Something You May Not Know About Your Refrigerator

The New Year is a time when many of us, second to Spring, think most about refreshing, renewing and cleaning our homes. And luckily, when the weather is chilly, there are plenty of low impact projects we can take on while we are cooped up in doors--and here's a great one!

A few years back, I trained and worked in the field as a residential property claims insurance adjuster. One of the more sizable loss claims I investigated was a fire that occurred as a result of pet hair and lint buildup around the compressor of a kitchen refrigerator. The buildup accumulated to the point the debris ignited when a spark occurred as the compressor kicked on. Obviously, the problem was compounded because the owner had pets. But since that time, it's something I look for at every home inspection and I've been quite surprised at the frequency of occurrence.

If you haven't already done so, I would recommend regularly looking at the underside and backside of your refrigerator or freezer, in the kitchen, garage, porch, or wherever you might keep such an appliance.

I would begin by carefully pulling the appliance away from the wall. I say this because if you have a water line attached to your icemaker, you run the risk of rupturing the line. You may also have to remove the front grille, which should pop off easily. Then, take a flashlight and scan the suspect area, front and rear.

At this point you may want to get out your vacuum cleaner and clean up all the debris you find. Easy task with potentially great payback!