The No. 1 Question Anyone Working In Fridges Should Be Able To Answer
How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Fridges come in a wide array of shapes and sizes. They can be tucked away in tight spaces, including dorm rooms.
Certain models also connect to smart devices. They let you monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may occur. You can also use voice commands to manage them.
Noise
Refrigerators can emit various sounds when running, some of which are more noticeable than others. If you hear any of the noises below find out the cause and check for a quick fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.
Rattling
The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's no space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's sitting at an uneven angle. It's easy to repair - all you need to do is ensure there's at least a few inches of space on either side and then adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it accordingly.
Hissing
The compressor can make a noise when cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're worried, count how often the compressor runs and call a fridge repair service immediately if it does so more often than normal.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy when the fan or coils are dirty. If you notice a fridge making noises, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum cleaner using a brush attachment or a rag and water or simply use dish soap and water. It is recommended to do this twice each year, or more often in the case of older refrigerators or is heavily used.
Clicking
Frigs can also make an ear-piercing sound, which is generally caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. This can be solved by a manual defrost but will likely return in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.
If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. fridges could be caused by the ice maker if you have one, so it's important to ensure this is switched off when you don't need continuous ice.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It can be more intense during certain times of day, or following 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 a problem.
Dust
Household dust is an excellent magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and also traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and inhalation and provide a perfect surface for microbes, which includes those that may cause an infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help reduce dust and keep a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge also wastes energy when it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your fridge is making more noise than usual or when you suspect it's wasting energy by overworking it could be time to get it checked out.
In contrast to other airborne particles, dust doesn't just come in from outside it is believed. It's made up of resuspended dust from the house, which can be contaminated with lead or other poisonous substances. It also contains pollen, mold, and car exhaust. It also retains legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half decades ago.
Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to volatilize and enter the air, but the majority of chemicals found 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 soiled refrigerator can impact your health, in addition to the food you eat being contaminated. It can harbor allergens, such as pet dander, and the droppings of cockroaches which can trigger asthma and allergic reactions for many people. It can also contain bacterial spores such as staphylococcus.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of health issues are linked to contaminated dust, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. A recent study revealed 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 the homes of healthy children.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should help disperse the heat generated by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor will work continuously trying to cool the fridge but ends up wearing down the unit. It's important to keep your coils clean.
Before you begin, unplug and shut off the refrigerator's power source. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. You'll then have to locate the coils. These coils are usually located in the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and base. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where they are.
After you've located the coils, take down the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the hose attachment that is narrow or brushing them using a condenser cleaning brush. It's important to take your time when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or push the refrigerator into place, and plug it in.
You can employ an expert if you're not comfortable doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the cleaning routine to prevent the issue from occurring.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that are running throughout the day and night to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance will ensure that they are running smoothly for many years to come.
One easy thing to do is to clean the door seals. Gaskets can get filled with jelly and other sticky foods and allow air to escape through tiny gaps. Every few months, wipe them clean using a baking soda solution and warm water using a toothbrush or sponge.
The fan in the rear of the refrigerator is another spot to check. It may be noisy if it's clogged with paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the fridge remove all the shelves and remove any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners equipped with attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils and the area surrounding them. Make sure to switch the fridge back on when you are finished.
It is recommended to check the owner's manual for information on where to find the coils, the fan and the cleaning tools you may need. It's also a good idea to read the warranty carefully, to be sure you understand what is and isn't covered.