20 Myths About Fridges: Dispelled

How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Fridges are available in many different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight spaces including dorms.

Some models can also connect to smart devices. You can monitor your fridge remotely, and troubleshoot problems when they arise. You can also make use of voice commands to manage them.

Noise

Refrigerators can emit many different sounds while operating, and some are more obvious than others. Before contacting a refrigerator repair service, try to determine the source of any noises you hear.

Rattling

fridge deals uk rattling can occur when there’s no space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it’s sitting at an uneven angle. This is easy to fix – all you have to do is make sure there’s at least a few inches of space on each side, and adjust the fridge legs or leveling screws to lower or raise it in line with.

Hissing

The compressor could make a loud noise while cooling your food. This is a normal sound, and it is caused by the compressor’s oil or refrigerant flowing through the system. If you’re concerned be aware of how often the compressor runs. Contact a repair company right away in the event that this occurs more often than usual.

Squeaking

The sound of refrigerators can be loud when the fan or coils are filthy. If you hear a loud squeaking sound from your fridge, use the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner or a rag along with water or dish soap and warm water to clean the coils and fan. It is essential to do this every two years and more frequently in the case of a fridge that is older or is used frequently.

Clicking

A click sound can be heard from a refrigerator. It is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. Manual defrosting can solve the issue, but it will return unless a professional is called to assist.

The clicking can also occur when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to turn it back on if this occurs. If you have an ice maker connected, this sound can be caused by it. Make sure to turn it off when you are not making use of ice frequently.

The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It can be more intense during certain times of day, or following heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator needs to work harder and faster in order to keep your food cold but it’s not a sign of a problem with the fridge or its performance.

Dust

Household dust is an ideal habitat for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and also traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and inhalation, and they are an ideal surface for microbes, which includes those that could cause infection when they come into contact with a cut.

It’s impossible to clean a fridge entirely but regular cleaning can help reduce dust build-up and keep the temperature consistent. A dirty fridge also consumes energy because it overheats and operates inefficiently. If you suspect that your fridge is making louder noises than usual, or if it’s wasting power by overworking itself is it time to call experts.

Dust doesn’t float into the air from outside as it is thought to be. It’s made up of resuspended dust from your home, which can be contaminated with lead or other toxicants. It also contains mold, pollen and car exhaust. It also contains pollutants from the past, such as DDT, which was banned over 50 years ago.

Some compounds, such as flame retardants, such as decabromodiphenylether are able to volatilize and enter the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust in the house are transferred directly from one thing to another like by throwing fibers and 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.

Apart from contaminating the food in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also negatively affect your health. It can harbor allergens like pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It can also contain bacteria-related spores like staphylococcus.

Researchers have discovered that a wide range of health issues are linked to dust contamination, from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory intestinal disease. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children with leukemia had higher levels PCBs as well as PBDEs and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons.

Condenser Coils

If refrigerators are operating properly, the coils that are on the front and back of the appliance should dissipate the heat produced 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.

If you’re looking to tackle the job yourself it is recommended you disconnect the refrigerator and shut off the power source before beginning. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be injured by electrocution while working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a mask if you are sensitive to dust. Then, you’ll need to locate the coils. The coils are typically located in the back of the refrigerator or, in some instances, at the front and at the base. If you’re unsure of where to find them check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer for more details.

After you’ve located the coils, take off the access panel (if there is one) and alternate between vacuuming them using the narrow hose attachment or brushing them with a condenser cleaner brush. Be careful not to risk breaking or twisting the coils. Replace the kick panel or push the refrigerator into position, then connect it to the electrical outlet.

If you’re not confident doing this yourself, then you could always seek out a professional. It’s cheaper and less hassle to simply keep up with the routine of cleaning to avoid the issue from happening in the first place.

Maintenance

Fridges are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. To make sure they are doing their job well they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance can ensure that your machines are running smoothly for many years.

Clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can build up and prevent the gaskets from sealing tightly and allowing cool air to escape through tiny gaps. Clean them using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every couple of months.

Another place to check for problems is the fan in the back of the refrigerator. It can get noisy when it’s blocked by paper, insulation and even mice (gasp). Unplug the fridge, take out all the shelves and take out any parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with attachments for hoses can be used to clean the coils as well as the surrounding area. Make sure that you turn the fridge on again when you’re done.

It is recommended that you read your owner’s guide for information on where to find the coils, the fan and the tools for cleaning you might require. It’s recommended to read through the warranty carefully to ensure you understand what is and isn’t covered.