7 Ways to Avoid Refrigerator Repair

Your refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your home, keeping your food fresh and safe to eat. However, like any appliance, it can run into problems over time, leading to costly refrigerator repair or even replacement. 

At Gulf Coast Appliances, we believe that with the right care and maintenance, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your refrigerator and avoid the need for frequent repairs. 

In this article, we’ll explore seven practical tips to help you avoid refrigerator repair and keep your appliance running smoothly for years to come.

1. Keep the Coils Clean

The condenser coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator play a crucial role in cooling. They dissipate heat from the interior of the fridge to the outside, allowing the cooling process to work effectively. 

However, these coils can collect dust, dirt, and pet hair over time, making it harder for your refrigerator to maintain the correct temperature. When the coils are clogged, the refrigerator has to work harder, which can lead to overheating and potential breakdowns.

How to Clean the Coils:

• Unplug the Refrigerator: Safety first! Make sure to unplug your refrigerator before cleaning.
• Locate the Coils: Depending on your model, the coils may be on the back of the refrigerator or underneath it. If they’re underneath, then you may need to remove a kick plate to access them.
• Use a Coil Brush: A coil brush is specifically designed to remove dust and debris from the coils. Gently brush the coils to remove as much dirt as possible.
• Vacuum the Area: After brushing, use a vacuum cleaner with a nozzle attachment to remove the loosened debris.
• Do It Regularly: For best results, clean the coils at least once or twice a year.

2. Maintain Proper Temperature Settings

One of the simplest ways to avoid refrigerator repair is to ensure that your appliance is set to the correct temperature. If the refrigerator is too cold or too warm, then it can strain the compressor and other components, leading to potential issues.

Ideal Temperature Settings:

• Refrigerator Compartment: The ideal temperature for the refrigerator compartment is between 37°F and 40°F (3°C to 4°C). This range keeps your food fresh without overworking the appliance.
• Freezer Compartment: The freezer should be set to 0°F (-18°C). This is so that your frozen food stays solid and safe to eat.

How to Adjust the Temperature:

• Check the Thermostat: Most refrigerators have a temperature dial or digital control inside. Adjust it to the recommended settings if needed.
• Use a Thermometer: Place a refrigerator thermometer inside the fridge and freezer so that you can make sure the actual temperature matches the settings.
• Monitor Consistently: Periodically check the temperature to make sure it remains consistent. Fluctuations may indicate a problem that needs attention.

3. Ensure Proper Air Circulation

Air circulation is essential for maintaining consistent temperatures inside your refrigerator. Overloading the fridge with food or blocking vents can restrict airflow, causing uneven cooling and putting extra strain on the appliance.

Tips for Proper Airflow:

• Don’t Overload the Fridge: Avoid packing your refrigerator to the brim with food. Leave some space between items to allow air to circulate freely.
• Keep Vents Clear: Check the vents inside the refrigerator and freezer compartments and make sure they are not blocked by food containers or other items.
• Organize Efficiently: Arrange food items in a way that allows for easy access and proper airflow. Avoid stacking items too high or placing large items near the vents.

4. Check and Replace Door Seals

The door seals, also known as gaskets, are responsible for keeping cold air inside the refrigerator and warm air out. If the seals are damaged or worn out, then cold air can escape, forcing the refrigerator to work harder to maintain the desired temperature. This can lead to increased energy consumption and potential repairs.

How to Check Door Seals:

• Perform the Dollar Bill Test: Place a dollar bill between the door and the refrigerator. Close the door and try to pull the bill out. If it slides out easily, then the seal may need to be replaced.
• Inspect Visually: Look for cracks, tears, or deformities in the gasket. If you notice any damage, then it’s time to replace the seal.
• Clean Regularly: Dirt and grime can accumulate on the door seals, affecting their ability to close properly. Clean the seals with a mixture of mild detergent and warm water, then dry thoroughly.

Replacing Door Seals:

• Order the Correct Seal: Make sure to purchase a replacement seal that matches your refrigerator model.
• Remove the Old Seal: Then, start at one corner and gently pull the old seal away from the door.
• Install the New Seal: Begin at the top of the door and press the new seal into place, working your way around the door. Ensure it’s properly aligned and secure.

5. Defrost the Freezer Regularly

If you have a manual defrost freezer, then it’s important to remove built-up frost regularly. Excessive frost can reduce the efficiency of your freezer, therefore making it harder for the appliance to maintain the correct temperature. In some cases, a frost build-up can even damage the evaporator coils, leading to costly repairs.

How to Defrost the Freezer:

• Unplug the Refrigerator: Start by unplugging the refrigerator and removing all food from the freezer.
• Allow the Ice to Melt: Leave the freezer door open to allow the ice to melt naturally. Place towels around the base to catch any water.
• Speed Up the Process: If you’re in a hurry, then you can place a bowl of hot water inside the freezer or use a hairdryer to melt the ice more quickly. Be careful not to use sharp objects to chip away the ice because this can damage the interior.
• Wipe Down and Dry: Once the ice has melted, wipe down the interior with a cloth and dry it thoroughly before plugging the refrigerator back in.

6. Avoid Overfilling the Freezer

Overfilling the freezer can block airflow and strain the cooling system, potentially leading to compressor failure. While it’s important to keep your freezer stocked, there should be enough space for air to circulate around the food.

Tips for Proper Freezer Use:

• Leave Space Between Items: Avoid packing items too tightly together. Leaving space allows cold air to circulate and ensures even freezing.
• Organize by Use: Store frequently used items near the front of the freezer, so you don’t have to dig through the contents and let cold air escape.
• Use Smaller Containers: If possible, then divide large quantities of food into smaller containers. This not only helps with airflow but also makes it easier to find and access items.

7. Schedule Regular Maintenance

Even with the best care, your refrigerator will benefit from regular professional maintenance. An annual check-up by a qualified technician can catch potential issues before they become major problems, saving you time and money in the long run.

What Maintenance Includes:

• Comprehensive Inspection: A technician will inspect all components of your refrigerator, including the compressor, condenser coils, thermostat, and door seals, to ensure everything is functioning properly.
• Cleaning and Lubrication: The technician may clean the coils, fans, and other parts of the refrigerator and lubricate moving parts as needed.
• Checking Refrigerant Levels: The technician will check the refrigerant levels and then look for any signs of leaks. Low refrigerant can cause the compressor to overheat and fail.
• Assessing Electrical Components: Electrical connections and wiring will be inspected to ensure they are in good condition and not posing a fire hazard.

Benefits of Regular Maintenance:

• Extended Lifespan: Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your refrigerator because it keeps it in top working condition.
• Increased Efficiency: A well-maintained refrigerator runs more efficiently, therefore reducing energy consumption and lowering your utility bills.
• Preventing Repairs: By addressing minor issues early, you can then prevent costly repairs and avoid the inconvenience of a refrigerator breakdown.

Protect Your Investment and Avoid Refrigerator Repair

Your fridge is a big investment, and with proper care and maintenance, you can avoid the hassle and expense of frequent refrigerator repair. By following the tips outlined in this article—keeping the coils clean, maintaining proper temperature settings, ensuring proper air circulation, checking door seals, defrosting regularly, avoiding overfilling, and scheduling regular maintenance—you can keep your refrigerator running efficiently and reliably for years to come.

At Gulf Coast Appliances, we’re here to help you with all your appliance maintenance and repair needs. Whether you need professional maintenance, emergency repairs, or advice on how to care for your appliances, our team of experienced technicians is ready to assist you. 

Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about how we can help keep your refrigerator—and all your appliances—in top condition.