How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges come in a wide array of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight areas, like dorm rooms.
Some models also sync with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely and resolve issues if they arise. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators produce a variety of noises while they are operating. Some of these noises are more prominent than others. If you hear any of the below sounds find out the cause and look for a quick fix prior to calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
The rattling of the fridge can happen 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 not difficult to repair. You just need to ensure that there's at least two inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a squealing sound. This is a typical sound that is caused by the compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you're worried, count how often the compressor is running and contact a refrigerator repair service immediately if it does so more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your refrigerator, you can use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner along with a rag and dish soap or water along with warm water to wash the fan and coils. It is important to clean the fridge twice a year or more frequently if your fridge is older or used heavily.
Clicking
Frigs can also make click sounds, which is generally caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. This can be solved with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.
It can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to restart it in the event that this happens. If you have an ice maker installed the sound could be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when are not making use of ice frequently.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It can be more intense during certain times of day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it is working faster. This isn't an indication of any issue.
Dust
Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms and traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be breathed in and trigger allergic reactions and serve as an ideal surface for microbes to colonize and, in some cases, cause infection when they come into contact with an open wound.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help reduce dust and maintain the temperature at a constant level. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If your fridge is producing more noise than usual, or when you suspect it's working too hard, it may be time to have it checked out.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't simply drift in from the outside, as is commonly believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, along with pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also retains pollutant residues from the past, such as DDT that were banned half a century ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. But the majority of substances found in dust originate from objects that are thrown off, for example, electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
Aside from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also negatively affect your health. It could harbor allergens like pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It also contains bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of health issues 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 diagnosed with leukemia were more likely to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy kids.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils that are on the back and front of the appliance should dissipate heat generated by the compressor. But if these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge, and eventually wears down the appliance. It is essential to regularly clean your coils.
Before you begin, disconnect and turn off the refrigerator's power source. This will decrease the chance that you or your family members could be electrocuted while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. Then you will have to locate the coils. These are typically in the rear of the fridge, or on the front, across the base of some models. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where they are.
After you've located the coils, remove the access panel (if there's one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose's narrow attachment or brushing them with condenser cleaning brushes. It's important to be patient when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel or push the refrigerator into position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.
You can employ an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. But it's much cheaper and less hassle to keep up with the cleaning routine to stop the problem from occurring in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges Freezers are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to ensure they perform their job well. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running efficiently for a long time.
One easy thing to do is to wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from sealing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny gaps. Clean them using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every few months.
The fan in the back of the refrigerator is another place to check. It can be noisy if it's clogged with paper, insulation or even mice (gasp). Unplug the fridge and take it off all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with connections for hoses are a great option to clean the coils as well as the area surrounding them. Make sure you turn the fridge back on when you're finished.
It is recommended to check the owner's manual for information about where to locate the coils, the fan,
fridge freezer Near Me and what tools to clean it with. Also, you should go through the warranty to make sure you know what's covered.