Caring for your refrigerator is important, especially if you have just upgraded your old refrigerator to a brand new one. Today’s high efficiency refrigerators will run more than older units. People typically think that because the new unit is running 90% of the time that it is costing them more money to operate. Even though the refrigerator is still running, it is doing so at a much lower power level than at start up. The compressor speed is regulated according to internal temperatures, which are based on the amount of times the door is opened, the room temperature, the amount of food stored inside, and other factors. While the new refrigerators are much more advanced and much less likely to break down, it is still essential that you do your part to care for your refrigerator if you want it to last as long as it is meant to. Follow these preventative maintenance tips to extend the life of your refrigerator.
- Refrigerator Maintenance: Wash Gaskets
The seal of the freezer and refrigerator doors will tend to get covered in a thin layer of grime due to the constant moisture of the interior of the unit. It is essential to keep these clean, as this may cause the door to seal improperly when the seals are dirty. When the door gaskets do not seal properly, they can let the cold air escape and increase your electric bill. Using a cloth and detergent to clean the gasket takes a matter of minutes, but will help to ensure that your refrigerator runs at peak performance. - Refrigerator Maintenance: Clean the Coils
Not cooling properly? Try cleaning your condenser coils. Generally your refrigerator’s condenser coils are underneath a pop-off panel at the bottom of the unit. Some are on the back of the refrigerator. These need to be vacuumed at least annually. Most kitchens catch all the traffic, so check them regularly during the year to get a feel for how often yours need to be cleaned. You can save money on energy by doing this, while also extending the life of your refrigerator. - Refrigerator Maintenance: Replace Water Filters
If your refrigerator has a water filter, make sure to replace it to prevent the spout from getting clogged. Replacing the water filter will also prevent bacteria from growing in the spout.
Tech Tips
If your refrigerator is not running or isn’t cold enough, turn the thermostat up to the next highest setting. If it comes on, let it run for 24 hours and check temperatures to confirm it is working ok.
- Clear/remove anything blocking the air flow around the outside of the refrigerator (on top, underneath, behind, beside, in front of, etc.). Allow 3″ of clearance all the way around.
- If there are condenser coils on the rear of the box, make sure the box is several inches from the wall and nothing is on the top at the rear, blocking the heat from coming off the coils.
If these suggested tips do not solve the problem, call Advanced Appliance Services at (912) 756-4474 for fast professional appliance repair.
Sited: Fleet Appliance Corp., Bob Dougherty, Landers Appliance site, 4/2012