Refrigerators are essential appliances used for preserving food and beverages. They are an integral part of the modern kitchen, and just like any other machine, they can develop faults or issues at any time. When your refrigerator develops problems, it could pose a potential health hazard to your family, particularly if you don’t act quickly to fix them. Here are common refrigerator problems and how to fix them quickly:
What Are the Common Refrigerator Problems?
1.The Refrigerator is Not Cooling
The most common refrigerator problem is not cooling. This happens when there is a blockage in the condenser coils or a malfunction in the compressor. To fix this, unplug the refrigerator and clean the condenser coils by vacuuming them gently. If the compressor is not working, you may need to replace the motor.
2. The Refrigerator is Making Strange Noises
Refrigerators are quiet machines, and any unusual sounds can indicate a problem. A loud hissing or buzzing noise is likely the result of a malfunctioning fan motor. Check and replace the fan motor to fix this problem.
3. The Refrigerator is Leaking Water
Water leaks are usually the result of a clogged drain pipe. When the drain pipe is blocked, the water accumulates in the drain pan, and it overflows, causing the leak. To fix this, locate the drainpipe and remove any clogs in it. You may also need to clean the pan to remove any stuck debris.
4. The Refrigerator is Not Dispensing Ice
If your refrigerator dispensing ice has stopped working, it could be due to a faulty ice maker or dispenser motor. To troubleshoot this, disconnect the refrigerator from the power source, remove the ice maker or dispenser, and check for any clogs or breakages. If you still can’t find the problem, you may need to replace the ice maker or dispenser entirely.
5. The Refrigerator Door Does Not Close Properly
A fridge with a door that doesn’t seal correctly will allow cold air to escape and warm air to enter. This will cause the refrigerator to work overtime and increase your energy bills. To fix this issue, ensure that you align the door properly and check the gasket for any damage. You may need to replace the gasket if it’s worn out.
Easy DIY Solutions to Refrigerator Problems
A refrigerator is an essential appliance in every household. It keeps our food fresh and ensures that we have a cool drink to quench our thirst. However, like any other appliance, refrigerators are prone to problems. Fortunately, many DIY solutions can fix a lot of common refrigerator problems. In this blog, we will discuss some of these solutions.
1. If the Refrigerator is not cooling, check the thermostat.
The thermostat is the component that regulates the temperature inside your refrigerator. If it’s not functioning correctly, your refrigerator may not cool correctly. One way to check if your thermostat is working is by turning it to the lowest setting. If the refrigerator turns on, you can assume that the thermostat is the problem. You can either replace the thermostat or call in a professional.
Over time, the condenser coils in your refrigerator can accumulate dirt, dust, and debris. This accumulation can prevent the refrigerator from cooling properly. To fix this, you need to clean the coils. You can start by unplugging the refrigerator. Next, locate the coils and use a vacuum or a brush to remove the dirt and debris. You can then plug the refrigerator back in and see if it’s cooling correctly.
2. If the freezer is building up frost, check the seal.
If you notice your freezer is building up frost, the problem may be a faulty seal. A poor seal can allow warm air to enter the freezer, causing it to frost over. To check if the seal is the problem, close the freezer door and try slipping a dollar bill between the seal and the door. If the bill slips out easily, it’s time to replace the seal.
If the freezer is building up frost, you can also try to defrost it. You can do this by unplugging the refrigerator and leaving the freezer door open for several hours. The frost will melt, and you can use a towel to soak up the water. After defrosting, plug the refrigerator back in, and the problem should be fixed.
3. If there is water pooling in the refrigerator, check the drain line.
If you notice water pooling in the refrigerator, the drain line may be clogged. The drain line is responsible for carrying water away from the refrigerator and into the drain pan. You can fix this by removing the drain line and cleaning it with a mixture of water and baking soda.
If the drain line is not clogged, the problem may be a faulty defrost drain. To fix this, remove the back panel of the freezer and locate the drain hole. You can then use a turkey baster to flush the drain with hot water and remove any debris.
Why Should You Maintain Your Refrigerator?
As one of the most important appliances in our homes, refrigerators help us store and preserve food for longer periods. They also keep our drinks cold and refreshing, thus making them an essential addition to our homes. However, it’s not enough to have a refrigerator; you have to maintain it properly to ensure it functions efficiently and lasts longer. In this blog, we’ll highlight the importance of maintaining your refrigerator.
It Preserves Food Quality
Proper maintenance of your refrigerator ensures that it operates at the recommended temperature necessary for food storage. The ideal temperature range for a refrigerator is between 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit, while the freezer should be at or below 0 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures can only be achieved and maintained if you have a well-maintained fridge. Consistent maintenance also ensures that your refrigerated foods don’t get contaminated or spoil easily.
It Saves You Money
A well-maintained refrigerator is energy-efficient, which means that it consumes less energy and saves you money in the long run. Regular cleaning of the coils and fans improves their efficiency and reduces the load on the compressor, resulting in energy savings. Furthermore, a fridge with damaged parts such as gaskets and thermostats will consume more electricity to achieve the same refrigeration effect, increasing your electricity bills.
It Prevents Costly Repairs
Taking care of your refrigerator’s day-to-day maintenance requirements prevents costly repairs and component replacements. For instance, a dirty condenser coil may cause the compressor to overheat, which may cause a complete breakdown of the refrigerator. Regular cleaning of the coils and defrosting of the freezer prevents ice buildup, which may cause the fan motors to burn out, another expensive component to replace.
It Improves the Longevity of Your Appliance
A well-maintained refrigerator can last you for several years, which makes it an excellent investment. You can extend its durability by cleaning and defrosting the appliance regularly, lubricating the door hinges, and replacing worn-out parts. By taking great care of your refrigerator, you are also ensuring that you will not have to replace it frequently, which can also mean saving money.
Tap Yeobuild For All Your Refrigerator Needs
These are just a few of the many DIY solutions to refrigerator problems. However, if the problem is complicated and beyond your capabilities, it’s best to call a Yeobuild for a smooth fix. Remember that proper maintenance, such as cleaning the condenser coils and regularly defrosting the freezer, can minimize the likelihood of refrigerator problems.
Maintaining your refrigerator is crucial to keeping it functioning efficiently and extending its typical lifespan. Regular cleaning, defrosting, lubricating the door hinges, and replacing worn-out components are essential precautions to ensure your refrigerator works properly and lasts longer in the end. Make it a habit to schedule routine maintenance, and you will benefit from the above-discussed advantages. But if you’re searching for a brand new refrigerator, check out our list of the 10 best refrigerator brands in Singapore as well as our refrigerator buying guide to help you make a good purchase decision!Â
