How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators come in an array of shapes and sizes. They can be a perfect fit in small spaces including dorms.

Some models can also sync with smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues that may arise. You can also use voice commands to control them.

Noise

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

Rattling

The fridge may rumble if there is not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. This is easy to solve - all you have to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of inches of space between the sides 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 produce a loud sound. This is a typical sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you are concerned, keep track of how often the compressor runs. Contact a repair company right away if this happens more than normal.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, make use of a vacuum cleaner brush attachment, a rag, and dish soap or water and warm water to wash the coils and fan. This should be done twice a year or more frequently when your refrigerator is old or used a lot.

Clicking

A click sound can be heard from a fridge. It is usually caused by freezing around the fan of the freezer. Defrosting by hand can fix the problem, but it will return until a professional is brought in.

The clicking can also occur when the fridge is shut off, so make sure to turn it back on in the event that this happens. If you have an ice maker connected the sound could 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, and it can be a bit louder at certain periods of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster to keep your food cool, but it is not an indication of a problem with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms, as well as traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and inhalation and are an ideal surface for microbes, such as those that can cause infection when they come into direct contact with a cut.

It's impossible to completely clean a fridge, but cleaning regularly can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature stable. A dirty fridge wastes energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If you suspect that your fridge is making louder noises than normal, or is running out of power due to overworking it is it time to call the professionals.

Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just come in from the outside it is believed. It contains resuspended soil from your home, which is often tainted with lead and other toxicants, in addition to pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT, which was banned over 50 years ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. However, the majority chemicals 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 allergic reactions in a lot of people. It also contains bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infection if they make their way into a wound.

Researchers have discovered that dust contamination is associated with a wide range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, leukemia, and inflammatory intestinal diseases. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children with leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to be able to disperse the heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work harder trying to cool the refrigerator and wears down the appliance. That's why it's so important to clean the coils regularly.

If you're planning to do the work yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and shut off the power source before beginning. This will reduce the risk that you or your family may be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. The next step is to locate the coils. They are usually located on the back of the fridge or on the front, across the base in some units. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if don't know where they are.

Once you have found the coils, you'll need to remove the access panel, if there's one and then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an attachment for a narrow hose and then brushing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. It's important to take your time while doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. When finished take the kick panel off, replace it or move the fridge to its place and plug it back into.

You can employ an expert if you're not at ease doing it yourself. However, it's a lot cheaper and less trouble to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to prevent the problem from happening in the first place.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are durable appliances that are running throughout the day and night to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job effectively they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running smoothly for a long time.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can accumulate and block the gaskets from securing tightly, allowing cool air to leak out of tiny openings. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water with a sponge or toothbrush.

Another place to check for issues is the fan at the back of the refrigerator. It could be loud if it's blocked by paper, insulation or even mouse. Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and remove all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the area surrounding them using an air cleaner and a hose attachment. Make sure you turn the fridge on again when you're done.

It is best Fridges to refer to your owner's manual for details on where to find the fan and coils and what sort of cleaning tools you might need. It is also recommended to go through the warranty to make sure you understand what's covered.