Got a fridge that’s humming but not cooling? Chances are a little regular care will fix it. Below are practical, no‑fluff tips you can start today to keep your fridge fresh, quiet, and cheap to run.
Wipe spills as soon as they happen. A damp cloth with mild soap stops odors and prevents sticky buildup on shelves and drawers. Check the door seals every morning – run your fingers along the gasket; if you feel air leaks, clean the rubber with warm water and a soft brush.
Keep the interior tidy. Throw away expired food weekly and rotate leftovers so the oldest items get used first. Overcrowding blocks air flow, making the compressor work harder and raising your electricity bill.
Twice a year empty the fridge, unplug it, and let the ice melt naturally. A shallow tray under the fridge catches water, and you can speed the melt with a bowl of hot water placed inside. Once everything is dry, clean the interior with a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. This kills bacteria and removes lingering smells.
Don’t forget the coils. On the back or beneath the unit, dust builds up and forces the motor to overheat. Use a vacuum brush or a soft cloth to clear the dust every six months. It’s a quick job that can shave up to 10% off your energy use.
Temperature matters too. Set the fridge to 3‑5 °C (37‑41 °F) and the freezer to –18 °C (0 °F). Anything colder wastes power, while warmer temps spoil food faster. Many modern fridges have a “Super Cool” button; use it only when you load lots of fresh groceries.
Listen for odd noises. A rattling sound might mean a loose shelf, while a loud humming could signal a failing fan. Spotting these early saves you a costly repair later.
Check the water filter if your fridge has one. Replace it every six months or according to the manufacturer’s guide. A clogged filter reduces water flow and can affect ice‑maker performance.
When the door won’t stay closed, the seal is the usual suspect. Clean it, but if the rubber is cracked, replace it – most stores sell universal seals for under £20.
Energy‑saving tip: If you’ve recently read our post on smaller fridges being more efficient, remember size matters. A fridge that’s too big for your household wastes power, while a snug model runs more efficiently. Choose a capacity that matches your needs.
Finally, keep the fridge level. An uneven unit can cause the doors to swing open and the compressor to overwork. Use a spirit level and adjust the front feet until it sits flat.
Follow these habits and you’ll extend the life of your refrigerator, cut down on electricity, and avoid nasty surprises when the food goes bad. Your fridge will thank you – and so will your wallet.
Want your fridge to go easier on your electricity bill? This article breaks down practical steps you can take to make your fridge use less power, from simple habits and inexpensive fixes to smart upgrades that really make a difference. Find out what actually works and what’s a waste of time. No jargon—just real tips you can put to use today. Lower your costs without sacrificing cold snacks.