Defrosting

Defrost at regular intervals – at least once a year. Ideally, do this in the autumn, as more frost forms during the summer.

The less frost in the refrigerator/freezer the better. This means that food items last much longer and the refrigerator/freezer consumes less power, which is also good for the environment.

Ice forms from moisture, which enters every time the freezer door is opened. Also remember not to put hot food in the freezer, as the steam from the hot food turns to ice. The moisture freezes and, after a while, forms large blocks of ice. When it becomes difficult to pull out the drawers, or you are having problems closing the door, it is high time to defrost the freezer.

Defrosting – step-by-step

• Remove all frozen items from the freezer.
• Switch off the freezer and open the freezer door.
• Ensure that you have something to collect the meltwater that drips out. For example, place a towel on the floor in front.
• If there is a lot of ice in the freezer, a good trick is to place a bowl of hot water inside. Make sure you replace the water once it has cooled. Allow the ice to melt and come loose. Do not cut it away using any sharp objects as this may damage the freezer.
• Make sure that you clean the freezer once the ice has melted.
• Remove any dirt from the rubber strips. Wash the compartments and any removable shelves.
• Ensure that the freezer has dried completely before switching it on again.
• Once the freezer has reached the correct temperature, it is time to refill it.