How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an variety of shapes and sizes. They can be tucked away in tight spaces, including dorm rooms.
Certain models can be used with smart devices. They allow you to monitor your fridge from afar and fix any issues that may arise. You can also control them via voice commands.
Noise
Fridges can make many different sounds while operating, and some are more noticeable than others. If you hear any of the below sounds, 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 wall or cabinet, or when it's placed at an uneven angle. It's easy to solve - all you have to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of inches of space on either side and then adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to lower or raise it in line with.
Hissing
The compressor can make a noise when 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 cycles and call a fridge repair service immediately when it happens more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy if the coils or fan are filthy. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, use a vacuum cleaner brush attachment or a rag along with dish soap or water and warm water to clean the fan and coils. It is essential to do this twice a year and more frequently when your fridge is old or frequently used.
Clicking
A click sound can also be heard from a refrigerator. fridge for sale is usually caused by ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the issue however it is likely to recur until a professional is brought to assist.
If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. This sound could also be caused by the Ice maker if you have one to your fridge, so be sure to ensure that it's turned off when you aren't using continuous ice.
The hum from your fridge is normal, and it can be a bit more pronounced at certain times of the day, or after large stockings or intensive freezing processes. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cool, but it is not a sign of a problem with the fridge or its performance.
Dust
Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions as well as inhalation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that can cause an infection when they come into contact with a cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and keep an even temperature. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If you suspect your fridge is making louder noises than usual, or if it's running out of power due to overworking it is it time to call in the professionals.
Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't simply drift into the air from outside as is often believed. It's made up of resuspended dust from your home, which can be contaminated with lead or other toxic substances. It also contains mold, pollen and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned a century ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants like decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. But the majority of chemicals in dust come from objects that have been 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 soiled refrigerator can impact your health, as well as contamination of food. It can harbor allergens like pet dander and droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions are linked to contaminated dust, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. A recent study found that homes of children with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy kids.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor will work overtime trying to cool the fridge and will eventually wear down the unit. That's why it's important to keep the coils clean.
Before you begin, disconnect and shut off the refrigerator's power source. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it's recommended to wear a face mask. You will then need to locate the coils. They are typically located in the rear of the fridge, or on the front, across the base in certain models. If you're not sure where to locate them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.
After you've found the coils, take off the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the narrow hose attachment or brushing them with a condenser cleaner brush. It is essential to take your time while doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or move the refrigerator to its position, then plug it in.
You can hire an expert if you're confident in doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the cleaning routine to prevent the issue from occurring.
Maintenance
Fridges are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running smoothly for a long time.
One easy thing to do is to clean the door seals. The gaskets can become filled with jelly and other food items that stick, allowing air to escape through tiny holes. Every few months, wipe them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using the toothbrush or sponge.
The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is another place to check. It could be noisy if it's clogged by paper, insulation or even a mouse. Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners equipped with attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils and the area surrounding them. Make sure you turn the fridge back on when you're done.
You should check the owner's manual for details about where to locate the coils, the fan, and the tools for cleaning you might require. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.