4 Keys to Refrigerator Maintenance

Appliances aren't cheap – and refrigerators are no exception. New refrigerators start at several hundreds of dollars, and top-end models can easily sell for several thousands. No matter how much you paid for yours, chances are you will want it to last as long as possible. Save yourself from refrigerator breakdowns by following these four simple tips, courtesy of the experts at 24/7 Refrigerator Service.

Clean the Condenser Coils

Condenser coils are located on the back of your refrigerator, and are a key component to your refrigerator's operation. Even in the cleanest of homes, these coils accumulate hair, dust, and dirt over the course of several months. Taking a few minutes to clean them every six months will go a long way to preserving your refrigerator over time. To clean them, simply slide your fridge away from the wall and vacuum the coils with your cleaner's brush attachment.

Keep it Full

Keeping your refrigerator full will help it maintain its temperature when the door is open. The benefit of this, besides a consistent temperature for your food, is that your compressor won't have to work as hard. The compressor is the most vital part of a refrigerator and saving it from daily wear and tear adds up over your appliance's lifespan. Be careful though, as overstocking your fridge could prevent proper air circulation and lead to warm spots.

Give the Refrigerator Adequate Space

Make sure there is at least a six inch gap between the back of your refrigerator and the wall. The back of the refrigerator contains components which are constantly working and generating heat. Leaving enough space ensures adequate ventilation and will prevent your unit from overheating.

Check Your Seals

Your refrigerator door is lined with a rubber seal which is also known as a gasket. This seal remains air tight to keep the cold air in your fridge. A faulty seal will allow the cold air to be lost to the outside and warm air to enter it, which will make your compressor work harder to maintain the temperature. An easy way to test the strength of your refrigerator's seal is to close the door on a dollar bill. If you can easily remove or slide the dollar up and down, you should replace the seal immediately.

If your refrigerator is giving you issues, there is a chance you could repair it for a fraction of the cost of replacing it. If you live in Nassau County or New York City and are having refrigerator issues, call 24/7 Refrigerator Service at 866-782-9376 to schedule an appointment with a trained technician. You can also connect with us on social media for more tips and advice – we are active on both Facebook and Twitter.