5 Tips to Keep Your Refrigerator Running Smoothly

Refrigerator Maintenance

You open the fridge to start prepping for your holiday dinner and the turkey is lukewarm. The fridge has gone out, and everything inside has spoiled.

This is a nightmare that no homeowner wants to experience, so we’re here to help with five refrigerator maintenance tips to keep your refrigerator running more efficiently to save you money and help prevent a breakdown.

1. Wipe down the door gaskets.

Use warm water and just a touch of mild dish soap as this will prevent damaging the gasket. If you’ve noticed condensation on the outside of your fridge, it may mean you have a leaky gasket. Check for cracks or worn spots as you’re cleaning.

2. Vacuum your condenser coils.

Depending on your refrigerator model, the coils will be located either in the back or underneath the unit. Unplug the fridge as you’re vacuuming to be safe. If you have pets, you may notice buildup on the coils, especially if the coils are under the fridge. Too much hair and dirt buildup will prevent the condenser coils from cooling properly, causing your unit to work harder than it needs to.

3. Check your temperature gauges and set them in the middle.

This one is easy. Check the temperature gauges inside your refrigerator and freezer to make sure they’re set correctly. Sometimes a warm fridge is caused by nothing more than a dial accidentally being hit. Gauges should be close to the middle to keep things at the proper temperature and prevent your fridge from working overtime.

4. Check freezer vents to make sure they’re unobstructed.

It’s best to keep freezers only about three-quarters full to allow air to fully circulate. So if you’ve been cramming your freezer, you may want to make some room. If you spot crumbs or food ties inside any of the vents, get them out before they get sucked into the evaporator fan.

5. Separate your appliances.

If you have extra space in your kitchen, it’s best to put the refrigerator as far away from your oven and dishwasher as you can. The refrigerator will have to work harder to stay cool when extra heat comes from your other appliances.

HOW LONG SHOULD A REFRIGERATOR RUN?

Refrigerators are expensive and one of the appliances you rely on most in your home. You might find it unusual when your refrigerator runs constantly throughout the day, but there are a few reasons why this may be.

The temperature in your kitchen can affect how often your refrigerator runs. If you keep your windows open during the summer months, your refrigerator compressor will need to work harder to compensate for the warmer indoor temperatures. Keeping your home at a lower temperature prevents the compressor from running as much to keep your refrigerator working efficiently.

Your refrigerator itself and the food you put in it needs to get cooled. When you stock a lot of food in your fridge, it will take longer for your compressor to regulate your refrigerator’s temperature. Warm or humid air can also enter every time you leave the refrigerator door open, which can cause your compressor to kick on more frequently. Opening the door less often and not leaving it open will improve your refrigerator lifespan.

If you notice that your refrigerator runs constantly without ever shutting off, you might need a professional inspection.

SIGNS YOUR REFRIGERATOR COULD USE SOME LOVE

Our refrigerators keep our food cold and safe to eat, but we rarely give them much love back. Life without a refrigerator is something no homeowner wants to imagine, but one of your home’s most important appliances often gets neglected the most. If you notice any of the following issues with your fridge, it might be time to call an appliance repair expert.

  • Won’t stay cold or takes a long time to cool down
  • Runs continuously
  • Not running at all (is it plugged in?)
  • Ice build-up in your freezer
  • Puddle underneath your refrigerator
  • Runs loudly or makes banging sounds
  • Condensation on the outside

CALL OUR APPLIANCE REPAIR PROFESSIONALS

Following these refrigerator maintenance tips will keep your fridge running smoothly to help you save on costly repairs or an unexpected breakdown. If you notice anything worrisome as you’re maintaining your refrigerator, give us a call. Lee Company offers expert home appliance maintenance, troubleshooting, and appliance repair services. You can depend on us for on-time arrivals and on-the-spot repair quotes from highly trained, certified, friendly technicians. We’re here to help with all your major appliances including refrigerators, microwaves, dishwashers, ovens, freezers, dryers, and washing machines. Schedule your appointment today so you’re ready for the holidays!