Keep the door seal clean

Our homes are filled with useful appliances but the refrigerator is one of the most important.  We use it every day to keep food fresh and safe.

From fruits and vegetables to milk cheese, butter ice cream, sauces raw meat, drinks, leftovers and many other foods the refrigerator stores a large part of our daily meals. Without proper cooling many of these foods can spoil quickly.

That is why regular refrigerator care is important.

A few simple habits can help keep your fridge clean fresh and working well.

Clean the condenser coils

The condenser coils are usually found at the back or bottom of the refrigerator.

They help remove heat from the cooling system.

Because they are often hidden dust and dirt can build up on them over time. Dirty coils can make the refrigerator work harder and may affect its performance.

Try to clean the coils about twice a year. Before cleaning unplug the refrigerator safely. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust and dirt.

Clean the door seal

The rubber strip around the refrigerator door is called the gasket.  It helps keep cold air inside and warm air outside. Over time the gasket can become dirty, dry or cracked.

A damaged seal can allow cold air to escape and make the refrigerator work harder.

Clean the gasket regularly with a damp cloth and mild soap. If the seal is badly damaged or no longer closes properly consider having it replaced.

Do not overfill the fridge

Try not to pack your refrigerator too tightly. A crowded fridge can block the movement of cold air and make it harder to keep food at an even temperature.

At the same time an almost empty refrigerator may not maintain temperature as efficiently in some situations.  Keep food arranged with enough space for air to move around it.

Fix small problems early

Small refrigerator problems are easy to ignore when the appliance is still working.  However delaying repairs can sometimes lead to bigger problems and affect the life of the appliance.

Watch for issues such as poor cooling blocked vents unusual noises or a door that does not close properly.

If you notice a problem get it checked early by a qualified technician. Regular care and timely repairs can help your refrigerator work better and last longer.