TIPS OF THE TRADE # 3

Refrigerator/Freezer

The most important thing you can do to prevent future problems with refrigerators and freezers is to ensure good air flow over the condenser coils. These coils radiate heat removed from the interior compartments, much like a central air conditioner has a condenser coil outside the house. If your refrigerator has condenser coils on the rear, dusting them off once a year should be sufficient. Models of this type do need at least 2-3 inches of air space above them for proper air flow.

Models with coils underneath the cabinet near the compressor need to have those coils cleaned at least once a year, more often if you have pets that shed. You can Remove the kickplate/grill at the bottom front which is covering the opening under the lower door. If you look underneath with a flashlight you may find it totally blocked with house dust. Most vacuum attachments can only access the front of the condenser. This is better than nothing, but 70 to 80% of the condenser gets missed. With out proper air circulation overheated compressors soon die.

We can quickly check if this needs to be done and use the proper equipment to do an excellent job.
If you have a non-frost-free refrigerator or freezer, defrost the freezing coils whenever 1/4"-1/2" of ice has built up. With the greater efficiency the compressor will run less and last longer. NEVER USE A SHARP OR METAL INSTRUMENT TO SCRAPE ICE. Instead use pans of hot water or a hair dryer, and give it time with the unit turned off and the doors open. Towels are great for soaking up the defrost water.

Best regards,

The Appliance Guy