How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a vast array of shapes and sizes. They can be a perfect fit in small places like dorms.

Some models can also connect to smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge from afar and resolve issues if they arise. You can also control them using voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators can produce many different sounds while running, some of which are more prominent than others. If you hear any of the noises below find out the cause and check for a quick fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.

Rattling

The sound of a refrigerator rattling could be caused by there’s not enough space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or when it’s positioned at an unbalanced angle. It’s simple to solve. It’s just a matter of ensure that there’s at least a couple of inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling screws or legs to raise or lower your fridge.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it can produce a loud sound. This is a common sound that is caused by the compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you are worried, keep track of the frequency at which the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair service immediately when this occurs more frequently than usual.

Squeaking

best fridges; simply click the up coming internet page, may be noisy when their fans or coils are dirty. If you notice that your fridge is making squeaking sounds, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment or water and a rag, or simply use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice each year, or more often when your refrigerator is old or is heavily used.

Clicking

Frigs may also make click sounds, which is generally caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the problem however it is likely to recur until a professional is brought to assist.

If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker attached to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Be sure to turn it off when you are not using ice constantly.

The hum from your fridge is normal, but it can be a bit more pronounced at certain periods of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing processes. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cool but it’s not necessarily a sign of trouble with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms and traces of the everyday exposure to chemicals in our homes. The tiny particles can be breathed in and trigger allergic reactions and serve as an ideal environment for microbes to thrive, including some that may cause infections if they come in contact with a wound.

It’s impossible to clean a fridge completely but regular cleaning can help reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your fridge is making more noise than usual, or when you suspect it’s working too hard, it may be time to have it checked.

Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn’t just come into the air from outside, as is commonly believed. It contains resuspended soil from the house and is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, along with pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains the legacy pollutants like DDT which were banned more than half 100 years ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority substances found in dust are derived 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 dirty refrigerator can adversely impact your health, not to mention contaminating food. It can contain allergens like pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in many people. It also contains bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions can be traced to contaminated dust, from cardiovascular disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. A recent study showed that the homes of children diagnosed with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy kids.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should be able of dispersing the heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor is forced to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. It is important to keep your coils clean.

If you’re looking to do the work yourself it is recommended you unplug the refrigerator and shut off the power source prior to starting. This will decrease the chance that you or your family members may be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. If you’re allergic to dust it’s recommended to wear a face mask. You’ll then have to locate the coils. They are typically located on the back of the fridge, or at the front across the base of some models. Consult your fridge’s manual or contact the manufacturer if aren’t sure where to find them.

After you’ve located the coils, remove the access panel (if there’s one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the hose attachment that is narrow or brushing them using a condenser cleaning brush. It is essential to take your time when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. When finished you can replace the kick panel or push the fridge back into place and plug it in.

You can employ an expert if you’re comfortable doing it yourself. It’s less expensive and easier to keep up the cleaning routine in order to prevent the problem.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that operate all day long to cool your food. To help them do their jobs well, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly, allowing cool air to leak through tiny cracks. Clean them using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every couple of months.

Another place to check for issues is the fan in the back of the fridge. It could be loud if it’s blocked with paper, insulation or even mouse. Unplug the refrigerator remove all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with hose attachments can be used to clean the coils as well as the area surrounding them. Make sure you switch the fridge back on when you are finished.

You should check the owner’s manual for information about where to locate the coils, the fan and the cleaning tools you may need. It’s recommended to read through the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered.