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.

Some models also sync with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems in the event of an issue. You can also control them using voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators produce a variety of sounds when they're operating. Some of these noises are more obvious than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, try to identify the source of any sounds you hear.

Rattling

The fridge may rumble in the event that there isn't enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. It's easy to repair. You just need to ensure that there is at least two inches between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.

Hissing

The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a common sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're concerned, time how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge in the event that it occurs more often than normal.

Squeaking

Fridges can be noisy if the coils or fan are dirty. If you notice your fridge making a squeaking sound, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum with a brush attachment or water and a rag, or use dish soap and water. It is recommended to do this twice a year or more frequently in the case of older refrigerators or used a lot.

Clicking

Frigs may also make an ear-piercing sound that is usually caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can resolve the problem but it could recur in the event that a professional is not called in.

The clicking can also occur 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 the ice maker if there is one installed, so it's important to make sure that it's switched off when you aren't using continuous ice.

The hum from your fridge is normal, and it can be a bit louder at certain times of the day, or following large quantities of stock or freezing processes. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, so 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 from the everyday exposure to chemicals in our homes. The tiny particles can be breathed in and elicit allergic reactions, and can provide a great surface for microbes to colonize including those that could cause infections when they come in contact with wounds that are open.

It's impossible to completely clean a fridge but regular cleaning will help to reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature more constant. A dirty fridge also consumes energy as it overheats and operates inefficiently. If your fridge is producing more noise than usual, or if you think it's working too hard, it may be time to have it checked.

Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just come in from the outside it is believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home 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, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. But the majority of chemicals in dust are derived from objects that are knocked off, like 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 refrigerator can also affect your health. It could harbor allergens, such as pet dander, and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in many people. It also contains bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, that can cause infections if they find their way into a wound.

Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions are linked to dust contamination, from cardiovascular disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators are running properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should be able of dispersing the heat created by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered in pet hair, dust, or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge but ends up wearing down the unit. It's important to keep your coils clean.

If you're planning to tackle the job yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to starting. This will lower the chance that you or your family members could be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust it is recommended to wear a face mask. You will then need to find the coils. They are usually located at the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and at the base. If you're not sure where to locate them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Once you've located the coils, you'll need to remove the access panel if you have one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils with an hose attachment that is narrow and rubbing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. It is essential to take your time while doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. After that take the kick panel off, replace it or push the fridge into position and plug it back into.

If you're not comfortable doing this by yourself, you can always hire an expert. It's cheaper and easier to maintain the cleaning routine in order to prevent the problem.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that operate all day long to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to ensure they do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running efficiently for many years to come.

A simple task is to wipe down the door seals. The gaskets may become clogged with jelly and other sticky food items which allows cool air to escape through tiny openings. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using the toothbrush or sponge.

Another place to check for problems is the fan in the back of the fridge. It can become noisy when it's clogged with paper, insulation or 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 around them with an air cleaner and an attachment for a hose. Make sure that you switch the fridge back on when you're done.

It's Best Fridges to check the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you'll need. Also, you should go through the warranty to make sure you understand what's covered.