How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in a vast range of shapes and sizes. They can be a perfect fit in small places like dorms.

Some models also connect to smart devices. They'll let you monitor your fridge from afar and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. You can also make use of voice commands to control them.

Noise

Fridges can make many different sounds while running, some of which are more noticeable than others. If you notice any of the sounds below, determine its origin and look for a fix before calling a repair service for your fridge.

Rattling

Fridge rattling can occur when there's no space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. It's easy to repair - all you need to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of inches of space on either side, and adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to lower or raise it in line with.

Hissing

The compressor can make a noise when cooling your food. This is a common sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor cycles and call a fridge repair service immediately in the event that it occurs more often than normal.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can sound raucous if the coils or fan are filthy. If you notice your fridge making squeaking sounds, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum cleaner using a brush attachment, a rag and water or use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice a year or more frequently if your refrigerator is older or is heavily used.

Clicking

Frigs may also make an ear-piercing sound that is usually caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can resolve the issue however it is likely to recur unless a professional is called in.

Clicking can also happen when the fridge is turned off, so make sure to restart it if this occurs. If you have an ice maker installed 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 from your fridge is normal, but it can be a bit more pronounced at certain periods of the day or after heavy stockings or intense freezing processes. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, which means it has to work faster. This isn't an indication of an issue.

Dust

Dust from the household is an excellent magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and also traces of chemical exposures that are commonplace in the household. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and inhalation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, such as those that can cause an infection when they come into direct contact with an open cut.

It's impossible to completely clean a fridge, but cleaning regularly can help reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature more constant. A dirty fridge and freezer is a waste of energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If you suspect that your fridge is producing louder sounds than normal, or is running out of power due to overworking it is it time to call in the experts.

Dust doesn't float into the air from the outside as is often believed. It contains resuspended dirt from your home and can be contaminated with lead or other toxicants. It also contains pollen, mold, and car exhaust. It also has legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half 100 years ago.

Some compounds, like flame retardants like decabromodiphenylether are able to dissolve into the air. However, the majority of chemicals found in house dust are derived from objects that are knocked off, for example, electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.

A dusty refrigerator freezer can negatively impact your health, as well as contamination of food. It can harbor allergens like pet dander and droppings of cockroaches that can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infection if they make their way into wounds that are open.

Researchers have found that dust contamination can be linked to a broad variety of health issues such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia, and freezer inflammatory intestinal diseases. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children suffering from leukemia contained higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators are running properly, the coils located on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to be able to disperse the heat generated by the compressor. But if these radiator-like parts are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work continuously trying to cool the fridge but eventually wears down the unit. It's important to regularly clean your coils.

Before starting, disconnect and turn off the power source of your refrigerator. This will reduce the chance of electrocuting yourself or your family members while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it's recommended to wear a face mask. Then you will have to locate the coils. These coils are usually located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some cases, at the front and base. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if aren't sure where to find them.

After you have located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel if you have one. You can then alternate between vacuuming the coils using an hose attachment that is narrow and brushing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. Be cautious not to risk damaging or bent coils. Replace the kick panel, or push the refrigerator into position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.

You can employ an expert if you're not at ease doing it yourself. It's cheaper and easier to keep up the cleaning routine in order to prevent the issue from occurring.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are durable appliances that are running all day and night to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to ensure they accomplish their task effectively. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running efficiently for a long time.

One easy thing to do is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can accumulate and block the gaskets from sealing tightly and allowing cool air to escape through tiny cracks. Clean them with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every few months.

The fan in the back of the refrigerator is a different place to check. It can get noisy when it's clogged with paper, insulation and even mouse (gasp). Unplug the refrigerator 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 as well as the surrounding area. Make sure you turn the fridge back on after you're done.

It is best to refer to your owner's manual for details on how to locate the fan and coils and what kind of cleaning tools you'll need. It's also a good idea to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you understand what is and isn't covered.