How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight spaces, including
dorm fridge rooms.
Certain models are compatible with smart phones. You can also monitor your fridge from afar and fix any issues if they arise. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators can produce a variety of sounds while operating, and some are more prominent than others. If you notice any of the sounds below identify the source and look for a fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.
Rattling
The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's no space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. This is easy to repair - all you need to do is ensure there's at least a few inches of space between the sides, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to lower or raise it according to.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it can make a squealing sound. This is a common sound that is caused by the compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call a refrigerator repair service immediately when it happens more often than normal.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are filthy. If you notice your
retro fridge making noises clean the coils or fan with a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or a rag and water or use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice every year or more often when your refrigerator is old or heavily used.
Clicking
Frigs may also make click sounds typically caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed by a manual defrost but it is likely to recur until the issue is resolved by a professional service.
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 attached to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Be sure to turn it off when are not making use of ice frequently.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It can be more pronounced during certain times of the day, or after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cold but it's not an indication of a problem with the fridge or its performance.
Dust
Dust from the household is an excellent magnet for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms as well as traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be breathed in and elicit allergic reactions, and can provide a great surface for microbes to colonize, including some that may cause infection when they come into contact with a wound.
Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure the temperature at a constant level. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your fridge is making more noise than normal or if you think it's wasting energy by overworking it might be time to get it checked.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just drift in from outside, as is commonly believed. It is made up of soil that has been resuspended from the home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, as well as pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also retains legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned half a century ago.
Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether can be dissolved and released into the air, but the majority of chemicals found in dust from homes are transferred from one thing to another like by smashing fibers and small pieces of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and
walk-In fridge paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
A dirty refrigerator can adversely impact your health, in addition to the food you eat being contaminated. It could harbor allergens, such as pet dander, and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergies for many people. It also contains bacterial spores such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions can be traced to contaminated dust, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. A recent study showed that the homes of children diagnosed with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils located on the front and back of the appliance should be able of dispersing the heat created by the compressor. If these radiator-like parts are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator and reduces the efficiency of the unit. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.
If you're planning to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and shut off the power source prior to beginning. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. It's also a good idea to wear a mask if are sensitive to dust. You will then have to locate the coils. They are usually located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where to find them.
Once you've located the coils, take down the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose's narrow 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 push the refrigerator into place, and connect it to the electrical outlet.
You can engage a professional if you're not confident in doing it yourself. It's cheaper and easier to maintain the cleaning routine in order to prevent the issue from occurring.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are durable appliances that run all day and at night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to ensure they accomplish their task effectively. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running smoothly for many years.
A simple task is clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny cracks. Clean them by putting baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
The fan in the back of the refrigerator is a different spot to check. It may be noisy if it's been clogged by paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the refrigerator and take it off all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with an air cleaner and an attachment for a hose. Be sure to turn the
Walk-In Fridge back on when you're done.
It is recommended that you read the owner's manual for information on where to find the coils, the fan, and the tools to clean it with. It's also a good idea to read through the warranty carefully, to be sure you understand what is and isn't covered.