Refrigerator FAQ

Answers to the Most Frequently Asked Questions


In addition to all the Refrigerator FAQ (frequently asked questions) you might have with regard to the purchase of a new refrigerator, you might also have a desire to know a few basics. So, here are a few of the most common questions we get.


Refrigerator FAQ

(Click on any question below to skip directly to that answer.)

1) How does a refrigerator work?


2) What is a refrigerator's ideal temperature?


3) What does the fan in a fridge accomplish?


4) Why does frost form in a refrigerator?


5) How does a frost-free refrigerator work?


6) How do I get rid of an odor in my refrigerator?


7) What does painting the back of a refrigerator black do?


8) Can I recycle my old refrigerator?


9) How do I go about Saving Food in a Power Outage?


10) Why do refrigerators make noise?




1. How does a refrigerator work?

A refrigerator essentially works because of the properties of compressed gas. The compressor compresses the refrigerant gas which raises the pressure of the chemical refrigerant. It also raises the temperature. The heat exchanging coil that sits on the outside the refrigerator the allows the refrigerant to dissipate this excess heat caused by the pressurization which is why you feel heat coming from from the vent.

As the refrigerant cools, it condenses into a liquid. The liquid then flows into an expansion valve which allows it to move from high pressure to low pressure zone. This process forces it to expand and evaporate and in the same way that sweat keeps us cool in the summers, as the refrigerant evaporates, it absorbs heat which makes it cold.

There are inside the refrigerator which allow the refrigerant to absorb heat. This absorption process makes the inside of the refrigerator very cold. This cycle will repeat tima and time again until the desired temperature (set by the user) is reached.


2. What is a refrigerator's ideal temperature?

The answer to this Refrigerator FAQ is that a refrigerator's purpose is to keep certain foods fresh by keeping them cold. A refrigerator extends the life of meats, dairy and produce for a few days or weeks. A refrigerator should be cold but not too cold or else it could potentially freeze the contents. The ideal temperature for most residential use refrigerators is between 35 to 38 degrees Fahrenheit.

(Here's some help for Why Refrigerator Is Not Cooling)


3. What does the fan in a fridge accomplish?

Most refrigerators today have 2 fans. There is one located under the refrigerator which helps to cool the compressor. It also forces air through the exterior refrigerator coils. The second fan is on the inside of the refrigerator. It's purpose is force air to move around the coils which improves the cooling efficiency. Should you not have a frost free refrigerator, you'll find that this fan is also helpful with the defrosting process.


4. Why does frost form in a refrigerator?

This is a very common refrigerator FAQ because so many of us have this problem. The reason why it happens is due to water vapor hitting cold coils and then frost forms. Just like the steam from your breath on a cold window, the water vapor condenses and turns into water. As the water condenses onto the coils, it freezes and thus forms a layer of frost.


5. How does a frost-free refrigerator work?

With the exception of a number of compact refrigerator models, most of today's refrigerator models are frost-free. There are essentially three basic parts:

  • The Timer

  • The Temperature Sensor

  • The Heating Coil

A timer is set to turn on the heating coil at varying intervals. The heating coil is wrapped among the freezer coils and as it turns on, it melts the ice off the freezer coils. As the ice is removed, the temperature sensor will sense that the temperature has risen above 32 degrees Fahrenheit. At that point it will send out a signal which turns off the heater.


6. How do I get rid of an odor in my refrigerator?

You might find that there are times where no matter how many boxes of baking soda you add to your refrigerator, there's nothing you can do to remove an unpleasant odor. The best way answer this refrigerator FAQ for you to follow this step by step process:

  • Start by removing all items from the refrigerator. You may want to be sure to remove the items from the freezer as well as something in there might also be a culprit.

  • Throw away any spoiled foods. This might seem like a given, but take a close look at the food in the fridge and be sure that it hasn't gone bad. This applies to more than just a few bags of fruits and veggies. Open the jars, bottles, leftovers and all drawers. You might be surprised what you find.

  • Clean the shelving. Many refrigerators have spill guard shelves which allow you to take them out and wash them in the sink. Also remove any other parts that are meant to be removed. Hand wash these items with hot soapy water. Do not place them in the dishwasher as many of these parts are not meant to be exposed to great amounts of heat and could melt or warp.

  • Wash the door gasket with hot soapy water. Use a mild detergent (dish soap) and be sure you rinse the area well once you're done because any leftover soap residue could keep the door from closing properly.

