The Unused Refrigerator: Is It Safe to Keep It Unplugged?

Refrigerators are essential appliances that prolong the lifespan of our food. But what happens when you have a refrigerator that hasn't been used for an extended period? Is it safe to simply turn it back on without taking any precautions? Discover the potential consequences of neglecting an unused refrigerator and learn the important steps to take to ensure its proper functionality and maintain your food's freshness.

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It’s not uncommon for a refrigerator that hasn’t been used for a long time to develop mold and a foul odor. So, what’s the right way to use a long-idled refrigerator, and what should you keep in mind when it’s not in use? These are questions that many people have. Understanding your concerns, today we will share with you more details on this issue.

1Is It Okay to Not Use a Refrigerator for a Long Time?

In reality, unplugging a refrigerator can create favorable conditions for mold and bacteria to grow, which will cause an unpleasant odor and spoil the food inside. Furthermore, if the refrigerator remains unplugged for several days, the cooling agent circulating inside may lose its cyclical nature.

Additionally, this can cause the refrigerator’s compressor to become clogged with sludge, and at the same time, cause many internal components to cease functioning, leading to malfunctions and affecting the refrigerator’s overall quality.

However, if you know how to handle a long-idled refrigerator correctly, you can still use it normally.

Unplugging a refrigerator can create conditions for mold and bacteria to grow

For reference: 7  for several weeks

2How to Use a Long-Idled Refrigerator

Case 1: No Foul Odor in the Refrigerator

Step 1 Before reconnecting the refrigerator to power, remove all shelves and compartments and clean them thoroughly, both inside and out, then dry them.

Step 2 Once everything is dry, plug the refrigerator back into the power outlet.

Step 3 Set the refrigerator to the highest temperature setting. Then, place a cup of clean water in the freezer and wait for it to freeze.

When the water in the cup is frozen, it means your refrigerator is functioning normally again, and you can start using it!

If the water doesn’t freeze and the fridge section isn’t cooling, contact a refrigerator repair service to have them come out and inspect and fix the issue.

Case 1: No Foul Odor in the Refrigerator

Case 2: Foul Odor in the Refrigerator

Step 1 Before reconnecting the refrigerator to power, clean it thoroughly, inside and out. Then, leave the doors open to allow the refrigerator to dry completely.

Step 2 Once the refrigerator is completely dry, plug it in, and every 1-2 hours, open the door once (for about 15-20 minutes) to let the foul odor escape.

Maintain this practice for 1-2 days to eliminate the refrigerator’s foul odor completely.

Additionally, you can use coffee grounds or charcoal and place them in the refrigerator compartments to help remove the odor more quickly.

Case 2: Foul Odor in the Refrigerator

3Some Things to Keep in Mind When Not Using a Refrigerator

Short-Term Storage

If you need to be away from home for a while, consider whether to unplug the refrigerator. If you will be gone for less than 10 days, it’s best not to unplug the refrigerator and to set the temperature to the lowest setting. At this setting, the refrigerator’s power consumption will be negligible, and it won’t affect the appliance’s safety.

Also, avoid storing too much food in the refrigerator during this time.

If you won’t be using the refrigerator for less than 10 days, it’s best not to unplug it

Long-Term Storage

If you won’t be using the refrigerator for an extended period (10 days or more), unplug it and remove all food items. Then, clean the interior thoroughly. Additionally, ensure that the area where the refrigerator is placed remains dry and isn’t exposed to moisture.

If you won’t be using the refrigerator for more than a year, it’s recommended to reconnect it to power once a year to keep the motor functioning normally.

If the refrigerator won’t be used for an extended period, unplug it and clean it thoroughly

The above are our answers to your questions about long-idled refrigerators and the precautions to take when not using a refrigerator. We hope that with this article, you will gain useful knowledge on this matter!

Frequently asked questions

Yes, it is generally safe to keep an unused refrigerator unplugged. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, if the refrigerator contains any food, it should be removed and either consumed or disposed of properly. Leaving food inside an unplugged refrigerator can cause it to spoil and create an unpleasant odor. Additionally, it is important to clean the refrigerator thoroughly before storing it or leaving it unplugged for an extended period. This includes wiping down all surfaces, removing any residual water, and ensuring that the refrigerator is dry to prevent the growth of mold or bacteria.

Keeping an unused refrigerator plugged in can be a waste of energy and increase your utility costs. Older refrigerator models in particular may continue to consume a significant amount of electricity even when not in use. Additionally, if the refrigerator is not properly maintained, it can develop issues such as frost buildup, mold, or mechanical problems over time.

To safely store an unused refrigerator, start by cleaning it thoroughly and ensuring that it is completely dry. Leave the doors propped open to allow air circulation and prevent the buildup of odors or moisture. If possible, store the refrigerator in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. You can also use a refrigerator storage bag or cover to protect it from dust and scratches.

If you have an old or unused refrigerator that you no longer need, there are several options for responsible disposal. You can contact your local waste management company to inquire about special pickup services for large appliances. Some municipalities also offer recycling programs for refrigerators and other appliances. Alternatively, you can donate your working refrigerator to a local charity or second-hand store if it is still in good condition.

Keeping an unused refrigerator can be beneficial if you anticipate needing additional storage space in the future. For example, if you regularly host large gatherings or have a large family, an extra refrigerator can be useful for storing extra food or drinks. Additionally, an unused refrigerator can be a convenient temporary solution if your primary refrigerator needs repair or replacement.
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