Repair Tips to Prolong the Lifespan of Your Refrigerator
Refrigerators are modern day essentials, especially in Westlake and the nearby areas where winters get cold and summers get extremely hot. For most homeowners, the purchase of a fridge is a large investment that they expect to last many years. When there ends up being a broken mechanism or issue with the functionality of the appliance, you may find yourself considering a costly replacement. With reliable refrigerator repair from certified appliance repair experts, you can extend the lifespan of your refrigerator, minimizing costs and disruption to your daily life.
Here are our repair tips to prolong the lifespan of your fridge.
Maintain the Condenser Coils
The condenser coils are responsible for dissipating heat as the refrigerant passes through them. Over time, the condenser coils at the back or bottom of your fridge can accumulate dust, hair, and debris, making your refrigerator work harder than necessary. This not only increases energy consumption but can also lead to overheating and potential malfunction. Cleaning these coils every six months with a coil brush and vacuum can improve efficiency and prevent the need for premature refrigerator repair. If the back or bottom of your refrigerator feels excessively hot, or if your fridge seems to be running non-stop, it's time to contact FIXIT Appliance for refrigerator repair.
Check the Door Seals
A loose or broken seal allows cool air to seep out, forcing your refrigerator to work harder and increasing the risk of wear and tear. Inspect the seals (or gaskets) regularly for any signs of wear or tear and clean them with a mild detergent to remove any food residue or grime. If the seals are damaged, replacing them promptly can prevent more significant issues down the line. If you notice condensation or mildew along the edges of the refrigerator doors, or if the door doesn't close properly, the seals may need cleaning or replacing. At FIXIT Appliance, our team uses high-quality materials that are durable and effective for all our appliance repairs in Westlake.
Keep It Full
Believe it or not, a full refrigerator maintains its temperature better than an empty one. The food and beverages stored inside help absorb warm air that streams in when you open the door. If you're running low on groceries, even a few jugs of water can make a significant difference. However, be careful not to overfill, as this can block air vents, leading to uneven cooling and potential appliance repair in Westlake.
If your refrigerator seems to cycle on and off more frequently than usual, especially after you've removed a large amount of food, it might be because there's not enough inside to maintain its temperature efficiently.
Set the Right Temperature
Proper temperature settings ensure food safety and prevent the refrigerator from working harder than necessary. Incorrect temperatures can lead to spoiled food or excess energy consumption. Setting your refrigerator to the correct temperature is crucial for food safety and efficiency. The ideal refrigerator temperature is between 37°F and 40°F, while the freezer should be set at 0°F. Temperatures that are too low can overwork the appliance, while too high can pose food safety issues. If food is spoiling before its expiration date or if you notice ice crystals on items in the fridge (not freezer), your temperature settings might be off.
Defrost Regularly
If your refrigerator is not a frost-free model, regular defrosting is necessary to prevent ice buildup. Excessive frost can block the air vents, reducing the unit's efficiency and leading to potential cooling issues and a need for refrigerator repair. Defrost your appliance whenever the frost accumulation exceeds a quarter of an inch.
Be Mindful of Installation
The location of your refrigerator can impact its efficiency. Keep your fridge away from heat sources like ovens, dishwashers, and direct sunlight, as these can cause it to work harder, increasing wear and tear. Also, ensure there's enough space around the appliance for proper air circulation, which helps in cooling.
Keep Your Fridge Running with Appliance Repair in Westlake
By following these tips, not only can you prolong the life of your refrigerator, but you can also save on energy bills and reduce the frequency of calls to appliance repair in Westlake. Regular maintenance and timely refrigerator repairs goes a long way in ensuring your refrigerator remains in great condition for years to come.
