Efficient fridge care: Defrosting tips to save energy

Defrosting the fridge is about maintaining the aesthetics of the appliance's interior and energy efficiency. When ice accumulates inside, the compressor must work harder to maintain the desired temperature, leading to higher electricity bills. Regular defrosting helps prevent excessive energy consumption and extends the appliance's lifespan.

Beyond economic reasons, defrosting the fridge is crucial for maintaining hygiene. Food remnants can settle on the ice, promoting mold growth and unpleasant odors. Accumulated ice also limits usable space.

Sort out the stored products before starting the defrosting process. The first step to effective defrosting is checking expiration dates and disposing of expired items. To store frozen products, it's best to use thermal bags to prevent them from thawing.

Start defrosting the fridge by unplugging it from the power source and setting the internal temperature to the minimum. To avoid water spilling onto the floor, protect it with a towel or newspaper. A soft cloth will also be useful for cleaning the interior—avoid using sharp tools that could damage the fridge's surface. Then open the fridge door to let the ice gradually melt. Remember to remove the shelves and clean and dry them thoroughly.

To speed up the defrosting process, you can use a hairdryer. Direct warm air from the hairdryer at the ice. Hold the hairdryer at least 4 inches from the ice and gently move it around—avoid holding the warm air stream in one spot. Do not hold the hairdryer too close to the fridge's plastic parts, as this could cause damage.

An effective method is using a bowl or pot of hot water. Place a bowl filled with hot water inside the fridge or freezer to speed up the melting process.

During defrosting, you can use a plastic scraper or spatula to scrape off ice gently. Do not use knives or other sharp tools to remove ice, as this could harm the fridge. Also, avoid forcefully breaking off ice pieces, as this could damage the fridge's plastic parts.

Once the fridge is defrosted, wash and dry its interior. Then, reconnect the appliance to the power source and place the food items inside.

During the defrosting process, it's easy to make mistakes that can have long-lasting consequences. The most common mistake is scraping ice with sharp objects, which can damage the fridge's surface and lead to leaks and breakdowns.

Another common mistake is pouring hot water over the ice. A sudden temperature change can damage the fridge's interior. There's also a risk of flooding the appliance and harming electrical components.

Regular cleaning and maintenance of the fridge are crucial for its efficient operation. In addition to defrosting, check the condition of the door seals, as damaged seals can allow warm air inside.

It's also important to look for the space behind the fridge. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the condenser, negatively affecting cooling. Regularly vacuuming these components with a soft brush helps prevent potential malfunctions and ensures better appliance performance.