The refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your kitchen. It keeps your food fresh and safe to eat, but sometimes, things do not go according to plan. Maybe your fridge is making strange noises, or maybe it is not keeping your food as cold as it should. Before you call a repair person, there are a few things you can try to troubleshoot the problem yourself.

The Chilling Truth: Not Cold Enough

A fridge that isn’t cold enough is a major issue. This is because food can spoil quickly if you don’t keep it at the proper temperature. The first thing to check is the thermostat setting. Most refrigerators should be set around 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3.3 degrees Celsius).

A dirty condenser coil can also affect how well your fridge cools. The condenser coil is usually located on the back of the fridge, and it is often near the bottom. Over time, it can get clogged with dust and pet hair. This makes it difficult for the fridge to release heat, which makes it work harder to keep things cold. You can clean the condenser coil with a vacuum cleaner. Unplug your fridge first for safety!

Frosty the Fridge: When Cold Becomes a Problem

If your fridge is too cold, you might see ice building up on the walls or shelves. This can be caused by a few things. One possibility is a door that is not sealed properly. The gasket, which is the rubber seal around the door, should be snug against the frame. If it is damaged or worn, cold air can leak out and cause the fridge to work harder and get colder than necessary. Inspect the gasket for cracks or tears and have a professional replace it if needed.

Another reason for a frosty fridge could be leaving the door open too often. This allows warm air to enter the fridge, which makes it work harder to maintain a constant temperature. Make sure you close the door all the way.

Sounds Strange? Decoding Fridge Noises

Refrigerators do make some noise during normal operation, but if you hear strange noises that you don’t remember hearing before, it could be a sign of a problem. A banging or clanging sound might indicate loose parts inside the fridge. This could be something as simple as a condiment bottle rolling around on a shelf or something more serious. If the noise persists, it’s best to call a repair person.

A whining or squealing sound could be a sign of a failing fan motor or blower fan. These components circulate air inside the fridge. If they are not working properly, you might hear strange noises.

These troubleshooting tips can help you fix some common refrigerator problems. But if you have tried everything and your fridge still is not working properly, call for help. For refrigerator repair services in Fayetteville, AR, call Natural State Appliance Repair.