A fridge that is looked after properly cools better, uses less power and lasts longer. Most maintenance takes minutes, not hours, and the rest can be handled during a periodic professional service. This checklist covers what to do weekly, monthly, every few months and yearly.
Fridge Maintenance: The Short Answer
The essentials are simple: keep the door seals clean and sealing, vacuum the condenser coils every six to twelve months, keep the vents clear and avoid overpacking, check temperatures regularly, replace water filters on schedule, defrost manual-defrost freezers before ice gets thick, and give the fridge proper ventilation. Book a technician for anything involving internal panels, fans, electrical parts or refrigerant.
Weekly
- Wipe up spills before they dry and harden, especially around the seals and drawer runners.
- Throw out expired food to keep smells and mould at bay.
- Check the doors close fully and nothing is blocking them.
Monthly
- Check temperatures. Place a thermometer in a glass of water in the middle of the fridge. Around 3 to 5 degrees Celsius for the fridge and around minus 18 for the freezer is a good general target.
- Clean the door seals. Use warm soapy water and a soft cloth. Dry them well.
- Do the paper test. Close the door on a sheet of paper in several places. If it slides out easily, the seal needs attention.
- Keep vents clear. Rearrange items so cold air can circulate.
Every Three to Six Months
- Deep clean the interior. Remove shelves and drawers, wash them in warm soapy water and wipe the cabinet. Our guide on how to clean a fridge properly has step-by-step instructions.
- Flush the defrost drain. Gently flush the drain hole at the back of the fridge compartment with warm water to prevent blockages and leaks.
- Check the water filter. Replace it as recommended by the manufacturer, typically around every six months, using a filter that suits your model.
Every Six to Twelve Months
- Vacuum the condenser coils. Switch the fridge off at the wall, pull it out carefully and vacuum dust from the coils and condenser fan at the back or underneath. Do this more often if you have pets.
- Check levelling. The front should sit slightly higher than the back so the doors close by themselves.
- Check ventilation. Make sure the fridge still has the clearance the manual recommends.
- Defrost manual-defrost freezers. Do it before ice gets thicker than about half a centimetre. Never chip ice with a knife or sharp tool.
Things to Avoid
- overloading shelves and blocking vents. See why overloading a fridge causes problems
- putting large amounts of hot food in at once
- using sharp tools to remove ice
- placing the fridge next to an oven or in direct sun
- attempting repairs on electrical parts or the sealed system
Need a hand? Call Ace Fridge Repairs on 0452 462 556 for a service or repair.
When to Book a Professional Service
A periodic service is worthwhile for older fridges, fridges that run in hot locations, and all commercial refrigeration. A technician can check seals, fans, defrost components, temperatures, electrical connections and the compressor, and spot wear before it becomes a breakdown. Book sooner if you notice any of these:
- the fridge is not holding temperature. See fridge not cooling
- frost on the freezer back wall. See frost build-up
- water leaks. See fridge leaking water
- new or louder noises. See common fridge noises
- the fridge running almost constantly
Commercial Fridge Maintenance
Commercial fridges, display cabinets and coolrooms need more frequent attention because of heavy use and hot kitchens. Condenser coils near cooking areas can clog with grease quickly. See our commercial fridge repairs and coolroom repairs services.
Fridge Servicing and Repairs Across Sydney
Ace Fridge Repairs services and repairs fridges across Greater Sydney, including Auburn, Coogee, Penrith and St Marys, from 93B Pagoda Crescent, Quakers Hill NSW 2763. All repairs carry a 12-month warranty on parts and labour. See the suburbs we service.
For residential fridge repairs, call 0452 462 556, 24/7.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I clean my fridge coils?
Every six to twelve months for most homes, and more often if you have pets or the fridge is in a dusty area. Switch the fridge off at the wall first.
How often should a fridge be serviced?
For most household fridges, a professional check is worthwhile if the fridge is older, runs in a hot location or shows warning signs. Commercial refrigeration benefits from regular scheduled servicing.
How often should I change my fridge water filter?
Follow your manufacturer’s advice. Many recommend around every six months, or sooner if water flow drops or taste changes.
Can I use a knife to remove ice from my freezer?
No. Sharp tools can puncture the evaporator and cause a refrigerant leak. Switch the freezer off and let the ice melt naturally.
What temperature should my fridge be?
Around 3 to 5 degrees Celsius for the fridge section and around minus 18 degrees Celsius for the freezer is a good general target.