For too many years than I care to mention, I have to admit, I never thought once about my fridge and freezer. I just opened it, filled it, and cleaned it ever once in awhile – much like most other people do. But then I started wondering why it didn’t work properly, and beginning to notice the strange noises it made at night. So, as you do, I got someone to come out and have a look at it – for some expense, I might add.
Anyway, it turns out that there was nothing wrong with my fridge freezer, and it was all down to me. And, it also turns out that there are a lot of people out there that don’t understand how to use their fridge, too! So, if you count yourself amongst that number, read on. Here’s everything I know about keeping your fridge in great condition.
If it’s broken
First of all, if your fridge isn’t working properly, don’t try and fix it yourself. For such hulking great beasts that take up so much room, they are delicate pieces of equipment. Find a reputable appliance service repair company in your area – and do it now, before you have a problem. It’s best to know the best guys to turn to when things go wrong or you might end up with cowboys coming along and charging you the earth.
Twice a year checks
Make sure you replace your water filter and clean the drain hole and drip pan every six months. It will get rid of any food remnants, and clean out your filters of any carbon residue. If you don’t, you will notice smells, and the water and ice that comes out of your fridge will start to make blockages and leaks.
Quarterly checks
Make sure that your fridge door seals are working well, and look at your door gasket. It will need a thorough cleaning, and let it dry before you use it again. You should also clean your condenser coils, which can be covered with dust, food particles, and human or pet hairs. If you don’t clean these coils well, it will put more stress on your motors and it won’t be efficient.
Monthly checks
Once a month, empty your ice bins and clean the shelves well. Ice can absorb odors, and you will start to taste them when you use ice cubes in your drink. That’s kind of gross, right? One way of stopping your ice from absorbing bad smells is to use soda crystals in your freezer. They will soak it up, and help your ice taste like they should.
Daily tasks
Never overfill your fridge freezer, or it will put a lot of pressure on the mechanics. You will notice that everything starts to ice up, and this is when you will hear strange noises. It’s just the motors working double time to keep things cold. Always cover your food, too, and clean up any spillages as an when they happen. Although fridges are supposed to keep most germs at bay, food can still produce certain bacteria. So, make sure you keep that fridge gleaming at all times!
OK, so I hope you have learnt something today! Try and look after your fridge and it will cost you less, both in your energy use , and for repairs.
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