  • Be sure to wash the interior walls and the door liner. Using a clean sponge and a solution of 2-4 teaspoonfuls of baking soda mixed with 1 quart of hot water, clean the entire interior of the refrigerator including the exteriors of the vent and the light. Wipe dry after you're finished and leave the door open for a bit to air dry.

  • For stubborn odors, try spreading a box of baking soda out on a couple of cookie sheets and place them on the top and bottom shelves of the fridge. This often will help to absorb any additional odors.

If you've tried everything listed above and still find that the odors are still present, then unfortunatley, it may have penetrated its way into the insulation. Only a skilled professional can replace the insulation, so you may need to contact a repairman to get an estimate. (Though hopefully the answer to this refrigerator FAQ will help prevent your having to call in for help.)


7. Why is the back of a refrigerator painted black?

If you've ever stood out in the hot sun wearing a black shirt, you know that black is excellent at absorbing heat. But because it works well as a heat radiator as well it is the perfect color for all external refrigeration coils.


8. Can I recycle my old refrigerator?


This is the most common Green Refrigerator FAQ we get asked and the answer is yes, you can recycle your old refrigerator! Most refrigerators are up to 95% recyclable. You can recycle everything from the glass and plastic shelving to the rubber gaskets on the door. For more information on recycling programs in your area that might take your old fridge off your hands, go to: www.GreenerChoices.org


Get Your Question Answered Here...

Not able to find the answer on our site? Then place your question here to find out what you need to know.

What Other Visitors Have Responded

Click below to see the questions and answers we've gotten from other visitors...

Why is there hot air coming out from behind my refrigerator? 
When I come into my apartment it feels like an oven. The refrigerator is right near the front door and I've noticed hot air coming out. I placed 2 different …

Is it safe to set a full size refrigerator on carpet? 
I have a full size refrigerator with top freezer. Is it safe to run it setting on a carpeted floor, if not what can I put under it? The unit is brand …

What's a good 18 cu.ft. outdoor refrigerator - freezer? 
Can you give me some info on the brands that are available?

Which stainless steel refrigerator shows the least fingerprints? 
I am looking to buy a stainless steel refrigerator but I am quite concerned with the problem of fingerprints . Everywhere I turn all I hear about is …

Is 50Hz cycle compatible with 60Hz cycle? 
I was wondering if I could buy a refrigerator from the United States to use in Jamaica. Here in Jamaica we have a 50 hertz cycle but in the United States …

Is it Better to Leave My Fridge Plugged in for Storage? 
I know this sounds a energy unconscious but here's what I'm asking: I'm storing my fridge in my container and wanted to know if its better to leave …

Can a Fridge Stay in an Unheated Garage? 
I hope someone can help me answer my question. I don't want to buy a refrigerator and end up having to throw it out in a year because it doesn't work. …

What do you think about the new compact refrigerators? 
I have been researching to purchase a compact refrigerator for my daughter to take to college. Have discovered the new style that has a separate …

How Much Extra Space Does a Refrigerator Need for Air Circulation? 
I'm not sure how much extra space I need for around my fridge for air circulation and proper venting . I have an opening of 33" and I am looking at …

Why Are All Refrigerators Vertical? 
Why are all fridges vertical? Can't they be horizontal and installed waist high for better access freezer on left 1 door and on right 2 doors for liquids …

My Garage Fridge Needs Heat in the Winter 
I have a garage refrigerator and it gets too cold in the winter to run right. Is there some way to warm under the refrigerator during the winter? I just …

How do I clean my refrigerators coils? 
How do I clean my Kenmore bottom freezer refrigerator's (model 795.7830/7831) coils? Q. I would like to vacuum coils. Removed grille base at bottom …

Need a Compact Freezer... 
I'm looking for a compact freezer the size of a compact fridge,(1.2 cubic ft?). Does someone make this? Click here for more on Compact Freezers …

Please Help Me Find The Right Size Fridge 
We are renovating our kitchen and have a designated space for our fridge which has a height limit of 63.5". Can someone please help me find a fridge …

Can a refrigerator be painted? 
Can a refrigerator be painted or otherwise treated to smooth out the coloring or change the color? I want to paint my refrigerator but I don't know …

Are Any Sensor Operated Through-the-Door Water and Ice Dispensers? 
Are any through-the-door water and ice dispensers that are sensor operated? I ask because I've heard that physical contact spreads germs. I'm looking …

What is the shallowest refrigerator on the market? 
I am looking for a refridgerator that is not a deep as the regular. What is the shallowest refridgerator? I need a shallow fridge due the fact that …

Is There a Difference of Performance Between R12 and R22 Refrigerants? 
Can someone tell me the difference in performance using different refrigerants? The two refrigerants in question are R12 and R22.

