Living in Southwest Florida means experiencing hot, humid weather for most of the year. If you’ve placed an extra fridge in your garage to store drinks, food, or frozen goods, that’s smart but here’s the catch: not all refrigerators are made to handle extreme temperatures. Over time, your garage fridge can start acting up due to the heat and moisture.
Knowing the warning signs early can help you avoid spoiled food, higher energy bills, or a complete breakdown. So, how do you know if your garage fridge is ready for Florida’s weather, or if it’s time to call for help? Let’s look at the signs.
1. The Fridge Isn’t Cooling Properly
This is the biggest red flag. If you open the door and your drinks aren’t cold or your food feels warmer than it should, something’s not right. In a hot garage, your fridge has to work extra hard to stay cool. Over time, this pressure can wear down important parts like the compressor or fan. If it’s not keeping things cold, it’s time to get it checked.
2. You Hear Strange Noises
All fridges make some noise. However, if your garage fridge starts to make loud humming, buzzing, or clicking sounds, that’s a sign of trouble. These sounds might mean a part is loose, worn out, or overheating. Don’t ignore them; unusual noises are often your fridge’s way of telling you it needs help.
3. Ice Buildup in the Freezer
A little frost in your freezer is normal, but thick layers of ice aren’t. This can happen when warm air from the garage keeps sneaking in and your fridge struggles to keep things frozen. If you see a lot of ice buildup, your fridge might have a broken seal or a problem with its defrost system.
4. Water Leaks Around or Inside the Fridge
Finding puddles under or inside your fridge is not a good sign. It might mean the drain is clogged or the temperature is fluctuating too much. Leaks can damage your garage floor and lead to mold. A refrigerator that leaks needs quick repair to prevent further refrigerator problems.
5. The Fridge Runs Non-Stop
Your fridge should turn on and off throughout the day. If it’s running constantly, it might be struggling to stay cool in the Florida heat. This puts more strain on the motor and uses more electricity. A fridge that never gets a break could be headed for failure.
6. Your Energy Bills Are Suddenly Higher
A malfunctioning fridge uses more power than it should, especially in a warm garage. If you notice your electric bill going up and you haven’t changed anything else, then your garage fridge might be the cause. Getting it repaired can save you money in the long run.
7. You Notice Food Spoiling Quickly
Is your milk going bad before the date? Are your frozen items getting mushy? These are clear signs your fridge isn’t doing its job. Food spoilage not only wastes money but can also be unsafe. Don’t take chances with spoiled food; get the fridge looked at as soon as possible.
Why Garage Fridges Need Special Attention
Garage fridges work harder than the ones in the kitchen. They often face hot and humid conditions and the constant changes in temperature and moisture can take a toll on them. That’s why regular checks and quick repairs are important to keep your fridge running smoothly all year long.
Expert Refrigerator Repair
A garage fridge is a great convenience, but it comes with challenges, especially in Southwest Florida’s weather. If you notice any of the signs above, don’t wait until the problem gets worse. Getting fast, professional help can save your food and money.
Need expert refrigerator repair in Fort Myers, FL? Trust Diamond Appliance Repair to get your garage fridge back in shape. Call now and schedule your service.