Knowing how to take care of your refrigerator involves adopting simple routines that prevent expensive breakdowns, optimize energy consumption, and ensure proper food preservation. Maintaining the most important appliance in your kitchen in good condition does not require large investments or advanced technical knowledge.
The investment in a refrigerator represents one of the most important expenses in the household, so protecting it through preventive maintenance is essential to avoid premature repairs and ensure efficient operation for years.
Getting to know the ideal temperature to take care of your refrigerator
The interior temperature of the main compartment of a refrigerator should be around 4°C or 5°C, a range that stops bacterial growth without freezing the food. Maintain the temperature of your refrigerator at 40°F (4°C) or below, while the freezer temperature should be 0°F (-18°C).
Do not rely solely on the thermostat dial. The use of inexpensive independent thermometers allows you to control the temperature and adjust the refrigerator’s programming if necessary. Place the thermometer in the central area for 12 to 24 hours to get an accurate reading.
If you purchased a good refrigerator deal and want to make the most of your investment for years, paying attention to this aspect of temperature is key. In this sense, it is worth mentioning that the amount of food inside also influences the temperature: if it is very full, you can select a degree less to compensate.
When the unit is heavily loaded, adjust between 2°C and 4°C to maintain stable cooling. This simple action prevents food from spoiling and reduces the risk of food poisoning.
Cleaning the condenser: the maintenance that nobody does
The rear condenser collects dust, pet hair, and dirt that act as a thermal insulator. If the condenser is dirty or obstructed, its ability to dissipate heat is reduced, forcing the compressor to work harder to maintain a proper temperature, increasing energy consumption and shortening the refrigerator’s lifespan.
It is recommended to clean the condenser at least twice a year, and more often if the refrigerator is located in a dusty place or where there is constant foot traffic. To perform this task, unplug the appliance from the power source and locate the coils on the back or bottom.
Use a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove as much dust as possible. Then, use a soft-bristle brush to remove adhered residues. This simple routine can reduce electric consumption by up to 35%.
Technological advantages: why choose Inverter motors
Modern models of refrigerators, such as LG, incorporate technology that optimizes performance and reduces energy consumption. This brand, along with Samsung, leads the market in efficient consumption, with models that achieve an A+ rating or higher. These units can reduce electric consumption by up to 40% compared to standard models.
Inverter compressors automatically adjust their speed according to the cooling demand, unlike conventional compressors that operate at maximum power constantly. The Inverter Linear Compressor has fewer friction points, making less noise and consuming less energy.
In today’s market, it is easy to find an LG refrigerator deal with this technology, units that incorporate motors designed to reduce vibration and prolong the durability of the appliance. This initial investment is quickly recovered through savings on electricity bills.
Common mistakes that shorten the lifespan
The price of an LG refrigerator is balanced with the quality of the unit. However, like any appliance, to optimize your investment, it is key to have proper care.
At this point, it is essential to know some common mistakes in the use of this appliance that can shorten its lifespan, to avoid making them.
Introducing hot food directly
Do not place hot food in your refrigerator. Let the food cool to room temperature before placing it in your appliance. Hot foods will increase the internal temperature of your refrigerator and make it work harder to cool them. This habit forces the compressor to operate for extended periods, causing premature wear.
Constantly opening the door
Leaving the refrigerator door open while deciding what to take out is a common habit, but each of those false openings can reduce up to 7% of the cold that was already leveled. Plan what you need before opening the door to minimize temperature loss.
Ignoring the seal of the gasket
Check the seals of your refrigerator doors and make sure they are in good condition. Worn seals allow hot air to enter and cold air to escape, increasing energy consumption.
If the seals are damaged, replace them as soon as possible. Perform a simple test: insert a sheet of paper between the rubber and the frame, close the door, and try to remove it; if it comes out without resistance, it’s time to change the gasket.
Organize intelligently by temperature zones
Not all internal areas maintain the same temperature. In some cases, this variation is due to compartmentalization, and in others, it is due to the way this appliance generates and distributes heat inside. Therefore, implementing intelligent organization becomes essential:
– Place raw meats on lower shelves, where the temperature is lower and cross-contamination is prevented by dripping.
– Dairy and eggs work best on intermediate shelves.
– On the top shelf: cooked foods (leftover packaged food, container with partially used cans).
– Avoid “overloading” the refrigerator. Cold air must circulate among the food to keep them at the right temperature.
– Leave space between products to allow air circulation and ensure even cooling in all areas.
Golden trick: baking soda to neutralize odors
Baking soda is one of the most effective, economical, and safe allies to eliminate bad odors from the refrigerator. This product stands out for its ability to neutralize odors instead of just masking them.
Place a small cup or an open container with approximately 100 to 200 grams of baking soda on one of the central shelves of the refrigerator. It is important not to cover it, as it should be in contact with the air to absorb odors.
The baking soda can remain in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 days. After that period, it loses effectiveness, so it is recommended to replace it every month or, at most, every two months. This natural method avoids the use of harsh chemicals and maintains a fresh environment without altering the taste of stored foods.
Remember that knowing how to take care of your refrigerator is key to protecting your investment. Each preventive routine avoids costly repairs and ensures that your equipment operates efficiently for years. Adopt these habits and turn maintenance into a simple task that protects your investment and your family budget.
Referrer: MiMub in Spanish
