Practical guidance
Help Your Refrigerator Breathe
Clear vents, clean seals, and dust-free coils help a refrigerator release heat and maintain an even temperature.
By KL Properties
A refrigerator needs airflow both inside the food compartment and around its heat-releasing components. A little routine care can prevent blocked vents and reveal a failing door seal.
What to do
- Keep food packages from blocking the interior air vents.
- Wipe door gaskets with mild soapy water, dry them, and check for torn or loose sections.
- Leave the clearance around the appliance specified in its manual.
- If the model has accessible condenser coils, unplug the refrigerator and clean the coils with a soft brush or vacuum attachment as directed by the manufacturer.
- Remove dust from the front grille and keep the area around the appliance clear.
Do not remove sealed panels or reach near moving or electrical components. Contact an appliance professional or property manager if food is not staying cold, the plug or outlet feels hot, water repeatedly collects underneath, or the compressor runs unusually often.