Ten Tips To Keep Your Refrigerator Running Smoothly For The Summer
Refrigerators are supposed to make things easier, not more frustrating. Yet with the warmer weather comes a unique set of challenges for those who have a home appliance that needs regular monitoring and adjustment. In the peak heat of summer, your refrigerator needs to be running at peak efficiency to prevent spoiling of food. It’s a time when fridges are prone to malfunctioning or experiencing technical difficulties due to the increased humidity levels in most homes. Fortunately, there are some simple tricks that can help you get through this testing season and come out on top. Here are ten practical tips that will keep your refrigerator running smoothly all summer long!
Check Your Refrigerator’s Filter
One of the most common causes of fridge malfunction is a buildup of contaminants inside the appliance’s filter. As the humidity and heat rise, so does the potential for this to happen. When it does, it can cause your fridge to work overtime and even impede the flow of cool air throughout the appliance. While some fridges will shut off when they detect a problem with the filter, others may not. If you find that the filter is clogged, or that there is a buildup of gunk across it, unclog it. If you have a no-frills fridge that doesn’t have a removable filter, you can still clear the obstruction by turning off the appliance and using a wet cloth to wipe away the buildup. You should also clean the filter every six months or so to keep it in good condition and to prevent the buildup of contaminants inside.
Adjust Your Fridge’s Thermostat
Another common cause of fridge malfunction in the summer is a thermostat that is set too low. When the fridge temperature is too cold, it will take longer to cool down and be efficient, as well as consume more energy. When the temperature is set too low, it can also cause food to freeze, grow mold or rot more quickly, and can make the cooling system work harder and longer to keep the appliance at an ideal temperature. When you are experiencing issues, start by checking the temperature of the fridge, and then adjust the thermostat to a higher setting.
Keep The Doors Shut
Keeping your refrigerator doors closed as much as possible will improve the efficiency of the appliance, as well as prevent the possibility of food spoiling. When you open the refrigerator, warm air will rush inside and will cause the cooling system to work harder to cool the appliance back down. Once you have removed the item you need, close the doors again as soon as possible to maintain a constant temperature and a consistent flow of cool air. This will also help to reduce the possibility of mould and rot.
Check For Leaks And Condensation
If you are experiencing issues with your refrigerator and they don’t seem to be resolved by adjusting the temperature and the thermostat, check for leaks and condensation build-up inside the appliance. If you notice moisture build-up on the walls or a leak in the back of the fridge, which is often the source of excess condensation, you will need to call a professional to fix it. If you notice water leaking out the bottom of the appliance, turn off the appliance and unplug it as soon as possible to prevent electrical shock. If you have a refrigerator with a water dispenser, turn off the water supply to prevent flooding. You may be able to resolve the issue yourself by wiping down the walls of the fridge and drying any wet parts, cleaning any filters and closing any gaps that could be causing the leak.
Don’t Store Food In The Fridge With A Sliding Door
Some refrigerators, especially those with a built-in ice and water dispenser, come with a sliding door that can be programmed to open when the door is shut. This is a convenient feature, except when it comes to storing food. Open containers of food can cause humidity to build up in the appliance, which can lead to bacterial growth and spoilage. Because of this, you should avoid storing food in the fridge with a sliding door. If you are unable to adjust the programming for the sliding door, you may need to keep the door open as much as possible to allow for more airflow and a consistent temperature. If you are able to adjust the programming for the door, you can limit the amount of time that it is open and thus reduce the amount of humidity in the appliance.
Add Baking Soda To The Drawer
If your fridge has a crisper drawer, it can accumulate excess moisture in the summer months. Adding a layer of baking soda to the drawer will help to absorb some of this moisture and prevent water from leaking onto the floor of the fridge. You can also add a layer of crumpled newspaper or paper towels in the drawer. Just remember to remove them before eating or serving any food that was stored in the drawer. You can also try to remove the drawer and place it in the freezer to help it dry out faster. The crisper drawer is an essential part of a refrigerator, but it can be difficult to keep clean. This is often because excess water collects in the bottom of the drawer, creating an ideal environment for bacteria and mould to grow. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to prevent this from happening and keep your crisper drawer clean and odour-free.
Adjust The Temperature And Ventilation
If you have tried all of the above and are still experiencing issues, you may need to adjust the temperature and ventilation of your refrigerator. To do this, first check the temperature of the appliance by placing a thermometer inside. The ideal temperature for a fridge is around 36 degrees Fahrenheit. If it is hotter than this, adjust the temperature upward. If it is colder, adjust it downward. You can also adjust the ventilation by raising or lowering the flap inside the fridge. The rule of thumb is that the flap should be half-closed when the fridge is cold and three-quarters closed when it is warm.
Conclusion
If you follow all of these tips, your refrigerator should run smoothly throughout the summer. Remember that even the best-maintained appliance will be more prone to malfunctioning in the summer, so you may want to keep a closer eye on it and be prepared to make adjustments more often. When all fails, remember to call the experts if your fridge is still not working as it should after trying all these tips.
0 Comments