How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight spaces including dorms.
Certain models can be used with smart devices. They allow you to monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may occur. You can also use voice commands to control them.
Noise
Fridges can make many different sounds while running, some of which are more noticeable than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, try to identify the cause of any sounds you hear.
Rattling
The fridge could rattle when there's not enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it is positioned at an unlevel angle. It's easy to fix - all you have to do is make sure there's at least a few inches of space between the sides, and adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to lower or raise it accordingly.
Hissing
The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you're worried, count how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge in the event that it occurs more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
Refrigerators can be noisy when their fans or coils are filthy. If you hear a squeaking sound from your fridge, make use of a vacuum cleaner brush attachment, a rag, and water or dish soap and warm water to wash the fan and coils. This should be done twice every year or more often in the case of older refrigerators or is heavily used.
Clicking
A clicking sound may be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually caused by ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the issue however it is likely to recur unless a professional is called in.
The clicking can also occur when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to turn it back on when you hear this. This sound could also be caused by an ice maker if there is one attached, so it's important to make sure that it's switched off when you aren't using an ice maker that is constantly running.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal, but it may be more pronounced at certain times of the day, or after heavy stockings or intense freezing processes. This is because the refrigerator needs to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cold but it's not an indication of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.
Dust
Dust from the household is an excellent magnet for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms and also 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 environment for microbes to thrive, including some that may cause infections when they come in contact with wounds that are open.
It's impossible to clean a fridge entirely, but cleaning regularly will help to reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature stable. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If you suspect your fridge is producing louder sounds than usual, or if it's wasting power by overworking itself, it might be time to call experts.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't simply drift in from outside it is believed. It's made up of resuspended dust from the home which could be contaminated with 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 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 come from objects that have been knocked off, for example, electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
In addition to contaminating food items in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It could harbor allergens like pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they find their way into an open wound.
Researchers have found that contaminated dust is linked to a wide range of health conditions, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, leukemia, and inflammatory intestinal diseases. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children who had leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators function correctly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator and reduces the efficiency of the unit. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.
Before you begin, unplug and shut off the power source of your refrigerator. This will lower the chance that you or your family members may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. If fridge for sale 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 usually located at the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and base. Refer to the manual for your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where they are.
Once you've located the coils, you'll have to take off the access panel, if there's one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an hose attachment that is narrow and brushing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. Take your time to avoid damaging or bending the coils. Replace the kick panel or put the refrigerator in place, and plug it in.
If you aren't comfortable doing this yourself, then you could always seek out an expert. But it's much cheaper and less trouble to keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from happening in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that keep running throughout the day and night to cool your food. To help them do their jobs well, they need regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running smoothly for many years.
Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can cause a buildup and stop gaskets from sealing properly, letting cool air seep out of tiny openings. Every few months, clean them clean using a baking soda solution and warm water with a sponge or toothbrush.
Another spot to check for problems is the fan in the back of the refrigerator. It can become noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation or even mice (gasp). Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils as well as the area surrounding them with a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for a hose. Make sure to switch off the fridge when you're done.
It is best to refer to your owner's manual for details about where to find the coils and the fan and what cleaning tools you might need. It is also recommended to go through the warranty to make sure you understand what's covered.