Using Vaseline on refrigerators during heatwaves: An unexpected yet rational solution explained
In the scorching heat of a summer heatwave, your refrigerator works hard to keep your food fresh and cool. However, the extreme heat can put a strain on the appliance, causing it to use more electricity and struggle to maintain a consistent temperature. But did you know that a simple household item, petroleum jelly, can help improve your fridge's performance during these hot months?
Petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, can be used to maintain the efficiency of a fridge's seal during hot weather. By applying a thin layer of petroleum jelly along the rubber gasket where it contacts the fridge door, you can help the gasket form a better seal, preventing cold air from escaping and reducing the fridge’s energy consumption [1][3][5].
The petroleum jelly works by moisturizing the rubber gasket, which can dry out and shrink over time, especially in hot weather. When the gasket dries, it becomes hard and less flexible, compromising the seal. The jelly locks in moisture, keeping the gasket soft and pliable, so the door closes properly and maintains a strong airtight seal [1][5].
To apply petroleum jelly to the fridge gasket, use your finger or a paper towel to spread a very thin, even layer along the entire surface of the gasket, especially the parts that touch the fridge door. Avoid using too much jelly; a little is enough to improve the seal. Repeat the application every few months or as needed to keep the gasket flexible and efficient [1][3][5].
In addition to using petroleum jelly, keeping the fridge's seal clean is also important to avoid a build-up of harmful bacteria. Cleaning the fridge seal weekly with warm, soapy water or a mix of white vinegar and water can help prevent the growth of mold and bacteria [6]. For more stubborn grime on the fridge seal, an old toothbrush can be used to scrub deep into the folds.
By taking these simple steps, you can help your refrigerator work less hard to maintain a cool temperature during hot weather, saving electricity and keeping your food fresh [1]. So, next time you're faced with a heatwave, don't sweat it - just reach for the petroleum jelly!
[1] https://www.thespruceeats.com/fridge-seal-repair-3179982 [2] https://www.consumerreports.org/food-safety/how-to-keep-your-fridge-seal-from-failing-a1076443484/ [3] https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-keep-your-fridge-door-seal-from-failing-18185421 [4] https://www.bhg.com/home-improvement/appliances/refrigerator/how-to-fix-a-fridge-door-seal/ [5] https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/home/cleaning/a36735899/how-to-fix-a-fridge-door-seal/ [6] https://www.thespruceeats.com/clean-fridge-seal-3179982
- To maintain the health-and-wellness aspect of your food during a heatwave, apply petroleum jelly around the refrigerator's door seal to ensure a tight and efficient seal, thus reducing energy consumption for fitness-and-exercise purposes like home-and-garden activities.
- Adopting a lifestyle practice of cleaning your refrigerator's seal weekly can prevent the growth of harmful bacteria, thus ensuring nutritious home-and-garden produce stays fresh longer.
- By following these straightforward steps in the realms of science and home-and-garden ingenuity, you can achieve a more energy-efficient lifestyle for health-and-wellness, fitness-and-exercise, and the environment.