Why is there heat coming from front bottom of our refrigerator? 
Is it unsafe to have heat coming from front bottom of refrigerator ? If not, what's causing it?

Who Makes a French Door Bottom Freezer Shorter Than 69"? 
Click here to see our TOP 5 Favorite Refrigerators That Are Less Than 69" Tall. Who Makes a French Door Bottom Freezer Shorter Than 69"? …

What is the green fluid leaking out of my refrigerator? 
I found a green fluid leaking out of my refrigerator when I was cleaning behind it. The green stains on the floor and the tube-like shape on the fridge …

Is 8 Years in a Garage too Long for a Fridge? 
Can you use a refrigerator if it has been sitting in a garage for 8 years? It was three years old before we put it in the garage and has been sitting there …

Refrigerator Interior Insulation 
My refrigerator's interior insulation is exposed due to shelf rest being knocked in transit. The corner is broken inside showing a bit of the interior …

Click here to write your own.

Overwhelmed and Don't Know What Refrigerator I Need 
I am overwhelmed and don't know what refrigerator I need. Please help. I need to limit the universe to, say, 5 fridges. We know we want: a …

Please Help Me Find The Right Fridge... 
I work in an office of about 50 people. There was a pass-through frig with front and back access doors in the kitchen when we moved in. The frig …

Should I Turn Off My Fridge to Save Energy? 
Should I turn off my fridge to save energy? Or does it have to be on all of the time?

Features to Look For... 
What are the things which we should keep in mind while buying a refrigerator and which features should we look for?

Refrigerator Compressor 
We are wondering if a dual refrigerator compressor is required for our needs. Our Co-op is looking for a refridge that will perform well in an unheated …

French Door Refrigerator with a Black Finish 
I am looking for a french door style , water/ice in the door, black with a textured front finish. Is there such a refrigerator made? I don't like fingerprints! …

What is Monochromatic Stainless Steel... 
What is the difference between stainless steel refrigerators and monochromatic stainless steel refrigerators ? I am purchasing a refrigerator at …

Refrigerator w/ Top Freezer Two Seperate Controls 
What setting should my refrigerator be? What setting should my freezer be? Both range from One to Seven I just cleaned the floor coils because neither …

Mini-Fridge Under the Counter? 
Is it possible to place a mini-fridge under a countertop , or do you really need to spend a lot of extra money to buy a specifically designed undercounter …

Why Does Closing My Refrigerator Door Cause The Freezer Door to Open on My Frigidare Top Freezer Refrigerator (Model #LGUI1849L)? 
Can anyone tell me why my brand new, automatic defrost, top mounted freezer Frigidaire refrigerator (Model #LGUI1849L) opens the top freezer door when …

Can a refrigerator's height be lowered? 
Can I lower the height of my fridge? The opening I have is 68" and the frig is 68 1/2". Is it possible?

Can really bad mould be cleaned from a fridge? Not rated yet
Question : I'm moving to a new house in two days. While moving stuff into it yesterday, I opened the fridge and freezer and was hit with an almighty …

How can I keep my fridge from freezing in sub zero temps? Not rated yet
Question : I have a fridge in my unheated garage and the refridgerated section is freezing. It's been below -15C (5F) outside for a few days, but the …

Refrigerator not getting cold enough Not rated yet
How do I get my refrigerator between 2 and 8 degrees Fahrenheit? I need to keep my vaccines at a temperature low enough to stay useful which is between …

Why is the inside of my the refrigerator hot? Not rated yet
What does it mean if the inside if the refrigerator becomes hot? I have a mini-fridge and the inside has become warm instead of cold, in fact so warm …

Problems with my 10 year old refrigerator Not rated yet
My refrigerator is 10 years old and it doesn't seem to be working as well as it used to be. Sometimes it is warm to the touch but only on the right …

Can You Leave a New Refrigerator For a While Without Turning It On? Not rated yet
I just received new small refrigerator and I don't need to use it until next summer. My question really is how long can I keep it without turning it on? …

