7 Simple Changes That ll Make A Big Difference With Your Fridges

How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a vast range of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight spaces including dorms.

Some models can also connect to smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge remotely and help you fix any issues that might arise. You can also make use of voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Refrigerators can produce many different sounds while operating, some of which are more obvious than others. If you notice any of the noises below identify the source and check for a quick fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.

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. It's simple to repair. It's just a matter of ensure that there is at least a couple of inches between the built-in fridge and wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling legs or screws to raise or lower your fridge.

Hissing

The compressor can make a noise when cooling your food. This is a common sound that is caused by compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor cycles and call a refrigerator repair service immediately when it happens more frequently than normal.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can be noisy when their fans or coils are filthy. If you notice that your fridge is making squeaking sounds clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment, a rag and water, or use dish soap and water. It is essential to do this twice a year, or more often when your fridge is old or frequently used.

Clicking

Frigs can also produce a clicking sound typically caused by ice accumulation around the freezer fan. This can be resolved with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again unless the issue is addressed by a service expert.

If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. This sound could be caused by the Ice maker if you have one installed to your fridge, so be sure to ensure that it's turned off when you aren't using an ice maker that is constantly running.

The hum from your fridge is normal. It may get more pronounced during certain times of the day, or after heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cool, but it is not an indication of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.

Dust

Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and also traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they are an ideal surface for microbes, including those that can cause infection when they come into contact with a cut.

It's impossible to clean a fridge freezer on sale completely but regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature more constant. A dirty fridge also consumes energy when it overheats and is inefficient. If you suspect that your refrigerator is producing louder sounds than usual, or if it's operating at a high rate of energy consumption due to its overwork is it time to call experts.

Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't simply drift in from the outside it is believed. It is made up of soil that has been resuspended from your home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants as well as pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants like DDT which was banned more than 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize and get into the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust in the house are transferred directly from one object to the next, such as by people throwing fibers and tiny bits of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dusty refrigerator can also affect your health. It could harbor allergens like pet dander and droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria spores, like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they find their way into a wound.

Researchers have found that dust pollution is linked to a wide range of health problems that include cancer, cardiovascular disease leukemia, and inflammatory intestinal diseases. A recent study revealed that the homes of children with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators run correctly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to disperse the heat produced by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor works all day long trying to cool the fridge but eventually wears down the appliance. That's why it's so important to regularly clean the coils.

If you're looking to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and shut off the power source prior to starting. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust, it's an ideal idea to wear a mask for your face. The next step is to locate the coils. They are typically located on the back of the fridge, or at the front across the base in certain models. If you're unsure of where to locate them go through your built-in fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Once you've located the coils, remove the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the narrow hose attachment or brushing them using condenser cleaning brushes. Take your time to avoid damaging or bent coils. After you're done, replace the kick panel or push the fridge into position and plug it back in.

You can hire an expert if you're confident in doing it yourself. It's cheaper and easier to keep up the routine of cleaning to prevent the problem.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that operate all day long to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job well they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run efficiently for a long time.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can accumulate and block the gaskets from securing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny cracks. Every few months, wipe them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using the toothbrush or sponge.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different place to check. It can become noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Unplug the refrigerator, take out all shelves and then take out any removable parts. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Be sure to turn the fridge off when you're done.

It is best to refer to the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what cleaning tools you'll need. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.