The Three Greatest Moments In Fridges History
How to Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly
Refrigerators are available in a vast range of shapes and sizes. They can fit in tight places like dorms.
Certain models also connect to smart devices. freezers let you monitor your fridge from afar and help you fix any issues that may arise. You can also control them via voice commands.
Noise
Fridges make a wide range of noises while they're operating. Some of these noises are more prominent than others. If you hear any of the below sounds find out the cause and check for a fix before calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
The fridge could rattle when there's not enough space between it and the cabinet or wall or if its sitting at an unlevel angle. It's easy to repair - all you need to do is make sure there's at least a few inches of space between the sides, and adjust the legs of your fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it accordingly.
Hissing
When the compressor is cooling your food, it can make a squealing sound. This is a normal sound and it's caused by the compressor's oil or the flow of refrigerant through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call a fridge repair service immediately in the event that it occurs more frequently than normal.
Squeaking
Refrigerators can sound raucous when the fan or coils are dirty. If you hear a squeaking sound from your fridge, use a vacuum cleaner brush attachment along with a rag and dish soap or water and warm water to wash the fan and coils. It is recommended to do this twice a year or more frequently if your refrigerator is older or used a lot.
Clicking
Frigs can also produce a clicking sound typically caused by ice buildup around the freezer fan. Manual defrosting can solve the problem however it is likely to recur in the event that a professional is not called to assist.
If you hear clicking, turn the refrigerator back on. This sound can be caused by the ice maker if there is one attached to the fridge, so it's crucial to make sure that it's switched off when you aren't using continuous ice.
The hum from your fridge is normal. It can be more intense during certain times of day, or after heavy stockings or a lot of freezer functions. This is because the refrigerator has to work harder and faster to keep your food cool however it isn't a sign of a problem with the refrigerator or its performance.
Dust
Dust from the household is a magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms, and also traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can cause allergic reactions and inhalation and are a perfect substrate for microbes, such as those that may cause infection if they come into direct contact with a cut.
Cleaning a refrigerator is impossible however regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and maintain a more constant temperature. A dirty fridge wastes energy because it overheats, and is inefficient. If your fridge is producing more noise than normal or if you think it's wasting energy by overworking it might be time to get it checked out.
Dust does not drift into the air from outside as is commonly thought. It's made up of resuspended soil from your home that is often contaminated with lead and other toxicants, as well as pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also retains the legacy pollutants like DDT that were banned half a century ago.
Certain compounds, such as flame retardants like decabromodiphenylether, volatilize into the air. But the majority of chemicals found in house dust are derived from objects that have been knocked off, like electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
In addition to contaminating food items in the refrigerator, a dirty fridge can also be detrimental to your health. It can contain allergens, such as pet dander or droppings from cockroaches, which can cause asthma attacks and allergic reactions. It also can contain bacterial spores, such as staphylococcus aureus, which can cause infection if they make their way into wounds that are open.
Researchers have discovered that a variety of health conditions can be traced to dust pollution, ranging from cancer to cardiovascular disease to leukemia and inflammatory bowel diseases. Recent research revealed that dust in the homes of children with leukemia contained 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 should be able to dissipate the heat created by the compressor. When these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor has to work harder trying to cool the refrigerator and reduces the efficiency of the unit. It is important to keep your coils clean.
Before you begin, disconnect and turn off the power source of your refrigerator. This can reduce the risk of electrocuting yourself and your family members while working on the appliance. It's also recommended to wear a mask if are sensitive to dust. You'll then have to find the coils. They are typically located on the back of the fridge or in front of the base of some models. Check the manual of your fridge or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where to find them.
After you have located the coils, you'll need to remove the access panel if you have one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils using a narrow hose attachment and brushing them with a condenser brush to clean the coils. Be cautious not to risk breaking or twisting the coils. Replace the kick panel, or push the refrigerator into the correct position, and then connect it to the electrical outlet.
If you're not confident doing it yourself, you can always hire an expert. It's less expensive and easier to maintain the cleaning routine in order to prevent the issue from occurring.
Maintenance
Fridges are powerful appliances that run throughout the day to cool your food. To ensure they do their job effectively, they need regular maintenance. This simple preventive maintenance can ensure that they are running smoothly for years to come.
A simple task is clean the door seals. Jelly and other food items that stick can accumulate and block the gaskets from securing tightly and allowing cool air to escape out of tiny openings. Clean them off using a mixture of baking soda and warm water on a sponge or toothbrush every few months.
Another spot to check for problems is the fan in the back of the fridge. It may be noisy if it's been clogged up with insulation, paper or even mouse. Unplug the shelves, remove the shelves, the refrigerator, and take out all the parts that are removable. Clean the coils and the area surrounding them using the vacuum cleaner using the hose attachment. Be sure to turn the fridge back on after you're finished.
It's best to check the owner's manual to find out more on where to find the coils and the fan and what sort of cleaning tools you might need. It's recommended to read through the warranty carefully to make sure you know what's covered and what isn't covered.