It's The Ugly Truth About Fridges

How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can be fitted into small areas, like dorm rooms.

Some models can be used with smart devices. You can also monitor your fridge from afar and fix any issues if they arise. You can also use voice commands to control them.

Noise

Fridges make a wide range of sounds when they are in operation. Certain noises are more prominent than others. If you notice any of the below sounds find out the cause and search for a fix before calling a fridge repair company.

Rattling

The fridge could rattle when there's not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if it is positioned at an unlevel angle. This is a simple fix - all you have to do is ensure that there's at least a few inches of space on each side, and adjust the legs of the fridge for sale or leveling screws to raise or lower it in line with.

Hissing

When the compressor is cooling your food, it may make a squealing sound. This is a typical sound that is caused by the refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you are concerned you are concerned, track how often the compressor runs. Contact a repair service immediately in the event that this occurs more often than usual.

Squeaking

Refrigerators can be noisy when their fans or coils are filthy. If you notice that your fridge is making squeaking sounds, clean the coils or fan using a vacuum using a brush attachment, a rag and water, or simply use dish soap and water. This should be done at least twice every year or more often if your refrigerator is older or heavily used.

Clicking

A clicking sound may also be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. Manual defrosting can resolve the problem but it could recur until a professional is brought to assist.

Clicking can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so make sure to restart it if this occurs. The sound could also be caused by an ice maker if you have one installed to your fridge, so be sure to ensure that it's turned off when you don't need ice continuously.

The hum of your fridge is normal, and it may be louder during certain times of the day or after large stockings or intensive freezing operations. This is due to the fact that the refrigerator has to work harder and faster to keep your food cool but it's not a sign of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.

Dust

Dust in the house is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, as well as traces of everyday household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can be inhaled and trigger allergic reactions and provide a perfect place for microbes to grow including those that could cause infections when they come into contact with a wound.

Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help reduce dust and ensure an even temperature. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and is inefficient. If your fridge is producing more noise than usual or if you think it's working too hard, it may be time to get it checked.

Dust doesn't drift into the air from the outside as it is thought to be. It is made up of soil that has been resuspended from the house and is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, as well as pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also has legacy pollutants such as DDT that were banned a century ago.

Certain compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether are able to volatilize and enter the air, however the majority of chemicals found in dust from homes are transferred from one object to the next, such as by people throwing fibers and fridge tiny 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.

A dusty refrigerator can negatively affect your health, in addition to the food you eat being contaminated. It can harbor allergens such as pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can trigger asthma attacks and fridge allergies. It may also contain bacteria spores, such as staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a variety of health conditions can be traced to contaminated dust, from cardiovascular disease to cancer to leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. Recent research has revealed that the dust in the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels of PCBs, PBDEs, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils on the front and back of the appliance are supposed to disperse heat generated by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with pet hair, dust or lint, the compressor is forced to work hard trying to cool the refrigerator, which wears down the appliance. This is why it's crucial to clean the coils regularly.

If you're looking to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you unplug the refrigerator and switch off the power source before beginning. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be struck by electricity while working on the appliance. If you're allergic to dust it is an ideal idea to wear a face mask. You will then need to find the coils. They are usually located in the rear of the fridge or in front of the base in some units. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you don't know where they are.

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 with an attachment for a narrow hose and brushing them with a condenser brush for cleaning the coils. Take your time to avoid breaking or bending the coils. Replace the kick panel or move the refrigerator to its place, and connect it to the electrical outlet.

If you're not confident doing this yourself, then you can always employ a professional. It's cheaper and simpler to maintain the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue.

Maintenance

Fridges are hard-working appliances that are running throughout the day and night to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their jobs well, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance will ensure that they are running efficiently for many years to come.

A simple task is to clean the door seals. Jelly and other foods that are sticky can build up and prevent the gaskets from securing tightly, allowing cool air to leak out of tiny openings. Every few months, wipe them clean with baking soda solution and warm water using a toothbrush or sponge.

The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different location to look at. It may be noisy if it's clogged with paper, insulation or even mice. Unplug the fridge, take out all shelves and then take out any removable parts. Clean the coils and the space around them with a vacuum cleaner with an attachment for a hose. Make sure you switch the under counter fridge - silver (just click the next article) back on when you're done.

It is recommended that you read the owner's manual for information about where to locate the coils, the fan, and what cleaning tools you may need. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully, to be sure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.