Transcript
Refrigerators keep our food and beverages fresh longer, but improper care can lead to cooling problems.
Hi, I'm Paul Blake for Repair.com with some simple refrigerator maintenance tips to keep your refrigerator cooling efficiently.
Tip No. 1: Check for airflow restrictions
First, check to see if airflow has been restricted inside your refrigerator. Overfilling, especially near vents, can prevent cool air from flowing around the stored items. Reduce the amount of food and drink you keep inside your refrigerator, making sure to leave the vents clear, but don't go overboard. A full yet not overfilled refrigerator keeps cool better than an empty one.
Tip No. 2: Make sure both doors can close tightly
Next, make sure both doors are closed tight; sometimes, oversized items can prevent a door from closing all the way.
Tip No. 3: Check the refrigerator gasket
Now, check the refrigerator gasket or door seal for damage or wear. A damaged gasket can be responsible for letting cool air escape. To test the effectiveness of your door gasket, place a dollar bill against the refrigerator frame and close the door on it. If you can pull out the dollar with ease while the door is closed, it's time to replace the seal. Find a qualified service professional to install a new gasket for you. [Or do it yourself with our step-by-step guide.]
Tip No. 4: Check for dirt and dust buildup on the condenser
Now, check for dirt or dust buildup on the condenser. The condenser works with the evaporator to transfer heat from inside the refrigerator to the air outside. Dusty, dirty coils will reduce that heat transfer. Clean the coils at least once a year to prevent an expensive compressor failure.
The process is relatively easy. First, unplug the unit and locate the condenser. You may find the coils mounted on the back of the refrigerator or on the bottom behind a front or back panel. Carefully pull the unit from the wall and use a special brush or vacuum cleaner nozzle to clean the coils. Be careful not to bend the coils while cleaning.
Tip No. 5: Inspect the refrigerator thermostat
Finally, inspect the refrigerator thermostat. An accidental bump could have changed the temperature settings. Check the manufacturer's instructions for recommended refrigerator and freezer coolness settings and then reset the thermostat accordingly. The typical temperature recommendation for refrigerators may range from 34°F to 40°F, and freezers is 0°F. Allow 24 hours for your refrigerator to readjust.
Performing these routine maintenance checks can keep things cooling efficiently and even extend the life of your refrigerator.
For more troubleshooting and maintenance tips, visit us at Repair.com.
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For more information about a refrigerator not cooling, check out our troubleshooting guide.
Special thanks to Michael & Son Services.