Is your refrigerator or freezer resembling a scene from the last ice age with frost and ice buildup? This could be indicative of faulty sealing, air leaks, or an overworked system. Follow these steps to restore your refrigerator and freezer to the normal condition preventing ice buildup and promoting smooth system operation.
Tips to Prevent Ice Buildup in Your Refrigerator
Defrost Excess Ice
Addressing frost and ice buildup involves clearing both the refrigerator and freezer compartments. Set the temperature dial to its warmest setting and have towels ready to absorb any water. Before placing food items back and adjusting the temperature settings, ensure that all compartments are thoroughly dry.
Adjust the Temperature
Regularly check the temperature of your refrigerator and freezer. Your refrigerator should maintain a temperature between 35 and 42 degrees Fahrenheit, while the freezer should be around 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Deviations lower than these recommended temperatures can lead to the formation of frost or ice.
Proper Placement of Refrigerators
Frost-type refrigerators often experience ice accumulation, but many issues can be attributed to improper placement. The key consideration is locating the fridge in an appropriate direction. If your kitchen lacks an exhaust system, avoid placing the refrigerator in that space. Opt for a location that maintains ample distance from the wall, facilitating cooling for the refrigerator compressor.
Reduce opening fridge and freezer doors to Frost Prevention
To prevent frost, minimize how often you open your fridge and freezer doors. Frequent openings raise humidity levels, leading to ice buildup. Avoid leaving doors open while deciding on food, and efficiently plan to retrieve all items at once, maintaining optimal conditions in the refrigerator and freezer.
Check the seal
Examine refrigerator and freezer gaskets for any wet or frost patches, indicating potential air leakage. If necessary, replacing the gasket is a straightforward process that can be accomplished in a few simple steps.
Keep it clean
Clean the cooling fan, vents, and condenser coils regularly. These parts, usually at the bottom or back, can collect dirt. To tackle ice buildup, use a hot, soapy cloth or sponge. Apply it to the frost, press gently, and repeat with a re-soaked cloth until the frost is melted.
