Refrigerators are one of the most crucial appliances in our homes, quietly working to keep our food fresh. However, like any appliance, they require some care to ensure longevity. Refrigerator repair pros have seen it all, and they know what it takes to keep a fridge running efficiently for years. Here are their top expert tips to help you get the most out of your refrigerator.
1. Keep the Coils Clean
The condenser coils, usually located at the back or underneath your refrigerator, are responsible for releasing heat. Over time, they can accumulate dust, dirt, and pet hair, which makes your refrigerator work harder to cool down. Cleaning the coils every six months keeps the appliance efficient, reduces energy consumption, and helps prevent overheating issues. You can use a coil brush or a vacuum with a brush attachment for this task.
2. Check the Door Seals (Gaskets) Regularly
The door seal (or gasket) keeps cold air in and warm air out. If the seal is loose, cracked, or dirty, cold air will escape, causing the fridge to work overtime and potentially leading to spoiled food. Clean the gaskets regularly with warm, soapy water and inspect them for signs of wear. A quick way to check if the seal is tight: close the door on a piece of paper, and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, it’s time to replace the gasket.
3. Keep the Temperature Optimal
To maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth, set your fridge temperature between 35°F and 38°F (1.7°C and 3.3°C) and your freezer at 0°F (-18°C). Keeping your refrigerator at the right temperature reduces energy usage and helps keep food fresh longer. Avoid setting the temperature too low, as it can cause some foods to freeze and can place unnecessary strain on the appliance.
4. Organize Your Fridge Properly
Proper organization can actually impact your refrigerator’s efficiency. Avoid overcrowding, as it prevents cold air from circulating, causing uneven cooling. Leave some space between items and ensure air can flow freely throughout the fridge. Store commonly used items in easy-to-reach places to minimize the time the door is open, which helps maintain a consistent internal temperature.
5. Avoid Placing Hot Food Inside
Putting hot or warm food directly into the refrigerator can cause the temperature to rise, making the appliance work harder to cool down. Allow hot foods to cool to room temperature before placing them in the fridge. This reduces the load on the compressor and helps maintain an even temperature, which ultimately benefits the fridge’s lifespan.
6. Regularly Defrost the Freezer (If Manual)
If you have an older model with a manual defrost feature, make sure to defrost it regularly. Ice build-up reduces freezer space and forces the compressor to work harder, which can shorten its life. Modern frost-free models automatically defrost, but for manual freezers, defrost when the ice layer is about ¼ inch thick.
7. Limit the Frequency and Duration of Door Openings
Every time the fridge door opens, warm air enters, causing the appliance to work harder to cool down. Make it a habit to decide what you need before opening the door to avoid excessive energy usage. Keeping the door closed as much as possible can reduce wear on your refrigerator and help keep food fresher.
8. Don’t Overload the Fridge or Freezer
Overloading can block vents, making it harder for air to circulate. When airflow is obstructed, the appliance’s motor and fan work overtime, which can reduce its lifespan. Avoid packing the refrigerator and freezer to capacity, and allow at least an inch of space around the interior walls to promote good airflow.
9. Level the Refrigerator
Many people don’t realize that keeping the refrigerator level is essential. When a refrigerator is not level, the doors may not close fully, or they may swing open. This puts stress on the door seal and can cause the refrigerator to overwork itself. Use a leveling tool to check that the fridge is even on both sides, adjusting the legs if necessary.
10. Give It Space to Breathe
Ensure there’s at least a few inches of space around the sides, back, and top of the refrigerator to allow heat to escape. When it’s too close to the wall or other objects, airflow is restricted, which can lead to overheating. Placing the refrigerator in a well-ventilated area helps the cooling system work efficiently, which extends the life of the appliance.
11. Inspect and Clean the Drip Pan
The drip pan collects condensation and helps evaporate it over time. However, if left unchecked, it can develop a buildup of dust or even mold. Check the drip pan every six months or so, and clean it with warm, soapy water to ensure it’s functioning properly.
12. Schedule Annual Professional Maintenance
One of the best ways to ensure your refrigerator lasts is to have it serviced by a professional once a year. They can inspect critical components, identify any early warning signs of wear, and provide necessary repairs or adjustments. Regular professional maintenance can catch issues before they become major problems, ensuring smooth operation and extending the lifespan of your refrigerator.
Conclusion
Refrigerators may seem like a set-it-and-forget-it appliance, but a little routine care goes a long way in keeping them efficient and long-lasting. By following these expert tips from refrigerator repair pros, you can avoid common pitfalls, reduce repair costs, and keep your fridge running smoothly for years. From simple cleaning habits to professional check-ups, small efforts now can pay off in the long run.