A refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in any household. It keeps food fresh, prevents wastage, and supports a healthy lifestyle. But like any appliance, a fridge needs regular care to ensure it works efficiently and lasts longer. Many homeowners don’t realise that simple daily or weekly habits can reduce energy consumption, prevent breakdowns, and even save hundreds of dollars in repair costs.
In this guide, we’ll walk through 10 practical fridge maintenance tips that are easy to follow and help you keep your refrigerator running like new. Whether you own a modern smart fridge or a traditional single-door model, these tips apply to all types.
1. Keep the Temperature Settings Correct
One of the most common mistakes homeowners make is setting the wrong temperature. For optimal cooling:
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Fridge compartment: 3°C to 5°C
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Freezer: –18°C
Correct temperature ensures food safety, reduces electricity consumption, and prevents the compressor from overworking.
2. Clean the Coils Every 6 Months
Dusty condenser coils are the biggest reason behind overheating and poor cooling. When the coils collect dirt, the system works harder and consumes more energy.
Simply unplug the fridge and gently clean the coils using a soft brush or vacuum. This quick maintenance can improve efficiency by up to 30%.
3. Avoid Overloading the Fridge
Many homeowners pack their fridges to the brim, thinking more storage means better use of space. But an overloaded fridge restricts airflow, causing uneven cooling and potential food spoilage.
Leave some space between items so cold air can circulate freely.
4. Check Door Seals Regularly
Damaged or loose door seals let cold air escape. This forces the fridge to run longer and increases electricity bills.
Try this simple test:
Close the door on a paper sheet. If you can easily pull it out, the seal needs repair or replacement.
Faulty door seals may seem minor, but they can significantly reduce efficiency.
5. Keep Your Fridge Well-Organized
A tidy fridge helps you:
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Find items faster
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Reduce door-open time
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Improve cooling efficiency
Use transparent containers and group similar items together. This also lowers the chances of food contamination.
6. Defrost the Freezer When Needed
If your fridge is not frost-free, you should defrost it once the ice layer reaches 1 cm thickness. Excessive frost buildup reduces the freezer’s performance and increases energy consumption.
Defrosting is simple but crucial for long appliance life.
7. Do Not Place Hot Food Inside
Placing hot food directly in the fridge raises its internal temperature and forces the compressor to work harder. Always allow food to cool slightly before storing it.
This habit not only protects your appliance but also maintains food safety.
8. Keep the Fridge Levelled
Fridges are designed to operate properly when leveled. If your refrigerator is tilted forward or backward, the doors may not close properly, and the cooling system may not run efficiently.
Use a screwdriver to adjust the legs until the appliance stands straight.
9. Clean the Interior Every Month
Regular cleaning prevents unpleasant smells, bacterial growth, and food cross-contamination.
Use a mixture of warm water and baking soda to wipe down:
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Shelves
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Drawers
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Door bins
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Inner walls
Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage the surfaces or contaminate food.
10. Schedule Professional Maintenance
Even with good care, fridges need professional servicing every 12–18 months. Technicians can detect issues you may not notice, such as refrigerant leaks, fan problems, or compressor faults.
If you’re noticing signs like unusual noises, water leaks, or poor cooling, it’s time to call a specialist.
This is where a trusted service provider becomes essential. For fast, affordable, and reliable help in Sydney, many homeowners rely on Fast Fridge Repairs, known for same-day service and expert diagnostics.
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➡️ If your refrigerator isn’t cooling properly or showing early signs of failure, consider booking a technician from Fast Fridge Repairs for quick and expert service.
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Why Regular Fridge Maintenance Matters
✔ Saves Money
A well-maintained fridge uses less electricity and breaks down less often. This reduces power bills and avoids major repair costs.
✔ Extends Lifespan
Proper care can add 5–8 years to your refrigerator’s life.
✔ Keeps Food Fresher
Good temperature control and airflow prevent spoilage and maintain quality.
✔ Improves Efficiency
Clean coils, good seals, and proper storage make the fridge run smoothly.
When You Should Call a Professional
Even with great maintenance, some issues require expert attention, such as:
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Fridge not cooling
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Strange buzzing or clicking sounds
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Water leaking inside or outside
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Freezer over-freezing
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Food spoiling too quickly
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Fridge turning off unexpectedly
Trying to fix these problems yourself may cause more damage. Instead, contact an experienced technician for a safe and long-lasting solution.
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Final Thoughts
A fridge is an essential part of your home, and taking small steps to maintain it can prevent big problems. By following the ten tips above—cleaning coils, checking seals, avoiding overloading, defrosting, and scheduling routine inspections—you can ensure your appliance stays efficient, safe, and long-lasting.
