How to Clean and Maintain Your Refrigerator for Peak Performance

Keep Your Cool: Cleaning and Maintaining Your Refrigerator

As a Plesser's customer, you know the importance of quality appliances. Your refrigerator works around the clock to keep your food fresh and drinks cold, but it requires regular care to operate efficiently.
Routine cleaning not only helps eliminate unpleasant odors but also enhances energy efficiency and extends your fridge's lifespan.
Let’s look at how to keep your Plesser's refrigerator performing at its best for years to come.

The Deep Clean: A Foundation for Freshness

Deep clean your refrigerator every three to six months, or whenever it starts to smell off.

1. Empty and Unplug:

Unplug your refrigerator and remove everything from the fridge and freezer. Discard expired items, and if cleaning takes a while, use a cooler with ice packs for perishables.

2. Wash Shelves and Drawers:

Remove shelves, drawers, and door bins for washing in warm, soapy water. For tough sticky spots, use a baking soda paste. Rinse and let them air dry before putting them back.

3. Wipe Down Interior:

Clean interior walls with warm water and mild dish soap, avoiding harsh chemicals. For tough stains, use equal parts white vinegar and water. Wipe all surfaces, especially sticky areas, and finish with a damp cloth before drying.

4. Clean the Gaskets:

Wipe down the rubber gaskets around the doors with a mild soapy solution. Check for cracks or tears, as damaged gaskets can cause energy loss.

Odor Prevention: The Nose Knows!

To keep your fridge smelling fresh, follow these tips:

• Baking Soda: Place an open box in the back of your fridge to absorb odors. Replace it every three months.
• Airtight Containers: Store leftovers and strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic in airtight containers to prevent odors from spreading.
• Wipe Up Spills: Clean spills immediately to avoid sticky messes and odors.
• Regular Purge: Check expiration dates and discard old food weekly to reduce odor sources.
• Activated Charcoal: Use a small bowl of activated charcoal for persistent odors.

Improving Efficiency: Save Energy and Money

A well-maintained refrigerator consumes less energy, benefiting your budget and the environment.

• Clean the Condenser Coils: Located on the back or bottom, these coils help dissipate heat. Dust accumulation forces your fridge to work harder, using more energy. Clean them at least once a year by unplugging the fridge and vacuuming or brushing off the coils.
• Check Door Seals: Proper door seals are crucial. If you can slide a dollar bill through the seal when the door is closed, it needs repair or replacement.
• Set Appropriate Temperatures: For food safety and energy efficiency, keep the fresh food compartment at 37-40°F (3-4°C) and the freezer at 0°F (-18°C).
• Avoid Overstuffing or Understuffing: A fridge that is too full restricts airflow, while an empty one uses more energy. Maintain a balanced load for optimal efficiency.
• Ensure Airflow: Provide enough space around your refrigerator for proper ventilation. Check your appliance manual for clearance recommendations.

Extending Your Fridge's Life: A Long-Term Investment

To help your refrigerator last longer, consider these tips:

• Defrost Your Freezer: For manual defrost models, keep ice buildup below a quarter inch to prevent strain on the appliance.
• Level Your Refrigerator: Ensure your fridge is balanced for proper door sealing and efficient cooling.
• Protect from Power Surges: Use a surge protector to safeguard against electrical fluctuations.
• Address Issues Promptly: Don’t ignore unusual noises or cooling problems. Contact a technician to fix issues before they escalate.

By maintaining your refrigerator, you ensure fresh food, protect your investment, improve energy efficiency, and extend its lifespan. Keep your cool, and your fridge will too!