Frequently Asked Questions
At Seattle Fridge Repair, we frequently receive inquiries about how, why, what refrigerators do or do not work. In this page, we will answer our most frequently asked questions.
Q: How often should I have my refrigerator maintenance?
A: Depending on the model, brand, and age of your appliance, it may be wise to perform fridge maintenance on it every 3 months to a year. In general, we recommend semi-annual maintenance (every 6 months), but no longer than one year in between each cooling appliance maintenance service, as this could lead to dangerous conditions that will result in expensive repairs. If you own a Sub-Zero refrigerator or another Sub-Zero product, in which we specialize, we will provide factory certified Sub-Zero refrigerator maintenance with our handpicked team of professionals. As well, if you own a Viking refrigerator, you can also expect to receive the best Viking repair/maintenance out there
Q: How exactly does a refrigerator work?
A: All cooling appliances including Sub-Zero refrigerators use a refrigerant (most often freon) in an evaporation process that absorbs heat from the insides of the refrigerator, lowering the temperature. The freon goes through 4 main parts in which it changes stages and cools the refrigerator. At the beginning of its cycle, freon is contained in the compressor where it is heated up to create freon gas. It then moves on towards the condenser for the next stage of the cycle. The condenser which contains the cooler temperature of the kitchen cools the gas down into a liquid. The freon then continues and cools down, even more, creating high-pressure liquid freon. At this stage, the freon is sent through the coils to cool down the inner temperature of the refrigerator. After the liquid freon goes through the coils, it evaporates to a gas and repeats the process starting from the compressor.
Q: Is it possible for my refrigerator door to open the opposite way?
A: The ability to swing doors both ways is predominantly seen in commercial refrigerators, especially built-in models, such as the Viking Professional series, GE Profile, or just the general Sub-Zero models. However, it may be possible for some models to have this feature. Please make sure that you contact your refrigerator’s manufacturer regarding whether or not your appliances doors open the other way.
Q: How cold should my refrigerator be?
A: On average, your refrigerator should have a temperature of approximately 36° to 38° Fahrenheit. If it is not so, try to fiddle with the temperature controls to see if you changed anything. Your freezer should also maintain a consistent temperature less than or equal to 0 depending on your needs. If you notice your freezer, refrigerator working in abnormal temperatures, call Seattle Fridge Repair immediately, as we will try our best to come ASAP to prevent your food from spoiling.
Q: How do I pull my refrigerator away from the wall in order to clean my condenser coils?
A: At Seattle Fridge Repair, we do not recommend attempting maintenance and/or repairs on your refrigerator, freezer or cooler, especially ones that require you to move your refrigerator, as you can hurt yourself and damage your appliance in the meantime. If you do choose to attempt a repair involving moving your refrigerator, cooler, freezer, please follow all safety rules and if possible work along with another person.
Q: I recently purchased a new freezer, and want to recycle my old one. How do I do that?
A: Make sure to check with your local charities if they will accept donations. They will most likely accept your appliance, and who knows, they might even pay you for your old refrigerator! Smile as you accept your free money, and GO GREEN!
Q: How long can I expect my refrigerator to last?
A: Refrigerator service age depends largely on the maintenance provided and brand of appliance. In general, cooling appliances serve for 15-17 years. This number may increase or decrease depending on the quality of your maintenance services. If you choose Seattle Fridge Repair as your refrigeration maintenance provider, we will be delighted to conduct maintenance sessions for you.
Q: My refrigerator, freezer and/or cooler is under the manufacturer warranty, will Seattle Fridge Repair still service my appliance?
A: Yes, Seattle Fridge Repair will always be on call and ready to help you. If the repair is too expensive, we may recommend you to contact the manufacturer to get a new refrigerator.
Q: Is it normal for my refrigerator to run constantly?
A: Depending on what you mean when asking this question, there could be multiple answers. If you mean whether or not your refrigerator should work constantly, then a very affirmative YES. Cooling appliances are the only appliances that work 24/7/365. If your refrigerator emits unusual noises constantly during operation than the answer is a definite NO. Constant weird noises could be a sign of a compressor problem, which could lead to an explosion. That is, of course, unwanted, as it causes major problems for you and your appliance.
Q: How do I know if there is a refrigerator repairman near me?
A: When you contact our company, our dispatchers will coordinate with you on the best time to conduct the service call. They will also answer any other questions you may have.