How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight spaces, such as dorms.

Some models also connect to smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely and resolve issues in the event of an issue. You can also use voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Fridges make a wide range of noises when they are operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. If you notice any of the below sounds, determine its origin and look for a quick fix prior to calling a fridge repair company.

Rattling

The fridge could rattle when there's not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if its sitting at an unlevel angle. It's simple to repair. It's just a matter of ensure that there's at least two inches between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling legs or screws to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it may produce a loud sound. This is a common sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you are worried be aware of how often the compressor cycles. Contact a repair company right away in the event that this occurs more often than usual.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are dirty. If you notice your fridge making a squeaking sound clean the coils and fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment, water and a rag, Frydge or simply use dish soap and water. It's important to do this every two years and more frequently if your fridge is older or is used frequently.

Clicking

A clicking sound can also be heard from a fridge. It is usually caused by freezing around the fan of the freezer. Manual defrosting can resolve the problem, but it will return unless a professional is called to assist.

If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker connected, this sound can be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when aren't using ice regularly.

The hum from your fridge is normal. It may be louder during certain times of day, or following heavy stockings or intense freezer functions. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cold however it isn't a sign of a problem with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Household dust attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as traces of daily exposures to chemicals in the home. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they are a perfect substrate for microbes, including those that can cause an infection when they come into contact with a cut.

It's impossible to completely clean a fridge, but cleaning regularly can help reduce dust build-up and help keep the temperature constant. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and operates inefficiently. If you suspect your fridge is making louder noises than usual, or if it's running out of power due to overworking it It's probably time to call the professionals.

Dust doesn't drift into the air from the outside as is commonly thought. It's made up of resuspended soil from the 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.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. However, the majority of chemicals in dust originate from objects that have been knocked off, such as 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 spores, like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they make their way into an open wound.

Researchers have discovered that a range of health issues are linked to contaminated dust, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils located on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to be able to disperse the heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor will work all day long trying to cool the fridge and ends up wearing down the unit. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.

If you're looking to do the work yourself, it is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator from its outlet and switch off the power source prior to starting. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust it is an ideal idea to wear a mask for your face. Then, you'll need to find the coils. They are typically located at the rear of the fridge, or at the front across the base of some models. If you're unsure of where to find them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.

After you've located the coils, remove the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the narrow hose attachment or brushing them using condenser cleaning brushes. 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 place, and plug it in.

If you're not confident doing this yourself, then you could always seek out an expert. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are durable appliances that keep running all day and night to cool your food. To help them do their jobs well they require regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.

One easy thing to do is to wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from sealing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny gaps. Wipe them down by putting baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every few months.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different location to look at. It could be noisy if it's been clogged with paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the fridge and take it off all shelves and then take out any removable parts. Clean the coils and the area surrounding them with the vacuum cleaner using an attachment for a hose. Make sure that you turn the fridge on again when you're done.

It's best to check your owner's manual for details on where to find the coils and the fan and what cleaning tools you might need. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully to ensure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.