How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators come in an range of shapes and sizes. They can be fitted into small spaces, including dorm rooms.

Certain models are compatible with smart phones. They let you monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may arise. You can also use voice commands to control them.

Noise

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

Rattling

The fridge may rumble in the event that there isn't enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if its sitting at an unlevel angle. It's not difficult to fix. You just need to ensure that there is at least two inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or adjust the leveling screws or legs to raise or lower your fridge.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it may make a squealing sound. This is a typical sound that is caused by the compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you are concerned you are concerned, track how often the compressor runs. Contact a repair service immediately if this happens more than normal.

Squeaking

Fridges can be noisy if the coils or fan are dirty. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, make use of a vacuum cleaner brush attachment, a rag, and water or dish soap and warm water to clean the fan and coils. This should be done at least twice a year or more frequently when your refrigerator is old or heavily used.

Clicking

Frigs can also produce a clicking sound, which is generally caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the issue, but it will return in the event that a professional is not called to assist.

It can also happen when the fridge is turned off, so be sure to restart it when you hear this. If you have an ice maker connected, this sound can be caused by it. Be sure to switch it off when you are not making use of ice frequently.

The hum from your fridge is normal. It may be louder during certain times of day, or following heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to work harder and faster to keep your food cold, but it is not a sign of a problem with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Household dust attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be inhaled and trigger allergic reactions and provide a perfect surface for microbes to colonize, including some that may cause infections when they come into contact with a wound.

It's impossible to completely clean a fridge but regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and help keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also consumes energy as it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than normal or If you suspect that it is working too hard it might be time to have it checked.

Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't simply drift in from the outside as is often believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants as well as pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half decades ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority of substances found in dust are derived from objects that are knocked off, for example, electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

A dusty refrigerator can negatively affect your health, in addition to the food you eat being contaminated. It can harbor allergens, such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies in many people. It also contains bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they make their way into wounds that are open.

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

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating correctly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered in pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor is forced to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which wears down the appliance. That's why it's so important to keep the coils clean.

Before starting, disconnect and turn off the refrigerator's power supply. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. It's also an excellent idea to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. Then you will need to locate the coils. These coils are usually located in the back of the refrigerator, or in certain cases, on the front and at the base. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you don't know where they are.

After you've located the coils, take off the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the narrow hose attachment or brushing them with a condenser cleaner brush. It's important to be patient when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. After you're done take the kick panel off, replace it or push the fridge into place and plug it back into.

You can employ an expert if you're not at ease doing it yourself. It's cheaper and simpler to keep up the cleaning routine in order to avoid the issue.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are durable appliances that keep running throughout the day and night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to enable them to accomplish their task effectively. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run smoothly for many years.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from sealing tightly and allowing cool air to escape out of tiny openings. Every few months, clean them clean using a baking soda solution and warm water with a sponge or toothbrush.

The fan in the rear of the refrigerator is a different place to check. It can be noisy if it's blocked by paper, insulation and even a mouse (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove any removable parts. Vacuum cleaners that have connections for hoses are a great option to clean the coils and the surrounding area. Make sure you turn the fridge back on when you're done.

It is recommended to check the owner's manual for details about where to locate the coils, the fan, and the tools to clean it with. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully, to be sure you understand what is and isn't covered.