How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight spaces, such as dorm rooms.
Certain models also sync with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely and resolve issues if they arise. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators can emit many different sounds while running, some of which are more noticeable than others. If you hear any of the below sounds, determine its origin and look for a quick fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.
Rattling
The fridge may rumble when there's not enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it is positioned at an unlevel angle. This is easy to fix - all you have to do is ensure that there's at least a few inches of space on either side and then adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to lower or raise it accordingly.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a hissing sound. This is a normal sound, and it's caused by the compressor's oil or flow of refrigerant flowing through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor cycles and call an emergency repair service for your fridge in the event that it occurs more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are dirty. If you notice your fridge making noises clean the coils or fan with a vacuum cleaner using a brush attachment, a rag and water, or use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice every year or more often in the case of older refrigerators or heavily used.
Clicking
A clicking sound may be heard from a fridge. It is usually due to frozen air around the freezer fan. This can be resolved by a manual defrost but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a service professional.
Clicking can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so make sure to turn it back on when you hear this. This sound could also be caused by an ice maker if there is one attached, so it's important to ensure that it's turned off when you aren't using ice continuously.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may get 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, so it will work more quickly. fridge on sale is not an indication of any issue.
Dust
Household dust is a magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms and also traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be breathed in and trigger allergic reactions and serve as an ideal environment for microbes to thrive and, in some cases, cause infection when they come in contact with a wound.
Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure the temperature at a constant level. A dirty fridge also consumes energy as it overheats and operates inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than usual, or If you suspect that it is running out of energy due to overworking it could be time to get it checked out.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't simply drift into the air from outside it is believed. It contains resuspended dirt from your home, which can be contaminated with lead or other poisonous substances. It also contains mold, pollen, and car exhaust. It also has pollutant residues from the past, such as DDT which were banned more than half decades ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority chemicals found in house dust come from objects that have been knocked off, like electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
A soiled refrigerator can impact your health, not to mention the food you eat being contaminated. It can contain allergens such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies for many people. It also contains bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that dust contamination is linked to a wide variety of health issues that include cardiovascular disease, cancer, leukemia, and inflammatory intestinal diseases. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children who had leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating correctly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should help disperse heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust, or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge, and eventually wears down the appliance. It's important to keep your coils clean.
If you're looking to tackle the job yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator from its outlet and turn off its power supply prior to starting. This will decrease the chance that you or your family members may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust, it's a good idea for you to wear a face mask. You will then have to find the coils. They are usually located on the back of the fridge, or in front of the base of some models. If you are unsure where to look check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Once you have found the coils, you'll need to remove the access panel if there is one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and brushing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. Take your time to avoid breaking or bent coils. Replace the kick panel or push the refrigerator into place, and connect it to the electrical outlet.
You can engage an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. But it's much cheaper and less trouble to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from occurring in the first place.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are powerful appliances that run all day long to cool your food. To ensure they do their job effectively they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run smoothly for a long time.
Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly, letting cool air seep out of tiny openings. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water with the toothbrush or sponge.
The fan in the back of the refrigerator is another spot to check. It can be noisy if it's clogged with insulation, paper and even mice (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all removable parts. Clean the coils and the area surrounding them with a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Make sure that you switch off the fridge when you're done.
It is best to refer to the owner's manual to find out more about where to find the fan and coils and what sort of cleaning tools you may require. It is also recommended to review the warranty to be sure you know what's covered.