There Are Smells Coming from My Fridge: Causes and Solutions

Finding unpleasant smells coming from your fridge can be quite alarming. Not only do these odours make your kitchen less pleasant, but they can also indicate potential issues with your fridge and its contents. In this article, we will explore the common causes of fridge freezer odours and offer practical solutions to tackle the problem.

Common Causes of Smells in Fridge Freezers

  • Expired Food: The most common culprit for foul smells in your fridge is outdated or spoiled food. Regularly check the expiration dates of all your items, particularly perishables like dairy, meat, and leftovers.
  • Spills: Accidental spills can create a mess that not only smells bad but can also attract pests. Ensure that you clean up any spills immediately.
  • Mould and Mildew: Moisture can lead to mould growth, which emits an unpleasant smell. Regularly inspect the interior of your fridge for any visible signs of mould.
  • Blocked Drains: Some fridge freezers have a drainage system that can become clogged with debris or ice, leading to stagnant water and bad smells.
  • External Factors: Sometimes, smells can enter your fridge from the environment, especially if it is not sealed properly. Consider whether the smell could be coming from other appliances nearby.

Steps to Identify and Eliminate Odours

If you’re facing unpleasant odours, follow these steps to identify and eliminate them:

  1. Empty the Fridge: Start by removing all food items from your fridge. This allows you to access every corner and check for expired items or leaks.
  2. Inspect for Spoiled Food: Dispose of any items that look or smell bad. Remember to check sealed containers as well.
  3. Clean the Interior: Use a mixture of baking soda and warm water to wipe down the shelves and interior walls. Baking soda is a natural deodoriser.
  4. Examine the Water Drainage System: Locate the drainage hole in your fridge and clean it if it is blocked. It’s usually located at the back of the fridge and is essential for proper drainage.
  5. Check the Seal: Inspect the door seal. A damaged seal can allow outside odours in and will require replacement if it’s compromised.
  6. Place Odour Absorbers: After cleaning, consider placing an open box of baking soda or charcoal inside the fridge to absorb any lingering smells.

When to Call for Professional Help

If after following the above steps the smell persists, it may be time to enlist the help of a live chat agent from dasa for expert advice. There could be more serious underlying issues with your fridge’s components that require professional assessment, such as:

  • Compressor problems
  • Issues with the coolant
  • Faulty components causing leaks

Preventative Measures for Odour Control

To prevent odours in the future, consider these maintenance tips:

  • Regularly clean and organise your fridge to reduce accidental spills and expired food.
  • Store food items properly in airtight containers.
  • Set a schedule to check your fridge for any expired items every month.
  • Perform regular maintenance on your fridge freezer to ensure all components are working effectively.

By understanding the common causes of smells from your fridge and taking proactive measures, you can maintain a fresher and cleaner appliance. If you encounter persistent issues, don’t hesitate to contact the live chat agent at dasa for tailored support and advice.