How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and fridge freezer shapes. They can be a perfect fit in small spaces, such as dorms.

Certain models also sync with smart devices. They allow you to monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may occur. You can also control them with voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators can emit many different sounds while running, some of which are more obvious than others. Before calling a repair service, you should identify the cause of any sounds you hear.

Rattling

Fridge rattling can occur when there's not enough space between the Fridge Freezer and wall or cabinet, or when it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. It's not difficult to solve. You just need to ensure that there's at least a couple of inches between the medical fridge and the wall or cabinet, or adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.

Hissing

The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is normal, and it's caused by the compressor's oil or refrigerant flowing through the system. If you are worried you are concerned, track how often the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair company immediately in the event that this occurs more often than usual.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are filthy. If you notice that your fridge is making a squeaking sound clean the coils and fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment or a rag and water or use dish soap and water. It is essential to do this at least twice a year, or more often in the case of a fridge that is older or used heavily.

Clicking

A clicking sound can also be heard from a fridge. It is usually due to ice around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed by a manual defrost but it is likely to recur in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.

If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker attached the 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 be more pronounced during certain times of the day, or following heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it is working faster. This is not an indication of an issue.

Dust

Household dust attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions as well as inhalation and are an ideal surface for microbes, including those that may cause infection if they come into contact with a cut.

Cleaning a refrigerator is not easy, but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and maintain the temperature at a constant level. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If your fridge is making more noise than usual, or when you suspect it's running out of energy due to overworking it might be time to get it checked.

In contrast to other airborne particles, dust doesn't just come into the air from outside, as is commonly believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, in addition to pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants like DDT, which was banned more than 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, like flame retardants like decabromodiphenyl ether can be dissolved and released into the air, but the majority of chemicals in dust in the house are transferred directly from one object to another, such as by people throwing fibers and tiny bits 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 dusty refrigerator can also affect your health. It could harbor allergens, such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies for many people. It can also contain bacterial spores, such as staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they find their way into an open wound.

Researchers have discovered that contaminated dust can be linked to a broad variety of health issues that include cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study found that homes of children diagnosed with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy children.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils located on the front and back of the appliance should be able to dissipate the heat created by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor fridge freezer has to work harder trying to cool the refrigerator and wears down the appliance. It is important to regularly clean your coils.

If you're looking to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to starting. This will lower the chance that you or your family members could be electrocuted while working on the appliance. It's also an excellent idea to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. You'll then have to locate the coils. These are typically in the rear of the fridge, or on the front, across the base in certain models. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where they are.

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 brushing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. Take your time to avoid damaging or bending the coils. Replace the kick panel or move the refrigerator to its place, and plug it in.

If you're not confident doing it yourself, you could always seek out a professional. It's cheaper and less hassle to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from arising in the first place.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that work all day to cool down your food. To make sure they are doing their job well, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running smoothly for a long time.

A simple task is to wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can cause a buildup and stop gaskets from sealing properly, letting cool air seep out of tiny openings. Every few months, wipe them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using a sponge or toothbrush.

Another place to check for problems is the fan in the back of the fridge. It can be noisy if it's been clogged with paper, insulation or even mouse. Unplug the refrigerator, take out all shelves and then take out any removable parts. Vacuum cleaners with hose attachments can be used to clean the coils and the surrounding area. Be sure to turn the fridge back on after you're done.

It is best to refer to the owner's manual for specifics on where to find the coils and the fan and what kind of cleaning tools you might need. It is also recommended to read the warranty to make sure you understand what's covered.