Six Refrigerator Maintenance Tips

Ensure your refrigerator runs at peak performance with these essential refrigerator maintenance tips. Save energy, money, and keep your food fresh by following these six key steps.

The Refrigerator Maintenance Tips:

1. Set the right temperature. Maintain the fridge between 37 and 40 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer at 0 degrees. Ensuring the door seals are functional is crucial for keeping your fridge at the right temperature.
2. Check the door seals. A loose seal on the fridge door allows cool air to seep out, wasting energy and causing your fridge to work harder than necessary. Clean the seals twice a year using a toothbrush and a solution of baking soda and water. Then, try the dollar-bill test: close the bill in the door with half inside and half outside. If it slips out easily, you may need a professional to check the door seals.
3. Keep the coils clean. When condenser coils are covered with dust, the refrigerator can’t run efficiently. Twice a year, pull the machine from the wall to reveal the coils, unplug the refrigerator, and vacuum the coils with a brush attachment.
4. Fill it up (even if you mostly eat takeout). Refrigerators need “thermal mass” (lots of stuff) to maintain low temperatures while using less energy. Cool foods and drinks help absorb warm air that enters when you open the door. If you don’t cook often or your fridge is too big, store a few jugs of water in there. Just don’t overstuff your fridge—air needs to circulate around your items.
5. Organize your fridge for efficiency. Proper organization can help maintain the efficiency of your fridge. Keep frequently used items at the front, group similar items together, and avoid blocking vents. Use clear containers and labels to make it easy to see and find what you need, reducing the time you spend with the door open.
6. Be prepared for a power outage. When the power goes out, avoid opening the fridge door repeatedly. Keep the doors closed and use pantry food instead. An unopened refrigerator will keep food safe for four hours, while a freezer will maintain its temperature for 48 hours if full and 24 hours if half-full.

TL;DR: To keep your refrigerator efficient and your food fresh, set the right temperature, check door seals, clean the coils, keep it filled, organize for efficiency, and be prepared for power outages. Follow these steps for a happier, healthier fridge and wallet!