How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can fit in tight spaces including dorms.
Some models can be used with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge from afar, and troubleshoot problems if they arise. You can also control them via voice commands.
Noise
Fridges can make many different sounds while operating, some of which are more noticeable than others. Before calling a repair company, try to identify the cause of any noises you hear.
Rattling
Fridge rattling can occur when there's not enough space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's sitting at an uneven angle. It's simple to repair. It's just a matter of make sure there are at least two inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling legs or screws to raise or lower your fridge.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it may make a squealing sound. This is a normal sound and it's caused by the compressor's oil or refrigerant flowing through the system. If you're concerned, keep track of how often the compressor runs. Call a fridge repair company immediately if this happens more than normal.
Squeaking
Refrigerators can be noisy when their fans or coils are dirty. If you notice your fridge making squeaking sounds, clean the coils or fan with a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment or water and a rag, or just use dish soap and water. It is recommended to do this twice each year, or more often in the case of older refrigerators or used a lot.
Clicking
Frigs may also make click sounds typically caused by ice accumulation around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the problem however it is likely to recur in the event that a professional is not called in.
The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to turn it back on when you hear this. If you have an ice maker connected to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Make sure you turn it off when you aren't using ice regularly.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It may get more intense during certain times of day, or following heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it is working faster. fridges uk is not an indication of an issue.
Dust
Household dust 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 place for microbes to grow and, in some cases, cause infections if they come into contact with wounds that are open.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and maintain an even temperature. A dirty fridge also wastes energy as it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than normal or when you suspect it's working too hard it could be time to have it checked.
In contrast to other airborne particles, dust doesn't just drift in from outside it is believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home, which is often tainted with lead and other toxic substances, along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT which was banned more than 50 years ago.
Some compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenyl ether are able to volatilize and enter the air, however the majority of chemicals found in dust in the house are transferred directly from one object to the next for example, by throwing fibers and tiny bits of plastic off of 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, as well as contaminating food. It can contain allergens, like pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacterial spores such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions are linked to contaminated dust, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study found that the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
When refrigerators run properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor works all day long trying to cool the fridge but ends up wearing down the appliance. That's why it's so important to regularly clean the coils.
Before starting, disconnect and turn off the refrigerator's power supply. This will decrease the chance that you or your family members may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust, it's recommended to wear a face mask. You will then have to locate the coils. The coils are typically located in the back of the refrigerator, or in some instances, at the front and base. If you are unsure where to find them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.
Once you've located the coils, take off the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose attachment that is narrow or brushing them using a condenser cleaner brush. It's important to be patient when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or move the refrigerator to its the correct position, and then connect it to the electrical outlet.
If you're not confident doing this by yourself, you can always hire a professional. It's cheaper and simpler to maintain the cleaning routine to prevent the issue from occurring.
Maintenance
Refrigerators are durable appliances that run all day and at night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to ensure they perform their job well. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.
Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny cracks. Clean them off by putting baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every couple of months.
The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is another spot to check. It can become noisy when it's clogged with paper, insulation and even a mouse (gasp). Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator and then remove all removable parts. Vacuum cleaners equipped with attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils as well as the area around them. Make sure to turn off the fridge back on after you're finished.
It is recommended to consult the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what kind of cleaning tools you'll need. You should also review the warranty to be sure you know what's covered.