Refrigerators have become an everyday necessity in modern households. In fact it can be said that they are a staple to any home. Because of the importance placed on this appliance it can be a much felt hindrance when the machine malfunctions or stops working completely. In order to keep this from happening it is essential for any homeowner to be aware of the maintenance needed on this type of appliance and the signs of distress to look for.
The temperature of a refrigerator should be regulated at a constant 34 degrees Fahrenheit with the freezer component running at a constant 3 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit. Any variations in these temperatures could indicate a problem occurring. These types of problems will not only affect the reliability of the refrigerator but can also be detrimental to a person's health. Refrigerated food needs to remain cool at a strictly designated temperature for the purpose of remaining 'good'. Otherwise you may find yourself with spoiled food and food poisoning: if you did not catch it in time.
So how does a refrigerator keep this balanced temperature? The movement of gases from a high pressure area to a low pressure area causes a drop in temperature. On a refrigerator this is done through a coolant system made up of tubes and hoses that house the gas as well as a compressor to aide in movement. The compressor moves the gas through a series of coils and is distributed in a section of the freezer. It is then released through vents into the two areas. The compressor is one of the most common replacements needed on an appliance like this. It can wear out easily and should be replaced every so often.
If the compressor begins to work less efficiently other parts on a refrigerator will soon begin to feel the stress and could also malfunction. All of these parts work as a system and thus, when one part is not up to par the others must work harder to make up for it. For example, there is a fan located in the freezer and refrigerator units that circulates the air while the coolant is lowering the temperature. It pushes hot air out of the compartments. If it is taking the compressor longer to cool the product, then the fan will be working longer and harder to remove the hot air so that the environment can remain stable. At an extended amount of time this could lead to the fan burning out.
When the refrigerator gets to the point of having multiple problems you will find yourself needing to replace it instead of simply fixing it. This can be quite expensive, whereas if you simply keep an eye on your system you will be able to catch a problem while it is still repairable. Upkeep and maintenance on a refrigerator can keep it running smoothly and it can last you for any number of years. As a final word of precaution: be sure to ask for help if the situation requires you to move the unit. Do not attempt it by yourself. In fact you should have up to two strong people helping you at the time.