Keeping the freezer clean and free of ice is essential to ensure the durability of the appliance and the safety of food. Still, many postpone this task, which may seem slow and laborious. Defrost the freezer at least once a year, or whenever there is significant ice accumulation, helps not only to preserve useful space but also to reduce energy consumption.
According to the idealistic portal, one of the most practical methods to accelerate the process is to use a hair dryer, directing the hot air to the zones with more ice. This technique can greatly reduce the time required for cleaning, avoiding long hours of waiting.
How to prepare the freezer to defrost
The first step is to turn off the freezer and remove all foods, trays and drawers, leaving the door open so that the ice begins to melt naturally. It is advisable to put towels on the floor around the equipment to absorb the water that drains. According to the same source, the use of rubber gloves makes the process safer and more hygienic.
When all the ice has melted, the interior walls should be cleaned with a damp cloth or sponge and then dry well with towels. Before turning on the equipment again, it is recommended to leave it off for a few hours to avoid excessive moisture.
Other methods to accelerate defrosting
Another effective method, it refers to the same source, consists of placing a pan of hot water inside the freezer, closing the door for a few minutes. Steam helps unleash the ice faster. It is also possible to resort to a plastic spatula to remove loose ice blocks.
However, metallic or pointed objects should not be used as they may damage the internal walls of the freezer. If any food defrosts during the process, it should not be frozen again to ensure food safety.
Because ice forms in the freezer
The accumulation of ice occurs mainly due to the frequent entry of hot and humid air, whenever the door is opened. This moisture condenses on the cold walls and freezes quickly. The malfunction of the automatic defrosting system, present in some modern models, can aggravate the problem.
It adds what to avoid freeing the freezer constantly and checking the state of the defrost system are measures that help prolong the interval between cleaning. Putting these recommendations into practice will allow time, energy, and better preserve food.
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