Is your monthly electric bill high? One of the culprits contributing to this expense could be your refrigerator. Without routine maintenance and repair services, your fridge could be using more energy than it should. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help it run more efficiently. These tips could help extend the lifespan of your refrigerator too.

Repair Failing Seals

A rubber gasket, known as the seal, surrounds the perimeter of your refrigerator door. It helps keep cool air inside and warm air out. If the seal is failing, you’ll start to notice warm food and condensation on items near the door. That condensation can also build up on the fridge’s components, which causes it to work harder. Having the seal replaced will keep the interior cooler and save energy.

Have the Coils Cleaned

Simply having the coils cleaned can make your refrigerator up to 30% more efficient. You’ve probably noticed how much dust accumulates under and behind your fridge. This dust can also find its way into the condenser coils, eventually blocking the airflow. As a result, your refrigerator will have to work harder during the cooling cycles.

Find the Perfect Temperature

If you’re keeping your refrigerator colder than it needs to be, you’re wasting energy. It’s easy to adjust the temperature for better results. Start by setting the temperature control to the manufacturer’s recommendation. Depending on your personal preferences, the make, and the model, you may be able to lower this setting. Experiment by making small adjustments until you find a setting that’s perfect for your needs. Keep in mind that a refrigerator should be between 37 and 40°F. This keeps drinks cold, keeps food from spoiling, and prevents ice.

Defrost Your Refrigerator

Unless your refrigerator is quite old, it probably has an automatic defrost. This feature automatically kicks in at timed intervals and shuts off when it senses that the coils have defrosted. As your fridge ages, you may start to notice ice buildup. That ice could be the result of components in the automatic defrost feature becoming worn or damaged. If this is happening, you can manually defrost your refrigerator until a repair visit can be scheduled.

Pull the Fridge Out

Heat is released behind your refrigerator during the cooling cycle. This heat needs to be able to dissipate. Pulling the fridge out a few inches from the wall will improve air circulation and help it run efficiently.

Incorporating these tips into your routine will allow your refrigerator to work better, last longer, and save you money on your monthly energy bills. Reach out to OB Appliance Repair in Bensalem, PA for all of your refrigerator repair needs.