No matter if it is called a refrigerator, ice box or just the fridge; this is one major appliance that is invaluable to all.  We sure have come a long way from wood boxes and salt to keep our food from spoiling; the refrigerators of today are not just stylish but they keep our foods cold.  By chilling many foods we are able to extend the shelf life of their expiration by protecting them from bacterial growth that can cause health hazards.  

Although we all take a trip to this cold box full of goodies at least a few times a day the little things that need to be done in order to extend the life of the fridge itself are often overlooked.  As one of the largest appliances, and one that is constantly plugged into the grid to ensure the maintenance of an interior temperature, it can be a huge drain on energy if it is not properly maintained.  With just a few simple and quick steps it is easy to avoid malfunctions or even a complete loss of such an important appliance!

A crucial way to maintain a refrigerator is to give the inside a good solid once over. Although twice is even better. Throwing away old foods that have expired and tossing that cucumber which long ago molded over means space is free to store fresh foods which do not contain health impairing bacteria. After the purge is complete grab a soft cloth, such as one made from bamboo fiber, and some warm soapy water (dish soap is great) and clean the inside. Once the inside is clean and cleaned out it will be easier to clean up spills or leaks as they happen. Make sure the temperature is set somewhere between 36 to 38 degrees (Fahrenheit).

One of the lesser known facts about the way to best run a refrigerator is to keep it full and keep it shut. When there is fresh food to keep cool the fridge is actually doing less work, since food will hold the temperature much better than empty space. This will also avoid overworking the motor. If it is not grocery day and there is a lot of dead space in the fridge why not fill up a couple jugs with tap water, squeeze in a little lemon juice, toss in a few spoonfuls of sugar, shake it up and chill some yummy homemade lemonade! Maintaining the interior temperature is much easier when the door is opened less frequently as well. Planning in advance to grab all of the items needed in one trip will mean less warm air flows in while cold air escapes. Remember when Mom used to say “We aren’t trying to cool the neighborhood”.

The condenser coil being properly maintained is a critical piece of the puzzle in extending the life of the fridge as well as ensuring the appliance runs correctly day to day. Cleaning it is a snap and should be done at least every six months (more if the house has heavy carpet, pets or is prone to excessive dust). Simply unplug the fridge and roll it out from the wall so the back is accessible. Run a vacuum with a brush attachment along the back plate and also be sure to pick up anything that might have been hiding under the fridge as well.

The final two maintenance steps are often over looked but will further guarantee and efficient and properly functioning food chiller -- cleaning the rubber door gasket and leveling the feet. While cleaning the inside of the appliance some of that warm and soapy water can be used with the soft cloth to run over the edge of the rubberized door gasket. Removing muck and food from this piece will ensure there are no gaps which causes the inside temperature to increase and food protection to decrease. The final step can be completed while the fridge is out to be vacuumed and dusted. On the front side underneath should be feet on each side that can be twisted to raise or lower the height on each corner. Leveling off also maintains a proper gasket seal as well as reduces potential of heat being thrown in odd areas surrounding the door.

Regardless of what each family calls their food cooling appliance, the financial savings in terms of increased energy efficiency and food savings make these quick and simple steps worth the time investment to complete correctly. Making sure all of these steps are taken will extend the life of this revolutionary appliance for many years to come!