Refrigerator: A refrigerator has become an essential appliance in every home today, but do you know how important it is to defrost it regularly to keep it running efficiently for a long time? Many people overlook this and think that the refrigerator doesn’t need frequent cleaning or defrosting. But the truth is, if you don’t do this, the cooling efficiency of your refrigerator gradually decreases, and electricity consumption also increases.
Why is it important to defrost your refrigerator
During the winter season, when the temperature drops, the process of ice formation inside the refrigerator accelerates. This accumulated ice builds up on the cooling coils and prevents the proper distribution of cold air. As a result, the refrigerator has to work harder, which increases electricity consumption and reduces its lifespan.
Defrosting removes this thick layer of ice, allowing the cold air to circulate properly again. This increases the refrigerator’s cooling efficiency, saves electricity, and keeps your food and drinks fresh for longer.
How often should you defrost your refrigerator
Now the question is, how often should you defrost your refrigerator? If you have a frost-free refrigerator, you don’t need to worry too much about this. These types of refrigerators have an automatic defrost system that melts the ice on its own.
However, if your refrigerator is a direct-cool model, then manual defrosting is necessary. According to experts, you should defrost it at least once every 15 to 20 days. This maintains the cooling balance of the refrigerator and keeps the internal humidity under control.
If you use your refrigerator frequently or open the door often, ice may accumulate faster. In such cases, you can defrost it every 10 to 12 days. The Right Way to Defrost Your Refrigerator
Defrosting your refrigerator is a very simple process; you just need to keep a few things in mind. First, unplug the refrigerator and leave the door open. The ice will gradually melt on its own.
You can place a tray or cloth underneath to easily absorb the melted water. Once all the ice has melted, clean the inside with a dry cloth and then leave the refrigerator door open for 15-20 minutes to allow the moisture inside to dry completely.
After that, plug the refrigerator back in and turn it on. Make sure not to put food items inside immediately; wait a while for the temperature to stabilize.
Disadvantages of Not Defrosting
If you don’t defrost your refrigerator regularly, its cooling efficiency will gradually decrease. The thick layer of ice causes the refrigerator’s fan and cooling system to work harder, leading to higher electricity bills.
Also, water starts accumulating on the back walls and trays of the refrigerator, increasing the risk of bad odors and bacterial growth. This also affects the quality of your food.
Not defrosting for a long time puts extra pressure on the compressor, which can cause it to break down prematurely. Therefore, with a little care and regular cleaning, you can extend the life of your refrigerator by many years.
Saving Electricity and Better Performance
Those who think that defrosting takes time and effort will be surprised to know that it can save you up to 20% on your electricity bill. A clean and defrosted refrigerator consumes less electricity and stays colder.
Also, food stays fresh for longer, and there are no unpleasant odors inside the refrigerator. This is why major companies also recommend regular defrosting in their guidelines.
Regular defrosting is essential for the proper functioning and longevity of your refrigerator. Especially during winters when more ice accumulates, be sure to clean it every 15 to 20 days. This will not only save electricity but also maintain better cooling performance.
So, the next time you see a thick layer of ice inside your refrigerator, don’t ignore it. A few minutes of effort can save you from major repairs and extra expenses.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The advice given here is for general household use. The defrosting process may vary slightly depending on the refrigerator model and manufacturer, so please refer to the instructions in your user manual.
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