It’s the start of Spring, and with the weather soon to be improving, we must ensure our cooling kitchen appliances are in optimal condition.

Come the warmer months, we rely heavily on our kitchen cooling appliances to ensure the warmer weather doesn’t affect the quality and safety of our food. But how often are you really checking the productivity of your fridge freezer unit, which combines both fridge and freezer functions? The cooling process in a refrigerator begins in the freezer, which acts as the ‘engine’ of the unit. Air is shared between the freezer and fridge compartments through internal vents, aided by an evaporator fan, and evaporator coils are located behind the freezer wall to absorb heat and create cold air. Jammed vents, especially those located on the back wall, loose seals, high-temperature gauges, or issues in the freezer compartment, such as ice buildup or broken components, could all lead to poor air ventilation, resulting in spoiled food. To maintain proper airflow, it’s helpful to use an old toothbrush to clean air vents inside the fridge and remove any debris or buildup.

If you’re spotting any of these signs with your fridge freezer unit, then it could be that your appliance isn’t working as it should. A gentle hum from your fridge freezer is normal, but loud or unusual noises may indicate a problem.

 7-Signs Your Freezer Isn't Running Efficiently

Food Going Off Quickly

Food spoiling or thawing quickly is a clear indicator that your fridge freezer is struggling to keep to an optimal temperature. Proper storage of food and other items is essential to maintain freshness and prevent waste. Fridges are typically set between 3°C and 5°C (37°F–41°F) for short-term storage of fresh items, ensuring that everything you store remains safe and accessible. This could be happening for several reasons, including;

• The thermostat is not working as it should

• Condenser coils need to be cleaned - these are easy to clean once you know how to, but if in doubt, we do recommend that you call in our repairs team.

• The motor is working overtime as the condenser coils are running too hot (likely for reasons mentioned above)

So before your next weekly shop, check that your fridge-freezer is working as it should to avoid spending additional money on groceries and other items that will spoil quickly.

The Fridge is Too Hot

If you’re finding your appliance is ‘too hot’, it will more than likely mean that the motor fan isn’t doing its job. Replacing it is an option, but if the cost of the part and repair is too much, sometimes buying a new fridge-freezer may be a wiser option in the long run. However, re-gassing or repairing minor faults can often be a more cost-effective solution than replacing the entire unit. When deciding whether to repair or replace your fridge freezer, consider its age and the nature of the fault; minor issues may be worth repairing, while major faults like a broken compressor often warrant replacement.

If this is the case, you can speak with our expert team who can advise you on the best way to repair, or check out our top kitchen fridge freezer appliances below.

Or Too Cold

A heavy layer of ice at the back wall of your fridge or a buildup of ice in your freezer could suggest your fridge is not at its ideal temperature. Ice often forms on the interior wall, especially if air vents are blocked or the door seal is faulty. Sometimes, this can easily be fixed with a new door seal or by repairing the temperature controls, but if not, this could be a sign that it’s time for an upgrade.

Frost-free fridge freezers prevent ice build-up and eliminate the need for manual defrosting, making maintenance much easier and more convenient.

To confirm your appliance is at the correct temperature, use an external thermometer; your fridge should be set to between 3°C and 5°C, and your freezer should be -18°C. Freezers are set to approximately -18°C (0°F) to stop microbial growth by turning the water in food into ice.

Usual Noises

Your fridge freezer might have a gentle hum, but it shouldn’t be knocking, banging or clattering. If the noise gets louder or more frequent, or the humming stops and starts, it could be that the motor shaft or compressor flywheel is loose. It could also mean that the compressor, condenser fan or condenser coil needs repairing. Always make sure the appliance is switched off before investigating or attempting to fix any unusual noises.

No Hum, No Light.

You’re probably more than used to the gentle hum of your refrigerator, but what if it stops? If the hum goes and the light stays on, it could signal trouble in the form of a broken compressor.

You can try fixing it by:

• Turning the thermostat to its coldest setting to see if you can jump-start it back to life

• Defrosting the fridge freezer

• Try turning it off for 12 hours and then restarting it
  - best to make sure the appliance is empty to avoid food turning bad. However, your fridge freezer is designed to keep food safe in the event of a power outage for a set amount of time, so providing the door remains tightly sealed for the duration of the reset,  most of your fridge freezer produce should be ok.

 Bills are WAY more than expected.

This, unfortunately, could just be down to the increase in the ‘cost of living,’ however, you may not realise your freezer has a problem until you review your latest electricity bill. If this has shot up drastically, double-check your refrigeration appliances.  A spike in bills could mean your fridge freezer is having to work far harder than it’s supposed to to keep your food at an optimal safe temperature.

Excess Water & Puddles.

Puddles could be a sign that your fridge freezer is on its way out, but there could be a simpler solution.  So, before you rush out to buy a new appliance, check the following:

• Is the door shutting properly? If the existing door seal is worn, you may just need a new seal, rather than a whole new appliance

• Is the drip pan broken? Check this by removing it and pouring in water to see if it runs back out again

• Are the hoses from the fridge to the drip pan loose? These just need tightening or replacing.

Door and Seal Issues

One of the most common reasons a fridge or freezer struggles to keep cool is a problem with the door or its seal. If the door doesn’t close tightly or the seal is damaged, warm air can sneak inside every time you open or close the appliance. This warm air forces your fridge or freezer to work overtime to maintain the correct temperature, which not only puts extra strain on the appliance but also increases your energy bills.

