When it comes to keeping food fresh and energy bills low, your fridge is one of the hardest-working appliances in the home. It runs 24/7, often for years without a second thought. But like any appliance, your fridge needs regular care to keep it performing at its best. At Selective Fridges, we know that preventive fridge maintenance not only extends the life of your appliance but also saves you money in the long run.
Why Preventive Maintenance Matters
Ignoring your fridge until it breaks down can cost you more than just the price of a repair. A poorly maintained fridge may use extra power, struggle to keep food cool, or fail when you least expect it. Regular servicing helps to spot small issues before they turn into expensive breakdowns, improves efficiency, and ensures your fridge lasts as long as possible. Considering the rising cost of electricity, this is a win for both your wallet and the environment.
Essential Maintenance Tasks for Homeowners
There are simple yet important tasks every homeowner can do to keep their fridge in top shape:
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Clean the condenser coils: Dust and grime build-up on the coils makes the motor work harder and increases energy use. Vacuum or brush them every six months.
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Check and replace door seals: If your fridge door doesn’t seal properly, cold air escapes, and the motor compensates by running overtime. Wipe seals clean regularly and replace them if they show cracks or looseness.
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Defrost when necessary: Frost build-up reduces efficiency. Many modern fridges have automatic defrost, but if yours doesn’t, defrost it when ice becomes thicker than 5mm.
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Clean the interior: Wipe down shelves, trays, and drawers weekly to prevent odours and mould. This also helps keep airflow clear so your fridge cools evenly.
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Check the thermostat: Ensure it’s set at the correct temperature (around 3–4°C for the fridge, and –18°C for the freezer) to avoid unnecessary strain and food spoilage.
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Listen for unusual noises: Strange hums, rattles, or clicking sounds could mean trouble is brewing.
When to Schedule Professional Servicing
While DIY care goes a long way, nothing replaces the benefits of a professional service. We recommend:
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Annual servicing: Have a qualified technician service your fridge once a year to check gas levels, inspect electrical components, and test cooling efficiency.
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Before summer: Perth’s hot climate means fridges work harder in summer. Scheduling a service in spring ensures it’s ready for the season.
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When camping or travelling: Don’t forget about your camping fridges or portable coolers. A quick check before a trip can prevent unpleasant surprises when you’re out in the bush.
How Preventive Servicing Saves Money
A well-maintained fridge uses less energy, often reducing power bills by up to 10–15%. It also avoids costly repairs, which can be hundreds of dollars more than the cost of preventive service. Most importantly, extending the life of your fridge delays the need for replacement—a major expense in any household. By acting early, you’re effectively insuring your appliance against failure and keeping your kitchen running smoothly.
Trust Selective Fridges for Mobile Service
The best part? Selective Fridges offers a mobile fridge service, meaning we come to you. Whether it’s your kitchen fridge or your camping unit, our qualified team provides door-to-door servicing across Perth. We’re authorised service agents for major brands, and if your fridge needs repair, we can often supply a loan unit so you’re never without cooling. With decades of experience, we’ve built a reputation for reliability, quick response, and guaranteed workmanship.
Looking after your fridge doesn’t need to be complicated. With a mix of simple homeowner tasks and professional servicing, you’ll enjoy fresher food, lower energy bills, and peace of mind knowing your fridge won’t let you down. Contact Selective Fridges today and get that peace of mind.
FAQs
How often should I clean my fridge coils?
At least every six months. More frequently if you have pets, as hair and dust can clog coils quickly.
When is the best time to service my fridge?
Once a year, ideally before Perth’s hot summer, when fridges work hardest.
Can poor fridge seals increase my energy bill?
Yes. Worn or cracked seals let cold air escape, forcing the motor to use more power.
What temperature should my fridge and freezer be set at?
Keep your fridge between 3–4°C and your freezer at –18°C for optimal performance.
Does Selective Fridges service portable or camping fridges?
Absolutely. We service and repair camping fridges to ensure they’re road-trip ready.
