The Do's and Don'ts of a Refrigerator
A refrigerator is crucial to any household, keeping food fresh and safe.
A refrigerator is crucial to any household, keeping food fresh and safe. Like any appliance, it requires proper care to function optimally and last many years. Several practices can prolong the refrigerator's life or lead to unnecessary damage. Understanding the best and worst practices will help keep the refrigerator running efficiently while avoiding costly repairs. Here are the do's and don'ts to follow for maintaining a refrigerator.
Do Clean the Coils Regularly
The condenser coils, located either at the rear or underneath the refrigerator, play an important role in removing heat from the appliance. Over time, these coils can become clogged with dust, dirt, and pet hair, making the refrigerator work harder to stay cool. Cleaning the coils regularly will help improve energy efficiency and extend the appliance's life. A coil cleaning brush or vacuum can remove the debris and prevent the refrigerator from overheating.
Don't Overload the Refrigerator
While it may be tempting to pack the refrigerator full of food, overloading can obstruct airflow and make the appliance work more to maintain a consistent temperature. When air cannot circulate freely, certain refrigerator areas may become too warm, leading to spoiled food and a strain on the compressor. Keeping the shelves organized and not overfilled allows for better air circulation and maintains the refrigerator's cooling efficiency.
Do Check the Door Seals
The door seals, also known as gaskets, are essential for keeping the cool air inside the refrigerator. If the seals are damaged, loose, or dirty, cold air will escape, causing the refrigerator to work harder to maintain its temperature. Regularly inspecting the door seals and wiping them down to remove debris will help prevent air leaks. If the seals are worn out or cracked, replacing them will prevent unnecessary energy consumption and keep the appliance running smoothly.
Don't Place Hot Food Inside the Refrigerator
Placing hot food straight into the refrigerator can raise the internal temperature, making the compressor work overtime to cool the appliance back down. This stresses the refrigerator's components and generates an environment where bacteria can grow on nearby food. To avoid affecting its overall performance, it is important to let food cool to room temperature before storing it in the refrigerator.
Do Defrost the Freezer
In some refrigerators, frost can build up in the freezer compartment, especially in older models without an automatic defrost function. Excessive frost can reduce the freezer's efficiency and make it difficult to store food. Defrosting the freezer regularly, or whenever a significant buildup of frost is noticed, will help the appliance maintain its cooling performance. Unplugging the refrigerator and allowing the frost to melt naturally is the best method for defrosting.
Don't Block Air Vents
Air vents within the refrigerator circulate cold air to maintain an even temperature. Blocking these vents with food or containers can restrict airflow and lead to temperature fluctuations. Keeping the vents clear and allowing space for air to flow will prevent warm spots in the refrigerator and verify that food stays fresh longer.
Do Set the Right Temperature
The recommended temperature for a refrigerator is between 37°F and 40°F, while the freezer should be put at 0°F. Keeping the appliance within this range will help preserve food and prevent bacteria growth. Regularly checking and adjusting the temperature settings as needed can verify that the refrigerator operates optimally. If the refrigerator struggles to maintain these temperatures, it may be time to contact an appliance repair specialist to inspect the appliance.
Don't Ignore Strange Noises
Unusual noises such as humming, rattling, or clicking could indicate a problem with the refrigerator's compressor, fan, or other internal components. Ignoring these sounds may bring forth more significant damage over time. Addressing the issue early by consulting a professional appliance repair service can prevent a small problem from becoming a costly repair. Regular maintenance and attention to unusual sounds will help keep the refrigerator in good working order.
Do Organize the Contents Properly
Proper organization inside the refrigerator helps maintain an even temperature and prevents food from spoiling. Keeping perishable items like dairy and meat in the colder areas, typically toward the back, will extend their freshness. Using airtight containers for leftovers and other food items can prevent odors from spreading and reduce moisture buildup inside the refrigerator.
Caring for a refrigerator requires attention to detail and simple maintenance steps. Regularly cleaning the coils, checking the door seals, and avoiding overloading the appliance will ensure its continued efficiency and reliability. When issues arise, consulting a professional appliance repair company can provide the necessary repairs to keep the refrigerator functioning at its best. Proper care extends the appliance's life, helps save energy costs, and prevents food waste.
Tucker Appliance Repair provides exceptional repair and maintenance for all major home appliances in Birmingham, AL, and surrounding areas. Our expert, trustworthy technicians offer prompt, quality service for refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens, cooktops, and more with easy scheduling, transparent pricing, and fast, reliable service. All services are guaranteed.
