The refrigerator may be the number one commonly used appliance in our home life! Like other appliances, refrigerators require regular maintenance to ensure they continue to run efficiently. In this article we will introduce some simple tips to help you maintain your refrigerator and extend its life.
1. Clean the condenser coil
The condenser coil is located on the back or bottom of the refrigerator. Over time, these coils can accumulate dust and dirt, making your refrigerator less efficient. Clean your coils regularly using a vacuum cleaner or coil brush, at least every six months.
2. Keep your refrigerator clean
Regular cleaning of the inside of your refrigerator is key to keeping it running well. Use a mild detergent and warm water to wipe down the interior and exterior surfaces of your refrigerator. Pay special attention to cleaning the gaskets to prevent dirt and mold growth.
3. Defrost at the right time
If your refrigerator does not have an automatic defrost function, you need to defrost it manually regularly. Ice buildup inside your refrigerator can reduce your refrigerator's efficiency and increase energy consumption. Regular defrost can help maintain the efficiency of your refrigerator.
4. Adjust the temperature appropriately
Keep the temperature of the refrigerator at 3 to 5 degrees Celsius, and the optimal temperature of the freezer is about minus 18 degrees Celsius. Setting the temperature too low will increase energy consumption, while setting it too high may affect food preservation.
5. Clean the sink and drain regularly
The sink and drain in the refrigerator may accumulate dirt and clogs. Clean sinks and drains regularly to prevent water accumulation and leakage.
6. Avoid placing too much food in the refrigerator
Excessive food will hinder air circulation and affect the cooling effect of the refrigerator. Keep the inside of your refrigerator tidy and organized to avoid overcrowding it with food.
7. Check the gasket regularly
The gasket is an important component in keeping the refrigerator sealed. Regularly check the sealing gasket for damage or aging, and replace it if necessary to maintain the sealing performance of the refrigerator.
8. Avoid putting hot food into the refrigerator
Putting hot food into the refrigerator will cause the refrigerator to require more energy for cooling, affecting the efficiency of the refrigerator. Food should be allowed to cool to room temperature before being placed in the refrigerator.
9. Clean the back and bottom of the refrigerator regularly
Dust and dirt on the back and bottom will affect the cooling effect of the refrigerator. Vacuum the back and bottom of your refrigerator regularly to maintain cooling.
10. Replace the filter element regularly
If your refrigerator is equipped with a filter element, it should be replaced regularly to ensure the cleanliness and safety of drinking water.
By following these simple maintenance tips, you can extend the life of your refrigerator, increase its efficiency, and keep your food safe and fresh.
The Ministry of Economic Affairs' latest "Regulations on Consumer Electrical Equipment Installation" and the key points of electricity safety in old houses
Due to the popularity of high-power household appliances (such as air fryers, microwave ovens, dishwashers, instantaneous electric water heaters, and IH furnaces) in recent years, the Energy Administration of the Ministry of Economic Affairs has revised the "Regulations on Consumer Electrical Equipment Installation" many times to strictly require the diversion and protection mechanisms of residential electricity circuits. Statistics show that more than 30% of building fires in Taiwan are caused by electrical factors, among which "old wire insulation deteriorates and short circuits", "socket contacts are oxidized and loose, poor contact" and "non-fuse switch (NFB) overloaded and failed to trip" are the three main fatal causes.
Old apartments in Shuangbei that are more than 30 years old have a total original designed power capacity of only 30A to 40A, and several rooms often share the same 1.6mm or 2.0mm circuit. In the modern standard safety configuration, kitchen electrical cabinets, bathroom equipment, and air-conditioning and heating machines must all be equipped with 5.5mm² dedicated circuits (single circuit and single socket). It is recommended that the main switch box be upgraded to a busbar (Busbar) integrated distribution board, and the total amperage is increased to 75A or 100A (a qualified electrical appliance contractor needs to be entrusted to Taipower to review the additional power capacity).
Residential electricity self-test and regular inspection checklist
- Appearance and temperature of the socket: Touch the outer cover of the commonly used socket lightly with the back of your hand. If it feels lukewarm or if you find that the plastic socket is yellowed and charred, or the plug is loose and shaking after being plugged in, it means that the internal copper plate clamping force is exhausted or the contact resistance is too high, and you should immediately cut off the power and replace it.
- Regular testing of leakage circuit breakers (ELCB): For leakage circuit breakers in humid places such as balconies, bathrooms, and kitchen sinks, regulations require that the "TEST button" on the switch be pressed once every 1 to 3 months to confirm that it can automatically trip and cut off the power supply instantly.
- Serial connection and overloading of extension cords are strictly prohibited: Extension cords should be purchased with 2.0mm thick wire diameter products that have CNS certification and automatic overload power-off protection. Do not share the same extension cord with high energy-consuming appliances to ensure zero hidden danger to life and property at home.
