Refrigerator Maintenance Checklist

Nowadays, brand new refrigerators have an average lifespan of 12-15 years. However, this number can be severely shortened if you fail to take proper care of it. Refrigerators are one of the only appliances that run around-the-clock, which is why a preventative maintenance routine is so important.

Keep your refrigerator running for years to come by following this simple refrigerator maintenance checklist:

Every month – Clean the interior.

Cleaning your refrigerator every month will keep it looking and smelling like new. Every four to five weeks, empty your fridge of all its contents, wash the removable shelves and drawers, and wipe the interior clean to prevent unpleasant odors and mold. Throw away any food which has expired and restock.

Every two months – Clean, lubricate, and test door gasket.

The gasket is the rubber seal that runs around the perimeter of your refrigerator door. Every other month, you should wipe it with a nonabrasive sponge and mild dish detergent to keep it clean and mold-free. Applying a thin layer of Vaseline on it will prevent it from drying out and cracking, which can cause your refrigerator to lose cold air even when the door is closed.

Every six months – Vacuum the condenser coils.

The condenser coils are located on the back of your refrigerator. Over time they can become coated with dust and hair, which interferes with their ability to release heat. Clean these twice per year using the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner.

Every year – Have your refrigerator serviced.

There are some things that should be left to the pros – and tuning up your refrigerator is definitely one of those things. During an annual servicing, a trained technician should lubricate your compressor, test your freon levels, and inspect individual components for signs of potential future breakdowns.

Here are some other useful tips to keep in mind on a day-to-day basis:

• Keep your refrigerator well-stocked, this will help it retain its temperature when the door is opened.
• Minimizing the number of times you open your refrigerator door will reduce wear-and-tear on your compressor and save you electricity.
• Proper ventilation is key for long-term health, make sure your refrigerator has at least six inches of space on all sides between walls, cabinets, etc.

Do you live in New York and need your refrigerator serviced or repaired? The refrigeration experts at Speedy Subzero have been fixing refrigerators, freezers, and wine coolers across Long Island and New York City for over 75 years. Call us now to schedule your same day appointment at 866-782-9376.