Extreme heat drives surge in refrigerator breakdowns

Extreme indoor temperatures have caused a sharp increase in refrigerator breakdowns this summer, ORF reported. Refrigeration technician Hans-Peter Kronlechner said temperatures of more than 35 degrees Celsius indoors in Carinthia were often linked to failures.

The compressor, which releases warm air from inside the refrigerator to the outside, is usually responsible. If high surrounding temperatures prevent that air from cooling quickly enough, the compressor can overheat and cause the entire appliance to fail.

Refrigerators installed too close to a wall are particularly vulnerable because warm air can build up behind them. Dust-covered cooling grilles can create the same problem. Kronlechner recommends positioning the appliance at least 10 to 15 centimetres from the rear wall, ensuring sufficient air circulation and regularly removing dust from the cooling grille.

A faulty compressor must be replaced, he said. The greatest risk from high temperatures appears to have passed for this year.