Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It runs 24/7, keeping food fresh, drinks cold, and leftovers ready for round two. But like any hardworking machine, it needs a little care to keep doing its job efficiently. Regular maintenance isn’t just about avoiding a breakdown—it’s about helping your fridge last as long as possible.
The Lifespan of a Refrigerator: What to Expect
Most refrigerators are built to last anywhere from 10 to 20 years. But those numbers don’t mean much if your fridge is neglected. A little routine maintenance can be the difference between replacing your fridge in a decade or squeezing a few extra years out of it. And considering the cost of a new refrigerator, those extra years can mean big savings.
Clean the Coils, Keep It Cool
Refrigerator coils, usually located on the back or underneath, are responsible for releasing heat. Over time, dust, pet hair, and kitchen debris build up on these coils, making your fridge work harder than it should. When that happens, efficiency drops, and components wear out faster.
Cleaning the coils is simple. Unplug the fridge, locate the coils, and use a coil brush or vacuum to clear the buildup. Doing this every six months can improve efficiency and prevent unnecessary strain on the compressor—one of the most expensive parts to replace.
Check the Door Seals: The Silent Efficiency Killer
A faulty door seal lets cold air escape, forcing your fridge to work overtime. If your fridge runs longer than necessary, it not only wears down the motor but also leads to higher energy bills.
Test the seal by closing a dollar bill in the door. If you can easily pull it out, it’s time to clean or replace the gasket. Wiping the seals with warm, soapy water can sometimes restore their grip, but if they’re cracked or warped, a replacement is the best option.
Keep the Temperature Just Right
Your refrigerator and freezer should be set at optimal temperatures—around 37–40°F for the fridge and 0°F for the freezer. Too cold, and your fridge works harder than needed. Too warm, and food safety becomes a concern.
Some newer refrigerators have digital controls, but if yours has a dial, use a thermometer to double-check the settings. Keeping the right temperature balance helps prevent unnecessary strain on the cooling system.
Don’t Overload or Underload
A fridge that’s packed too full can block air circulation, making it harder to maintain a consistent temperature. But an empty fridge isn’t great either—it causes the appliance to cycle more frequently because there’s less thermal mass to help maintain the cold.
If your fridge tends to be on the emptier side, keeping a few water bottles inside can help stabilize the temperature. If it’s too full, consider reorganizing and getting rid of items that don’t belong in the fridge (looking at you, unopened jars of peanut butter).
Regularly Defrost (If Needed)
Most modern refrigerators are frost-free, but if yours isn’t, ice buildup in the freezer can reduce efficiency. A thick layer of frost means your appliance has to work harder to keep things cold.
If you notice excessive frost, defrosting might be in order. Letting the ice melt and giving the interior a good wipe-down can keep things running smoothly. And if frost keeps coming back quickly, it could be a sign of a failing defrost system—something that’s worth checking before it turns into a bigger issue.
Listen for Unusual Noises
Your refrigerator isn’t silent, but it shouldn’t be making loud rattles, constant buzzing, or clicking noises. Unusual sounds often indicate a problem with the compressor, evaporator fan, or condenser fan.
Ignoring these noises can lead to expensive repairs down the road. If something sounds off, it’s better to get it checked sooner rather than later.
Happy Fridge, Happy Kitchen
Even with regular upkeep, some things require a professional touch. If you notice excessive condensation, inconsistent cooling, or unexplained temperature fluctuations, it may be time to bring in an expert.
Here at TC Appliance Repair, we offer refrigerator repair services to keep your fridge in top shape. Whether it’s a worn-out gasket, a faulty thermostat, or a struggling compressor, we’ve got the expertise to get it back to peak performance.
If your refrigerator needs a little extra care, contact us today or call 777-737-8214. TC Appliance Repair is here to help keep your kitchen running—without the surprise of a sudden fridge failure.
