Defrosting the fridge: Tips for efficiency and lower bills

Many people postpone defrosting the fridge. Unfortunately, accumulated ice can lead to serious device damage and increase electricity bills. To avoid such problems, it's worth regularly maintaining the fridge's cleanliness. In this article, we'll advise you on how to effectively defrost your fridge and which tricks and tools can assist you in this task.

It's important to prepare properly before starting the defrosting process. Lay towels, cloths, or old newspapers under the fridge to prevent water from the melting ice from flooding the kitchen floor. Then, remove all food items from the appliance. If you have products that need to stay cold, place them in another cool place or a portable cooler during the defrosting process.

The next step is to lower the temperature in the fridge to a minimum, and once the ice starts to melt, unplug the appliance. Remember to avoid water contact with the fridge's electrical parts, as this could cause damage.

After turning off the fridge, remove all shelves and drawers. If some components are heavily frozen, do not try to force them out—wait until they defrost. Soak the shelves in warm water with dish soap, and then wash them thoroughly.

One of the simplest ways to defrost a fridge is to leave its door open for a few hours. This way, the ice will gradually melt, allowing you to remove excess water from the fridge's interior. To speed up the process, you can gently scrape off the ice with a blunt tool.

You can also use a hairdryer. A hairdryer allows for quick and efficient defrosting, but be careful not to damage the interior of the appliance.

While defrosting your refrigerator, it's also worthwhile to ensure it is thoroughly clean. Use natural cleaning agents to remove any dirt. You can use a mixture of water with vinegar or lemon juice, which acts as an antibacterial agent. Remember to thoroughly clean the seals, as they are places where dirt often accumulates.

After completing defrosting and cleaning, carefully dry the fridge's interior and all its components with a paper towel or a soft cloth, then reinstall the shelves and drawers. Now you can reconnect the fridge to the power and place food items inside.

To avoid frequent defrosting, it is worth using modern technology. Fridges equipped with a No Frost system prevent ice buildup on the freezer and fridge walls. These appliances allow for longer food storage and reduce the need for defrosting.

If your fridge is not equipped with a No Frost system, remember to open it only when necessary and not leave its doors open for too long.

Equally important are regular inspections and maintenance of the fridge. Every few months, it's worth checking the condition of the seals, which are responsible for door tightness and preventing heat from entering the appliance's interior. Regular cleaning of the fan prevents its failure and improves cooling efficiency.

Caring for household appliances not only enhances their performance but also ensures the safety of stored food.