How many times a day do you open and close the refrigerator? This number may be too high to count if you have children at home. The last thing any homeowner wants is to purchase a new refrigerator, as these appliances now easily run in the thousands of dollars. Regular refrigerator maintenance extends the lifespan of the appliance.
The Importance of Regular Refrigerator Maintenance
Regular refrigerator maintenance isn’t difficult, but many people still overlook this task. Maintaining the refrigerator reduces the risk of a mechanical breakdown and helps you avoid costly refrigerator repairs. This appliance seems fairly basic, but it is subject to wear and tear like all electrical devices. Many things can go wrong without this maintenance, so regular inspections are helpful to catch minor problems before they escalate.
This maintenance increases the energy efficiency of the refrigerator. A refrigerator with problems consumes additional energy, so utility bills increase. When maintaining the appliance, remove any dirt and debris that may clog a coil, filter, or vent and lead to the refrigerator malfunctioning. An energy-efficient refrigerator keeps foods at the correct temperature while keeping utility bills low.
Furthermore, regular refrigerator maintenance helps to protect it’s resale value. Many people never consider this until they need to upgrade the appliance or sell their home. They quickly learn they won’t get much for the refrigerator on the used market, or a buyer might ask that the seller lower the asking price so they can purchase a new one.
A malfunctioning refrigerator may also be a safety hazard. The motor might start a fire that destroys the home, or a child could be hurt if they open the fridge and something sparks. Maintaining the appliance reduces the risk of injuries and property damage.
Basic Refrigerator Maintenance Tasks
Clean the refrigerator and freezer regularly. This cleaning helps prevent bacteria growth and the accompanying odors. Cleaning the freezer also ensures that air circulates freely. When doing so, check the temperature settings. The wrong setting can quickly lead to spoiled food that may make the family ill. Refrigerators should maintain a temperature between 35 and 38 degrees. Freezers need to remain at zero degrees Fahrenheit.
Check the door seals routinely. These seals and gaskets ensure cold air remains within the refrigerator and freezer. They also prevent warm air from entering the appliance, as this warm air will force the unit to work harder to maintain the proper temperature. Clean the seals and gaskets with warm water and mild soap. If there are signs of wear or damage, replace them.
Finish this process by cleaning the condenser coils. Dirt and debris on these coils cause the refrigerator to work harder, which means it consumes more energy. Unplug the appliance, find the coils, and use a soft brush or vacuum to remove the dirt and debris.
Many refrigerators today come with built-in water filtration systems. If your unit has this feature, replace the water filter. A new water filter ensures the family has access to clean water.
Organize the refrigerator’s contents. Many people don’t view this as a maintenance task, but it is. Knowing where items are means less time will be spent with the door open. A person won’t need to search for what they want, so there will be fewer temperature fluctuations.
Read the owner’s manual. It provides a maintenance schedule for the appliance. Following this schedule will help keep the refrigerator operating properly and reduce the risk of needing expensive refrigerator repairs.
If you need help maintaining this appliance or if you put it off and now need a refrigerator repair in Arlington, turn to the professionals. They have the knowledge and experience to do the job right the first time. These technicians work with clients to find the right solutions for their needs based on their refrigerator model and budget. Call today to have a technician inspect the refrigerator, as regular inspections and maintenance help reduce homeownership costs. Anyone will appreciate this.
