Have you ever heard this (lame) joke: “Is your refrigerator running?” If you answer “Yes,” the prankster says, “Well, you better go catch it.”
In the heat of August in Iowa, it is not a matter of catching the refrigerator while it’s running, but rather maintaining it properly so it runs for maximum efficiency.
Just like regular car maintenance, this appliance needs regular service. Your fridge is on the job 24/7 and is a major user of electricity in your home. When outdoor temps reach 90º+, the last thing you want is for an overworked refrigerator to suffer from heat exhaustion.
Lowe’s offers these simple preventive maintenance measures for keeping your fridge from going on the fritz:
- Clean the condenser coils once a year with a vacuum cleaner or a dusting brush. The condenser coils are on the back or bottom of the refrigerator behind a protective plate. Unplug the refrigerator and roll it out for easy access to the refrigerator cabinet
- Clean the defrost pan, usually located atop or beside the compressor.
- Clean the door gaskets with warm, soapy water to ensure a tight seal between the cabinet and doors.
- Remove any clutter and items stored atop the refrigerator to avoid restricting the natural flow of air needed for proper operation
- Change the water filter every 6 months
Temperature matters
- Set the temperature correctly, with the fridge between 38 and 42 degrees and the freezer compartment between 0 and 5 degrees. Setting the thermostat too cold means you’ll spend more on energy than you need to and the lower temperature will add stress to the appliance’s cooling system.
- For the same reason, don’t keep a second appliance in the garage. Your refrigerator will work extra hard (while raising your energy bill) to keep cool in a hot garage.