How a Simple Paper Test Can Prepare Your Fridge for a Heatwave

As temperatures soar, many people find themselves preoccupied with staying cool, seeking shade, and ensuring a restful night’s sleep. However, there’s another crucial aspect to consider: whether your refrigerator can withstand the heat. This concern might not be top of mind, but according to Salah Sun, Head of Product Management at Beko UK, a simple piece of paper could hold the key to determining your fridge’s readiness for the summer months.

The technique, endorsed by Sun, involves using a single sheet of paper to test the functionality of your fridge door seal. This straightforward method can prevent food spoilage and keep your energy bills in check during the hottest days of the year.

The Importance of a Properly Sealed Fridge

When the mercury rises, ensuring your fridge is in optimal working condition becomes essential. A faulty fridge can lead to spoiled food and lukewarm drinks, which are far from ideal in a heatwave. One of the most common issues with refrigerators is a worn-out door seal. If the seal is compromised, the door won’t close properly, reducing the cooling efficiency and increasing energy consumption.

“To check if your fridge door is functioning correctly, use a piece of paper.” — Salah Sun, Head of Product Management at Beko UK

Sun’s advice is simple yet effective: place a piece of paper against the door seal and close the door. If the paper slides out easily, it indicates that the seal may need replacing. This quick test can be performed with any piece of paper, such as a letter or a note, making it a cost-effective solution for a potentially costly problem.

Additional Tips for Fridge Maintenance

Beyond the paper test, there are several other steps you can take to ensure your fridge operates efficiently during the summer. Salah Sun recommends thoroughly cleaning your fridge shelves and components. However, she cautions that it’s important to let each part dry completely before returning them to the fridge. Residual moisture can freeze and lead to ice buildup, which can impair the appliance’s performance.

Sun also suggests investing in an affordable refrigerator thermometer to monitor the internal temperature. Maintaining a consistent temperature is crucial for keeping food fresh and ensuring the fridge functions properly. Ice buildup, while it might seem like a sign of effective cooling, can actually increase energy consumption and damage door seals.

Looking Ahead: Preparing for Future Heatwaves

As climate change continues to impact global weather patterns, heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense. Preparing household appliances for extreme temperatures is increasingly important. The paper test for fridge seals is just one of many small adjustments that can make a significant difference in energy efficiency and food preservation.

Experts also recommend exploring other methods to keep homes cool during heatwaves. Techniques such as the ‘caveman method,’ which involves strategic ventilation and shading, and unconventional tips like using frozen bed sheets, are gaining popularity. These strategies, combined with proper appliance maintenance, can help households better withstand the challenges of rising temperatures.

In conclusion, while keeping yourself cool is a priority during a heatwave, ensuring your fridge remains efficient is a simple task that can save you from unnecessary hassle. By adopting these easy maintenance tips, you can enjoy the summer months with one less worry on your mind.

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