Are you planning to go on a vacation but worried about leaving your fridge unattended? Keeping your refrigerator running while you’re away is essential to prevent food spoilage and to ensure that your fridge remains in good working condition. In this article, we’ll walk you through some tips on how to keep your fridge on vacation.
1. Clean Your Fridge
Before leaving for your vacation, it’s important to clean your fridge thoroughly.
Start by removing all the food items and wiping down the shelves and drawers with a solution of water and vinegar. Make sure that there is no food residue left in the fridge that could attract pests or mold growth.
2. Empty Your Fridge
It’s important to empty out your fridge before leaving for vacation.
Any perishable items like fruits, vegetables, dairy products, or meat should be consumed or thrown away before leaving. This will prevent any unpleasant odors from developing in your absence.
3. Adjust the Temperature
Adjusting the temperature of your fridge is crucial when going on vacation.
Ideally, you should set the temperature between 35°F and 40°F (1.6°C – 4.4°C) for both the fridge and freezer section. This will help maintain a constant temperature inside the fridge even if you’re not there.
4. Unplug or Turn Off Ice Maker
If your refrigerator has an ice maker, it’s best to unplug or turn it off before leaving for vacation. This will prevent any water leaks or clogs that could damage your appliance while you’re away.
5. Keep Doors Closed
Before leaving for vacation, make sure that all doors of the fridge are tightly closed and sealed shut with tape if necessary. Leaving them open can cause warm air to enter and potentially spoil any food left inside.
6. Consider a Fridge Monitor
If you’re going to be away for an extended period, consider investing in a fridge monitor.
This device will alert you if the temperature of your fridge rises above a certain level or if there is a power outage. Some models even allow you to monitor your fridge remotely through an app on your smartphone.
Conclusion
Leaving your fridge unattended while on vacation can be stressful, but by following these simple tips, you can ensure that your fridge remains in good working condition and that any food items left inside stay fresh. So go ahead and enjoy your vacation without worrying about your fridge!