The holidays are around the corner. That means multiple trips to the grocery store and a fridge stuffed with vegetables, appetizers and the main course – the turkey.
You don’t want to spend countless hours cooking a turkey that ends up tasting bad because it was not stored or refrigerated properly. It’s also important to make sure that your refrigerator is in good working order to avoid making a refrigerator repair call. A reliable refrigerator will help you prepare a turkey that your friends and family members will rave about!
According to the USDA, it’s best to thaw a frozen turkey in the refrigerator at 40° F or below. Plan for approximately 24 hours for each four to five pounds, so a 12-pound turkey will take three days to thaw; while a 20-pound turkey, will take five days to thaw. Place the thawing turkey in a container to catch any juices and to prevent contamination of other foods. A turkey can remain in the fridge for up to two days before cooking.
Well before your guests arrive, check the refrigerator to make sure that it’s cooling properly. Set the temperature at 40° F and place a thermometer in the fridge to test the setting. If the temperature doesn’t drop to or consistently stay at 40° F, check the following parts:
The coils. If the condenser coils are dirty, heat from the inside of the refrigerator may not dissipate. Dirty condenser coils cause the refrigerator to lose efficiency and never cool to the proper temperature. With some refrigerators, condenser coils can be cleaned with a vacuum cleaner.
Evaporator fan motor. The evaporator fan motor circulates cold air from the freezer into the refrigerator. When the fan isn’t working properly, although the freezer still reaches freezing temperatures, the refrigerator will not reach the desired cooling temperature.
Thermostat. A faulty temperature thermostat can prevent the refrigerator from cooling properly.
Start capacitor. The start capacitor is the battery that gives the compressor a boost during start-up. If the refrigerator isn’t cooling, the problem could be that the compressor is unable to start and run like it should. You can use a capacitance meter to test the start capacitor. A faulty start capacitor can be replaced.
Compressor. The compressor keeps the refrigerant circulating through the coils. A defective compressor can be a sign for other defective parts. The compressor isn’t a part that can be repaired or replaced with a little DIY knowledge. If the compressor isn’t running or appears faulty, contact C&W Appliance Service to schedule a service call with a certified appliance repair technician.
C&W Appliance Service is the only certified Sub-Zero service provider in Dallas, Fort Worth and San Antonio. With more than 60 years of experience, C&W prides itself on providing quality customer service. C&W is the go-to service provider to handle your refrigerator repair and appliance repair needs during the upcoming holiday season. Contact C&W Appliance Service today to schedule an appointment.
