How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in different sizes and shapes. They can be a perfect fit in small places like dorms.
Some models are compatible with smart phones. They allow you to monitor your fridge from afar and troubleshoot any problems that might occur. You can also make use of voice commands to control them.
Noise
Refrigerators emit a wide variety of sounds when they are in operation. Some of these noises are more obvious than others. If you hear any of the sounds below, determine its origin and look for a quick fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
The fridge may rumble when there's not enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. It's easy to repair - all you need to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of inches of space on each side, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it accordingly.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it could make a squealing sound. fridges for sale 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 runs and call a refrigerator repair service immediately if it does so more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
Fridges may be noisy if their coils or fans are dirty. If you hear a loud squeaking sound 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 essential to do this every two years and more frequently when your fridge is old or frequently used.
Clicking
Frigs can also produce click sounds that is usually caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the problem but it could recur until a professional is brought in.
If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. The sound could also be caused by the Ice maker if you have one, so it's important to make sure that it's switched off when you don't need continuous ice.
The hum of your refrigerator is normal. It can be more intense during certain times of day, and also after heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, so it will work more quickly. This is not an indication of an issue.
Dust
Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and traces of the everyday exposure to chemicals in our homes. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that can cause infection if they come into direct contact with an open cut.
It's impossible to clean a fridge completely, but cleaning regularly can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature constant. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If you suspect your fridge is producing louder sounds than usual, or if it's running out of power due to overworking it is it time to call in the professionals.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just drift in from outside it is believed. It contains resuspended dirt from your home, which can be contaminated with lead or other poisonous substances. It also contains mold, pollen and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants like DDT which was banned 50 years ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether can be dissolved and released into the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust in the house are transferred directly from one thing to another for example, by knocking fibers and minute bits of plastic off 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, not to mention the food you eat being contaminated. It can harbor allergens like pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a range of health issues are linked to dust contamination, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. A recent study found that the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to be able to disperse the heat generated by the compressor. But when these radiator-like parts are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor will work continuously trying to cool the fridge, and will eventually wear down the appliance. It's important to keep your coils clean.
If you're looking to do the work yourself it is recommended you unplug the refrigerator from its outlet and turn off its power supply prior to beginning. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself or family members while working on the appliance. It is also a good idea to wear a mask if are sensitive to dust. Then, you'll need to locate the coils. They are usually located in the rear of the fridge or in front of the base in certain models. If you're unsure of where to find them go through your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
After you've found the coils, take off the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose attachment that is narrow or brushing them with condenser cleaning brushes. Be cautious not to risk damaging or bending the coils. Replace the kick panel, or put the refrigerator in the correct position, and then plug it in.
You can hire an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. It's cheaper and less of a hassle to just keep up with the routine of cleaning to prevent the problem from occurring in the first place.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working 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 years to come.
Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly and allowing cool air to escape through tiny gaps. Every few months, clean them clean with baking soda solution and warm water using a sponge or toothbrush.
Another spot to look for problems is the fan in the back of the refrigerator. It can be noisy if it's clogged by paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator, and take out all removable parts. Clean the coils and the area around them with a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Make sure to switch off the fridge after you have finished.
It is recommended to consult the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you may require. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.