Overconsumption of energy: each centimetre of ice can increase the electricity bill by up to 25%. Poor air circulation: this compromises the optimal preservation of your food. A risk of overheating of the motor: which can reduce the life of the device.
When should action be taken? As soon as the ice reaches 3 or 4 mm thick. Depending on your use, defrosting every two to three months is usually recommended.
A quick alternative: the power of steam
If you don’t feel like preparing a spray, another very simple method exists, again without unplugging the freezer:
Bring water to a boil in a saucepan. Place a heatproof bowl filled with this boiling water inside the empty freezer. Close the door and wait 15 to 20 minutes. The steam softens the ice, which you can then easily remove with a spatula. Don’t forget to dry the inside thoroughly with a clean towel.
Bonus tip: To speed up the process, point a small fan at the open freezer.
The right reflexes to prevent the ice from coming back
To space out defrosting sessions and preserve your appliance, adopt these simple habits:
Check the door seals regularly for leaks. Close the door promptly after each opening. Avoid overloading drawers. Never place dishes that are still hot inside. Finally, get into the habit of doing a small cleaning every two months. This will save you from long and tedious defrosting.
A well-maintained freezer is an appliance that consumes less energy and lasts longer.
