With the change of season, climate and temperatures vary, but so does the operation of our appliances.
“The fridge seems less cold” “There’s too much ice in the freezer.” It is therefore normal to wonder whether the refrigerator and freezer are working properly.
Are there periodic checks to do at home? The answer is yes. The refrigerator and freezer also require seasonal maintenance, simple but useful, to extend their lifespan and reduce consumption.
Why do a seasonal check-up for refrigerator and freezer
Seasonal changes affect the operation of appliances. In summer the motor works harder to compensate for external heat, while in winter humidity problems can occur, for example. A seasonal check allows you to:
- maintain the right internal temperature
- avoid energy waste
- prevent breakdowns
- better preserve food
Winter check-up of refrigerator and freezer: 4 essential steps
In winter, refrigerator consumption decreases thanks to lower temperatures, but it is still important not to forget maintenance.
Small seasonal precautions allow you to prevent breakdowns and keep your appliance in good condition. The result? Saving energy and money.
- Set the correct temperature: set between 3-5°C for the refrigerator, while the freezer must be kept at -18°C. A correct temperature avoids energy waste and ensures good food preservation. If your model allows it, monitor the temperature directly from the hOn app.
- Prevent ice formation: winter humidity increases the risk of freezer ice and frost. Generally, when the thickness of the ice exceeds half a centimeter it is best to defrost. To prevent the formation of ice it is useful to avoid inserting foods that are too hot or humid, leaving space between the products and leaving the doors open or open them unnecessarily, so as to allow good air circulation.
- Do a thorough cleaning: inside and outside. Empty the shelves and make sure that all food is still in good condition, in the refrigerator and freezer. Following our preservation tips from the previous article, you won’t have food waste! Don’t forget the back: dust on the condenser grills reduces cooling capacity, making the fridge work harder.
- Listen to your refrigerator: make sure the fridge doesn’t make strange noises, that the bulb lights up correctly, otherwise contact a technician to check the appliance’s condition.
Summer check-up of refrigerator and freezer: what to check
Summer is the most critical period for refrigerator and freezer maintenance: temperatures rise and the workload to cool food increases. Here’s what to do to keep efficiency high:
Check the seals
Damaged seals let warm air in, forcing the motor to work harder. Do the paper sheet test: if it slips out easily, consider a replacement.
Defrost if necessary
Excess ice reduces freezer efficiency. Defrosting every 3-6 months is an excellent habit, especially in summer. You can rely on Care+Plus products for even more effective defrosting.
Check the position
The fridge should never be placed next to ovens, dishwashers or in areas too exposed to the sun. Always leave a few centimetres of space between the wall and the back to promote ventilation: in summer this precaution can significantly reduce consumption.
Smart refrigerator and freezer: the advantages of the hOn app
Doing a seasonal check-up for refrigerator and freezer is not complicated: it only takes a few minutes and the right help. With the hOn app you receive a reminder when it’s time to clean: all you need is a dry cloth and 10 minutes.
You can manage everything smartly, from maintenance to notifications, up to consumption control. The hOn app offers several useful functions throughout the year:
- Guided maintenance: start a check-up at any time directly from the app to verify the refrigerator’s health. Receive notifications about seasonal checks, filter cleaning, and the condition of seals;
- Temperature monitoring: to avoid fluctuations and keep food fresh;
- Energy consumption statistics: find out how much the refrigerator and freezer affect your bill and optimize consumption;
An intelligent and personalized management, designed for those who want an efficient and well-organized refrigerator and freezer all year round.
