A freezer serves as one of the most important appliances in a household. However, it will eventually need to be repaired due to natural wear and tear. In some cases, it may need to be replaced altogether.
One way to help your freezer last longer is to maintain it on a regular basis. Maintaining your freezer will add several years to its lifespan, allowing you to save money in the process.
If you have noticed an issue with your freezer then you should evaluate the situation in order to determine the source of the problem. If you are not able to repair the issue yourself then you may want to contact a professional in the area. Here, our focus will be on how to determine if your freezer needs a repair service.
What is the importance of refrigerator maintenance?
If you want your freezer, or any other appliance for that matter, to remain in good working condition then you will need to maintain it on a routine basis. Perform rudimentary maintenance checks every now and then to determine if there are any minor issues that can be taken care of as soon as possible.
Problems often begin small but become bigger issues as time passes, so it’s best to nip such problems in the bud. You will save hundreds of dollars over the long run by performing regular maintenance checks, as seemingly minor repairs can make a significant difference.
Tips to Keep Your Fridge in Good Condition
Refrigerators are very common appliances that have become a staple in the modern North American household. They are also left on 24/7 in most cases. If a seamless operation is your end goal then your fridge should be kept in tiptop condition.
You can save quite a bit of money on repair costs and energy expenditure by performing basic maintenance checks and repairs when you have some free time.
Begin with a coil cleanup. Your condenser coils will accumulate dust over time. When this happens your fridge’s efficiency will take a hit. You should pull your fridge away from its supporting wall at least once every six months in order to expose its coils.
Proceed to unplug your fridge before vacuuming the coils using a brush attachment. The temperature of your fridge should also be optimal if you don’t want to run into any problems down the line. Your freezer should be kept at 0 degrees, while your fridge’s temperature should range between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal performance.
You should also examine the gasket. A gasket that isn’t sealed properly will allow cold air to escape. Your fridge will then need to work harder in order to maintain the ideal temperature, leading to extra energy costs.
You should examine the gasket once a month to check for wear and tear problems. You should also keep it clean by using some warm water and soap. If you notice that your gasket is cracked or damaged then you should replace it as soon as possible.
You should also inspect the seals on the fridge door as often as you can. If the seals are loose then cold air will escape, forcing your fridge to go into overdrive mode to maintain the perfect internal temperature.
Your seals should be cleaned twice a year in order to remove the food residue and other gunk that has stuck to their surfaces. Simply create a baking soda/water mix and use an old toothbrush in order to clean your seals.
A good way to determine the tightness of your seals is to try the dollar bill trick. Simply insert a dollar bill into the fridge door so that half of it is inside and the other half is out. Then, pull the bill out. If the bill slips out easily then your seals may be loose.
Contact a professional asap if you notice that your seals are loose. You should also change your filters in order to keep your water dispenser and ice maker clean. Always remember to keep your fridge door closed tightly to save the motor from having to work extra hard to keep the unit cool.
Your refrigerator should also stay level at all times. Otherwise, the doors may not seal or close completely which will place an added strain on the unit’s motor. In order to check your fridge’s position, you can use a levelling tool.
Common Indicators That Your Refrigerator Needs Repair
If you notice a sudden fluctuation in temperature then your fridge may need to be repaired. Any vibrating or buzzing noises coming from the unit should also be investigated by a professional.
If you notice condensation forming, then your refrigerator may be defective. Coil overheating is another serious issue that should be rectified sooner rather than later if you want to salvage the unit.
Moreover, you should check your freezer to see if ice is accumulating. If it is, then you may want to call an electrician or plumber. Perhaps the biggest telltale sign that something is amiss with a freezer is spoiled food.
The technician will examine the unit from top to bottom in order to identify the source of the food and beverage spoilage.
Taking the First Step
If you are having issues with your refrigerator then you should call a qualified technician to investigate. They have the tools and expertise needed in order to repair your refrigerator.
If you want your fridge to last for several years without any major failures, then having a maintenance plan on hand is a must.
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