How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an variety of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight spaces, such as dorms.
Certain models can be used with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems when they arise. You can also utilize voice commands to control them.
Noise
Refrigerators produce a variety of sounds when they are operating. Certain sounds are more noticeable than others. If you notice any of the noises below identify the source and check for a quick fix prior to calling a fridge repair company.
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 placed at an uneven angle. It's easy to solve - all you have to do is ensure there's at least a couple of inches of space between the sides, and adjust the legs of the fridge or
freezers leveling screws to lower or raise it in line with.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it may make a squealing sound. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you are concerned be aware of how often the compressor cycles. Contact a repair service immediately in the event that this occurs more often than usual.
Squeaking
Fridges may be noisy if their coils or fans are filthy. If you hear a squeaking sound from your refrigerator, you can use a vacuum cleaner brush attachment along with a rag and water or freezers (
straight from the source) dish soap and warm water to wash the coils and fan. It is important to clean the fridge twice a year or more frequently when your fridge is old or is used frequently.
Clicking
A clicking sound may also be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually due to freezing around the fan of the
freezer. This can be solved by a manual defrost but it is likely to recur unless the issue is addressed by a service expert.
If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker attached to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Make sure to switch it off when you aren't using ice regularly.
The hum from your fridge is normal. It may be more pronounced during certain times of the day, or after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, so it is working faster. This is not an indication of an issue.
Dust
Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, as well as traces from everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be inhaled and trigger allergic reactions and can provide a great place for microbes to grow including those that could cause infections if they come into contact with an open wound.
It's impossible to clean a fridge completely but regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature more consistent. A dirty fridge also wastes energy because it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your refrigerator is making more noise than usual, or If you suspect that it is running out of energy due to overworking it could be time to have it checked out.
Dust doesn't float into the air from outside as is often believed. It is made up of soil that has been resuspended from your home, which is often tainted with lead and other toxic substances, along with pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also retains pollutant residues from the past, such as DDT which were banned more than half a century ago.
Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize and get into the air, but the majority of chemicals in house dust are transferred directly from one object to the next, such as by people knocking fibers and minute bits of plastic off 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 affect your health, not to mention contaminating food. It can harbor allergens, such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies in many people. It can also contain bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of health conditions can be traced to contaminated dust, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia had higher levels PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators function properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance are supposed to disperse the heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge but ends up wearing down the appliance. This is why it's crucial to regularly clean the coils.
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 beginning. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself or your family members while working on the appliance. It is also a good idea to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. The next step is to locate the coils. These coils are usually located at the back of the refrigerator, or in some instances, at the front and at the base. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if don't know where they are.
After 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 cleaning brush. It is important to take your time when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. After that, replace the kick panel or push the fridge back into position and plug it back into.
If you're not confident doing this yourself, then you can always hire an expert. It's cheaper and less of a hassle to keep up with the cleaning routine to stop the problem from occurring in the first place.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are durable appliances that keep running all day and night to cool your food. To ensure they do their job effectively they require regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running smoothly for years to come.
Wipe down the door seals. The gaskets can become clogged with jelly and other food items that stick which allows air to escape through tiny gaps. Clean them off with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.
Another spot to check for issues is the fan in the back of the fridge. It can be noisy if it's clogged up with insulation, paper or even mouse. Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator and remove all the parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners that have connections for hoses are a great option to clean the coils and the area around them. Be sure to turn the fridge back on after you're done.
It's best to check the owner's manual to find out more about where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you'll need. It's recommended to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.
