How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a variety of different sizes and shapes. They can fit in tight spaces, such as dorms.
Some models are compatible with smart phones. They allow you to monitor your fridge remotely and fix any issues that might occur. You can also control them using voice commands.
Noise
Fridges can make a variety of sounds while operating, and some are more noticeable than others. Before calling a repair service, you should determine the source of any noises you hear.
Rattling
The sound of a refrigerator rattling could be caused by there's not enough space between the fridge and wall or cabinet, or when it's sitting at an uneven angle. It's simple to repair. You just need to ensure that there's at least a couple of inches between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or you can adjust the leveling screws or legs to increase or decrease the height of your fridge.
Hissing
The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid that is moving through the system. If you are concerned, keep track of the frequency at which the compressor cycles. Call a fridge repair service immediately when this occurs more frequently than usual.
Squeaking
Fridges can be noisy if the coils or fan are dirty. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, make use of an attachment for a vacuum cleaner along with a rag and water or dish soap and warm water to clean the fan and coils. It is important to clean the fridge at least twice a year, or more often in the case of a fridge that is older or frequently used.
Clicking
Frigs can also produce click sounds typically caused by the accumulation of ice around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can resolve the problem but it could recur in the event that a professional is not called in.
The clicking can also occur when the fridge is turned off, so be sure to turn it back on if this occurs. This sound could also be caused by an Ice maker if you have one to the fridge, so it's crucial to make sure that it's switched off when you don't require continuous ice.
The hum from your fridge is normal, and it can be a bit louder at certain times of the day or following large quantities of stock or freezing functions. This is because the refrigerator needs to work harder and faster to keep your food cool however it isn't an indication of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.
Dust
Dust from the household is an ideal habitat for bacteria, dirt and other microorganisms and also traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and respiratory irritation and are a perfect substrate for microbes, which includes those that can cause an infection when they come into contact with an open cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy however regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure a more constant temperature. A dirty refrigerator also consumes energy because it overheats and operates inefficiently. If you suspect that your refrigerator is producing louder sounds than usual, or if it's running out of power due to overworking it is it time to call in experts.
Contrary to other airborne particles dust doesn't simply drift in from the outside as is often believed. It's made up of resuspended dust from the home and can be contaminated with lead or other toxicants. It also contains pollen, mold and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT, which was banned 50 years ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether, volatilize and get into the air, however the majority of chemicals in house dust are transferred directly from one object to another, such as by people knocking fibers and minute bits of plastic off of electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a smoky fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It can harbor allergens such as pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It can also contain bacterial spores, such as staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they make their way into a wound.
Researchers have discovered that contaminated dust is linked to a wide range of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. integral fridges revealed that dust in the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.
Condenser Coils
If refrigerators are functioning correctly, the coils on the back and front of the appliance should be able to dissipate the heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor has to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which reduces the efficiency of the unit. That's why it's important to regularly clean the coils.
Before starting, disconnect and turn off the refrigerator's power source. This can lower the risk of electrocuting yourself or your family members when working on the appliance. It's also a good idea to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. The next step is to find the coils. These are typically on the back of the fridge, or in front of the base in certain models. If you are unsure where to locate them check the owner's manual or contact the manufacturer for more information.
After you have located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel, if there's one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and rubbing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. It is important to be patient when doing this so that you don't bend or damaging the coils. After you're done you can replace the kick panel or push the fridge back into place and plug it in.
You can hire a professional 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 problem.
Maintenance
Fridges are powerful appliances that run all day to cool down your food. They require regular maintenance to ensure they perform their job well. Simple preventive maintenance can keep your machines running smoothly for many years.
Clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can cause a buildup and stop the gaskets from securing tightly, letting cool air seep through tiny gaps. Every few months, clean them down with a baking soda solution and warm water using a toothbrush or sponge.
The fan in the rear of the refrigerator is another location to look at. It can get noisy when it's blocked by paper, insulation and even mouse (gasp). Unplug the fridge and take it off all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners equipped with connections for hoses are a great option to clean the coils and the surrounding area. Make sure you switch the fridge back on when you are finished.
It is recommended to consult the owner's manual for specifics on how to locate the coils and the fan and what sort of cleaning tools you might need. Also, you should go through the warranty to make sure you are aware of the coverage.