Common Fridge Freezers FAQs

Sometimes, choosing the right fridge freezer can seem like a tedious task. Especially when you have so many things to think about, it can feel never-ending.

If you are sitting wondering which fridge freezer is best, or if you simply have a few questions to ask before you take the plunge and purchase one, it can be tough to find the exact answers you want.

That's why here at Howard's Appliances, we have put together our fridge freezer FAQs to help give you all the information on some of our most commonly asked questions and make sure that you know all you need to. Read below to find out more, or call our team of experts on 01782 639 333.

What Temperature Should My Fridge Freezer Be?

It's vital that you keep your fridge freezer at the right temperature. So, ensure that the fridge is at a temperature of 4°C (40°F) or below. Your freezer should be at -18°C (0°F). It's also important that you check these temperatures regularly using a thermometer. If you do have to adjust the temperature of your fridge freezer, it will take around 24 hours for your fridge freezer to reach the new temperature.

How Do I Defrost My Fridge Freezer?

Defrosting your fridge freezer does seem like a boring task, no one enjoys it! What’s more, it can seem especially daunting if you have never done it before. Though it doesn’t have to be as difficult as you think. Simply;

• Turn your fridge freezer off.
• Remove all the frozen food and place it in cool bags to stay cool.
• Pour hot water into either a bowl or glasses and place it in the freezer.
• Then, place plenty of towels down below the freezer to collect the water from the thawing ice.

Though, some fridge freezer models are in fact frost free, which means they don’t need to be defrosted. So, it can be handy to check whether yours is, either by reading the manual or contacting the manufacturer’s helpline.

Can I Put My Fridge Freezer in My Garage?

If you are buying a fridge freezer to specifically go in your garage, make sure that it can run in cold environments, as some models will not work properly if the exterior temperature is too cold. This is because if the exterior is too cold, condensation can begin to form on the outside, causing damage to your fridge freezer.

To make sure that your fridge freezer can work in low temperatures, check the climate class which will suggest the lowest working temperature. This is commonly around 10°C - which isn’t suitable for garage storage, yet there are some models available out there designed specifically for lower temperatures.

Why is My Fridge Freezer Noisy?

If you have heard loud noises coming from your fridge freezer, then it could indicate that you have an issue with it. This could be a range of issues, including the defrost timer, condenser fan or the compressor. In most cases, a noisy refrigerator compressor or a noisy defrost timer will need to be replaced. Whereas, if the noise is being caused by the condenser fan, you can usually try cleaning away any dust or debris using a soft brush on the fan blades. Though, always remember to unplug your fridge freezer before you try and clean or repair it!

Should I Choose an Integrated Fridge Freezer or a Freestanding one?

Unfortunately there isn’t a set answer to this one! Each will have the same functionality, yet it is up to you to decide which is more practical for you and your family. Especially as the choice will depend on how much space you have and the rest of the layout of your kitchen.

If you have enough space, a freestanding unit can be an excellent choice as it will give further options to relocate and reposition your fridge freezer in the future.

Though, if you want a fridge freezer for a small kitchen then you’ll likely want to invest in an integrated under-counter model. This fitment is ideal if you don’t have much space in between your worktops as it will simply go beneath.

Whereas if you are looking to purchase a fridge freezer for your garage, then a freestanding unit will likely be the best option.

Why Isn’t My Fridge Freezer Cold?

If your fridge freezer isn’t cool any more this is a fairly integral problem and can be caused by a wide range of problems. Though all is not lost, as the most common problems are DIY-fixable and include;

• Incorrect temperature settings
• Dirty coils
• Blocked air vents
• Damaged door seals
• Incorrect fridge placement
• Faulty compressor

Check the above six points and you'll likely be able to find the fault yourself.

If you are looking for a fridge freezer, why not shop our wide range of fridge freezers today. With a wide range of big-name reputable brands available at  exceptional prices, you can be sure to find exactly what you’re looking for. Yet, if you need any further advice on the fridge freezers we sell and your question isn’t featured in our fridge freezer FAQ, be sure to get in touch with our team of friendly experts today on 01782 639 333.