Taking care of our fridge is one of the easiest ways to ensure it lasts a long time.

A little maintenance can go a long way in keeping it running smoothly. So, how can we maintain our fridges properly on a daily basis?

Cleaning and Dusting

First, before you begin cleaning, unplug the fridge and remove any food. Wait for the frost to melt before using a soft cotton cloth soaked in a mild detergent to clean the interior. After cleaning, use a 2% ethylene oxide solution to disinfect the inside of the fridge. Once the fridge is cleaned and disinfected, leave the door open to dry before closing it. It's important to avoid using hot water or organic solvents like benzene for cleaning.

Proper Placement

The fridge should always be placed in a dry, well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or fire hazards. If you need to move it, make sure the fridge stays level to avoid any potential damage. Never cover the fridge with plastic sheets, as plastic is not breathable. Moisture can get trapped inside, which can cause metal parts to rust.

Keep the Fridge Running Occasionally

If the fridge is not being used for a while, it's a good idea to turn it on for a few hours once a month. Let the compressor run for 2-4 hours to keep the cooling lines free and ensure the compressor stays in good working condition. After turning it off, dry the interior with a soft cloth to prevent rusting.

What to Keep in Mind When Using a New Fridge

Before using a new fridge, always read the instruction manual carefully. When using it for the first time, don't run it continuously for too long. Let it operate intermittently to allow the components to gradually settle in. Additionally, avoid filling the fridge with too much food right away. Gradually increase the amount of food as the fridge continues to run.

Regular Cleaning of the Compressor and Condenser

The compressor and condenser are essential for the fridge's cooling system. If dust builds up, it can affect heat dissipation, shortening the lifespan of the parts and reducing the cooling efficiency. So, it's important to regularly check and clean them. When cleaning the condenser, use a soft, dry cloth to wipe away any dust.

Deep Cleaning the Interior

Over time, fridges can develop unpleasant odors, and bacteria can grow inside. To prevent this, it's a good idea to remove the food from the fridge and give it a thorough cleaning every once in a while. This will keep your fridge fresh and safe for storing food.

Optimal Fridge Placement and Maintenance

To make sure your fridge runs efficiently, place it away from heat sources like stoves or radiators. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, as this will make it harder for the fridge to cool properly. Additionally, make sure there's good airflow around the fridge—leave at least 10 cm of space behind it and 30 cm on top. Try to avoid placing too many objects around the fridge, as they can obstruct airflow and cause overheating.

Keeping the Fridge Stable

Your fridge should always be placed on a stable surface. If it is uneven, it can cause the compressor to vibrate excessively, leading to unwanted noise and potentially reducing its lifespan. So, be sure to level the fridge on a flat surface.

Reducing Fridge Door Openings

Whenever possible, try to minimize how often you open the fridge door. Every time you open it, cool air escapes, and the fridge has to work harder to cool down again. This increases energy consumption and can shorten the life of the appliance. Also, when the fridge shuts down temporarily, don't restart it immediately. Wait for 2-5 minutes before turning it back on.

Handling Power Outages

In case of a power outage, unplug the fridge to prevent damage to the internal components. During a power outage, try to limit how often you open the fridge. As long as the door stays closed, your food will stay fresh for up to 10 hours.

Adjusting the Temperature Based on Seasons

Environmental temperature has a huge impact on the fridge's performance and energy consumption. In the hot summer months, the fridge may need to work harder, so lowering the temperature a bit will help. During the winter, you can raise the temperature slightly to prevent the fridge from overworking.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage

For food that will be consumed within 1-3 days, store it in the fridge's fresh food compartment. For longer-term storage, use the freezer compartment to keep food fresh.

Dealing with Moisture

In humid conditions, you might notice condensation forming on the fridge's exterior or door. This is completely normal. Just wipe it away with a dry cloth to prevent water damage.

By following these simple fridge care tips, we can help extend its lifespan and maintain its efficiency. Regular cleaning, proper placement, and temperature adjustments are small tasks that can make a big difference. So, let's make sure we keep our fridges in good shape, and they'll continue to serve us for many years to come, keeping our food fresh and cool. Keep up the great work, Lykkers!