Do You Regularly Clean Your Refrigerator? Timely Cleaning and Maintenance Can Prolong Its Lifespan!

Do You Regularly Clean Your Refrigerator? Timely Cleaning and Maintenance Can Prolong Its Lifespan!

The refrigerator is an indispensable household appliance in our daily lives, but many people have misconceptions about its use. They believe that the refrigerator is primarily for storing food to extend its shelf life and reduce bacterial growth. However, what they may not realize is that over time, the refrigerator at home can harbor many bacteria due to the prolonged storage of perishable foods in a closed space. Without regular cleaning, it can contaminate food and produce odors. This article will guide you on how to maintain and clean your refrigerator regularly. A clean refrigerator not only ensures the freshness of its contents but also extends its lifespan!

How to Clean Your Refrigerator Properly

  1. Regularly Clean the Compressor and Condenser

The compressor and condenser are vital cooling components of the refrigerator. If they accumulate dust, it can impede heat dissipation, leading to a shortened lifespan of the parts and reduced cooling efficiency of the refrigerator. Therefore, it's important to periodically check if they are dirty and clean them if necessary. For top-mounted refrigerators, the condenser and compressor are exposed, making them prone to dust and cobwebs. On the other hand, condensers and compressors of bottom-mounted refrigerators are enclosed, so there's no need to clean them.

  1. Regularly Clean the Interior of the Refrigerator

Over time, the refrigerator can develop unpleasant odors and harbor bacteria, affecting the taste of food. Therefore, it's essential to clean the interior regularly. Remove all food items from the refrigerator and give it a thorough cleaning.

Of course, refrigerators equipped with photocatalytic deodorizing and sterilizing functions maintain fresh and clean air inside, eliminating odors, so frequent cleaning may not be necessary.

Refrigerator Maintenance Tips

  1. Regular cleaning of the refrigerator is necessary, at least twice a year. Before cleaning, make sure to disconnect the power supply. Use a soft cloth dipped in clean water or dishwashing detergent to gently wipe the surfaces. Then, rinse off the detergent with clean water.

  2. Avoid using laundry detergent, stain removers, alkaline detergents, boiling water, oil, brushes, or other abrasive cleaners to clean the refrigerator, as they may damage the exterior coating and interior plastic parts.

  3. When the accessories inside the refrigerator accumulate dirt, remove them and clean them with water or dishwashing detergent. Wipe the surfaces of electrical components with a dry cloth.

  4. After cleaning, securely plug in the power cord and check if the temperature controller is set to the correct position.

  5. If the refrigerator is not going to be used for an extended period, unplug the power cord, wipe the interior clean, and let it dry thoroughly before closing the door.

Placing Your Refrigerator

  1. Leave a space of 5 to 10 centimeters around the refrigerator on all sides to allow for proper heat dissipation. Otherwise, heat may accumulate behind or around the refrigerator, hindering efficient cooling.

  2. Ensure there is ventilation around the refrigerator to facilitate heat dissipation. Positioning the refrigerator near ventilation openings allows the heat generated by the appliance to escape.

  3. Avoid placing the refrigerator near other household appliances, heat sources, or direct sunlight. Excessive heat can strain the refrigerator, increase energy consumption, and potentially cause malfunctions.

Regularly cleaning the interior of the refrigerator and performing maintenance tasks are essential not only to keep the appliance in good condition and prevent malfunctions but also to eliminate bacteria that could contaminate food. Consuming contaminated food can lead to health issues, resulting in unnecessary expenses.