One of the most important—and priciest—appliances in your house is a refrigerator. You can prevent expensive repairs and keep it operating smoothly for years with a few easy maintenance practices.
These seven tried-and-true suggestions from appliance specialists will make your refrigerator last longer.

1. Keep the Door Closed

Cold air escapes each time the refrigerator is opened, forcing the compressor to work harder to bring the temperature back to normal. When not in use, make sure the door remains closed; do not leave it open for extended periods of time when choosing what to remove.

2. Set the Right Temperature

Your refrigerator should be between 3 and 4°C (37 and 40°F), while your freezer should be between -18°C (0 and 18°F). Your food won’t survive longer if you set it cooler; it will just put undue strain on the compressor. For accuracy, use a refrigerator thermometer and check the settings frequently.

3. Clean Condenser Coils Regularly

The compressor overheats because dust and lint on the condenser coils stop heat from leaving. Every six to twelve months, unplug the refrigerator, take down the bottom or rear panel, and gently vacuum or brush the coils. Additionally, for optimal airflow, leave 2-4 inches between the refrigerator and the wall.

4. Inspect and Clean the Door Gasket

Cold air is kept inside by the rubber gasket surrounding the door. Every month, give it a wipe down with warm, soapy water, looking for any loose spots or cracks. The refrigerator runs constantly if the gasket doesn’t seal tightly, allowing chilly air to escape.
Close the door on a $1 bill to try the paper test. It could be time to replace the seal if it slides out easily.

5. Avoid Placing Hot Food Inside

Before putting leftovers in the refrigerator, let them cool to room temperature. When hot objects are placed immediately inside, the compressor has to work harder and uses more energy.

6. Keep Your Fridge Properly Stocked

Allow leftovers to cool to room temperature before storing them in the fridge. The compressor must work harder and consumes more energy when hot things are placed inside right away.

7. Maintain a Safe Distance from Heat Sources

Avoid placing your refrigerator in direct sunlight or near ovens or dishwashers. The compressor’s lifespan is shortened by the heat from adjacent appliances. If your refrigerator is integrated into cabinets, make sure there is adequate room for ventilation on all sides.

Bonus: Schedule Regular Maintenance

Dust accumulation, fan problems, or small leaks can occur over time even with proper maintenance. Every few years, have a qualified technician examine your refrigerator to clean the coils, check the levels of refrigerant, and make sure the compressor is operating efficiently.

Final Thoughts

Easy upkeep can prolong the life of your refrigerator by several years and prevent expensive malfunctions. Your refrigerator will reward you with dependable cooling for many years if you clean the coils, maintain a tight gasket, and keep an eye on the temperature