How to Get the Most Out of Your Refrigerator

The average lifespan of a brand new refrigerator is roughly 15 years, but only if it is properly taken care of. If you misuse or neglect your refrigerator, you could find yourself back in the appliance store in as little as 8. If you have recently purchased a new fridge, you know that they aren't cheap. Use these five tips to protect your investment and get the most out of your refrigerator.

• Keep it at the right temperature. If you find your food constantly spoiling before the expiration date or your milk keeps freezing, it is likely that you need to adjust your refrigerator's thermostat. It is recommended to keep your fridge between 34-39°F to minimize bacteria growth and maximize the shelf life of your food.  
• Stock smartly. Even if your thermostat is set to the recommended climate, different zones inside of the refrigerator will vary in temperature. For instance, the refrigerator door is usually the warmest area, and the bottom shelf is usually the coldest. Where in the fridge you store your food can impact how long it stays fresh, learn how to properly stock your refrigerator here.

• Clean it regularly. Tidying up your refrigerator every week will help keep it looking, running, and smelling like new. It doesn't have to be a long process; here is how to give your refrigerator a thorough cleaning in 20 minutes or less.

• Avoid keeping the door open. Every time you open your refrigerator door, as much as 50% of the cold air escapes. This number can be even higher when you leave the door open for long periods of time. By minimizing the amount of times you open your refrigerator door and how long you keep it open for, you can reduce the workload on your compressor and extend the lifespan of your appliance.
• Do basic maintenance. Just like your car needs to have its oil changed every 5,000 miles, there are some basic tasks you can do to keep your refrigerator running efficiently. Vacuum the condenser coils on the back of your unit every six months to remove any dust which has built up and periodically test the strength of the door seal. To do this, close your refrigerator door on a dollar bill – if you can easily remove the bill or slide it up and down, it is time to replace your gasket.

If your refrigerator is leaking, making loud noises, or otherwise malfunctioning, you may be able to get it repaired for a fraction of the cost of buying a new one. If you live in New York City, Long Island, Connecticut, or New Jersey, help is just a phone call away with Speedy Subzero. We offer same-day appointments and one-hour service in emergency situations, so give us a call any time at 866-782-9376.