How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an range of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight spaces including dorms.
Some models also sync with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems in the event of an issue. You can also utilize voice commands to control them.
Noise
Refrigerators produce a variety of sounds when they're operating. Some of these sounds are more noticeable than others. Before calling a repair service, you should determine the source of any sounds you hear.
Rattling
Fridge rattling can occur when there's not enough space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it's placed at an uneven angle. It's not difficult to solve. It's all you need to do is make sure there are at least a couple of inches between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or adjust the leveling legs or screws 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 normal sound that is caused by the compressor fluid or refrigerant moving through the system. If you are worried be aware of how often the compressor cycles. Contact a repair service immediately if this happens more than normal.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy when the fan or coils are filthy. If fridge for sale hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner or a rag along with dish soap or water and warm water to wash the fan and coils. It is essential to do this twice a year and more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or used heavily.
Clicking
A clicking sound can be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually caused by ice around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed with a manual defrost, but it is likely to recur in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.
If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. If you have an ice maker connected, this sound can be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when aren't using ice regularly.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may be louder during certain times of day, or after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to perform more efficiently and faster to keep your food cool, but it is not necessarily a sign of trouble with the fridge or its performance.
Dust
Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria, and other microorganisms as well as traces from daily exposures to chemicals in the home. The tiny particles can be inhaled and trigger allergic reactions and provide a perfect environment for microbes to thrive including those that could cause infections if they come into contact with a wound.
It's impossible to clean a fridge completely, but cleaning regularly will help to reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your fridge is making more noise than usual or If you suspect that it is wasting energy by overworking it might be time to have it checked.
Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't just come in from the outside, as is commonly believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, in addition to pollen, mold spores, and car exhaust. It also retains legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half a century ago.
Some compounds, like flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. However, the majority chemicals in dust are derived from objects that have been knocked off, such as 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 dusty refrigerator can also affect your health. It can harbor allergens, such as pet dander, and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions in many people. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they find their way into wounds that are open.
Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions are linked to dust pollution, ranging from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children who had leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are functioning properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should be able of dispersing the heat created by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work continuously trying to cool the fridge, and ends up wearing down the appliance. That's why it's so important to regularly clean the coils.
Before you begin, disconnect and shut off the refrigerator's power supply. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself or your family members while working on the appliance. If you are allergic to dust it is a good idea for you to wear a face mask. You will then need to locate the coils. The coils are typically located at the back of the refrigerator or, in some cases, at the front and at the base. If you are unsure where to look check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
After 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 brushing them using a condenser cleaner brush. It is important to take your time while doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or put the refrigerator in the correct position, and then plug it in.
If you're not confident doing this yourself, then you could always seek out a professional. It's cheaper and less of a hassle to keep up with the cleaning routine 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 ensure they do their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance will ensure that they are running smoothly for years to come.
Wipe down the door seals. The gaskets can become blocked by jelly and other food items that stick which allows air to escape through tiny holes. Clean them off with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every couple of months.
The fan in the rear of the refrigerator is another spot to check. It can get noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove any removable parts. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with an air cleaner and the hose attachment. Make sure to turn off the fridge off when you're finished.
It's best to check your owner's manual for details on where to find the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you'll need. It's recommended to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.