For most Americans, the kitchen is the heart of the home. It’s the place we gather with our families to share excellent meals and enjoy many of our favorite memories.

With plenty of space for groceries and big sturdy appliances meant for heavy use, your refrigerator likely gets quite a lot of traffic. With so much action in your kitchen, it all spells disaster if you don’t include some fridge maintenance in your home schedule.

The good news is that your refrigerator maintenance needs are few and far between. And you can do it all with just a few simple tools and supplies.

This article will give you refrigerator maintenance tips and tricks to have your appliance working its best in no time.

Refrigerator Maintenance Tips

One of the most essential appliances in your home is the refrigerator. Here are some tips on how to keep your refrigerator running smoothly:

Clean the Condenser Coils

It’s essential to clean the condenser coils on your refrigerator to keep it running properly. The coils are located on the back of the fridge. They can get dusty, so it’s a good idea to vacuum them off with the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.

Additionally, you can clean them with a coil-cleaning brush, which is accessible at most hardware stores. After cleaning the coils, unplug the refrigerator and clean the area around the coils to eliminate any dust or dirt.

Check the Door Seals

It’s essential to check the door seals on your refrigerator regularly to ensure that the seal is tight and has no gaps. A loose or damaged seal can cause your refrigerator to work harder and use more energy.

This will cost you more money on your energy bill. Sometimes, a loose seal can cause your food to spoil quickly.

Keep the Fridge at the Right Temperature

If you want your fridge to last and function properly, keep it at the right temperature. The ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 32-40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Anything below 32 degrees Fahrenheit risks freezing your food, and anything above 40 degrees Fahrenheit puts your food at risk for spoilage. You should check your fridge regularly to make sure it is maintaining the correct temperature. If you suspect any temperature irregularities on your refrigerator, click here to schedule a refrigerator repair service.

Organize Your Fridge

It’s essential to keep your fridge organized for maintenance and food safety. A cluttered fridge is more challenging to clean and can spoil food.

Plus, it’s harder to find what you need when your fridge is full of food. Here are some tips for organizing your fridge:

Put Frequently Used Items in the Front

Organizing the frequently used items in the front will make it easier for you to access them. It’ll also make it easier to clean the fridge.

Store Leftovers and Other Food Items in Clear Containers

One way to organize your fridge is to store leftovers and other food items in clear containers. This will help you see what needs to be used up and what can be stored for another meal. It will also make it easier to find what you are looking for when you are looking for something specific.

It also helps to prevent spills and awkward shuffling when trying to find something in the back of the fridge. Additionally, clear containers are easier to clean than cluttered shelves.

Use the Shelves to Group Items Together

It is best to group items on the shelves to keep your refrigerator organized. This will make it easier to find what you are looking for and help you keep track of what needs to be used up first.

For example, keep all condiments on one shelf and all the beverages on another. This will help you to make the most of the space in your fridge and will also help to keep it clean and tidy.

Label Everything So You Know When It Expires

When organizing your fridge, label everything to know when it expires. Label everything with the date it was bought or made and when it expires. That way, you’ll always know what needs to be used up first and what can be saved later.

Defrost Your Fridge 

It will help if you defrost refrigerators periodically to prevent ice buildup on the evaporator coils. If ice builds up on the coils, it will reduce the refrigerator’s efficiency. It can also cause the unit to work harder to maintain the temperature.

In addition, a thick layer of ice can cause the coils to fail. This will cost you a lot of money to repair or replace your fridge.

To defrost your fridge, first, turn it off and unplug it. Remove all of the food and put it in a cooler.

Next, use a hairdryer or some towels to melt the ice. Once the ice is gone, clean the fridge with a mild soap and water solution.

Finally, dry the refrigerator with a clean towel. You can then put your food back in.

Clean the Interior and Exterior of Your Fridge

It is essential to clean the interior and exterior of your fridge regularly. Doing so will help keep your fridge functioning properly and looking its best.

To clean the interior of your fridge, start by removing all food and items. Next, use mild soap and warm water to wipe down all surfaces.

Be sure to pay special attention to the gasket, as this is where dirt and grime can build up. Finally, rinse all surfaces with clean water and dry them with a clean towel.

To clean the exterior of your fridge, begin by wiping down the outside with a damp cloth. Then, use a mild cleanser and scrub any dirty areas. Rinse the surface with clean water and dry with a clean towel.

Take Care of Your Refrigerator!

Your refrigerator is one of the most essential appliances in your home, and it’s vital to keep it running smoothly. Unfortunately, many people don’t know how to properly maintain their fridges, which can lead to several problems.

Luckily you have this guide for refrigerator maintenance to keep your fridge in good shape. You can now keep your fridge running like new for years to come. Also, don’t forget to schedule an annual check-up with a qualified appliance repair person to keep your refrigerator in top condition.

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