Task: Cleaning the refrigerator coils
When was the last time you looked behind your refrigerator? Well, it only takes 10 minutes to do so resulting in saving energy, money and good preventive maintenance for this appliance. Do you know your refrigerator is one of the biggest users of electricity in your home? Let's clean the coils to keep it running efficiently.
Overview
Cleaning your refrigerator coils. The coils on the back or bottom of your refrigerator give off heat. Dust or debris keeps them from cooling, making your refrigerator work harder and in some cases causing condensation. We all know that condensation is not a good thing and can cause some funny things to begin growing.
Tools and equipment
- Vacuum or coil brush
- Flashlight
Steps
- Unplug the refrigerator
- Determine whether the coils are behind or under your refrigerator by pulling the refrigerator out or removing the kick plate under the door and peeking under the refrigerator
- Vacuum the coils to remove dust balls, pet hair or anything else that inhibits air movement. A coil brush also works well
While you're at it:
- Check the door seals for air leaks or for things growing
- Clean door seals with soapy warm water
- Empty and clean the defrost drain pan
- Remove mildew from the ice and water dispenser openings
- Check the water dispenser for proper flow rate - normally 8-10 ounces of water in 10 seconds
- Remove and shelves and crispers, and wash them and all interior surfaces with a warm, damp rag. Don't use any chemical cleaning solutions.
Tips:
- Don't sweat the small stuff - recent studies suggest that normal dust is not enough to affect the efficiency or electrical consumption of your refrigerator
- Don't store things on top of your refrigerator. They restrict airflow to your refrigerator coils, especially if they fall down the back
- A full refrigerator or freezer uses less electricity than an empty one
- If your refrigerator is more than 20 years old, you can save money by replacing it, even if it works perfectly. New Energy Star units consume much less energy compared to older units
Until the next time...a few minutes of maintenance work will save your hundreds of dollars and keep your property in tip-top shape.
Here's to your best year ever, may everything you touch turn SOLD,
John Villella, Your Personal Building Consultant
All Pro Home Inspection (716) 772-2548
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