Summer brings longer days and warmer weather, which means more chances for dining outdoors. But between the heat and constant traffic in and out of your house, there’s more stress on your refrigerator to keep food fresh and cold. Now’s the time to help ensure this essential appliance is running efficiently. Here are some tips on how your fridge can beat the summer heat and your food can stay safe this season.

How to keep your fridge cool in the summer heat

There are a few ways to help keep your refrigerator at its best any time of the year. But these tips are even more important when you’re trying to keep food cold when the house is hot.

• Position fridge out of direct sunlight.
• Keep cold appliances away from heat sources, like the oven or stove.
• Leave space between the fridge and the wall.
• Set it at the recommended temperature, usually around 36°F. If your food starts to freeze in the fridge, adjust or restock the shelves.
• Vacuum the condenser coils.
• Inspect the door seals for cracks or gaps and replace them when needed.
• Wipe the door seals to prevent dirt and mold.
• Keep the shelves stocked, but not overloaded, to help maintain a consistent temperature.
• Keep stored food away from the fridge vents.
• Avoid opening the door frequently.

These tips can help with air circulation, temperature fluctuation, and reduce the risk of overheating. A fridge that doesn’t have to work harder to stay cool is not only more efficient, but you can also help extend the life of the appliance, saving you time and money on repairs or replacement.

If your fridge does burn out, remember that it requires proper disposal. Fridges are not only bulky and hard to maneuver, but they contain materials that could be hazardous to the environment if not treated correctly. Call JDog Junk Removal & Hauling to come pick up your fridge and other large appliances when their season is over.