Top Tips for Taking Care of Your Fridge Freezer Appliance at Home
Your fridge freezer is the heart of your kitchen, keeping your food fresh and safe.
1. Cleanliness is Key
Regularly clean both the interior and exterior of your fridge freezer.
Spills and crumbs can lead to unpleasant odours and bacterial growth. Wipe down shelves, drawers, and door seals with warm soapy water. Don’t forget to clean the condenser coils at the back or bottom of the appliance – dusty coils can reduce efficiency.
2. Temperature Control
Maintain the correct temperatures in your fridge and freezer compartments. The fridge should ideally be between 0°C and 5°C, while the freezer should be at -18°C or lower. Check the temperature settings regularly and adjust them if needed.
3. Avoid Overloading
Overloading your fridge freezer can restrict airflow, causing it to work harder and potentially impacting the freshness of your food. Leave enough space for air to circulate around items.
If you have a manual defrost freezer, be sure to defrost it regularly. Ice build-up reduces its efficiency and storage capacity.
5. Check Door Seals
Damaged or worn-out door seals can lead to warm air leaking in, making your appliance work harder and increasing energy consumption. Check the seals regularly and replace them if necessary.
6. Mindful Placement
Avoid placing your fridge freezer next to heat sources like ovens or radiators. Also, ensure there’s adequate space around the appliance for ventilation.
7. Handle with Care
Be gentle when opening and closing the doors. Slamming doors can damage the seals and hinges.
8. Unplug During Extended Absences
If you’re going away for an extended period, unplug your fridge freezer, clean it thoroughly, and leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mould growth.
9. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Consider having your fridge freezer serviced by a qualified technician every few years to ensure it’s in good working order.
10. Address Issues Promptly
If you notice any unusual noises, leaks, or performance issues, don’t ignore them. Contact a professional appliance repair service to address the problem before it escalates.
By following these simple tips, you can keep your fridge freezer running efficiently, saving you money on energy bills and prolonging the lifespan of your appliance.