How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight places like dorms.

Certain models can be used with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge from afar, and troubleshoot problems when they arise. You can also control them via voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators produce a variety of noises while they are in operation. Some of these noises are more prominent than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, you should determine the source of any sounds you hear.

Rattling

The fridge can rattle when there's not enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. This is a simple fix - all you have to do is ensure there's at least a couple of inches of space on either side and then adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to raise or lower it according to.

Hissing

The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound, and it is caused by the compressor's oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned you are concerned, track how often the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair company immediately if this happens more than usual.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are dirty. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your fridge, make use of an attachment for a vacuum cleaner, a rag, and dish soap or water along with warm water to clean the coils and fan. This should be done at least twice every 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 frozen air around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed by a manual defrost but will likely return until the issue is resolved by a professional service.

Clicking can also happen when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to restart it when you hear this. If you have an ice maker attached, this sound can 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 get more pronounced during certain times of the day, and also after heavy stockings or intense freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it has to work faster. This is not an indication of a problem.

Dust

Household dust is an excellent magnet for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms, as well as the traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that could cause an infection when they come into contact with an open cut.

Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy, but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge also wastes energy when it overheats and operates inefficiently. If you suspect that your refrigerator is making louder noises than normal, or is operating at a high rate of energy consumption due to its overwork is it time to call in experts.

Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just drift into the air from outside as is often believed. It contains resuspended dirt from the home and can be contaminated by lead or other toxicants. It also contains mold, pollen and car exhaust. It also contains a number of legacy pollutants, including DDT which was banned over 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. But the majority of chemicals found in house 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 soiled refrigerator can affect your health, not to mention contaminating food. It could harbor allergens, such as pet dander, and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in a lot of people. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they make their way into an open wound.

Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions can be traced to dust contamination, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should be able to dissipate the heat created by the compressor. But when these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge but eventually wears down the appliance. That's why it's so important to clean the coils regularly.

If you're looking to do the work yourself, it is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator and turn off its power supply before beginning. This can lower the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust, it's a good idea for you to wear a mask for your face. You will then need to locate the coils. They are usually located in the back of the refrigerator, or in some instances, at the front and at the base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you don't know where they are.

After you have located the coils, you'll have to take off the access panel if there is one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an attachment for a narrow hose and rubbing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. Take your time to avoid breaking or bent coils. When finished, replace the kick panel or move the fridge to its place and plug it back into.

You can hire a professional if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to keep up the routine of cleaning to prevent the issue from occurring.

Maintenance

Fridges are powerful appliances that operate all day to cool down your food. To help them do their jobs well they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run efficiently for a long time.

One easy thing to do is clean the door seals. The gaskets can become clogged with jelly and other sticky foods which allows cool air to escape through tiny holes. Clean them by putting baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every couple of months.

Another spot to look for problems is the fan at the back of the refrigerator. It can be noisy if it's clogged by paper, insulation or even mice. Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator, and take out all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils as well as the area around them with a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for a hose. Make sure to switch the fridge back on after you have finished.

It's Best Fridges to check the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what kind of cleaning tools you may require. It is also recommended to go through the warranty to make sure you understand what's covered.