From serving up cool drinks, cold suppers and treats, your fridge worked hard all summer. Now it's time to give it a check up and potentially save hundreds of dollars.
If your fridge breaks down Alan Minato charges $67 just to come out. But he has some free advice on how to prevent some routine problems that can cost you big money.
"It's very important to give your fridge a check up most people just open and close them and that's all they do," said Minato.
First -- check your fridge's condenser. It's usually underneath. It exchanges warm air for cool air.
A dirty condenser coil can keep your fridge from cooling efficiently -- it will run longer. If it breaks due to poor maintenance it will cost a minimum $500 to replace.
To keep in cleaning and running well, Minato recommends buying a condenser cleaning brush will only cost about $15. Minato recommends cleaning your condenser coils twice a year --more often if you have pets.
Next --check the gaskets --the folded rubber seal on the door.
Look for cracks and build up.
To check the seal, Minato suggests the money test: Place a bill between the door and edge of your fridge. If you can tug lightly on the bill and it doesn't pull loose than the seal is good.
For your fridge's freezer -- check that nothing is blocking the fan at the back so you're promoting maximum airflow. And keep your freezer full. It helps keep the temperature constant.
"Take some milk cartons cut them off put them half full of water and then freeze them
and leave them there and it helps stabilize the temperature of your freezer," recommended Minato.
And if you've got some strange odours --check the condensation pan next to the condenser --it should be emptied and cleaned at least once a year.
Finally, just moving your fridge a little forward can sometimes eliminate excessive noise and vibration. When it is time to call in the professionals don't forget to check their standing with the Better Business Bureau.
