How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an range of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight spaces, such as dorms.
Some models can also sync with smart devices. They let you monitor your fridge from afar and troubleshoot any problems that might occur. You can also make use of voice commands to manage them.
Noise
Fridges can make a variety of sounds while running, some of which are more obvious than others. If you hear any of the sounds below, determine its origin and check for a quick fix prior to calling a fridge repair company.
Rattling
The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's no space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's placed at an uneven angle. This is easy to solve - all you have to do is make sure there's at least a few inches of space on either side, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it in line with.
Hissing
The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound and it is caused by the compressor oil or the flow of refrigerant flowing through the system. If you're concerned you are concerned, track the frequency at which the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair service immediately if this happens more than normal.
Squeaking
Best Fridges can be noisy when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner, a rag, and dish soap or water along with warm water to wash the fan and coils. It is important to clean the fridge every two years and more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or frequently used.
Clicking
A clicking sound may be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually caused by frozen air around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the issue but it could recur unless a professional is called to assist.
If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. The sound could also be caused by an Ice maker if you have one attached to your fridge, so be sure to make sure that it's switched off when you don't need ice continuously.
The hum from your fridge is normal. It may get more intense during certain times of day, or after heavy stockings or intense freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it will work more quickly. This is not an indication of a problem.
Dust
Dust from the household is an excellent magnet for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms, and also traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions as well as inhalation and are a perfect substrate for microbes, such as those that may cause infection if they come into direct contact with a cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. 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 out.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just come into the air from outside as is often believed. It contains resuspended soil from the house that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains a number of legacy pollutants, including DDT which was banned over 50 years ago.
Some compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenyl ether can be dissolved and released into the air, but the majority of chemicals found in dust from homes are transferred from one thing to another like by knocking fibers and minute bits of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It can harbor allergens, such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergies in a lot of people. It also can contain bacteria spores, like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infection if they make their way into wounds that are open.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of health issues are linked to contaminated dust, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. That's why it's so important to keep the coils clean.
Before you begin, disconnect and shut off the refrigerator's power source. This can lower the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. It is also a good idea to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to locate the coils. The coils are typically located in the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and base. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where to find them.
After you have located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel, if there's one and then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an attachment for a narrow hose and brushing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. It is essential to be patient when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or put the refrigerator in the correct position, and then connect it to the electrical outlet.
If you aren't comfortable doing this yourself, then you could always seek out a professional. However, it's a lot cheaper and less trouble to keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from arising in the first place.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are durable appliances that are running all day and night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to enable them to do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running efficiently for many years to come.
One simple thing to do is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from sealing tightly, allowing cool air to leak through tiny cracks. Clean them off using a mixture 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 by paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Unplug the refrigerator and take it off all the shelves and remove any parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them using a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Make sure to switch the fridge back on after you have finished.
It is recommended to check your owner's guide for information on where to find the coils, the fan, and what tools to clean it with. It's recommended to read the warranty carefully to ensure you know what is and isn't covered.