So fresh & so clean: Refrigerator Maintenance
Replacing your refrigerator air & water filters is essential to ensure your unit operates efficiently, has a long lifespan, and keeps both your food and water/ice as fresh as possible. Follow these tips to keep it running as smoothly as possible.
How to Find Your Refrigerator Water and Air Filters
The location of water and air filters varies depending on the refrigerator model. However, they are usually located either in the grill at the bottom of the refrigerator, behind the refrigerator's access panel, or inside the fridge. You can consult your refrigerator's manual or search your make/model online to determine the exact location.
When to Replace The Filters
It's essential to replace water filters every six months, or as indicated by the manufacturer. Signs that your water filter needs replacement include a decrease in water flow or a noticeable change in water quality. Air filters should be replaced every six months to ensure optimal performance. Your unit may also have a notification light on the front panel telling you when the filters need changing.
Most filters can be purchased on Amazon, at home improvement stores, or through the manufacturer. Once you find where they are located there is frequently a part or model number to search for.
Extra Credit Maintenance You Should Be Doing on Your Refrigerator and Freezer
Besides replacing filters, there are other maintenance tasks you should be doing to keep your refrigerator and freezer running smoothly. Here are some additional maintenance tips:
Keep the interior clean: Regularly clean the interior of your refrigerator and freezer with a solution of warm water and mild soap. Rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.
Check the door seals: Ensure the door seals are airtight by placing a dollar bill between the door and the refrigerator. If you can easily remove the bill, it's time to replace the seals.
Keep the condenser coils clean: Dust and debris can accumulate on the condenser coils at the back of the refrigerator, reducing efficiency. If you don’t think your unit is working as well as it used to, vacuum the condenser coils for higher performance.
If you have an automatic ice maker, dump out the current ice and the next few batches when you replace the filters to freshen up the ice.