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How to Defrost Your Freezer the Right Way
The right way to defrost your freezer
Thank goodness for freezers, keeping everything from ice cream to frozen peas and leftovers handy. This hard work can come at a cost though, with frost building up over time, which reduces the efficiency of your freezer and increases energy costs. Here are seven simple steps to help you defrost your freezer and get it back to working at its best.
- Step 1: Empty your freezer
The first step in defrosting your freezer is to remove all items. Ensure that you have a cool storage area to keep your food safe during the defrosting process. It's also an excellent opportunity to discard any expired or unwanted items, because if nobody's thawed and cooked that frost-bitten mystery meat yet, they're not likely to anytime in the future.
- Step 2: Turn off and unplug
Safety first! Always turn off and unplug your freezer before starting the actual defrosting process. This not only ensures your safety but also helps to save energy.
- Step 3: Remove selves and drawers
Take out any removable shelves and drawers. Clean them separately with warm soapy water, rinse, and allow them to dry.
- Step 4: Start the defrosting process
Now, it's time to let nature do its work. Leave the freezer door open and allow the frost to melt naturally. Placing towels around the base of the freezer can help absorb any water from the melting ice.
- Step 5: Speed up the process
If you're in a hurry, you can speed up the defrosting process. Fill a baking tray with hot water and place it in the freezer. Remember to replace the water as it cools.
- Step 6: Clean and dry
Once all the ice has melted, clean the inside of the freezer with a mixture of warm water and mild detergent. Wipe down the freezer with a dry cloth and leave the door open for a while to allow it to dry completely.
- Step 7: Plug it back in
Once the freezer is completely dry, plug it back in and turn it on. Wait for it to reach its optimal temperature before restocking your food items.
Defrosting your freezer is a simple but important task that can significantly improve the efficiency of your appliance. By following these steps, you can ensure a safe and effective defrosting process.
