Refrigerator Maintenance: Tips for a Longer Lifespan

Essential Refrigerator Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Keeping your refrigerator in top condition ensures it runs efficiently and lasts longer. Regular maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but also helps keep food fresh and safe. Follow these key maintenance practices to extend the life of your LG Refrigerators.

Maintaining the correct temperature is crucial for both energy efficiency and food preservation.

● Set the fridge temperature between 1°C and 4°C and the freezer at -18°C for best results.

● Avoid overloading the refrigerator, as this can block airflow and cause temperature fluctuations.

● Use a thermometer to check for accuracy and adjust settings as needed.

Keeping a consistent temperature prevents food spoilage and reduces strain on the compressor, ensuring smooth operation.

Frost buildup can reduce your refrigerator’s efficiency and lead to long-term issues. While many modern refrigerators are frost-free, manual defrosting is necessary for older models.

● Defrost whenever ice buildup exceeds 6mm to prevent reduced cooling efficiency.

● Turn off the refrigerator, remove food, and let the ice melt naturally or use warm water to speed up the process.

● Wipe down surfaces to prevent moisture accumulation, which can lead to mold and odors.

Regular defrosting keeps your appliance running efficiently and prevents unnecessary wear on the cooling system.

Door seals, or gaskets, play a vital role in keeping cold air inside the refrigerator. A damaged or loose seal can cause air leaks, making the fridge work harder and consume more energy.

● Test the seal by closing a piece of paper in the door—if it slides out easily, the gasket may need replacing.

● Clean seals regularly with warm, soapy water to remove food residue and prevent cracks.

● Replace worn-out gaskets to improve efficiency and reduce energy costs.

By maintaining tight door seals, your refrigerator will retain cold air better, reducing power consumption and extending its lifespan.

How to Keep Your Refrigerator Running Efficiently

A well-maintained refrigerator keeps food fresh, prevents energy waste, and extends the appliance’s lifespan without the need for constant fridge repairs. Following simple practices can improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary strain on the cooling system.

Storing food correctly helps maintain even cooling and prevents temperature fluctuations.

● Keep airflow clear – Avoid blocking vents to allow cold air to circulate properly.

● Use storage zones wisely – Place dairy and eggs in the middle shelves, meat in lower sections, and fruits and vegetables in crisper drawers.

● Avoid hot food – Let leftovers cool before placing them inside to prevent the compressor from overworking.

Proper storage ensures consistent cooling, keeping food fresh while reducing energy use.

A crowded fridge struggles to circulate cold air effectively, causing uneven cooling and increased energy consumption.

● Leave space between items – Allow air to flow freely to maintain steady temperatures.

● Organize efficiently – Use clear containers and shelves to keep items accessible without overpacking.

● Declutter regularly – Remove expired or unnecessary items to free up space.

By keeping the refrigerator properly stocked but not overcrowded, you ensure better cooling efficiency and prolong the appliance’s performance.

Reducing energy consumption not only saves money but also helps your fridge last longer.

● Keep the temperature settings optimal – Set the fridge to 1°C–4°C and the freezer to -18°C for maximum efficiency.

● Check door seals – A loose gasket allows cold air to escape, making the fridge work harder.

● Position the fridge correctly – Keep it away from heat sources and allow space for proper ventilation.

These small adjustments can significantly cut down on electricity costs while maintaining optimal performance.

Regular checks can help prevent breakdowns and costly repairs.

● Listen for unusual noises – Clicking, buzzing, or rattling sounds may indicate an issue.

● Check for temperature inconsistencies – If food isn’t staying cold enough, the thermostat or compressor might need attention.

● Clean the condenser coils – Dust buildup can reduce efficiency; clean them every six months.

By staying proactive with maintenance, you can keep your refrigerator running efficiently and avoid unexpected failures.

Common Mistakes That Shorten Your Refrigerator’s Lifespan

Taking care of your refrigerator is essential for keeping it running efficiently and avoiding costly repairs. Avoid these common mistakes that can reduce its lifespan.

Putting hot food in the fridge forces the appliance to work harder, leading to increased energy use and potential wear on the compressor.

● Let food cool for 30 minutes before storing it.

● Use shallow containers to speed up cooling before refrigeration.

● Avoid covering hot food tightly to allow proper heat dissipation.

Cooling food properly before placing it in the fridge helps maintain a steady temperature and prevents strain on the cooling system.

Unusual sounds from your refrigerator could signal underlying issues that, if ignored, may lead to expensive repairs.

● Buzzing or humming may indicate a clogged condenser coil.

● Clicking sounds might mean the compressor is struggling.

● Loud rattling or knocking could point to loose or faulty components.

If your fridge is making unfamiliar noises, checking for simple fixes like cleaning the coils or ensuring it’s level may help. If the noise persists, call a technician.

Air vents allow cool air to circulate evenly inside the fridge and freezer. When they are blocked, cooling becomes inefficient.

● Keep vents clear by arranging food properly.

● Avoid pushing items against the back wall where vents are usually located.

● Check vents regularly to ensure airflow is not obstructed.

Proper air circulation helps maintain a consistent temperature, keeping food fresh and reducing strain on the compressor.

The Best Ways to Clean and Organize Your Fridge

A clean and well-organized fridge prevents bacteria buildup, extends food freshness, and improves efficiency.

Deep cleaning removes spills, odors, and bacteria that can accumulate over time.

1. Unplug the fridge and remove all food items.

2. Take out shelves and drawers and wash them with warm, soapy water.

3. Wipe down the interior with a mixture of baking soda and water.

4. Check for expired items and discard anything spoiled.

5. Dry everything completely before putting items back.

Doing this every few months keeps your fridge fresh and running efficiently.

Proper food placement ensures better preservation and prevents cross-contamination.

● Dairy products & eggs – Store in the middle shelves where the temperature is most stable.

● Raw meats – Keep in the bottom drawer to prevent leaks onto other foods.

● Fruits & vegetables – Use separate crisper drawers for optimal humidity.

● Condiments – Store in the door compartments where temperature fluctuations are minimal.

Organizing food properly helps maintain freshness and makes the fridge more efficient.

Unpleasant odors can develop if spills, expired food, or bacteria go unnoticed.

● Use baking soda – Place an open box in the fridge to absorb odors.

● Clean spills immediately to prevent lingering smells.

● Keep strong-smelling foods sealed in airtight containers.

● Air out the fridge occasionally by leaving the door open for a few minutes.

Regular maintenance and odor control keep your refrigerator fresh and hygienic.