You may have heard the old prank call joke: “Is your refrigerator running? Then you better go catch it!” But in reality, knowing if your refrigerator is running properly is no laughing matter. A malfunctioning fridge can spoil your food, waste energy and cause a fire hazard. Here are some signs that your refrigerator is running well, and some tips on what to do if it’s not.
To tell if your refrigerator is running efficiently, you can check the energy efficiency rating, the temperature settings, the door seals and the condenser coils. If your refrigerator is not cooling enough, not getting cold at all, or running constantly, you may need to troubleshoot or call a professional.
How to Check Your Refrigerator’s Efficiency
One way to tell if your refrigerator is running efficiently is to look at the energy efficiency rating (EER) of your fridge. A higher star rating means more efficiency. Always look for a blue and green coloured Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) logo to ensure the authenticity of the EER rating.
Another way to check your refrigerator’s efficiency is to make sure that the temperature settings are optimal. Your refrigerator should be set between 36 degrees F and 40 degrees F and your freezer should be between 0 degrees F and 5 degrees F. Your unit can use up to 25 percent more energy than necessary if it is set to 10 degrees colder than recommended levels.
How to Check Your Refrigerator’s Cooling
If your refrigerator is not cooling enough or not getting cold at all, there are some possible causes and solutions you can try before calling a repairman.
- Check the door seals. If the door seals are worn out, damaged or dirty, they can let warm air in and cold air out, reducing the cooling efficiency of your fridge. You can test the door seals by closing a dollar bill in the door and pulling it out. If it slides out easily, the seal is weak and needs to be replaced.
- Check the airflow and overheating. If your refrigerator is too close to nearby walls and cabinets, it may not have enough space for proper airflow. This can cause the compressor and condenser fan to overheat and stop working. You should leave at least 2 inches of clearance on all sides of your fridge for optimal ventilation.
- Check the condenser coils. The condenser coils are located at the back or bottom of your fridge and they help dissipate heat from the refrigerant. If they are dusty or dirty, they can reduce the cooling efficiency of your fridge and make it run longer. You should clean the condenser coils at least once a year with a vacuum cleaner or a brush.
- Check the demo mode. Some refrigerators have a demo mode or cooling off mode that disables the cooling function for display purposes. If your fridge is in this mode, it may show an error code or a different temperature setting on the display panel. You can exit this mode by following the instructions in your owner’s manual or by pressing certain buttons on the control panel.
How to Check Your Refrigerator’s Running Time
If your refrigerator is running constantly or cycling on and off frequently, it may indicate a problem with the thermostat, the defrost system, or the evaporator fan.
- Check the thermostat. The thermostat controls how often the compressor turns on and off to maintain the desired temperature inside the fridge. If the thermostat is faulty or set too low, it may cause the compressor to run longer than necessary or not turn off at all. You can test the thermostat by turning it to a higher setting and listening for a click sound. If you don’t hear a click, you may need to replace the thermostat.
- Check the defrost system. The defrost system prevents ice buildup on the evaporator coils inside the freezer. If the defrost system is not working properly, ice can block the airflow and reduce the cooling efficiency of your fridge. You can check the defrost system by manually defrosting your freezer and seeing if it improves the cooling performance of your fridge.
- Check the evaporator fan. The evaporator fan circulates cold air from the freezer to the refrigerator compartment. If the fan is noisy, blocked or broken, it can affect the cooling efficiency of your fridge and make it run longer than necessary. You can check the fan by opening the freezer door and listening for any unusual sounds or vibrations.
FAQs
Q: How often should I clean my refrigerator?
A: You should clean your refrigerator at least once every three months to remove any spills, stains, odors or mold. You can use a mild detergent and warm water to wipe down the interior surfaces and shelves. You should also remove any expired or spoiled food items regularly.
Q: How long does a refrigerator last?
A: The average lifespan of a refrigerator is about 10 to 15 years, depending on the brand, model and usage. However, some parts may wear out or break down sooner than others, requiring repairs or replacements. You can extend the life of your refrigerator by maintaining it properly and following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Q: How can I save energy with my refrigerator?
A: You can save energy with your refrigerator by following these tips:
- Keep the door closed as much as possible and avoid opening it frequently or for long periods of time.
- Don’t overfill or underfill your fridge, as this can affect the airflow and cooling efficiency. Leave some space between the food items and the walls of the fridge.
- Don’t put hot or warm food in your fridge, as this can raise the temperature inside and make your fridge work harder. Let the food cool down first before storing it in your fridge.
- Use airtight containers or wraps to store your food, as this can prevent moisture loss and spoilage. This can also reduce odors and cross-contamination.
- Replace the water filter regularly if your fridge has an ice maker or a water dispenser. This can improve the water quality and taste, as well as prevent clogs and leaks.
Conclusion
Knowing how to tell if your refrigerator is running well can help you prevent food waste, save energy and avoid costly repairs. By checking the efficiency, cooling and running time of your fridge, you can ensure that it is working properly and safely. If you notice any signs of trouble, don’t hesitate to contact a professional technician for assistance.
