Tips to Keep Your Refrigerator Running Longer

A refrigerator is a significant investment, so you will want to keep it running well for as long as possible. There are a few factors to consider and easy cleaning and maintenance tasks that can make a big difference in how long your refrigerator can last. In addition, a well-maintained refrigerator will use less energy, reducing your home energy costs.

Simple Steps for Longer Refrigerator Life

Colder is Not Always Better – Of course, we all want our food to stay cold, but setting the temperature too low can cause the compressor to run more, which will wear it out. The FDA recommends keeping it set below 40°F for food safety and most equipment manufacturers recommend 37°F. The freezer should be set at 0°F.

Keep It Away From Other Appliances – If possible, the refrigerator should be separate from other kitchen appliances, such as the oven and dishwasher. The heat from other appliances can cause the refrigerator to work harder to maintain its temperature.

Store Leftovers Correctly – Prior to putting leftovers in the refrigerator, let the food cool to room temperature to avoid heating up the inside of the refrigerator. Always make sure that foods are covered to prevent excess moisture, which can make the appliance work harder to eliminate the moisture.

Keep It Closed – Make sure the refrigerator is closed tightly when you close the door. Leave the door closed and avoid opening and closing the refrigerator too much. Definitely don’t stand in front of it and eat or leave it open for long periods of time when looking for a snack. These actions let the cold air out, which causes the compressor to work harder to maintain the temperature.

Maintenance Tips for a Longer Lifecycle

Clean the Condenser Coils – The condenser coils release heat from the refrigerator, which is essential for the compressor to run efficiently. Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris can accumulate, causing overheating. Vacuum the condenser coils once a month to help keep your refrigerator running longer.

Clean and Replace Gaskets – The rubber gaskets around the doors of the refrigerator and freezer help create a tight seal. This keeps your food fresh and helps prevent overworking the compressor. Clean the seal regularly and check to make sure the seal is tight. If it becomes loose, replace the gasket.

Professional Maintenance – Let a professional service your appliances regularly. Maintenance helps to ensure that the components are working properly. Minor problems can be quickly addressed to help extend the life of your refrigerator.

Making a few easy changes in how you use and maintain your refrigerator can improve energy efficiency, performance, and extend the life of this essential home appliance. For professional maintenance and repair for your refrigerator and all other major home appliances, call the experts at Mr. Appliance of Redlands-Yucaipa.