How to defrost your fridge for maximum efficiency and savings

Defrosting the fridge is a task that many people delay. Unfortunately, accumulated ice can lead to serious device damage and increase electricity bills. To avoid such problems, it's important to maintain the fridge's cleanliness regularly. In this article, we'll advise you on how to effectively defrost your fridge and share tips and tools that can assist you in this task.

Before you start defrosting, it's wise to prepare properly. Place towels, cloths, or old newspapers underneath the fridge to catch any water from the melting ice and prevent it from flooding the kitchen floor. Then remove all food items from the fridge. If you have items that need to remain cold, store them in another cool place or a portable cooler during the defrosting process.

The next step is to set the fridge's temperature to the lowest setting, and once the ice begins to melt, unplug the appliance. Ensure you 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 any components are heavily frozen, do not attempt to force them out – wait until they defrost naturally. Soak the shelves in warm water with dishwashing 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 will allow the ice to melt gradually, enabling you to remove excess water from the fridge's interior. To speed up the process, gently scrape off the ice with a blunt tool.

You can also use a hairdryer. A hairdryer can provide quick and efficient defrosting, but take care not to damage the interior of the appliance.

While defrosting your refrigerator, ensuring it is thoroughly clean is also worthwhile. Use natural cleaning agents to remove any dirt. You can use a mixture of water with vinegar or lemon juice, which works as an antibacterial agent. Remember to clean the seals thoroughly, as dirt often accumulates in these areas.

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. You can now reconnect the fridge to the power supply and return the food items inside.

Consider using modern technology to avoid frequent defrosting. Fridges 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 the fridge only when necessary and do not leave its doors open for too long.

Equally important are regular inspections and maintenance of the fridge. Every few months, it's worthwhile to check the condition of the seals, which ensure the door's tightness and prevent heat from entering the appliance's interior. Regular cleaning of the fan helps prevent its failure and improves cooling efficiency.

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