As a homeowner, the last thing you want to find in your home is a malfunctioning appliance. Appliances that suddenly stop working can cause stress, time and money. That’s why Alpha Appliance Services Inc. has put together this guide to help you avoid refrigerator repairs and keep your fridge in great working order. Avoid the risk of waking up to spoiled milk and warm food by following our seven easy tips!
Tip #1 Clean the Coils
When cleaning your home on a regular basis, keep in mind you should also be cleaning the coils located at the back of your fridge every so often. The cooling coils on your fridge work less effectively when they are covered in dust or dander. Making a point to pull out your appliances and vacuum the coils every three months will greatly improve the lifespan of your fridge. It is also the perfect time to clean the vent grate that is at the front of your fridge too.
Tip #2 Refrigerator Placement
The placement of your refrigerator plays a big role in its longevity. Most kitchens have a set space between cabinets or cut into a wall for the fridge. Sadly, this is often the worst type of location because it increases the heat around the compressor and motor. When they get overheated, they have to work harder to keep your fridge cool. When placing your fridge in the kitchen, make sure it is out of the sun and away from the oven and heat vents. Also think about placing insulated boards between warmer areas that are next to your fridge to block the heat.
Tip #3 Clean the Door Gaskets
The rubber seals around the door and the gaskets on your fridge are more than just extra trim. It’s important to clean away the grime, food, mold and other debris that form on these areas to reduce the strain on your motor. When these sections are clean, your fridge will be able to maintain a tight seal that allows your motor to work more efficiently. Wiping down these areas with a damp cloth at least once a month will help your fridge serve your family for years to come.
Tip #4 Top Space
A lot of people use the top of their fridge as an extra storage space, but this is not its purpose. If you touch the top, you will notice a vast amount of heat coming from the unit. The fans in the fridge funnel the heat from the motor to the top of the unit for proper dissipation. Covering this area will make your motor work harder just to keep your fridge cool.
Tip #5 Defrost as Needed
Most refrigerators on the market now are frost-free, but sometimes frost can build up if your items are not properly stored. When there is frost in your fridge, the motor has to work harder which can shorten the lifespan of your appliance. Before you store cooked food, make sure they have cooled to room temperature. Also, always cover your food before storing it. Of course, don’t be afraid to take everything out and defrost your appliance when needed.
Tip #6 Fill up Your Space
You should never overfill or underfill your refrigerator. One that has too much in it will not cool properly, and one that is too empty will have to work harder to cool extra space. Avoid blocking the fans in your refrigerator, so air can properly circulate. Make sure to leave space between your items and avoid over stacking. If you have too much empty space, fill some jugs with water to place in your freezer and refrigerator areas.
Tip #7 Inspect Annually
Make a point of checking your fridge from top to bottom once or twice a year. Often, you can catch problems while they are still fixable and extend the lifespan of your fridge. Listen for odd sounds in the motor or the fans. Check the temperature with a thermometer and also check your gasket and hinges for a secure seal.
How We Can Help
If you are in need of any appliance repair, Alpha Appliance Services Inc. is here to help. We are happy to come out to check your appliances for problems or to fix a malfunctioning unit. For more information or to set up a time for service, give us a call at (416) 577-5354.
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