When to Try DIY Refrigerator Repairs and Maintenance
Refrigerators are incredibly convenient. They're always there, they're always working, and they provide us with fresh food day in and day out. Fridges are so convenient, in fact, that we often forget that they are machines that need care, attention, and maintenance in order to continue running smoothly. When something goes wrong with a fridge, it can come as a surprise because we're accustomed to this kitchen stalwart being in working order at all times. Find out what you can do if your fridge starts acting up, and when you should call in a refrigeration repair pro for expert assistance. With a little knowledge, a little elbow grease, and a willingness to call a pro when you need to, you'll be able to keep your fridge in good shape indefinitely.
If your fridge is isn't cooling properly, the first thing to do is to check a number of key areas to ensure everything is set and connected as it should be. First off, check the fuse box or circuit breaker to make certain power is flowing to the appliance. Next, check the cord to make sure it's plugged in tightly and isn't frayed or worn out. If those elements are good, move on to the thermostat. Is it set correctly? If it's not, adjust it to the right level and then check again in a couple of hours to see if things have cooled down.
If the power supply, cord, and thermostat are all fine, the next thing to do is to check the coils. Your fridge uses a compressor and a motor to pump refrigerant through the condenser coils. These coils cool the refrigerant, releasing heat to the surrounding air, and then send the cold refrigerant to the evaporator coils. There, the refrigerant cools the air inside the fridge, creating the cold temperature that keeps your food fresh.
In order for this process to work, your coils have to be clean. Otherwise, the condenser coils won't be able to release heat to cool the refrigerant, which, in turn, means that the refrigerant won't be able to cool the air inside the fridge. Your condenser coils are located either on the back or the bottom of the fridge. After turning off your fridge, you can clean your condenser coils with a vacuum attachment and a coil brush (available at appliance parts stores). You should do this at least twice a year, or more often if you have pets who shed. If you are nervous about cleaning the coils on your own, you can, of course, have your appliance repair services pro do it for you.
When you check the coils, you should also check the gasket, or seal, around the fridge door. If the door doesn't seal tightly, then the cold air won't stay inside the fridge as well, and the internal temperature will rise accordingly. In order to prevent this problem from occurring, keep your gasket clean and take care of any sticky spills or residue immediately. If the gasket is already compromised, though, then it's time to call an appliances repair expert to replace it.
If you've checked these common fridge culprits, but still find that your fridge is cooling poorly or running too hard, you should call an appliance repair service professional for an expert opinion. He or she will be able to take in the health of your fridge (and freezer) as a whole, pinpoint the source of the trouble, and perform any necessary refrigerator repair work. By getting this work done when you need it, you'll reduce the strain placed on your fridge, thus prolonging its life and increasing its usefulness.
If you're having fridge trouble, there are some straightforward checks that you can perform on your own before you call an appliance repairs professional for assistance. If you are unsure about what to do, though, or if you can't take care of the problem on your own, then contacting an appliance repair company is the way to go.