How do I make my refrigerator last longer?

Refrigerators are expensive appliances. Ideally, you would try to have your refrigerator last as long as possible in order to avoid both having to replace your refrigerator and causing your refrigerator to lose its efficiency, which can cause it to cost you more over time. There are many different methods to improve the lifespan of your refrigerator, and many of these are easy to use techniques.

In this article, we will explore various tips and techniques to help you make your refrigerator last longer, saving you money and reducing the chances of inconvenient breakdowns.

Importance of Refrigerator Maintenance

Maintaining your refrigerator not only extends its lifespan but also offers significant cost savings in the long run. By following simple maintenance practices, you can avoid costly repairs and the need for premature replacement.

• Prolonging the Lifespan: One of the primary objectives of refrigerator maintenance is to extend its lifespan. With proper care, refrigerators can last for many years beyond their expected lifespan, providing you with reliable cooling and preserving your food for longer.
• Cost Savings: Investing a little time and effort in refrigerator maintenance can lead to substantial cost savings. By preventing breakdowns and ensuring optimal efficiency, you can reduce energy consumption and avoid expensive repairs or replacements.

5 Tips To Improving Your Refrigerator’s Lifespan

Reduce Heat Around Your Fridge

The hotter it is in the area near your refrigerator, the warmer the inside becomes, and the harder it has to work. Ideally, you would keep your fridge away from the stove, away from sunlight, away from heaters, and away from any heat source that could cause it to warm up.
If you can, it would also be best to keep your fridge on a ground floor where the air will be cooler.

Shop around, and take a look at some of my other articles on this site about good outdoor refrigerators:

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• Best Mini Outdoor Fridge
• Outdoor Refrigerator Accessories – Covers, Casters, and Shelves
• 12v vs 110v Outdoor Refrigerators: Which One is Right for You?
• Brand Comparison: Engel vs Dometic vs Norcold vs Whynter – Outdoor Kitchen Picks
• check out Answering Your Common Outdoor Refrigerator Questions [FAQ].

Fill Your Fridge

The inside of the fridge is not all the same temperature. Temperature ranges fluctuate often, and the more air there is inside of the fridge, the more those temperatures fluctuate.
By filling your fridge up as much as possible, the inside of the refrigerator will be able to maintain a more consistent temperature, which will ensure it does not have to work extra hard.

Keep Your Fridge at 38 or so Degrees

The higher the temperature of your fridge, the more energy it uses. Many refrigerators go up to as high as 40 degrees, but anything over 38 increases the risk of food borne illness, so your best plan is to keep your refrigerator at 38 degrees, where it is cold enough to keep food from spoiling but warm enough that your refrigerator does not have to work as hard.

Maintain the Gasket

The refrigerator’s gasket is one of the most important tools for keeping the inside of the fridge cold so that your refrigerator does not have to work as often. To ensure that the gasket is maintained, check it often, make sure your fridge is level at all times, and clean it often in order to increase its efficiency.

Know What You’re Getting

Refrigerators that you use as a treasure hunt for your next meal lose cold air quicker, requiring it to work harder in order to get the air cool again.
By planning ahead for what you are taking out, you can simply open the door to the fridge, get what you need, and close it without losing too much air.

Reducing Your Refrigerator’s Labor

The less often your refrigerator has to work hard to cool down the inside of the compartment, the longer your refrigerator will last. In addition, you will notice that all of the above tips also help to keep your food cooler as well, which is important for reducing illness and increasing the lifespan of the products you place inside the fridge as well.
By adhering to these instructions, your refrigerator will use less energy and last considerably longer.

Maintenance of Internal Components

• Check and Clean the Drain Pan: The drain pan collects condensation and moisture from the refrigerator. Over time, it can accumulate dirt, mold, or other contaminants. Regularly inspect the drain pan and clean it as needed to prevent foul odors and bacterial growth.
• Clean the Interior Regularly: Maintaining a clean interior is essential for both hygiene and optimal performance. Regularly remove food spills, stains, and any expired items. Use mild cleaning solutions and avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the interior surfaces.
• Inspect and Replace Water Filters: If your refrigerator has a water and ice dispenser, it likely has a water filter. Check the manufacturer’s recommendations for filter replacement frequency and replace them accordingly. Clean water filters ensure the quality and taste of your drinking water and ice cubes.

Energy Efficiency Tips

• Location and Ventilation: Proper placement of your refrigerator is crucial for energy efficiency. Avoid placing it near heat sources such as direct sunlight, ovens, or dishwashers. Allow sufficient space around the unit for proper ventilation, preventing heat buildup and ensuring efficient cooling.
• Avoid Placing Hot Items: Before placing leftovers or hot dishes in the refrigerator, allow them to cool down first. Placing hot items directly into the fridge increases the internal temperature, forcing the compressor to work harder and reducing energy efficiency.
• Optimize Fridge Settings: Adjusting your refrigerator’s settings based on your usage patterns can help improve energy efficiency. If you’re going on vacation or won’t be using the fridge for an extended period, consider adjusting the temperature settings accordingly. Also, activating power-saving modes, if available, can further reduce energy consumption.

Additional Tips

1. Regularly Check the Power Cord

Inspect the power cord for any signs of damage, fraying, or loose connections. Faulty power cords can pose a safety hazard and may affect the refrigerator’s performance. If you notice any issues, contact a qualified technician for repair or replacement.

2. Keep the Fridge Full

Maintaining a reasonably stocked refrigerator helps with temperature regulation. The thermal mass of the stored food helps retain cold temperatures when the door is opened, reducing the workload on the compressor.

3. Avoid Abrasive Cleaning Products

When cleaning your refrigerator, opt for mild, non-abrasive cleaning products. Harsh chemicals can damage the interior surfaces and negatively impact the refrigerator’s performance. Use gentle cleaning agents to ensure both cleanliness and longevity.

Conclusion

By following these tips and adopting good maintenance practices, you can make your refrigerator last longer and enjoy the benefits of reliable cooling and preserved food. Regular cleaning, proper organization, and attention to energy efficiency go a long way in ensuring the longevity of your refrigerator while reducing the likelihood of costly repairs or replacements.

FAQs:

How long do refrigerators typically last?

Refrigerators typically last for 10-15 years. However, with proper care, they can last even longer.

What are the most common problems with refrigerators?

The most common problems with refrigerators include:

• The compressor stops working.
• The door gaskets are damaged.
• The condenser coils are dirty.
• The evaporator coils are frozen.

How much does it cost to repair a refrigerator?

The cost of repairing a refrigerator depends on the severity of the problem. However, it typically costs between $100 and $500.

What should I do if my refrigerator breaks down?

If your refrigerator breaks down, you should call a qualified technician to repair it. You should not try to repair the refrigerator yourself, as you could void the warranty.

I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask me.

Also check out the best outdoor refrigerators 

Put your questions or suggestions in the comments below, so we can all benefit from each other’s knowledge.

Happy Outdoor Living! Thanks for reading.