The best way to make your fridge last longer is to maintain it properly by cleaning the condenser coils, the door gaskets, the water filter, and the water/ice dispenser regularly. These simple steps will help your fridge run more efficiently, prevent breakdowns, and extend its lifespan. In this article, we will explain why these tasks are important and how to do them correctly. We will also give you some tips on how to choose a good location for your fridge, how to avoid overloading it, and how to spot the signs of a failing fridge.
The condenser coils are the metal tubes that run along the back or the bottom of your fridge. They are responsible for releasing the heat that is generated by the refrigerant, which is the substance that cools your food. If the condenser coils are dirty, they will not be able to release the heat effectively, which will make your fridge work harder and use more energy. This can also cause the compressor, which is the heart of your fridge, to overheat and fail prematurely.
To prevent this, you should vacuum the condenser coils every six months or more often if you have pets or a dusty environment. To do this, you will need to unplug your fridge, remove the grille or pull the fridge away from the wall, and use a soft-brush attachment to gently remove the dust and debris from the coils. Be careful not to damage the coils or the wires. After you are done, plug your fridge back in and make sure it is working properly.
Why You Should Clean the Door Gaskets
The door gaskets are the rubber seals that surround the doors of your fridge and freezer. They are designed to keep the cold air inside and the warm air outside. However, over time, they can get dirty, sticky, or cracked, which can compromise their ability to form a tight seal. This can result in cold air escaping, warm air entering, and frost buildup inside your fridge. This will make your fridge run less efficiently, waste energy, and spoil your food faster.
To prevent this, you should clean the door gaskets every three months or whenever you notice any dirt, spills, or mold. To do this, you will need to use a damp cloth or sponge and a mild detergent to wipe the gaskets gently. Do not use any abrasive or harsh cleaners, as they can damage the rubber. Rinse the gaskets with clean water and dry them with a soft towel. You can also apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the gaskets to lubricate them and help them slide better. This will extend their life and improve their performance.
Why You Should Change the Water Filter
If your fridge has a water filter, you should change it every six months or according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The water filter is responsible for removing contaminants and bacteria from your drinking water and ice. However, if the filter is old, clogged, or damaged, it will not be able to do its job effectively, which can affect the quality and taste of your water and ice. It can also reduce the water pressure and flow, which can cause leaks and malfunctions in your water dispenser and ice maker.
To prevent this, you should replace your water filter regularly with a genuine and compatible filter from the manufacturer or a trusted source. Do not use any aftermarket or generic filters, as they may not fit properly, perform well, or meet the safety standards. To change your water filter, you will need to locate it, which is usually inside the fridge, behind the grille, or in the base grille. Then, you will need to follow the instructions on the filter or the manual to remove the old filter and install the new one. Make sure to flush the new filter with water before using it.
If your fridge has a water and/or ice dispenser, you should clean it every six months or whenever you notice any dirt, mold, or mineral deposits. The water and ice dispenser is a convenient feature that allows you to get cold water and ice without opening the fridge. However, if the dispenser is dirty, it can harbor bacteria, germs, and odors, which can affect the quality and safety of your water and ice. It can also cause clogs and leaks, which can damage your fridge and your floor.
To prevent this, you should clean the water and ice dispenser regularly with a mild vinegar solution. To do this, you will need to unplug your fridge, turn off the water supply, and remove the dispenser tray and cover. Then, you will need to use a soft cloth or sponge and a 50/50 mixture of vinegar and water to wipe the dispenser nozzle, the lever, and the surrounding area. You can also use a small brush or a toothpick to remove any stubborn dirt or deposits. Rinse the dispenser with clean water and dry it with a soft towel. Reassemble the dispenser and turn on the water supply. Plug your fridge back in and run some water and ice through the dispenser to flush out any vinegar residue.
Other Tips to Make Your Fridge Last Longer
Besides cleaning your fridge regularly, there are some other things you can do to make your fridge last longer and run better. Here are some of them:
Choose a good location for your fridge. Avoid placing your fridge near any heat sources, such as the oven, the dishwasher, or direct sunlight. These can make your fridge work harder and use more energy. Also, avoid placing your fridge in a humid or damp area, such as the basement or the garage. These can cause rust and corrosion. Instead, look for a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place for your fridge, with at least an inch of clearance on all sides for proper air circulation.
Avoid overloading your fridge. Do not stuff your fridge with too much food or items, as this can block the airflow and prevent even cooling. This can also make your fridge work harder and use more energy. Instead, keep your fridge organized and well-stocked, but not overcrowded. Leave some space between the items and the walls of the fridge. Also, avoid opening and closing the fridge doors too frequently or for too long, as this can let the cold air escape and the warm air enter.
Spot the signs of a failing fridge. If you notice any of the following signs, you should call a professional appliance repair service as soon as possible, as they may indicate a serious problem with your fridge:
The fridge is not cooling properly or is too warm.
The fridge is making loud or unusual noises.
The fridge is leaking water or coolant.
The fridge is cycling on and off too often or not at all.
The fridge is using too much energy or causing your electricity bill to spike.
The fridge is showing error codes or flashing lights.
Your fridge is one of the most important and expensive appliances in your home. It keeps your food fresh and safe, and it provides you with cold water and ice. Therefore, you should take good care of it and make it last longer. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can maintain your fridge properly, prevent common problems, and extend its lifespan. This will save you money, time, and hassle in the long run. Remember, a happy fridge is a long-lasting fridge!
