How to Make a Mini Fridge Colder
Have you noticed recently that your mini-fridge is not cold enough? You've checked all your settings, but still the fridge isn't running correctly.
When your mini-fridge is not as cold as it should be, there could be several factors that could be affecting the cooling. With a little attention, you can fix these issues and improve the temperature of your refrigerator. You should always check these things out before calling for a technician.
Let’s take a look below and find out how to make your mini-fridge colder.
Thermostat Adjustment
When it comes to the reduced cooling of a refrigerator, the first thing you need to check is its thermostat. Check the thermostat settings and change them if required. You might want to decrease the temperature to increase its cooling.
You may already have checked this out, but someone might have accidentally changed the setting to a warmer temperature. Several of the latest mini-fridges display the temperature on their doors. They have a touch panel to adjust the temperature, and you can change the temperature from the touch panel.
Refrigerator Position
The location of your refrigerator plays a vital role in cooling because it directly affects the inside temperature. How can the outside temperature affect the interior temperature? Let’s discuss how it works.
There is a thermostat in every mini-fridge to adjust the temperature. However, the exact temperature inside the mini-fridge depends on the outside temperature. As per Whirlpool, the inside temperature will be 5 degrees Fahrenheit lower or higher than the set point due to the outside temperature.
To make your mini-fridge colder, you have to place it correctly. Avoid placement next to ovens, stove, and other heat-producing electronics. You will notice a definite difference if your fridge is placed there and you change its position now.
Space Between the Mini-Fridge and Wall
The compressor is usually located at the rear of the unit and it requires a proper distance from the wall to allow heat from the compressor to dissipate. Most of the time, people don’t give their refrigerator enough space, and this is the reason for its bad performance.
Always make sure that you provide a two inch gap between the rear and the wall. There must be a free space of one inch on both sides. You should also leave an open area of at least two inches from the top of the fridge. It is not only crucial for short-term cooling, but it also improves the life span of your refrigerator.
Door Insulation
When it comes to maintaining the temperature, the door insulation plays a vital role. It ensures that cooling stays inside as long as the doors are correctly closed. If you notice your mini-fridge is not as cold as before, you may need to check door insulation.
Inspect it, and if you notice any air escaping from there, you might need to replace door gaskets. Initially, remove the seal, clean it, and put it back. If you still feel air escaping, you need to replace it as soon as possible.
Clear the Vents
It is essential to ensure proper air circulation into the compartments. Sometimes people block the air circulation with food items, which results in less cooling.
Find the vents in your mini-fridge. Make sure that there are obstacles in the way. Proper circulation of cold air will help you keep your mini-fridge colder.
Store Cool Items
Before placing food items in the refrigerator, allow them to cool down. With this simple step, you can improve the cooling of your mini-fridge.
After you cook something, you may be tempted to put it in the fridge without allowing it to cool. When you do that, the temperature sensors notice the change and ramp up the compressor to get the internal temperature back to normal. It results in higher temperatures and more energy usage.
Usage Tips
Apart from the above guidelines, there are additional tips to consider on how to make a mini fridge colder.
- Try not to open the fridge too often
- Don’t leave too much vacant space in the fridge. If you have nothing to put in the refrigerator, fill some bottles with water, and place them inside
- Leave a little space between two boxes or bags so air can properly circulate
- Whenever you close the door, make sure it is properly sealed
- Frequent defrosting and cleaning are needed to maintain its performance. Defrost your mini-fridge at least once every six months
- Clean the mechanism underneath including the compressor. The dust stuck on the compressor reduces its performance
Conclusion
Mini-fridges are usually less cold than kitchen fridges, and they take more to maintain their temperature. However, it doesn’t mean they don’t keep the food cold to preserve it. If your fridge is not cold enough, you need to carry out a few checks and understand how you can make a mini fridge colder.
Check the power supply and ensure that the fridge is working. If your fridge is new and working correctly, it will become colder after you follow the above guidelines. If you don’t notice a change in its temperature after doing all this, it is the time to call a repair tech. They will take a look at your mini-fridge and will be able to advise appropriately.