Fridge ventilation maximizes its efficiency. But you might be wondering, just how much ventilation does your fridge at home need? Don't fret, as we did enough research to find the answer you're looking for.
Older refrigerator models require two to three inches of space at the back for ventilation. But if you have a newer model, you can leave about one to two inches of space on all sides and top.
This article will inform you why and how much ventilation a refrigerator needs. We will also discuss whether it's okay to leave things on top of your fridge at home and address how you can prolong the refrigerator's life expectancy. So continue reading!
How Much Ventilation Does A Refrigerator Need?
Refrigerators need at least two to three inches of space to ventilate properly. This spacing is especially critical for older models since restricted airflow can cause them to fail to run efficiently.
You have a little more leeway with newer models. But while it can be tempting to squeeze your fridge into a small space in your home, make sure you leave a clearance of about two inches on all sides.
Otherwise, it will be difficult for your fridge to keep running efficiently at the set temperature.
See this refrigerator on Amazon.
Why Does A Refrigerator Need Ventilation?
Insufficient ventilation can restrict your refrigerator's airflow. Consequently, inadequate cool air circulation can cause the fridge components to overheat. As a result, the refrigerator may fail prematurely.
Insufficient ventilation also increases the refrigerator's energy consumption since as the fridge's components overheat, it works harder to keep your food cool. The energy inefficiency causes your electricity bill to spike.
When fridges had their cooling units at the back, airflow restriction wasn't a problem because the coils could get hot, prompting many homeowners to keep them away from the walls.
However, this is no longer the case. As such, many people neglect to give their fridges enough room to breathe.
Check out this mini refrigerator on Amazon.
Can I Place Things On Top Of The Refrigerator?
Many people often leave things on top of the fridge. That could range from books to a basket of fruits, cereal boxes, and many more. However, it would be best if you did not store things in the refrigerator.
For one, it can interfere with the ventilation of the fridge. While it may not be immediately apparent, this can lead to problems for your fridge down the line.
Also, leaving things on top of the fridge makes your kitchen accident-prone. The items you store on top of the refrigerator, like medicine bottles, books, and other objects, can fall on anyone who tries to open the fridge.
Lastly, the heat from the fridge can directly affect the quality of perishable goods, such as wafers, cookies, and cereal, stored on its top. And in some extreme cases, it can even start a fire.
How Can I Extend The Lifespan Of My Refrigerator?
While proper ventilation helps to prolong the refrigerator's lifespan, there are other measures you can take to help keep your fridge in optimal working condition for a long time:
Proper Maintenance
Proper maintenance will contribute towards keeping your fridge's components in good working condition. Doing this allows you to keep your refrigerator running for fourteen to seventeen years before needing replacement.
Regularly check components, like the coils and hose, for signs of wear. You can call in a professional to help you assess the condition of the refrigerator.
They can also help you repair and replace defective components if you're not confident or don't have the technical knowledge to do so.
Keep It Away From Sources Of Heat
Direct sunlight or heat from a stove is detrimental to a fridge's lifespan. Therefore, ensure that you pick a suitable spot for the refrigerator, away from any heat sources.
If you put the refrigerator near heat sources, the compressor will work harder than usual to keep the fridge cool and running at its set temperature.
This may eventually lead to compressor failure, necessitating costly repairs or buying a new fridge.
Clean Regularly
Dust and dirt can quickly build up around the fridge via its ventilation clearance.
Letting the dirt accumulate directly impacts the fridge's cooling system and causes it to slow down and work inefficiently.
It's essential to clean the fridge at least once every three to four months. Cleaning keeps the refrigerator smelling fresh and looking clean and dramatically helps with the fridge's airflow.
Avoid Putting Too Much Inside
Overstocking your refrigerator can impede its air circulation, preventing it from keeping a steady, cool temperature inside.
Furthermore, the fridge shelves can only hold so much weight. So, overloading the shelves can cause them to fall, resulting in accidents or other damage inside the fridge.
Check the refrigerator's capacity in its user manual. Manufacturers always state how much food you can store in their refrigerator models.
Adjust The Temperature
While it may be tempting to set the fridge to the lowest temperature to keep everything inside cool, it's not advisable. That's because it forces the refrigerator to work harder to maintain that temperature.
To prevent overworking the fridge's motor, setting the temperature of your fridge at around three to four degrees Celsius is ideal. This prevents wear and tear from building up while preventing heavy electricity consumption.
Also, avoid keeping the fridge door open for long periods. When the cool air inside the fridge escapes, the motor works harder to maintain the set temperature. So, the motor wears out faster.
Seal Up Any Gaps
Gaps enable cool air to leak out of your fridge, thus overworking the refrigerator's components to maintain the set temperatures.
To prevent this, make sure that there aren't any holes in the rubber guards of the fridge door. And, make sure to close the fridge always when not in use.
How Much Does A New Refrigerator Cost?
On average, refrigerators cost between $1,000 to $3,000. For mini-fridges, the price ranges between $50 and $500. The size, brand, and refrigerator's features influence its price.
So, you'll find some fridges that cost up to $15000 in the market. High-end refrigerators often have additional features such as ice makers, water dispensers, automatic sensors, and touchscreen modes, among other features.
Is It Worth Getting A Mini Fridge?
If you don't have the budget to purchase a large refrigerator or lack the space for one, then it is worth considering a mini fridge.
Mini fridges offer all the basic qualities you want from a regular fridge in a more compact form. Moreover, they're affordable and can fit in almost any space.
If you move around a lot, owning a mini fridge is reasonable.
Also, if you live alone, you can save on your electricity bills by using a mini fridge - you don't need much space to store your food. And mini-fridges are already famous for their energy-saving qualities.
You can also use mini-fridges alongside a regular refrigerator. It can offer additional storage space for your drinks or freeze certain foods.
To Wrap Up
Typically, refrigerators need at least two to three inches of space around them to ventilate properly. And in the case of older refrigerator models, this is imperative because its cooling coils are at the back.
Modern refrigerators have cooling coils underneath them. As such, they can fit in tighter spaces better, although you still need to leave at least two inches of space all around it to ensure it's running at maximum efficiency.
Did this article help you find what you were looking for? If so, consider checking the links below and giving them a read. They'll provide you with more information concerning refrigerators: