Refrigerator Maintenance: Keep Your Fridge Running Smoothly

Ever wonder why your fridge starts to hum louder or why the ice maker stops working? Most of the time it’s nothing fancy – just a bit of neglect. Regular maintenance can stop small annoyances from turning into costly repairs. Below you’ll find practical steps you can do every few weeks, plus quick fixes for common cooling issues.

Simple Cleaning Routines That Add Years

Start with the door seals. Grab a damp cloth and wipe around the rubber edges. If you feel a draft when you close the door, the seal is wearing out and needs replacement. Next, clean the coils. Most modern fridges have rear or bottom coils that collect dust. Unplug the unit, pull it away from the wall, and use a vacuum brush or a soft brush to clear the dust. This one‑minute job can improve efficiency by up to 30%.

Inside the fridge, pull out shelves and drawers once a month. Wash them with warm, soapy water and rinse well. For stubborn spills, a mix of water and baking soda works wonders without leaving a chemical taste. While you’re at it, check the drip pan (usually at the back). Empty any water, wipe it clean, and make sure the drain tube isn’t clogged. A clean drip pan prevents moldy smells from building up.

Troubleshooting Common Cooling Problems

If the fridge isn’t cooling, the first thing to check is the temperature setting. Many people set it colder than needed, causing the compressor to work overtime. Aim for 37‑40°F (3‑4°C) in the fridge and 0°F (‑18°C) in the freezer. Next, listen for the compressor. A steady low‑hum means it’s running; a clicking sound followed by silence often points to a start‑relay issue, which is a quick fix for a DIY‑confident homeowner.

Another frequent culprit is a blocked air vent inside the fridge. Cold air circulates through vents at the back of the compartment. If you’ve over‑stuffed the fridge, the airflow may be restricted, leading to uneven cooling. Rearrange items so there’s space around the vents. If you still notice frost buildup in the freezer, your defrost timer or heater could be failing. In that case, it’s smarter to call a professional – they have the tools to test the timer safely.

Finally, keep an eye on the water line if your fridge has an ice maker or water dispenser. Leaks can cause the fridge to over‑work and may damage the floor. Check the connection for cracks and replace the line if you see any drips. A tight seal and a dry floor go a long way toward keeping your refrigerator happy.

Doing these simple chores every month can extend your fridge’s life by several years and save you from emergency call‑outs. If a problem feels beyond your comfort zone – like a faulty compressor, a refrigerant leak, or a complex electrical issue – give a local specialist a shout. Northampton Appliance Repairs Services offers quick, reliable fixes, so you get back to fresh food without the hassle.