7 Ways to Keep Your Older Refrigerator Running

The idea of getting a brand new refrigerator might be tempting, especially with all the new smart technology. If money is tight, it might make better sense to stick with the older faithful appliance for the time being. Below are seven ways you can help your older refrigerator keep running smoothly and use your cash on other household needs.

Set the Temperature Sensibly

You might have the freezer temperature set too frigid if you open the door and cold air billows out in clouds of icy fog. You can get by with a temperature a little less than those found in Antarctica. Set freezers at zero degrees and the refrigerated part at 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Allow Leftovers to Cool

The US Food and Drug Administration says it is safe to leave non-dairy foods out of the refrigerator for an average of two hours in normal temperature conditions and one hour for ambient air temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit. You can allow the leftovers to cool some before refrigerating. The lower temperature will put less strain on an older refrigerator.

Move Refrigerator Away from Other Appliances

Any appliance that throws out heat can stress your older refrigerator. Keep it away from the dishwasher, stove, and microwave.

Pat Attention to the Door Seal

The door seal is the white rubber barrier around the frames of the freezer and refrigerator door that keep a temperature exchange from happening. If this part becomes cracked or worn, you have no protection from the temperature warming up inside. The compressor will continue to run to make up the difference.

Keep the Door Shut

Do not allow anyone to continually open and shut the door. Every time you open the door it affects the internal temperature. The fridge will run more to compensate.

Keep Vents Clear and Coils Clean

Vents are provided on refrigeration units to allow the components to stay cool while in operation. Use the hose of the vacuum cleaner to pull away and dust and dirt that accumulates.Refrigerator housekeeping duties should be done once every week or two.

Provide Routine Inspection and Maintenance

Bring in a technician to have a look at your older refrigerator once a year to make sure it is operating correctly. Preventative maintenance can keep you on top of any developing problems.

Call of refrigeration professionals like Sub Zero Repair Centers for needed Sub Zero refrigerator maintenance today!