Refrigerator Maintenance: Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Ever wonder why your fridge suddenly stops keeping things cold? It's usually not the compressor (though that's the priciest fix). Most of the time, it's something simple you can fix yourself. Let's cut through the confusion and get your fridge back on track—without breaking the bank.

Top 3 Fridge Maintenance Tasks You Can Do Yourself

First up: clean the coils behind your fridge. Dust and pet hair build up there, making your fridge work harder. Just unplug it, pull it out, and use a vacuum hose to suck the gunk off. Do this every six months, and your fridge won't have to strain as much. Second, check the door seals. Run your hand around the edges—if you feel cold air escaping, the seal's worn out. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth can help, but if it's cracked, you'll need a new seal. Third, defrost the freezer if it's got more than a quarter-inch of frost. Just unplug, let it thaw, and wipe it dry. No fancy tools needed.

When to Call a Pro Instead of DIY

If your fridge's compressor is making loud humming noises or it's not cooling at all, it's time to call someone. Compressor repairs are expensive (think £300+), but catching it early can save you from a full replacement. Also, if you see water pooling under your fridge, it's likely a blocked drain tube. A pro can fix that in minutes, but trying to DIY might cause more damage. Remember, fridge repairs aren't like fixing a lightbulb. If you're not 100% sure, don't risk it. We've seen too many DIY attempts turn a £50 fix into a £300 bill.

Regular maintenance isn't just about saving cash—it's about keeping your food safe. A fridge that's running efficiently keeps your groceries fresher longer. Plus, you'll notice your electricity bill stays lower because the fridge isn't working overtime. We've helped hundreds of Taunton households avoid costly breakdowns by sticking to simple habits. Your fridge might not be the most exciting appliance, but it's one you rely on daily. Treat it right, and it'll treat you right.

Also, make sure your fridge's temperature is set correctly—4°C or below for the fridge, and -18°C for the freezer. If it's too warm, your food spoils faster. And don't stuff the fridge too full; air needs to circulate to keep everything cold. We've seen people cramming their fridge with extra bags of groceries, which forces the motor to work overtime. A little space goes a long way. Simple stuff, but it makes a real difference.