How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight spaces including dorms.
Certain models also sync with smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge from afar and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. You can also make use of voice commands to control them.
Noise
Fridges make a wide range of noises while they are in operation. Some of these sounds are more noticeable than others. If you hear any of the below sounds identify the source and check for a quick fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
The fridge could rattle in the event that there isn't enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it is positioned at an unlevel angle. It's simple to solve. You just need to ensure that there is at least a couple of inches between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it can produce a loud sound. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor cycles and call a fridge repair service immediately if it does so more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
The refrigerator may sound loud when their fans or coils are filthy. If you notice that your fridge is making a squeaking sound, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment or a rag and water or just use dish soap and water. This should be done twice every year or more often when your refrigerator is old or heavily used.
Clicking
Frigs can also make an ear-piercing sound that is usually caused by ice accumulation around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.
The clicking can also occur when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to restart it if this occurs. This sound could also be caused by the ice maker if there is one to your fridge, so be sure to ensure this is switched off when you aren't using an ice maker that is constantly running.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may be more pronounced during certain times of the day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it is working faster. This is not an indication of a problem.
Dust
Dust in the house is an ideal habitat for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms, as well as the traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can be inhaled and elicit allergic reactions, and serve as an ideal place for microbes to grow including those that could cause infections if they come in contact with wounds that are open.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and keep an even temperature. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If your fridge is producing more noise than usual, or If you suspect that it is working too hard it could be time to get it checked.
Dust doesn't drift into the air from the outside as it is thought to be. It contains resuspended dirt from the home, which can be contaminated by lead or other toxicants. It also contains mold, pollen, and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT which was banned 50 years ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. However, the majority of chemicals found in house 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 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 for many people. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, that can cause infections if they find their way into an open wound.
Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions are linked to dust pollution, ranging from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. A recent study found that homes of children diagnosed with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators function properly, the coils that are on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate heat generated by the compressor. But when these radiator-like parts are covered in dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor works overtime trying to cool the fridge and eventually wears down the appliance. This is why it's crucial to keep the coils clean.
Before you begin, unplug and turn off the refrigerator's power supply. This will decrease the chance that you or your family may be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. It is also a good idea to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to find the coils. These are typically in the rear of the fridge or at the front across the base in some units. If you're unsure of where to find them, consult your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.
After you have located the coils, you will need to remove the access panel, if there's one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and rubbing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. It is essential to take your time when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. After you're done, replace the kick panel or push the fridge into place and plug it back into.
You can employ an expert if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. It's cheaper and less of a hassle to just keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from happening in the first place.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for years to come.
One simple thing to do is to clean the door seals. The gaskets can become clogged with jelly and other sticky food items and allow cool air to escape through tiny openings. Every few months, clean them clean using a baking soda solution and warm water using a sponge or toothbrush.
Another spot to check for issues is the fan in the back of the fridge. It can become noisy when it's clogged with insulation, paper and even mice (gasp). Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with hose attachments can be used to clean the coils and the area surrounding them. Make sure to turn the fridge on again when you are finished.
It is best Fridges to refer to your owner's manual for details about where to find the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you may require. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.