Placing a sheet of paper on the door seal is a good test to know if it is time to change the seal and ensure that hot air does not enter the refrigerator.
With record temperatures sweeping across Europe, experts are encouraging families to carry out a simple maintenance check on your refrigeratorsusing just one sheet of A4 paper.
The recommendation comes at a time when millions of people are facing extreme heat, with around 94 million expected to face temperatures above 35°C, which puts further strain on refrigeration devices.
While hot flash guidance generally focuses on staying hydrated and protecting vulnerable people, appliance experts say Refrigerators also require extra attention during prolonged periods of intense heat. High outdoor temperatures force refrigerators to work harder to maintain safe indoor conditions, increasing energy consumption and potentially reducing the life of the appliance.
According to energy experts, refrigerators cool food removing heat from the inside through a compressor and a refrigeration system. During the summer, each time the door is opened, warm air rushes in faster than in the colder months, causing the compressor to turn on more frequently and run for longer periods of time. Older appliances, particularly those with worn or damaged door seals, are especially vulnerable to reduced efficiency.
To determine whether a refrigerator door is sealing properly, experts recommend a simple test using an A4 sheet of paper. The paper must be placed between the rubber door seal and the refrigerator before closing the door. When trying to pull the paper, there should be noticeable resistance. If it slides easily, the door’s rubber seal may no longer be creating an airtight seal and may need service or replacement.
A defective seal allows cold air to escape and hot air to enterforcing the compressor to run continuously. In addition to increasing household energy bills, this can make it difficult to keep food at safe storage temperatures, increasing the risk of it spoiling during periods of extreme heat, warns .
However, experts emphasize that replacing the rubber seal is not always necessary. In many cases, the accumulation of grease and dirt prevents the rubber from closing properly. THE cleaning the rubber seal and the refrigerator frame with warm water and a mild detergent can often restore the effectiveness of the seal. Some maintenance experts also recommend using a diluted white vinegar solution to remove stubborn residue.
If the rubber hardens over time, warm it gently with hot water or a hairdryer can help restore its flexibility and improve its grip on the door without causing damage.
