How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Refrigerators are available in different sizes and shapes. They can be a perfect fit in small spaces, such as dorms.

Some models are compatible with smart phones. They'll let you monitor your fridge from afar and troubleshoot any problems that might arise. You can also make use of voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Fridges can make various sounds when running, some of which are more prominent than others. Before calling a refrigerator repair service, try to identify the cause of any noises you hear.

Rattling

The rattling of the fridge can happen when there's no space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or when it's sitting at an uneven angle. It's easy to fix - all you have to do is make sure there's at least a couple of inches of space on each side, and adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to raise or lower it accordingly.

Hissing

The compressor may hiss when cooling your food. This is a normal sound, and it is caused by the compressor oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, keep track of how often the compressor cycles. Contact a repair company right away if this happens more than normal.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can sound raucous when the fan or coils are filthy. If you notice your fridge making squeaking sounds clean the coils or fan using a vacuum with a brush attachment or water and a rag, or just use dish soap and water. It is essential to do this every two years or more frequently when your fridge is old or is used frequently.

Clicking

A clicking sound may be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually caused by frozen air around the freezer fan. This can be solved by a manual defrost but is likely to occur again until the issue is resolved by a service expert.

If you hear clicking, switch the fridge back on. The sound could also be caused by an ice maker if there is one installed to the fridge, so it's crucial to ensure that it's turned off when you don't require an ice maker that is constantly running.

The hum coming from your bar fridge for sale is normal. It may be louder during certain times of day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cold, but it is not an indication of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.

Dust

Dust in the house attracts dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms and traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and respiratory irritation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, which includes those that may cause infection if they come into direct contact with an open cut.

Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and maintain an even temperature. A dirty fridge also wastes energy when it gets overheated and performs inefficiently. If your refrigerator is making more noise than usual, or if you think it's running out of energy due to overworking, it may be time to have it checked.

Unlike other airborne particulates, dust doesn't simply drift in from outside as is often believed. It contains resuspended soil from the home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants along with pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT which was banned over 50 years ago.

Certain compounds, like flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to volatilize and enter the air, but the majority of chemicals in dust from homes are transferred from one object to another for example, 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 smoky refrigerator can also affect your health. It can harbor allergens like pet dander and droppings of cockroaches that can trigger asthma attacks and allergies. It also contains bacteria spores like staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infections if they find their way into a wound.

Researchers have found that dust contamination can be linked to a broad range of health conditions such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study revealed that the homes of children who were diagnosed with leukemia tended to have higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, the PBDEs, and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy children.

Condenser Coils

When refrigerators run correctly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced by the compressor. However, when these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair, or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying to cool the fridge, and eventually wears down the appliance. It is important to regularly clean your coils.

If you're planning to tackle the task yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and turn off its power supply prior to starting. This can lower the risk of electrocuting yourself or family members while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to locate the coils. These are typically at the rear of the fridge or at the front across the base in some units. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where to find them.

Once you have found the coils, you'll have to take off the access panel, if there's one and then alternate between vacuuming the coils with an attachment for a narrow hose and then brushing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. Take your time to avoid breaking or bent coils. After you're done take the kick panel off, replace it or push the Fridge Haier into position and plug it back in.

You can hire an expert if you're comfortable doing it yourself. It's cheaper and less hassle to keep up with the routine of cleaning to stop the problem from arising in the first place.

Maintenance

Refrigerators are powerful appliances that operate all day long to cool your food. They need regular maintenance to help them do their job effectively. This simple preventive maintenance can keep them running smoothly for many years to come.

One easy thing to do is to wipe down the door seals. Jelly and other sticky foods can build up and prevent the gaskets from securing tightly and allowing cool air to escape out of tiny openings. Clean them off with a solution of baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is another place to check. It can be noisy if it's clogged with insulation, paper and even a mouse (gasp). Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator, and take out all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the space surrounding them with the vacuum cleaner using a hose attachment. Make sure that you switch the fridge back on when you are finished.

It is recommended to check the owner's manual for details on where to find the coils, the fan, and the cleaning tools you may need. It's also a good idea to read the warranty thoroughly to make sure you understand what is and isn't covered.