Fridge Maintenance: Simple Steps to Keep Your Fridge Working

Got a fridge that’s getting louder or not keeping food cold? Most problems aren’t high‑tech – they’re basic maintenance that anyone can do. A quick monthly check can stop small issues from turning into big repair bills. Below are the most useful tasks you can fit into a coffee break.

Every‑Month Checklist

1. Clean the condenser coils. Dust and pet hair love to hide behind the coils at the back or bottom of the fridge. Unplug the unit, pull it away from the wall, and brush or vacuum the coils for a few minutes. Cleaner coils mean the compressor works less, saving energy and cutting down on wear.

2. Test the door seals. Close a dollar bill inside the door so the seal grips the fridge. Pull it out – if it slides out easily, the gasket is cracked or warped. A loose seal lets warm air in, forcing the fridge to run harder. Wipe the gasket with warm, soapy water and, if needed, replace it.

3. Check the temperature settings. Aim for 37‑40°F (3‑4°C) in the fridge and 0°F (‑18°C) in the freezer. If you notice ice build‑up in the freezer or soggy produce in the fridge, adjust the dial a few clicks and give it a day to stabilize.

4. Defrost the freezer. Ice thicker than a quarter‑inch blocks airflow. Turn the fridge off, empty the freezer, and let the ice melt. Speed it up with a bowl of hot water and a towel. Once dry, restart the unit and you’ll feel the temperature drop quickly.

5. Keep it level. An unbalanced fridge can cause door closures to be uneven and the compressor to vibrate. Use a spirit level on the top; adjust the front legs until it’s even. Most fridges have screw‑in legs for easy tweaking.

When to Call a Pro

If you’ve done the steps above and the fridge still sounds like a motorbike, or food is spoiling faster than usual, it’s time to bring in experts. Common signs that need a professional include a constantly cycling compressor, water pooling inside, or a burnt‑smell from the back. Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions can diagnose the issue quickly and fix things without breaking the bank.

Don’t wait until the freezer defrosts on its own or the fridge leaks water onto the floor. A short call to a local repair service can save you from a full replacement cost. Plus, a professional can check hard‑to‑reach parts like the evaporator fan or the start relay, which are risky for DIY fixes.

Regular maintenance not only extends the life of your fridge but also cuts your electricity bill. A well‑run fridge uses about 10‑15% less power than a neglected one. So set a reminder on your phone, grab a cloth and a brush, and give your fridge the care it deserves.

Got questions about a specific problem? Drop a comment below or give Taunton Appliance Repair Solutions a call. We love helping homeowners keep their kitchens humming smoothly.