While keeping a freezer empty while not in use sounds simple, it requires more than just turning off it and setting it in a corner.
Maintaining your appliance depends on you following the right practices if you must relocate, replace, or temporarily store it.
Neglecting a cooling unit could cause mechanical problems, mould, or bad odours, therefore rendering it useless. With a few practical tips, you can ensure your freezer remains in excellent condition during storage.
Empty the Freezer Completely
Take out all food, trays, shelves, and other removable components. This should be done well ahead of your storage date since a cooling unit defrosts gradually over several hours or even days.
Inspect every item in the appliance and discard anything expired or no longer usable. Try to move the food you wish to keep to another freezer or use ice packs to keep it frozen during the transition.
Defrost the Freezer Thoroughly
You should defrost your freezer when it is empty. Turn off the appliance and leave the door open so that any accumulated ice can melt naturally.
Place towels or a shallow pan at the bottom to collect water as the ice melts. Be patient because this process can last many hours, depending on the degree of ice accumulation.
Avoid forcibly removing ice or using sharp tools, as these could damage the freezer’s interior or cooling system. Rather, gently slide any loose ice towards the drain using a plastic scraper or spatula.
If you are pressed for time, you can speed up the melting process by putting a bowl of warm water inside the unit. However, avoid using boiling water, since that can affect the plastic parts.
Clean the Interior and Exterior
Clean the freezer completely inside and out once it is defrosted. Wipe the inner surfaces with a light soap solution or a combination of baking soda and water.
Pay close attention to the corners, seals, and any cracks where dust or food particles could have gathered.
A mixture of equal parts water and white vinegar can remove tough stains or smells effectively. Vinegar not only cleans but also neutralises smells that could persist within the cooling unit.
Before returning all the removable items to the freezer, including drawers and shelves, rinse them thoroughly and let them dry completely. Additionally, clean the appliance’s exterior, including the rear coils if accessible.
Dust and debris accumulating around the coils can reduce cooling efficiency and may lead to mechanical issues if not addressed. A vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment is particularly useful for this task.
Secure Removable Parts
Take out loose shelves, drawers, or any other removable parts to avoid degrading them during storage.
Wrap these components in packing paper or bubble wrap to keep them from being chipped, cracked, broken, warped, or generally damaged.
Should you choose to leave them inside the freezer, use tape to hold them in place and prevent any wiggle that can damage them.
Avoid using sticky tape, such as duct tape, which could damage the appliance’s finish or leave a mark. Engage the locking mechanism on your freezer to ensure the door closes firmly.
Maintain Slight Airflow
Sealing a unit shut is among the most common blunders when it comes to storage. Although this seems to be the ideal approach for keeping the freezer clean, it can lead to bad smells and mould development.
Instead, keep the freezer door slightly open throughout storage to let the air flow consistently. Hold the door open just enough for the air to enter.
Use a little object, like a piece of cardboard or a rolled-up towel. This easy step prevents moisture accumulation within the cooling unit, maintaining its freshness and keeping it free from mould throughout storage.
Choose the Right Location
The place where you store your freezer will affect its lifespan. Select a dry, cold, and well-ventilated space. Look for a storage apartment, basement, or garage.
Store the cooling unit in areas free from extreme temperature fluctuation. Do not leave it outdoors or in direct sunlight, since these environments can seriously harm the appliance.
Make sure your storage facility is climate-regulated to avoid temperature and humidity changes that can compromise the inner parts of the freezer.
Placing the freezer on a pallet or raised platform helps protect it from potential water damage or pests during short-term storage.
Shield the Unit with Protective Covers
It is best to cover your unit with a breathable material, like a cotton sheet or moving blanket, to maintain its condition even while it is not in use.
The cover will ensure the appliance’s cleanliness by shielding it from dust, filth, and scratches. Plastic covers should not be used, since they trap moisture and could cause rust or mildew.
If you are relocating the freezer, inform reliable movers of the need to handle it carefully. Professionals ensure the appliance is transported upright, which is crucial for preserving the integrity of the compressor and cooling system.
Laying a cooling unit on its side during transport could result in long-term damage. With proper handling, your freezer will arrive at its destination in excellent condition.
Inspect the Appliance Periodically
Even with proper storage, it is recommended to check the freezer regularly, especially if it will be stored for a long time.
Look for signs of humidity, mildew, or pest activity, and address any issues quickly. Frequent inspections help you identify probable issues early on, allowing you to act before they cause significant damage.
Open the door a bit wider, and put a baking soda box inside to help absorb any foul smells or wetness. This simple step will keep your cooling unit in optimal shape until you are ready to use it.
Prepare the Freezer for Use
When you decide to use your freezer again, first of all, inspect it thoroughly. Placing the appliance on a pallet or raised platform helps protect it from potential water damage or pests during short-term storage.
Before adding food, plug the freezer in and let it run empty for a few hours to be sure it is cooling correctly. Put the removable parts back in their places, and re-assemble the drawers or shelves.
Before packing it with food, check the manufacturer’s manual to make sure everything is in place. If you detect any odd sounds or performance problems, it is best to engage specialists.
Conclusion
Storing your freezer properly ensures its quality and readiness for future use. Follow these guidelines for emptying, defrosting, cleaning, and ventilation.
This way, you can protect your appliance from damage, mildew, and smells.
If you are relocating, you can keep your unit in perfect condition and ready to use with careful preparation and the help of skilled moving companies.