Your freezer is an important appliance in your home. Not only does it help keep your food cold, but it can also help you save money on your grocery bill. However, if you’re not careful, your freezer can become a source of foodborne illness.
Here are five tips to help you keep your freezer clean and safe:
Thorough Interior Cleaning
- Remove everything from the freezer and throw out any expired or spoiled items. This will make it easier to access all areas of the interior for cleaning.
- Next, using a soft cloth or sponge, wipe down all surfaces of the freezer. Pay special attention to any areas that seem particularly dirty or cluttered. If there is stubborn dirt or debris, you may need to use a soft-bristled brush to remove it.
- Be sure to dry the surfaces thoroughly.
- Place any items that need to be re-frozen in a plastic baggie before returning them to the freezer. This will help prevent anything from getting freezer burn.
- Once everything is back in the freezer, take some time to vacuum seal any foods that can be prone to spoiling, such as meat or fish.
Cleaning the Door Gasket
The door gasket on a freezer is responsible for providing a seal that keeps the cold air in and prevents warm air from entering. Over time, the gasket can become dirty or damaged, which can impact its ability to create an effective seal. As a result, it’s important to clean the door gasket regularly – at least once every few months.
Cleaning the door gasket is relatively simple. Start by wiping down the gasket with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Then, using a mild soap and water solution (or white vinegar), scrub the gasket to remove any stubborn dirt or grime buildup. Finally, rinse the area well and dry completely with a clean towel.
If the door gasket is damaged, it will need to be replaced. You can purchase a replacement gasket at most hardware stores. Simply remove the old gasket and install the new one in its place. If you’re not familiar with the process, let the experts handle the job.
Check the Drawers
There are a few things you can do to maintain your freezer drawer. First, keep the drawer clean and free of any dirt or debris. This will help ensure that the drawer operates smoothly. Second, make sure that the drawer is properly aligned and level. This will help prevent any jams or issues opening and closing the drawer. Third, if you notice any ice buildup, simply clean it off with a cloth or brush. Lastly, if you have any loose items in the drawer, make sure to secure them, so they don’t fall out when opening or closing the door.
Don’t Forget the Condenser Coils
One of the most important parts of your freezer is the condenser coil. This part helps keep your freezer cold by circulating coolant through the coils. There are a few things you can do to keep your freezer’s condenser coil running smoothly. First, make sure the coil is free of dust and debris. You can clean it with a brush or vacuum attachment. Second, check the airflow around the coil to ensure it is not blocked by anything. Third, if your freezer is located in a warm area, make sure to give it additional ventilation to help keep the condenser coil cool.
While it is possible to clean this part yourself, it is generally recommended that you have a professional do it. Cleaning the coils regularly will help keep your freezer running efficiently and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Temperature Check
There are a few reasons why you might want to check the temperature of your freezer. First, if you notice that your freezer is warmer than usual, this could be an indication that the appliance is not working as efficiently as it should be. This could lead to higher energy bills and/or food spoilage. Checking the temperature can help you troubleshoot any problems with your freezer as soon as they arise.
Another reason to check the temperature of your freezer is to ensure that food is being stored at a safe temperature. Freezers should be kept at 0°F (-18°C) to prevent bacteria from growing and potentially causing food poisoning. If you suspect that your freezer may not be cold enough, use a cooking or meat thermometer to check the appliance’s temperature.
Professional Freezer Repair and Maintenance
A professional freezer maintenance and repair service can keep your freezer running properly and prevent costly repairs. A good service will have the proper tools and equipment to test and repair your freezer. They should also be able to offer a warranty on their work. Additionally, a professional service will have trained technicians who know how to maintain and repair your appliance properly.
So, if you’re in doubt about your abilities to handle the maintenance and repair of your freezers, turn to our experts at Man With Wrench. We are a team of highly trained and experienced freezer repair technicians. We will come to your home or business, inspect your freezer, and provide you with a detailed report of our findings. If repairs are needed, we will provide you with a free estimate. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.