How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit in tight places like dorms.
Some models also connect to smart devices. They let you monitor your fridge remotely and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators emit a wide variety of noises while they are operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. If you notice any of the sounds below find out the cause and look for a 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 wall or cabinet, or if it's placed at an uneven angle. This is a simple repair - all you need to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of 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 could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a normal sound, and it is caused by the compressor oil or refrigerant that is flowing through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor is running and contact a fridge repair service immediately when it happens more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are dirty. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your refrigerator, you can use an attachment for a vacuum cleaner or a rag along with dish soap or water and warm water to clean the fan and coils. This should be done at least twice a year or more frequently in the case of older refrigerators or is heavily used.
Clicking
A click sound can also be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually due to frozen air around the freezer fan. Defrosting by hand can fix the issue but it could recur in the event that a professional is not called to assist.
If you hear clicking, turn the fridge back on. This sound can also be caused by an ice maker if there is one installed, so it's important to ensure that it's turned off when you don't need ice continuously.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may be more intense during certain times of day, or after heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, and therefore it will work more quickly. This is not an indication of any issue.
Dust
Household dust is an ideal habitat for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms as well as traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can be breathed in and trigger allergic reactions and serve as an ideal place for microbes to grow, including some that may cause infection when they come into contact with a wound.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and ensure a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge is a waste of energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If you suspect your fridge is making louder noises than normal, or is wasting power by overworking itself, it might be time to call in the experts.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't just come in from the outside it is believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from the home, which is often tainted with lead and other toxic substances, along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned a century ago.
Some compounds, such as flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize and get into the air, however the majority of chemicals found in dust in the house are transferred directly from one thing to another like by smashing fibers and small pieces of plastic off 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 be detrimental to your health. It can harbor allergens like pet dander or droppings of cockroaches that can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, that can cause infections if they find their way into an open wound.
Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health conditions can be traced to dust pollution, ranging from heart disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. A recent study showed that homes of children with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than the homes of healthy kids.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are operating correctly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should help disperse the heat produced by the compressor. But when these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor works all day long trying to cool the fridge and will eventually wear down the appliance. That's why it's important to regularly clean the coils.
If you're planning to tackle the job yourself It is recommended that you unplug the refrigerator and switch off the power source prior to beginning. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members may be electrocuted while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. Then you will have to locate the coils. These coils are usually 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, consult your fridge's owner manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
Once you've located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel, if there's one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils using a narrow hose attachment and rubbing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. Be cautious not to risk breaking or bending the coils. When finished take the kick panel off, replace it or push the fridge into place and plug it into.
You can engage an expert if you're not confident in doing it yourself. It's cheaper and simpler to keep up the cleaning routine to avoid the issue.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that keep running throughout the day and night to cool your food. They require regular maintenance to ensure they do their job effectively. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run efficiently for a long time.
One simple thing to do is to clean the door seals. Gaskets can get filled with jelly and other sticky foods which allows air to escape through tiny holes. Clean them by putting baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
Another place to check for issues is the fan in the back of the refrigerator. It can become noisy when it's blocked with paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Take the shelves off, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all removable parts. Clean buy fridge uk as the area around them with a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment. Make sure to turn off the fridge back on when you're done.
It is best to refer to your owner's manual for details on where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you might need. It's recommended to read the warranty carefully to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.