How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a vast array of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight places like dorms.
Some models can be used with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems if they arise. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Fridges can make a variety of sounds while operating, and some are more obvious than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, you should identify the source of any sounds you hear.
Rattling
Fridge rattling can occur when there's not enough space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. It's simple to solve. You just need to make sure there are at least two inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or adjust the leveling legs or screws to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.
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 are concerned, keep track of the frequency at which the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair company right away if this happens more than usual.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a squeaking sound from your fridge, use a vacuum cleaner brush attachment, a rag, and dish soap or water along with warm water to clean the coils and fan. It is recommended to do this twice each year, or more often in the case of older refrigerators or is heavily used.
Clicking
A click sound can also be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. Manual defrosting can resolve the issue but it could recur in the event that a professional is not called to assist.
The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to turn it back on in the event that this happens. If you have an ice maker connected to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Be sure to switch it off when you aren't using ice regularly.
The hum of your fridge is normal, but it may be louder during certain periods of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. This is because the refrigerator needs to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cold, but it is not necessarily a sign of trouble with the refrigerator or its performance.
Dust
Household dust attracts dirt bacteria and other microorganisms and traces of the everyday exposure to chemicals in our homes. The tiny particles can be inhaled and elicit allergic reactions, and serve as an ideal environment for microbes to thrive and, in some cases, cause infections if they come into contact with a wound.
Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy however regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure an even temperature. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If you suspect that your fridge is producing louder sounds than normal, or is operating at a high rate of energy consumption due to its overwork is it time to call experts.
Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't just drift in from the outside it is believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from the house, 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 50 years ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority of substances found 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.
A dusty refrigerator can negatively impact your health, not to mention the food you eat being contaminated. It could harbor allergens like pet dander and droppings from cockroaches, which can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It also contains bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions are linked to dust contamination, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. A recent study showed that homes of children with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which wears down the appliance. This is why it's crucial to keep the coils clean.
If you're planning to tackle the task yourself it is recommended you unplug the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to beginning. This will decrease the chance that you or your family may be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a mask if are sensitive to dust. You will then have to locate the coils. The coils are typically located at the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and at the base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where to find them.
Once you've located the coils, take off the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the hose's narrow attachment or brushing them with a condenser cleaning brush. Be buy fridge uk not to risk breaking or twisting the coils. Replace the kick panel, or push the refrigerator into position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.
You can employ a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. But it's much cheaper and less hassle to keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from occurring in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that are running throughout the day and night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to help them do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance will ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.
One simple thing to do is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can accumulate and block the gaskets from securing tightly and allowing cool air to escape through tiny cracks. Clean them using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different location to look at. It can become noisy when it's blocked with paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with an air cleaner and an attachment for a hose. Make sure you switch the fridge back on after you have finished.
It's best to check the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you may require. It is also recommended to go through the warranty to make sure you know what's covered.