Knowing how to defrost your manual defrost fridge freezer is an important skill to learn so that your appliance is always in excellent condition. If you're experiencing issues with your refrigeration appliance, the issue might not be a mechanical one and it just might need defrosting. This handy little guide will provide all the information you need when it comes to defrosting your fridge freezer.
WHY DEFROST YOUR FRIDGE FREEZER?
If your fridge freezer isn't a frost-free model, then this means that you have to defrost it occasionally. Due to the constant day to day use of your appliance, it can lead to frost forming. This process happens when warm air enters the freezer from outside, and the cold temperature in the freezer causes the moisture in the air to accumulate as frost on the floor and liner walls.
The frost formed can result in your fridge freezer working harder to keep a constant temperature in your appliance, resulting in inefficiency. Additionally, the build of ice can take up much need storage space and damage your food items taste and texture.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO DEFROST YOUR FRIDGE FREEZER?
Manual defrost fridge freezers come in many different designs, and defrosting will depend on the appliance's usage. We recommend that you read the manual of your machine before defrosting. However, a general rule of thumb is to defrost your fridge freezer at least once or twice a year or when you see a quarter of an inch of ice build-up on the walls.
When?
There are a few things to consider before you decide to defrost your fridge freezer. It would be best if you plan in advance to minimise the food waste by working through your stored food or finding a temporary freezer space. Once you've switched your appliance off, you should leave the doors open and allow 24 hours so that the freezer defrost thoroughly.
HOW TO DEFROST YOUR FRIDGE FREEZER
Items you'll need:
- Towels
- Bowl of hot water
- Sponge
- Storage for food items
Method
- Turn your appliance off and unplug and remove any contents and food.
- Put away your food items with chosen storage.
- Take shelves and drawers out and leave the doors open.
- Place towels around the bottom of your machine.
- Place the bowl of hot water on the bottom shelf and replace it every time it cools.
- Wait 24 hours for the ice to completely melt.
- When the ice has melted, you can now wipe down your fridge freezers interior with a sponge.
- Check that your door seal is in good condition to help stop ice building up in the future.
- Once you're pleased that your fridge freezer is clean and free from frost, you can now turn it back on.
HOW TO BUY THE BEST FRIDGE FREEZER
Whether you're looking to furnish a new home or replacing your broken appliance, at Kitchen Economy, we supply a wide range of freestanding, integrated and American-style fridge freezers from leading brands. To help you choose which fridge freezer to purchase, you can head over to our fridge freezer buying guide.
