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Clues Your Refrigerator Needs Repairing

A well-functioning refrigerator is not only a matter of convenience and comfort. It's also a matter of safety. When you notice changes in your refrigerator's function, it is critical to identify the problem and have it fixed in a timely manner.

Freezer Not Freezing

Two of the major signs of a good freezer are the ability to make ice and keep ice cream frozen. If your freezer can't keep up, there is likely a problem. Sometimes the fix is simple. For example, you may need to lower the temperature of the unit. If this does not work, a major underlying cause is a problem with the defrost system. When the defrost system is not working, ice accumulates behind the back panel of the freezer. As the ice accumulates, airflow between the freezer and refrigerator is stopped. Since there are several components to the defrost system, a professional will be necessary to determine which components need to be repaired or whether the entire defrost system must be replaced.

Food Spoiling Quickly

When food is spoiling faster than normal, you will want to consider if there are any changes in behavior that might contribute to the problem. Keeping the door open frequently or storing highly-perishable foods in poor locations can cause problems. For example, highly-perishable foods, such as dairy products and eggs, should not be at the front of the refrigerator or in the door. If nothing has changed about the way you use your refrigerator, check the temperature with a thermometer. Sometimes the refrigerator cannot maintain a safe temperature because the seal surrounding the door is damaged. Check to make sure your refrigerator and freezer doors close well, with no gaps or cracks in the seal. If, even at the coldest setting on your refrigerator, you cannot keep food at a safe temperature, there is an underlying issue that needs to be fixed, such as cleaning or replacing the condenser coils.

Constant Running Or Cycling

When your refrigerator is constantly running or keeps cycling on and off, this is another sign something is wrong. The extra effort from your refrigerator will increase utility usage, while not cooling the items in the refrigerator. When there are problems with cooling the refrigerator, the refrigerator will run constantly in a futile attempt to keep items at the appropriate temperature. Any number of problems can cause the refrigerator to run constantly or cycle frequently, such as problems with the defrost system or a bad motor. Dirty condenser coils can cause similar issues. If you know how to safely clean your condenser coils, you might want to try it before having the refrigerator repaired.

At some point in the lifespan of your refrigerator, you might face challenges. Refrigerator problems need to be addressed promptly to avoid unnecessary loss of money from rotting food and to minimize the chance of illness.

Contact a local company to learn more about refrigerator repair.


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