Cleaning your refrigerator is an important part of maintaining good kitchen hygiene because it prevents food build up or rotting food from affecting the rest of your food. However, some methods are better than others and may save you money in the long run
Thoroughly Cleaning Your Fridge
Cleaning your refrigerator is something nearly everyone does. However, one part, the condenser coil, is often neglected. Unfortunately, neglecting this element can become costly so it’s recommended to do it at least twice a year according to WikiHow, and more often if you have pets that shed.
Why Cleaning is Cost-Effective
Because the condenser coil sits outside of the refrigerator it’s more susceptible to dirt and grime, and becomes clogged, which can prevent the temperature from maintaining a stable level. As a result, the refrigerator works harder, causing sporadic spikes in power use.
Locating the Neglected Refrigerator Part
The condenser coil is located behind the refrigerator, either at the back or on the bottom, and contains the liquid refrigerant needed to help stabilize and cool the refrigerator temperature.
Prolonged Referfigerator Life
Furthermore, failing to address the condenser coil when cleaning your refrigerator can inhibit the life of your product and require a costly replacement sooner than expected.
Cleaning the Condenser Coil
The condenser coil can be cleaned one of two ways. You can use a vacuum or soft cloth to wipe away dirt and grime. Furthermore, cleaning your refrigerator is easier when you pull it away from the wall.
Meanwhile, energy.gov and the CDC recommend several steps while cleaning your refrigerator to ensure your family’s health and safety.
Cleaning Your Refrigerator Unit
Firstly, throw away expired, rotting, or recalled products. Secondly, remove and wash shelves and drawers with hot, soapy water and then wash the inside of the refrigerator. Thirdly, wipe everything dry with a clean towel.
Preventing Illness
Lastly, put everything back in place and wash your hands with soap and hot water to remove any leftover food residue. Although these methods don’t help save electricity, they do prevent your family from exposure to foodborne illnesses.
Preventing Overheating
Cleaning your refrigerator and condenser coil can help save money in wasted energy and food, but keeping your refrigerator a few inches away from the wall will also allow the condenser coil to get airflow and prevent overheating.
Energy Saving Tips
Other energy saving tips include:
- Making sure all seals are functioning properly.
- Keep the door closed as often as possible.
- Use temperature settings that prevent heating or frost buildup.
- Keep the fridge well stocked to retain the cold but avoid overfilling, as it prevents adequate airflow.