Your refrigerator is one of the most important appliances in your kitchen, as it keeps your food fresh and safe. However, to ensure optimal performance and longevity, you need to take care of your refrigerator regularly. Here are some simple maintenance tasks that you can do to keep your KitchenAid refrigerator in top shape.
Monthly Tasks
- Clean the interior surfaces and removable parts. Use a non-abrasive, degreasing cleaner to spray the inside of the refrigerator and wipe it with a soft cloth. This will help prevent mold, mildew, and odors. Don’t forget to clean the door gaskets, shelves, drawers, and bins as well.
- Clean the exterior surfaces. Use a mild detergent and water to wipe the outside of the refrigerator, including the door handles and dispenser area. Avoid using abrasive or harsh cleaners that may damage the finish. For stainless steel models, use a stainless steel cleaner and a soft cloth to polish the surface and remove fingerprints.
- Clean the condenser coils. The condenser coils are located at the back or bottom of the refrigerator and they help remove heat from the appliance. If they are dusty or dirty, they can reduce the efficiency and increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator. To clean them, unplug the refrigerator and use a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment to gently remove the dust. You may also need to move the refrigerator away from the wall to access the coils.
Quarterly Tasks
- Replace the water filter. If your refrigerator has a water dispenser or an ice maker, you need to replace the water filter every 3 to 6 months, depending on your usage and water quality. The water filter helps remove contaminants and improve the taste and odor of the water. To replace the water filter, follow the instructions in your owner’s manual or watch this video.
- Check the temperature settings. The recommended temperature settings for your refrigerator are 37°F (3°C) for the fresh food compartment and 0°F (-18°C) for the freezer compartment. These settings will ensure optimal food preservation and energy efficiency. You can adjust the temperature settings using the control panel on your refrigerator. If you notice any temperature fluctuations or problems, you may need to contact a service technicia.
Yearly Tasks
- Check the door seals. The door seals, also known as gaskets, are the rubber strips that seal the gap between the door and the refrigerator. They help prevent cold air from escaping and warm air from entering the refrigerator. Over time, the door seals may wear out, crack, or loosen, which can affect the cooling performance and increase the energy consumption of the refrigerator. To check the door seals, close the door on a dollar bill and try to pull it out. If the bill slides out easily, the seal is not tight enough and may need to be replaced.
- Defrost the freezer. If your refrigerator has a manual defrost freezer, you need to defrost it at least once a year or when the frost buildup is more than 1/4 inch thick. Frost buildup can reduce the freezer space and affect the cooling efficiency of the refrigerator. To defrost the freezer, unplug the refrigerator and remove all the food from the freezer. Place a large pan or tray under the freezer to catch the water. Leave the door open and let the frost melt. You can use a plastic scraper or a hair dryer to speed up the process, but do not use any sharp or metal tools that may damage the freezer. When the frost is completely melted, wipe the freezer dry and plug the refrigerator back in.
By following this simple checklist, you can keep your KitchenAid refrigerator in good condition and enjoy its benefits for years to come. For more information and tips on how to use and maintain your refrigerator, please refer to your owner’s manual or visit the KitchenAid website.