The refrigerator is a critical appliance of your home. The following tips can improve the efficiency of your refrigerator and extend its lifespan:
1. Clean the Coils
The condenser coils at the back and underneath your refrigerator play a crucial role in the cooling system. Over time, they can become covered in dust, debris, and other pollutants. As a result, the energy system would have to work twice as hard to maintain optimal cooling. This can increase the chances of frequent appliance breakdowns.
Clean the coils regularly with a vacuum or a dedicated coil duster. You should clean it at least twice a year. However, if you have pets that shed a lot, consider cleaning them more frequently.
2. Organize and Avoid Overloading
Every refrigerator has a storage capacity. Excessive amounts of food in your refrigerator can block vents and reduce airflow. The refrigerator motor would have to work hard to maintain the set temperature. It can also deteriorate the quality of food inside, especially produce and meat items.
Keep your refrigerator organized to improve airflow and circulate cold air. Place items with similar temperatures next to each other. Store prepared food on the top shelves, while raw materials should be kept on the lower shelves.
3. Clean and Disinfect the Interior
Spills and food debris on the interior walls of a refrigerator might not seem like a big problem. In reality, they can affect the appliance’s efficiency and leave an unpleasant odor. Regularly clean and sanitize the interior of your refrigerator.
Remove all the shelves and drawers and wipe down the surfaces with hot, soapy water. Let the soap sit for a few minutes before rinsing it with clean water. Use a dry cloth to wipe the surfaces.
4. Defrost the Refrigerator
Ice buildup in the freezer is common. Most homeowners don’t know that it can block airflow and impact the food quality. Regularly defrost the freezer to ensure maximum efficiency.
The simplest way to defrost a freezer is simply to let the ice melt. Unplug your appliance, unload it, and let the ice melt on its own. Law towels and trays on the base of the freezer to collect water. Before refilling it, clean the shelves, drawers, and the inside of the freezer.
5. Check Door Seals
Refrigerator door seals keep cold air inside. If they are damaged or worn out, your refrigerator’s efficiency will be reduced. The simplest way to check the door seal is to close the door with a thin piece of paper. If you can easily pull the paper out, the seals have worn out.
Regularly clean the seals with a damp cloth and detergent to remove dirt and grime. Replace the seals if there is excessive damage.
6. Invest in Refrigerator Repair Services
Signs of refrigerator damage shouldn’t be ignored. Call a professional refrigerator repair service if you’ve noticed:
- Leaking.
- High energy bills.
- Excess frost.
- Unusual noises.
- Reduced cooling capability.
Repair services have expert technicians who can handle all kinds of problems. They are aware of brands, models, and components and can efficiently fix complex issues. A professional appliance technician will ensure your refrigerator stays up and running for extended periods.
