A working refrigerator does more than store perishable foods. It also keeps energy bills as low as possible, and keeps meals fresh.
Unless your refrigerator breaks down completely, you might not notice minor signs of malfunction. Most homeowners ignore warning signs of a dying fridge which can incur steeper repair costs in the future.
Gaining knowledge about optimal fridge functioning can prevent fridge damage from worsening. It can mean the difference between a home refrigerator repair, a professional refrigerator repair service, and a replacement.
Of course, sometimes you’ll need a professional technician or a replacement anyway. But if you’d like a better idea of what appliance repair measures you should take, read on to understand five signs of a dying fridge.
1. Ice/Frost Buildup
The back of your freezer wall could experience frost buildup if your freezer is too cold. This usually means that there’s a crack in your freezer/fridge door seal, or that your fridge’s self-defrost system doesn’t work.
In the case of the latter situation, your fridge is probably fairly old. You’ll want professional refrigerator maintenance to fix your fridge. If your technician tells you that the fridge is worn down from years of use, you might need to buy a new one.
2. Costly Energy Bill
Faulty electric appliances, including your refrigerator, can produce a pricey electricity bill. If your fridge is malfunctioning, then certain fridge parts could work too hard to compensate for the malfunction.
But don’t panic only at the sight of a steep electricity bill. Evaluate other common electrical problems that could skyrocket your bill.
You might be able to tell that your fridge isn’t working properly if your motor is too loud or if the surface of your fridge runs too hot. Overheating fridges and overrun motors can lower the energy-efficiency of your fridge. Overworked fridges can cause even more damage unto themselves if left unchecked.
3. Old Fridge
If your fridge is fairy old (10+ years), then you might be due for a replacement. Repairs and part replacements might be cheaper, but assess the damage before deciding between repairs and a complete replacement.
You’ll probably notice changes in your fridge as it nears its expiration date. Its motor might be too loud, it might need constant repairs, and it might just not work the way it used to despite constant maintenance.
4. Temperature Fluctuations
Temperature fluctuations won’t only give your food freezer burn. They could also make certain foods lose freshness quicker.
Spinach will wilt, cheese will smell funkier at an earlier date, and food won’t taste as good. However, you might want to fix your fridge storage before you consider a repairman.
Otherwise, too much condensation could also indicate temperature fluctuations. If you do see more condensation in your fridge than usual, then you probably have a faulty fridge.
Check your freezer/fridge doors for any cracks. These cracks could be introducing warm, humid air that heats up your fridge and spoils your food. If you don’t notice any cracks, then contact a home refrigerator service.
5. Loud Fridge
Loud fridges don’t always imply malfunction. Something might have fallen behind the fridge and is vibrating against it, or your door’s seal might have ripped and is flapping against the vent.
But a loud fridge is most likely an issue with your motor. If your motor’s louder than usual, then you most likely need to repair it.
When motors malfunction, your fridge’s temperature control may go haywire too. This can overwork the fridge, making your food too cold and raising energy bills.
Revive Your Dying Fridge With a Refrigerator Repair Service
Prolong your fridge’s lifespan with a professional refrigerator repair service. A professional technician will offer you expert repair services and will inform you if you need to replace your appliance.
At Sewell Electric & HVAC, we understand how important a working fridge is to your lifestyle and your finances. If you recognize any of these signs of a dying fridge, contact us today to schedule a repair appointment!
