hear.

Rattling

The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's not enough space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or if it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. This is a simple fix - all you have to do is ensure there's at least a couple of inches of space between the sides and then adjust the integrated full height fridge legs or leveling screws to lower or raise it accordingly.

Hissing

The compressor can make a noise when cooling your food. This is normal, and it's caused by the compressor oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor cycles and call a refrigerator repair service immediately when it happens more often than normal.

Squeaking

Fridges may be noisy when their fans or coils are dirty. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your refrigerator, you can use an attachment for a vacuum cleaner along with a rag and dish soap or water along with warm water to wash the coils and fan. It is important to clean the fridge at least twice a year and more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or used heavily.

Clicking

Frigs may also make click sounds that is usually caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the issue however it is likely to recur unless a professional is called to assist.

The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to turn it back on in the event that this happens. If you have an ice maker attached, this sound can be caused by it. Be sure to turn it off when you are not making use of ice frequently.

The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may be more pronounced during certain times of the day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it has to work faster. This is not an indication of any issue.

Dust

Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria, and other microorganisms and traces of the everyday exposure to chemicals in our homes. The tiny particles can be inhaled and elicit allergic reactions, and serve as an ideal environment for microbes to thrive, including some that may cause infections when they come in contact with an open wound.

It's impossible to clean a fridge completely however, regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also wastes energy when it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than usual or if you think it's running out of energy due to overworking it could be time to have it checked.

Dust doesn't drift into the air from outside as is commonly thought. It contains resuspended dirt from the house and can be contaminated by lead or other poisonous substances. It also contains pollen, mold, and car exhaust. It also retains legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned a century ago.

Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether can be dissolved and released into the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust from homes are transferred from one thing to another for example, by smashing fibers and small pieces of plastic off of electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

In addition to contaminating food items in the refrigerator, a dirty refrigerator can also affect your health. It could harbor 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, that can cause infection if they make their way into a wound.

Researchers have found that dust pollution is linked to a wide range of health problems that include cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children with leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators run correctly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should help disperse the heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator and wears down the appliance. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.

If you're looking to tackle the job yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator from its outlet and switch off the power source prior to starting. This can lower 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 mask for your face. Then you will have to find the coils. They are typically located in the rear of the under counter integrated fridge or at the front across the base in some units. If you're not sure where to look go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Once you have found the coils, you will have to take off the access panel if there is one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils with an attachment for a narrow hose and rubbing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. It is important to take your time when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. When finished take the kick panel off, replace it or push the fridge back into place and plug it back in.

You can engage an expert if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. But it's much cheaper and less of a hassle to keep up with the routine of cleaning to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.

Maintenance

Fridges are hard-working appliances that run all day and night to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job well, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run smoothly for many years.

One simple thing to do is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can build up and prevent gaskets from sealing properly and allowing cool air to escape out of tiny openings. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using a sponge or toothbrush.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is another location to look at. It could be noisy if it's clogged up with insulation, paper or even a mouse. Unplug the bosch integrated fridge, take out all the shelves and take out any removable parts. Clean the coils as well as the area surrounding them using a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Make sure that you switch off the fridge when you are finished.

It is recommended to consult the owner's manual for specifics 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 thoroughly to ensure you know what is and isn't covered.