Condensation on Undercounter Refrigerators Not rated yet
I am having a problems with my refrigerator where it ends up with condensation on it and it is very frustrating. What causes condensation on the front …

Does the fridge work as efficiently on very hot days? Not rated yet
I live in El Paso, Texas and I've noticed that when it's really hot, I mean like over 100 degrees, my fridge seems to work less efficiently. Is this …

Will Paper Towels Affect the temperature? Not rated yet
Alright so I need some help with a question here. My wife keeps our refrigerator very clean and when she's done she leaves paper towels on the shelves. …

Can you use a refrigerator in an unheated/uncooled ventilated storage building in the Midwest? Not rated yet
Our top freezer Frigidaire is less than 2 yrs old and it won't freeze in the winter and now the refrigerator will only drop down to 50 degrees. We're in …

What's the best way to prevent the frig from running all the time in a hot garage? Not rated yet
The garage is insulated on the sides. The garage gets shade most of the day from a large tree. Would an air conditioner in the window work? Or is …

How do you clean & sanitize the water & ice lines to the outside door? Not rated yet
Side by side freezer-refrig has been sitting in foreclosed house. How do I clean the mold from the water lines for water and ice on the outside door? …

Looking for a French Door Refrigerator without Gallon Sized Door Bins Not rated yet
I have been looking for a new French door refrigerator that doesn't have the gallon bins in the door, takes up too much shelf space. Is there such …

Which refrigerators are made in the USA?  Not rated yet
I know the Viking company manufactures refrigerators in the USA. Are there others? Someone told me Sub Zero is also USA, but I'm not sure.

Click here to write your own.

Help: Did I Break My Fridge? Not rated yet
Can anyone tell me if I just broke my fridge? I moved my fridge while it was on because it was making too much noise and then it turned off. Did i …

Can you leave refrigerator plugged in an unheated garage? Not rated yet
Can you leave a refrigerator plugged in an unheated garage? Our garage gets very cold in the winter. Below 32 degrees often. We're located in Michigan …

Can a heating coil in a frige brake from moving? Not rated yet
My landlord moved my new fridge in and the heating coil was broken it is possible it could have broke while he was moving it? Click here for more …

What Number Do I Set My Dorm Sized Frige at to Make Ice? Not rated yet
What setting do I put my dorm fridge at to make ice? It's a 28" x 17" dorm sized fridge with a small freezer inside. What number should I have it …

Can You Put a Refrigerator on Shag Carpet? Not rated yet
Can anyone tell me if it is OK to put a refrigerator on shag carpet? I am considering doing it but I don't want to kill the refrigerator or burn my house …

Why do I always have to replace the element in my refrigerator? Not rated yet
Why do I always have to replace the element in my refrigerator? Frost builds up in my freezer and the fridge doesn't get cold. I change the element …

My refrigerator is on but isn't cooling...please help! Not rated yet
My refrigerator coils get hot but it doesn't cool the food inside, what is the problem? The compressor works properly but inside the fridge is not cold …

How Do I Get Rid of the Scratches on My New Stainless Steel Refrigerator? Not rated yet
We just purchased a stainless steel refrigerator over the weekend and when I was cleaning it, I must have scratched it somehow. I now have surface …

Does CFC-free Mean it Doesn't Use Freon? Not rated yet
My refrigerator is labeled CFC-free. What does that mean? Does it still use freon?

How do I drain the freon from my refrigerator? Not rated yet
We are trying to turn in old refrigerators for cash but need to drain the freon out first. How do we go about doing this? Any help would be greatly …

Fan Stays On... Not rated yet
Should the upper fan on my refrigerator stay on all the time?

Click here to write your own.


New! Comments

Have something to say about what you just read? Leave a comment in the box below.

Recent Articles

  1. Is it safe to set a full size refrigerator on carpet?

    Jan 18, 24 05:18 PM

    I have a full size refrigerator with top freezer. Is it safe to run it setting on a carpeted floor, if not what can I put under it? The unit is brand

    Read More

  2. What's a good 18 cu.ft. outdoor refrigerator - freezer?

    Jan 18, 24 05:09 PM

    Can you give me some info on the brands that are available?

    Read More

  3. Why is there hot air coming out from behind my refrigerator?

    Jan 18, 24 05:04 PM

    When I come into my apartment it feels like an oven. The refrigerator is right near the front door and I've noticed hot air coming out. I placed 2 different

    Read More