Winter brings colder temperatures, and that means your refrigerator needs a little attention to stay reliable. Whether your unit is inside the home or working hard in the garage, these steps help prevent surprise breakdowns and keep your food safe.
Fridges Inside the Home
Check your door seals
A loose seal forces the fridge to work harder. Close a sheet of paper in the door and pull. If it slides out easily, the gasket needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Clean your condenser coils
Unplug the fridge. Use a vacuum or coil brush to clear dust and pet hair from the back or bottom. Clean coils help the fridge run more efficiently.
Set the right temperatures
Keep the refrigerator at 37 to 40 degrees and the freezer at 0 degrees. Cold weather outside does not replace proper temperature control inside.
Do not overcrowd the shelves
Packed shelves block airflow. Leave space between items so cold air can circulate.
Check your water line
If you have an ice maker or water dispenser, make sure the water line behind the fridge is not bent or pressed too tightly against the wall.
Garage Fridges
Garage fridges work in tougher conditions. Cold temperatures, moisture, and drafts can affect performance.
Monitor the garage temperature
Most refrigerators work best when the room stays above 40 degrees. If your garage drops below that, the fridge may stop cooling.
Stabilize the area
Use a small space heater, insulation, or a thermal barrier to keep temperatures more consistent around the appliance.
Keep it away from the garage door
Cold drafts create uneven cooling. Place the fridge on an inside wall if possible.
Watch for frost buildup
If the freezer section frosts quickly, the thermostat may be reacting to cold air in the garage. A manual defrost can reset things.
Use a dedicated outlet
Power tools, heaters, and large items can overload shared circuits. A steady power source helps protect the compressor.
General Winter Tune-Up Tips
Level the fridge
A level fridge lets the doors close correctly and keeps the compressor from overworking.
Pay attention to new sounds
Clicking, humming, or chatter noises can signal stress. Early attention prevents bigger problems.
Replace your water filter every six months
It keeps your water clean and protects the internal parts of the appliance.
A Final Word From The Plug
Winter is the season when refrigerators fail the most, but simple steps keep yours running strong. These quick checks take a few minutes and can save you money, energy, and frustration.
If you ever need parts, replacement options, or expert guidance, The Plug Appliances is here to help you stay powered through every season.