4 Maintenance Tips for an Efficient Running Refrigerator
Since your refrigerator essentially runs 24/7, it’s undoubtedly one of the most hardworking appliances you have in your home. But just because it can handle that workload doesn’t mean there’s no need to take care of it anymore. In fact, properly maintaining your refrigerator is crucial for its longevity.
1. Set the Right Temperature for Efficient Cooling
Aside from keeping it clean on the outside, one of the most important things you can do for your refrigerator’s health is to set the temperature so that it runs efficiently. Your refrigerator has an optimum temperature range for cooling, so be sure to keep it within that range.
For example, the super freezers and side-by-side models have an optimum temperature range of between 34 and 38 degrees. If you set the temperature too high, then your refrigerator will have to work hard to get the temperature down to that level. Then, if you set it too low, food can freeze in the freezer and ruin it.
2. Keep the Water Filter Clean
The dust and grime that build up over time can slow down the efficiency of your refrigerator. For example, if your refrigerator lacks a water filter, then the coils in your refrigerator can get clogged. The longer it takes for the condenser to remove heat from the refrigerator, the harder your refrigerator will have to work to keep the temperature cold. That means it will be using more energy and operating less efficiently.
A dirty filter can lead to other problems, too. If your water filter gets too dirty, then the water won’t flow freely, which could cause leaks.
3. Avoid Blocking the Vents
Air needs to flow through your refrigerator in order for it to run effectively. If you load up your refrigerator and block the back vents, then all that heat may get trapped inside. The result is an inefficient refrigerator that can’t cool food down.
Once you load up your refrigerator, check to make sure the vents are still clear. If they’re blocked, then you may want to reposition your refrigerator. If you can’t move it, then either remove the groceries or stuff a towel or blanket into the back to keep the hot air from building up.
4. Clean the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are the part of your refrigerator that removes heat from the refrigerator and transfer it outside. That’s how the cooling process works, and when they’re clean, the process works more smoothly. Cleaning the coils can be as simple as dusting them off with a damp cloth.
Avoid using chemicals to clean the coils, though, as they can get into the vents and cause roof leaks. Also, don’t touch the bare coils as they may be very hot. Instead, use a wet rag or towel to get them clean. And don’t forget to dry the coils afterward.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your refrigerator running smoothly doesn’t have to get complicated or time-consuming. These four maintenance tips can help keep everything running as it should. That will mean your refrigerator will run more efficiently, which means it will be better for the environment and cost you less money.
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