To check if your door seal is working properly, close the door on a piece of paper and try to pull it out. If it slides out easily, the seal may need replacing. Also, look for any visible cracks or gaps in the seal. Keeping the door and seal clean from crumbs or debris will help maintain a tight fit and prevent warm air from entering. Addressing these issues promptly will help your appliance stay energy efficient and keep your food safe and fresh.

 Kitchen Appliance Spares & Repairs

Where can you get the parts? We’ll be able to supply all the replacement parts you need for most fridge-freezers.- Our spares and repair team can help.

However, sometimes our appliances fail and cannot be repaired, and that’s when we’d consider upgrading. With hundreds of cooling appliances to choose from, including free-standing, undercounter, chest, and combination fridge-freezers, take a look at some of our best picks below -

 Our Top 3  Fridge Freezer Recommendations

Hotpoint Fridge Freezer (White) HMCB 70301

This Hotpoint Fridge Freezer is super stylish and efficient. It features clever technology, such as ActiveFresh™, that constantly monitors the temperature inside your fridge and freezer, ensuring your food stays at optimal temperature. Crispy salads and fresh vegetables stay fresh with the FreshZone™ crisper drawer, which is a humidity-controlled compartment designed to maintain optimal moisture for produce. The fridge also includes specialised compartments such as separate areas for fruits and vegetables, as well as convenient storage options like egg holders and wine racks. For added convenience, the fast freeze function rapidly cools groceries to preserve freshness. It features three clear-fronted drawers and comes complete with the option of reversing the door. The Hotpoint is adaptable to suit any kitchen layout.

Bosch Fridge Freezer (Grey) KGN27NLFAG

Cooling features include NoFrost™ technology, a fast freeze function for rapidly cooling groceries to lock in freshness, and FreshSense™ sensors that constantly monitor and control the ambient, fridge, and freezer temperatures. Some Bosch models also incorporate inverter technology for quieter, energy-efficient operation, and select models offer smart connectivity features for remote temperature monitoring and alerts via smartphone apps. Twin cooling systems may be present in higher-end models, using separate evaporators for the fridge and freezer to prevent odour transfer and maintain optimal humidity.

Bosch Fridge Freezer (White) KGN34NWEAG

Cooling features include - NoFrost™: so you’ll never have to defrost your fridge-freezer again, and SuperFreezing™: a fast freeze function that rapidly cools new groceries to preserve freshness and protect frozen food from defrosting. If you’re looking for added convenience, some Bosch fridge freezers also offer water and ice dispensers, with options for both plumbed models for unlimited water or non-plumbed models with an internal tank.

 Contact Us

If you find yourself in the market for a new kitchen cooling appliance, it might be time to get in contact with Joe Graham & Son Ltd.

We aim to make your purchasing experience as easy as possible, so whatever advice you need from us, our expert team is on hand to help.

Our staff are fully trained to advise on which product is best for your needs, and we can also deliver and install your fridge freezer from as little as £45.

Contact Us

Conclusion

Keeping your fridge and freezer in top condition is essential for maintaining a healthy kitchen, reducing food waste, and saving on energy costs. Regular checks and simple maintenance, like cleaning condenser coils, inspecting door seals, and ensuring proper airflow, can help you spot issues early and keep your appliance running smoothly. If you do encounter problems that you can’t fix yourself, don’t hesitate to reach out to the experts at Joe Graham & Son Ltd. Our knowledgeable team is here to help with repairs, spare parts, and advice on choosing the right new fridge or freezer for your home.

With our local service, competitive pricing, and reliable after-sales support, you can trust us to make your next appliance purchase or repair as easy and stress-free as possible. Whether you’re looking for a new American-style fridge freezer, need a quick fix, or just want to keep your current appliance running efficiently, we’re here to help you keep your kitchen cool and your food fresh all year round.

FAQs

What are the benefits of choosing freestanding models over integrated fridge freezers?

Freestanding models offer greater flexibility in terms of placement and come in a wider range of sizes and colours. They are easier to move and install, making them ideal for those who may want to rearrange their kitchen or move home. Additionally, freestanding fridge freezers often provide a seamless look with various finishes to complement your kitchen décor.

How can I improve the energy efficiency of my fridge freezer?

To enhance energy efficiency, regularly clean the condenser coils to prevent overheating and ensure good ventilation around the appliance. Avoid blocking air vents inside the fridge and freezer compartments to maintain proper cool air circulation. Also, check door seals for damage to prevent warm air from entering, which can increase running costs.

What should I do if I notice cooling issues or a faulty compressor in my fridge freezer?

Cooling issues or a faulty compressor can lead to food spoilage and higher energy bills. Minor problems like blocked vents or thermostat faults may be repaired, but if the compressor is faulty, it is often more cost-effective to replace the appliance. Right to Repair laws ensure spare parts are available for at least 10 years, so consider professional repair before replacement.

How do I maintain fresh produce in my fridge freezer?

Use humidity-controlled drawers designed to maintain optimal moisture levels for fruits and vegetables, helping to keep fresh produce crisp longer. Avoid overcrowding shelves and ensure cool air flows freely around stored items. Setting the fridge temperature between 3°C and 5°C also helps preserve freshness.

Can a fridge freezer be installed in a garage or outbuilding?

Some fridge freezers are suitable for garage installation, but it is important to check the manufacturer’s specifications. Extreme temperatures in garages can affect appliance performance and lifespan. Choosing a model designed for such environments or opting for additional insulation can help maintain optimal cooling and energy efficiency.