The No. 1 Question Everyone Working In Fridges Should Be Able To Answer How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight places like dorms.

Certain models also connect to smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge from afar and resolve issues when they arise. You can also use voice commands to control them.

Noise

Fridges can make a variety of sounds while operating, some of which are more obvious than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair company, try to identify the cause of any noises you hear.

Rattling

The fridge may rumble if there is not enough space between it and the wall or cabinet or if it's sitting at an unlevel angle. It's easy to solve - all you have to do is make sure there's at least a few inches of space between the sides, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it in line with.

Hissing

The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound and it's caused by the compressor oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call a fridge repair service immediately if it does so more frequently than usual.

Squeaking

The refrigerator may sound loud when their fans or coils are dirty. If you notice your fridge making a squeaking sound clean the coils and fan using a vacuum with a brush attachment or a rag and water or use dish soap and water. It is important to clean the fridge every two years or more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or is used frequently.

Clicking

Frigs may also make an ear-piercing sound, which is generally caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again in the event that the issue is not addressed by a professional service.

The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to turn it back on when you hear this. If you have an ice maker installed to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when are not using ice constantly.

The hum of your refrigerator is normal, and it can be a bit louder during certain times of the day or after heavy stockings or intense freezing processes. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it has to work faster. This isn't an indication of a problem.

Dust

Dust in the house is a magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms and also traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be breathed in and elicit allergic reactions, and provide a perfect surface for microbes to colonize and, in some cases, cause infections when they come into contact with wounds that are open.


Cleaning a refrigerator is not easy but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and keep a more constant temperature. A dirty refrigerator also consumes energy when it overheats and is inefficient. If your fridge is producing more noise than usual, or when you suspect it's running out of energy due to overworking it might be time to get it checked.

Dust doesn't drift into the air from the outside as is often believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home and is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains a number of legacy pollutants, including DDT which was banned 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether, are able to be dissolved into the air. But the majority of substances found in dust come 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 can contain allergens, such as pet dander or cockroach droppings that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacterial spores such as 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 operating correctly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance are supposed to disperse the heat produced by the compressor. If these radiator-like components are covered in dust, pet hair or lint the compressor has to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator and reduces the efficiency of the unit. It is important to keep your coils clean.

Before you begin, unplug and shut off the power source of your refrigerator. This can lower the risk of electrocuting yourself and your family members while working on the appliance. It is also an excellent idea to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. The next step is to locate the coils. The coils are typically located in the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and at the base. If you're not sure where to look check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.

After you've located the coils, take down the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them with the hose's narrow attachment or brushing them using condenser cleaning brushes. It is important to take your time when doing this to avoid bending or damaging the coils. Replace the kick panel, or put the refrigerator in position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.

You can employ an expert if you're not at ease doing it yourself. It's less expensive and easier to keep up the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are tough-working appliances that keep running all day and night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to enable them to do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running smoothly for years to come.

Wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can accumulate and block the gaskets from sealing tightly, allowing cool air to leak through tiny cracks. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water with a toothbrush or sponge.

The fan in the back of the refrigerator is a different place to check. It can get noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation and even a mouse (gasp). Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator, and take out all removable parts. Vacuum cleaners that have attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils as well as the surrounding area. Make sure you turn the fridge on again when you are finished.

It's best to check the owner's manual for specifics on where to find the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you may require. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully, to be sure you understand what is and isn't covered.