How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can be fitted into small spaces, including dorm rooms.

Certain models also connect to smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues if they arise. You can also utilize voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Refrigerators emit a wide variety of sounds when they are operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. If you hear any of the noises below, determine its origin and search for a quick fix prior to calling a fridge repair company.

Rattling

The integrated full height fridge could rattle if there is not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it's sitting at an unlevel 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 legs of the 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 a typical sound that is caused by compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor is running and contact a fridge repair service immediately when it happens more often than normal.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can sound raucous if the coils or fan are dirty. If you hear a squeaking sound from your fridge, make use of the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner, a rag, and dish soap or water along with warm water to clean the fan and coils. It is recommended to do this twice a year or more frequently in the case of older refrigerators or heavily used.

Clicking

A clicking sound may be heard from a fridge. It is usually caused by ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can resolve the problem however it is likely to recur until a professional is brought to assist.

If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. This sound can also be caused by an Ice maker if you have one attached to the fridge, so it's crucial to ensure that it's turned off when you don't need an ice maker that is constantly running.

The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It can be more pronounced during certain times of the day, or after heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator needs to work harder and faster to keep your food cold however it isn't an indication of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.

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 breathed in and elicit allergic reactions, and serve as an ideal environment for microbes to thrive including those that could cause infections when they come in contact with a wound.

Cleaning a refrigerator is not easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure an even temperature. A dirty refrigerator also consumes energy when it overheats and operates inefficiently. If your fridge is producing more noise than normal or if you think it's wasting energy by overworking it might be time to have it checked out.

In contrast to other airborne particles, dust doesn't just drift into the air from outside, as is commonly believed. It is made up of resuspended dirt from the house which could be contaminated with lead or other toxicants. It also contains pollen, mold, and car exhaust. It also retains the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned half 100 years ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. However, the majority chemicals found in house dust are derived from objects that have been knocked 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 dirty fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It can contain allergens, like pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that dust contamination is linked to a wide variety of health issues, including cancer, cardiovascular disease leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study revealed that the homes of children with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy kids.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators run correctly, the coils on the back and fridge repair front of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which wears down the unit. That's why it's important to keep the coils clean.

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 will decrease the chance that you or your family members could be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust, it's recommended to wear a face mask. The next step is to locate the coils. The coils are typically located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where they are.

Once you have found the coils, you'll need to remove the access panel, if there's one and then alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and brushing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. Be careful not to risk breaking or bent coils. Replace the kick panel or move the refrigerator to its the correct position, and then connect it to the electrical outlet.

You can engage a professional if you're not confident in doing it yourself. It's cheaper and less trouble to simply keep up with the cleaning routine to avoid the issue from occurring in the first place.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are tough-working appliances that run all day and night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to enable them to accomplish their task effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running smoothly for many years to come.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can cause a buildup and stop gaskets from sealing properly, letting cool air seep out of tiny openings. Clean them with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different spot to check. It can become noisy when it's blocked with paper, insulation and even mouse (gasp). Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator, and take out any removable parts. Clean the coils as well as the area surrounding them with a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Make sure to switch off the fridge when you are finished.

It is best to refer to the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what sort of cleaning tools you might need. It's also a good idea to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you understand what is and isn't covered.