Refrigerators are available in different sizes and shapes. They can fit into tight areas, like dorm rooms.
Certain models also connect to smart devices. You can monitor your fridge from afar and fix any issues if they arise. You can also control them with voice commands.
Noise
Refrigerators emit a wide variety of sounds when they are operating. Certain noises are more obvious than others. If you notice any of the noises below find out the cause and search for a quick fix prior to calling a repair company for your fridge.
Rattling
Fridge rattling can occur when there's not enough space between the fridge and the wall or cabinet, or if it's positioned at an unbalanced angle. This is a simple fix - all you have to do is ensure that there's at least a couple of inches of space on either side, and adjust the legs of the fridge or leveling screws to raise or lower it according to.
Hissing
The compressor can make a noise when cooling your food. This is a common sound that is caused by refrigerant or compressor fluid moving through the system. If you're concerned, note how often the compressor runs and call an emergency repair service for your fridge in the event that it occurs more often than normal.
Squeaking
The sound of refrigerators can be loud if the coils or fan are filthy. If you hear a squeaking sound coming from your fridge, make use of a vacuum cleaner brush attachment along with a rag and dish soap or water and warm water to wash the coils and fan. It is recommended to do this twice every year or more often if your refrigerator is older or is heavily used.
Clicking
A clicking sound can also be heard from a refrigerator. This is usually due to freezing around the fan of the freezer. This can be solved with a manual defrost, but is likely to occur again unless the issue is addressed by a professional service.
It can also happen when the fridge is shut off, so be sure to turn it back on if this occurs. If you have an ice maker connected the sound could be caused by it. Make sure you turn it off when you aren't using ice regularly.
The hum coming from your fridge is normal. It may be more pronounced during certain times of the day, and also after heavy stockings or intensive freezer functions. The refrigerator is working harder to keep your food cool, so it is working faster. This isn't an indication of a problem.
Dust
Dust from the household is an excellent magnet for dirt, bacteria and other microorganisms as well as traces of household chemical exposures. The tiny particles can trigger allergic reactions and inhalation, and they provide a perfect surface for microbes, which includes those that can cause an infection when they come into contact with a cut.Cleaning a refrigerator isn't easy but regular cleaning can help to reduce dust and maintain an even temperature. A dirty fridge wastes energy due to overheating, and is inefficient. If your fridge is making more noise than usual or when you suspect it's running out of energy due to overworking, it may be time to have it checked.
Dust does not drift into the air from the outside as is often believed. It's made up of resuspended soil from the home, which is often tainted with lead and other toxicants in addition to pollen, mold spores and car exhaust. It also contains legacy pollutants such as DDT which were banned more than half decades ago.
Some compounds, such as flame retardants such as decabromodiphenylether can be dissolved and released into the air, however the majority of chemicals in dust in the house are transferred directly from one object to the next, such as by people smashing fibers and small pieces of plastic off electronic equipment. High-molecular-weight substances, such as surfactants used in cleaners and refridgerators uk paint strippers, also migrate directly into dust.
A soiled refrigerator can affect your health, not to mention contaminating food. It could harbor allergens, such as pet dander and the droppings of cockroaches, which can trigger asthma and allergies in many people. It also can contain bacterial spores, such as staphylococcus aureus, that can cause infections if they find their way into a wound.
Researchers have discovered that contaminated dust is linked to a wide variety of health issues that include cancer, cardiovascular disease leukemia and inflammatory bowel disease. A recent study showed that homes of children who were diagnosed with leukemia had higher levels of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons PBDEs and PCBs in their dust than homes of healthy kids.
Condenser Coils
When refrigerators run properly, the coils that are on the back and front of the appliance are supposed to disperse heat generated by the compressor. If these radiator-like components are covered with dust, pet hair or lint, the compressor is forced to work overtime trying cool the refrigerator, which wears down the unit. It's important to clean your coils regularly.
Before starting, disconnect and shut off the refrigerator's power source. This will reduce the risk that you or your family members could be electrocuted while working on the appliance. It is also recommended to wear a protective mask if you are sensitive to dust. You will then need to find the coils. The coils are typically located at the back of the refrigerator or, in certain cases, on the front and at the base. Consult your fridge's manual or contact the manufacturer if you aren't sure where to find them.
After you have located the coils, you will have to take off the access panel, if there's one. Then, alternate between vacuuming the coils with a narrow hose attachment and rubbing them with a condenser coil cleaning brush. Take your time to avoid damaging or twisting the coils. Replace the kick panel, or put the refrigerator in place, and plug it in.
You can hire a professional if you're not at ease doing it yourself. It's cheaper and easier to keep up the cleaning routine in order to avoid the issue.
Maintenance
Fridges are hard-working appliances that are running all day and night to cool your food. To help them do their job effectively they require regular maintenance. Simple preventive maintenance will ensure that your machines run smoothly for a long time.
A simple task is to wipe down the door seals. The gaskets can become blocked by jelly and other food items that stick and allow air to escape through tiny openings. Wipe them down by putting baking soda and warm water on a toothbrush or sponge every couple of months.
The fan at the rear of the refrigerator is a different place to check. It can be loud if it's blocked up with insulation, paper or even mice. Remove the shelves, unplug the refrigerator and then remove all the parts that are removable. Vacuum cleaners with hose attachments can be used to clean the coils as well as the surrounding area. Make sure you switch the fridge back on when you are finished.It is recommended to consult the owner's manual for specifics on where to find the fan and coils and what cleaning tools you may require. You should also go through the warranty to make sure you know what's covered.
