1. Improve efficiency, save money, and increase refrigerator’s lifespan: A refrigerator runs more efficiently with clean coils and tight seals.  At least once a year, use a condenser brush and clean the coils and cooling fan.  Vacuum the lint, pet hair, etc. under and around the fridge.  Use a little detergent with water and an old toothbrush to clean the door seals (also known as “gaskets”) to make sure the door is closing tightly.  Replace seals that have cracks and tears—to prevent cool air from escaping and reduce running times for the fridge.

2. Learn your degrees: An ideal temperature for a refrigerator is between 36 degrees and 38 degrees F.  The freezer should be between 0 degrees and 8 degrees F.  A fridge can be placed in a garage or storage room that isn’t colder that 50 degrees F.  If temperatures drop too low, components can be affected.

3. Know your limits: Refrigerators work best if not packed full.  If air flow becomes restricted, cooling capabilities are limited.  With modern fridges, it might take a day for cooler temperatures to return when a fresh load of groceries is added.  However, by contrast, keep the freezer full (or at a minimum, half full) for better efficiency.  Just take care not to block air vents.

Go to the homepage and click on Repair Help.  Scroll down and chose Refrigerators.  Learn how refrigerators work.  Find troubleshooting tips to determine what is wrong with your refrigerator.  Get answers to common questions, such as “Is it easy to add an ice maker to my refrigerator/freezer?”

Between July 9, 2008 and July 23, 2008, the first 100 customers will get a 10% discount on a Refrigerator Egg Bin.

Protect your eggs with this convenient storage unit.  The bin has side handles for easy transfer from fridge to counter top.  Dishwasher safe.  ($11.83)