Why Nobody Cares About Fridges

How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

cheap fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can fit in tight places like dorms.

Some models also sync with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge from afar and resolve issues when they arise. You can also control them via voice commands.

Noise

Refrigerators can emit a variety of sounds while operating, and some are more prominent than others. If you notice any of the sounds below, determine its origin and search for a quick fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.

Rattling

Fridge rattling can occur when there’s not enough space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it’s positioned at an unbalanced angle. It’s simple to fix. It’s just a matter of ensure that there’s at least a couple of inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling legs or screws to raise or lower your fridge.

Hissing

The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a typical sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you’re concerned, time how often the compressor cycles and call a refrigerator repair service immediately in the event that it occurs more frequently than normal.

Squeaking

Fridges can be noisy when the fan or fridge 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 and warm water to wash the fan and coils. This should be done twice a year or more frequently when your refrigerator is old or used a lot.

Clicking

A clicking sound may also be heard from a fridge. It is usually caused by ice 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 professional service.

If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. If you have an ice maker attached, this sound can be caused by it. Make sure you switch it off when you are not using ice constantly.

The hum of your fridge is normal, but it can be a bit more pronounced at certain periods of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. This is because the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cold but it’s not necessarily a sign of trouble with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Dust from the household is a magnet for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms, as well as the traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that may cause infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.

Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and maintain a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If you suspect that your fridge is making louder noises than usual, or if it’s wasting power by overworking itself is it time to call the professionals.

Dust does not drift into the air from outside as is often believed. It is made up of soil that has been resuspended from your home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxic substances, along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also retains the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned a century ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. However, the majority substances found in dust originate 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.

Aside from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a smoky fridge can also negatively affect your health. It could harbor allergens such as pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It also contains bacterial spores such as staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a variety of health conditions can be traced to dust pollution, ranging from cardiovascular disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils located on the back and front of the appliance should be able to dissipate the heat created by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint the compressor has to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. That’s why it’s important to clean the coils regularly.

Before you begin, unplug and turn off the power source of your refrigerator. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself and your family members while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust it’s a good idea for you to wear a face mask. Then, you’ll need to locate the coils. They are usually located in the rear of the fridge, or at the front across the base of some models. If you’re unsure of where to locate them go through your fridge’s owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

Once you’ve located the coils, take off the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the narrow hose attachment or fridge brushing them with condenser cleaning brushes. Be careful not to risk damaging or bent coils. When finished take the kick panel off, replace it or move the fridge to its place and plug it in.

If you’re not confident doing it yourself, you could always seek out a professional. But it’s much cheaper and less trouble to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue from occurring in the first place.

Maintenance

Fridges are powerful appliances that operate all day long to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to help them do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running efficiently for many years to come.

One easy thing to do is clean the door seals. The gaskets may become blocked by jelly and other food items that stick which allows cool air to escape through tiny openings. Wipe them down using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.

Another spot to check for issues is the fan in the back of the fridge. It could be noisy if it’s clogged by paper, insulation or even mice. Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator and remove all removable parts. Clean the coils and the space around them with a vacuum cleaner with the hose attachment. Be sure to turn the fridge back on when you’re done.

It is recommended to consult the owner’s manual for specifics about where to find the coils and the fan and what sort of cleaning tools you may require. It’s also a good idea to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered.