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Fridge Maintenance and Common Issues: Keep Your Refrigerator Running Smoothly

Your refrigerator is one of the hardest working appliances in your home, running 24/7 to keep your food fresh and safe. Proper maintenance and timely attention to common issues can ensure it operates efficiently and has a long lifespan. Here’s a guide to help you with fridge maintenance and to understand common refrigerator problems and their causes.


Regular Fridge Maintenance Tips


  1. Clean the Coils

  • Why: Dust and dirt on the condenser coils can cause the fridge to overheat and work harder, reducing its efficiency.

  • How: Unplug the fridge and use a coil brush or vacuum cleaner to remove dust from the coils, typically located at the back or beneath the fridge.

  1. Check and Replace Door Seals

  • Why: Damaged or worn-out door seals allow warm air to enter the fridge, making it less efficient and causing food spoilage.

  • How: Inspect the seals for cracks or gaps. Clean them regularly with warm soapy water and replace them if they are damaged.

  1. Maintain the Right Temperature

  • Why: Proper temperature settings ensure food safety and efficient operation.

  • How: Set the fridge temperature to 37-40°F (3-4°C) and the freezer to 0°F (-18°C). Use a refrigerator thermometer to monitor the temperatures.

  1. Keep It Level

  • Why: An unlevel fridge can cause the doors to not close properly and may lead to internal cooling issues.

  • How: Use a level to check the fridge’s position and adjust the feet as necessary.

  1. Clean the Interior Regularly

  • Why: Regular cleaning prevents odors and mold buildup.

  • How: Remove all food and shelves, then clean with a mixture of baking soda and water. Rinse and dry thoroughly before putting the shelves and food back.

  1. Avoid Overloading

  • Why: Overloading can obstruct air circulation, causing the fridge to work harder and less efficiently.

  • How: Keep the fridge organized and avoid stuffing it to the brim.

Common Fridge Issues and Their Causes


  1. Fridge Not Cooling Properly

  • Causes: Dirty condenser coils, faulty thermostat, blocked vents, or a malfunctioning compressor.

  • Solution: Clean the coils, check the thermostat settings, ensure vents are not blocked, and consult a technician for compressor issues.

  1. Water Leaking from the Fridge

  • Causes: Clogged defrost drain, broken water inlet valve, or damaged door seals.

  • Solution: Clean the defrost drain, check and replace the water inlet valve, and inspect and replace door seals if needed.

  1. Freezer Overcooling or Frost Buildup

  • Causes: Faulty defrost thermostat, defrost timer, or defrost heater.

  • Solution: Check these components and replace them if necessary. Ensure the freezer door seals are in good condition.

  1. Fridge Making Strange Noises

  • Causes: Unbalanced fridge, faulty evaporator fan motor, or issues with the condenser fan.

  • Solution: Level the fridge, inspect and replace the evaporator or condenser fan motor if needed.

  1. Ice Maker Not Working

  • Causes: Clogged water line, faulty water inlet valve, or defective ice maker module.

  • Solution: Check for clogs in the water line, inspect the water inlet valve, and replace the ice maker module if necessary.

  1. Refrigerator Running Constantly

  • Causes: Dirty coils, faulty door seals, or a defective thermostat.

  • Solution: Clean the condenser coils, inspect and replace door seals, and check the thermostat.


By following these maintenance tips and addressing issues promptly, you can keep your fridge in optimal condition, ensuring it continues to keep your food fresh and your kitchen running smoothly.


Need Professional Fridge Repair?


Proper maintenance can prevent many common fridge issues, but sometimes professional help is needed. If you’re experiencing persistent problems with your refrigerator or need expert maintenance, our company is here to help. We offer high-quality, affordable fridge repair services to ensure your appliance runs efficiently. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with our skilled technicians. We serve the Toronto and GTA areas and are committed to providing you with reliable and efficient home repair services.




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