The No. #1 Question That Everyone In Fridges Should Be Able To Answer
How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators come in an variety of shapes and sizes. They can fit into tight areas, like dorm rooms.
Certain models can be used with smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems if they arise. You can also make use of voice commands to control them.
Noise
Fridges make a wide range of noises while they are in operation. Some of these sounds are more noticeable than others. Before calling a repair service, you should identify the source of any noises you hear.
Rattling
The fridge could rattle if there is not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if its sitting at an unlevel angle. It's simple to repair. 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 you can adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it may make a squealing sound. This is a normal sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor is running and contact a fridge repair service immediately if it does so more often than normal.
Squeaking
Refrigerators can be noisy when their fans or coils are dirty. If you notice that your fridge is making a squeaking sound, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment or a rag and water, or simply use dish soap and water. This should be done twice each year, or more often when your refrigerator is old or used a lot.
Clicking
A clicking sound may be heard from a fridge. This is usually due to ice around the freezer fan. This issue can be fixed with a manual defrost, but it is likely to recur until the issue is resolved by a service expert.
If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. If you have an ice maker attached to your fridge, this sound could be caused by it. Be sure to turn it off when you are not making use of ice frequently.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It can be louder during certain times of day, or after heavy stockings or intense freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cool, but it is not a sign of a problem with the fridge or its performance.
Dust
Household dust attracts dirt bacteria, and other microorganisms as well as traces of daily exposures to chemicals in the home. The tiny particles can be inhaled and elicit allergic reactions, and can provide a great place for microbes to grow and, in some cases, cause infections when they come in contact with an open wound.
It's impossible to clean a fridge completely however, regular cleaning can reduce the accumulation of dust and keep the temperature stable. A fridge that is dirty uses up energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If your refrigerator is making more noise than normal or If you suspect that it is running out of energy due to overworking it could be time to get it checked.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just drift in from the outside, as is commonly believed. It's made up of resuspended dust from the home and can be contaminated by lead or other toxicants. It also contains mold, pollen, and car exhaust. It also has legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned 100 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 are derived from objects that are knocked off, such as electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
A dirty refrigerator can adversely affect your health, as well as the food you eat being contaminated. It can contain allergens, such as pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It also can contain bacteria spores, like staphylococcus aureus, which could cause infections if they find their way into a wound.
Researchers have discovered that a range of health conditions are linked to dust contamination, from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. Recent research showed that the dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia had higher levels of PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
When refrigerators run properly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should help disperse the heat produced by the compressor. But if these radiator-like parts are covered with pet hair, dust, or lint, the compressor will work overtime trying to cool the fridge and ends up wearing down the unit. It's important to keep your coils clean.
If you're looking to tackle the task yourself It is recommended that you disconnect the refrigerator and switch off the power source before beginning. This will lower the chance that you or your family may be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it is a good idea for you to wear a mask for your face. Then you will need to find the coils. These coils are usually located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and base. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where they are.
Once you have found the coils, you will have to take off the access panel if you have one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils using a narrow hose attachment and brushing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. Be careful not to risk breaking or twisting the coils. Replace the kick panel or move the
refrigerator to its place, and plug it in.
If you're not comfortable doing this yourself, then you can always employ a professional. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the cleaning routine in order to prevent the problem.
Maintenance
Fridges are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to ensure they do their job effectively. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running smoothly for a long time.
Clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from securing tightly and allowing cool air to escape through tiny cracks. Clean them by putting baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.
The fan in the back of the refrigerator is a different spot to check. It can become noisy when it's blocked with paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Unplug the fridge, take out all shelves and then take out any removable parts. Clean the coils and the space around them with a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Make sure to turn off the fridge off when you're done.
It's best to check the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what cleaning tools you might need. It's recommended to read the warranty carefully, to be sure you know what is and isn't covered.