Regular maintenance tasks to keep your refrigerators running efficiently.
Wipe the door gaskets with warm soapy water and check for cracks or gaps. Test the seal by closing the door on a dollar bill — if it slides out easily, the gasket needs replacement. A poor seal wastes energy and causes the compressor to overwork.
Unplug the refrigerator and locate the condenser coils (usually on the back or underneath behind a grille). Use a coil brush or vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust and pet hair. Dirty coils make the compressor work harder and waste energy.
The drain pan under the refrigerator collects condensation and can develop odors or mold. Pull it out and clean with warm soapy water. Also check that the defrost drain hole (inside the fridge at the back) is not clogged.
If your refrigerator has a built-in water dispenser or ice maker, replace the water filter according to the manufacturer schedule. Most filters last about 6 months. An old filter reduces water flow and may not remove contaminants effectively.