Defrosting demystified: Save energy and preserve freshness
Are you considering defrosting your freezer and worried about correctly doing it? Although it may seem like a complicated process, it's quite easy if you avoid a few commonly made mistakes. Additionally, many freezers have hidden features that can prove extremely helpful.
Freezers vary, so they require an individual approach. To start, check if your freezer is equipped with the "No Frost" function. Thanks to this feature, found in many modern models, you can forget about ice buildup. However, if you have an older appliance, don't forget the need for regular defrosting.
Defrosting the freezer - Why is it so important?
When you notice that the freezer drawers are harder to close and there's thick frost on the walls, it's time to defrost the appliance. We often decide to address this only when the frost becomes bothersome. Ideally, you should defrost every three months.
A freezer without excess ice uses less energy and is less likely to fail. Less energy consumption means lower bills, which is important because the freezer is a household appliance that demands a lot of electricity. In a clean freezer, food stays fresh longer and tastes better. If it's been a while since your last defrosting, now might be the right time to consider it.
Winter weather is an added advantage – you can store items from the freezer on the balcony during defrosting. It's a simple way to avoid defrosting delicate items like ice cream or frozen vegetables.
When preparing to defrost, first remove all the shelves, open the freezer door, and then disconnect it from power or turn off the breakers, if that makes the task easier.
After disconnecting the power, let the ice melt on its own. Check if your freezer has a special valve or funnel at the bottom for draining melting water. Open or pull it out at the start of the process. The location and appearance depend on the freezer model, so you may need to refer to the user manual. However, it's possible your model doesn't include this element.
An important step is placing a container under the funnel – a baking sheet works well. Protect the freezer threshold with a towel to prevent any remaining water from spilling onto the floor. A larger container might be necessary depending on how much frost has accumulated.
Once the ice has completely melted, wipe the inside of the appliance with dish soap, dry it, then replace the drawers and plug the appliance back in (or turn on the breakers). This ensures the freezer operates efficiently and is ready for the next few months of use.
