Summer's coming, and as a hot climate resident you know that means it's going to be hot and humid. While you may be used to the steamy climate, protecting your appliances from the extreme heat and damaging power surges might be more of a challenge than you think. To keep your most-valuable equipment running smoothly year-round, take a look at these important tips:
Help Your Refrigerator and Freezer Keep Their Cool
With some temperatures reaching well over 100-degrees during the summer months, your fridge and freezer have to run longer and more often to keep your food cold and fresh. Adjusting the temperature setting will only make your appliance work harder and possibly break down. Try these simple things to avoid calling the repair service:
- Keep the door closed. Excessive opening will allow more hot air inside the refrigerator or freezer. The condenser's job is to reduce humidity inside and cool the air. Every time the door is opened, the unit has to work harder to counteract the hot temperature change.
- Increase air circulation. Make sure there's plenty of space around your refrigerator. When it's pushed too tight against the wall or in an area without proper ventilation, the heat from the condenser can't be dispersed properly.
- Clean it inside and out. It's time to do an overhaul. Throw out those science experiments growing in the back of the fridge and the freezer-burned steaks that have been there forever. Vacuum the spider webs and excess dust around the coils on the back and under the unit. Air will be able to circulate in and around the fridge so it can run more efficiently.
- Maintain seals and gaskets. Air leaks from worn or damaged door seals or gaskets can put a heavy strain on the condenser and shorten its life. Replace as needed.
- Store leftovers properly. Avoid open containers that allow moisture to escape into the fridge. Always use airtight containers or cover food with plastic wrap.
- Space out restocking. Try to put room temperature items in a little at a time. When you add too many things at once, your fridge will have to run for hours to cool it all down.
- Watch for ice build-up. Your freezer area will automatically defrost but occasionally a tube will get blocked or ice will collect inside. A manual cleaning once a year where you turn off the fridge for 24 hours will help eliminate any problems.
- Turn off the power saver. When it's hot and humid, this feature will cause condensation to build up around the door gasket and grow mildew.
- Find the ideal location. Make sure your refrigerator is in a cool space. If you keep an extra fridge in a garage or outside area, it must have proper ventilation and out of direct sunlight to avoid being overworked.
Other Large Appliances are Vulnerable Too
Washing machines, dryers, ovens and microwaves can all be affected by Houston's extreme heat and humidity. Excess moisture can damage electronic parts, cause rust, mold and mildew. Keep washer and dryer doors propped open when not in use to eliminate any condensation build-up. Wipe up spills in ovens and microwaves to stop bacteria growth on hot, steamy days.
Electrical storms can pop up around Houston all summer long causing power outages that can damage your appliances. Brownouts can also cause problems, so when possible, unplug your appliances during these situations to protect them from power surges when the electricity comes back on.
Protect Your Air Conditioner so it Can Protect You
While your air conditioning unit is made to work in high temperatures, there are some things you can do to keep the system operating at peak efficiency, keep you cool and save money on your energy bills.
- Use a programmable thermostat. This will allow you to use a higher setting during the day when you're not home and cool your home down by the time you arrive.
- Replace air filters. Changing them every 30 days will keep reduce blockages and keep the air flowing properly.
- Keep dirt and debris away from the outdoor coil. Turn off the power at the breaker and hose down the coil with medium water pressure. Allow to dry before restoring power.
- Allow for space around the compressor. Keep at least 12-inches of open space around the compressor to provide proper airflow. Don't put fences, plants or garden flowerbeds too close or you'll reduce efficiency and cause system failure.
Puls Will Help You Keep Your Cool Even During Hot Summer Months
Even if you've done everything right, sometimes appliance problems occur. Puls is prepared to take care of your service issues with a team of skilled technicians. We can troubleshoot, diagnose and repair all makes and models of refrigerators, washers, dryers, ovens and A/C systems in and around the greater Houston area and Dallas Area.
With easy, online booking, our specialist will arrive at a time that's convenient for you. Same-day appointments are even available. Our 90-day guarantee on parts and labor will provide peace of mind so you know your appliance will be fixed right.
Keep your appliances running smoothly, book a time with a certified Puls technician today, and you'll keep your cool no matter how hot it gets.
