6 Refrigerator Mistakes That Could Put Your Home at Risk
Refrigerators are vital household appliances, but if not used or maintained correctly, they can become a source of serious safety hazards. From fire risks to explosions, improper refrigerator practices can endanger your home and family. Below are six dangerous refrigerator mistakes people commonly make—and how to avoid them.
1. Positioning the Refrigerator Near Heat Sources
Placing your refrigerator next to heat-generating appliances like stoves, ovens, or microwaves can increase the risk of overheating and even explosion. The heat forces the fridge to work harder, potentially causing malfunctions.
Additionally, avoid positioning power cords near flammable materials like curtains or blankets, as a short circuit could ignite a fire that spreads rapidly.
2. Keeping an Old or Poorly Maintained Refrigerator
Outdated or neglected refrigerators can become a safety hazard over time. Problems like clogged capillary tubes or worn-out components may lead to pressure buildup, reduced cooling efficiency, and even accidents.
Warning signs your refrigerator needs attention:
- The compressor runs nonstop.
- Loud or unusual noises during operation.
- Excessive ice buildup.
- Insufficient cooling performance.
To prevent problems, schedule regular maintenance and replace old refrigerators before they become unsafe.
3. Freezing Carbonated Drinks or Alcohol
It’s tempting to chill a drink quickly in the freezer, but placing carbonated beverages or alcohol there can lead to dangerous explosions. The pressurized liquid reacts poorly to freezing temperatures, causing bottles or cans to burst.
Similarly, avoid freezing liquids in glass containers, as water expands when frozen and can shatter the glass, posing a risk of injury.
4. Ignoring Gas Leaks or Electrical Hazards
Refrigerator gas tanks are built to last, but damage to welds or pipes can cause leaks. When combined with an electrical spark, these leaks could result in an explosion.
Additionally, overloading your electrical circuits with high-power appliances (like air conditioners) alongside the refrigerator increases the chances of short circuits and fires.
5. Overloading Electrical Outlets
Refrigerators require a dedicated power outlet to operate safely. Sharing the outlet with other devices can overload the circuit, increasing the risk of a short circuit or fire. For added safety, avoid using extension cords or power strips with your refrigerator.
6. Using Chemicals Near the Refrigerator
Using insect repellents, hairsprays, or other flammable chemicals near your refrigerator can be extremely dangerous. Even a small spark from the appliance could ignite these chemicals, leading to a potential explosion.
Conclusion
Preventing refrigerator-related accidents is simple with proper care and precautions. Regular maintenance, thoughtful placement, and attention to potential hazards like electrical connections or flammable materials can go a long way in keeping your home safe. Protect your household by avoiding these common mistakes.
Teen Crochets Her Own Zendaya-Inspired Prom Dress for $60 — and in Just Three Days (Exclusive)
Imagine deciding to crochet your own prom dress from scratch with just four days to go before the event. It sounds impossible, doesn’t it? Not for 18-year-old Sarah Akinbuwa of Boston, though, who made this challenge a viral hit!
Sarah chose to rely on her amazing crochet abilities despite having only four days to prepare for her prom. What was the outcome? a gorgeous floor-length, pink, strapless gown that was modeled after Zendaya’s famous Valentino Haute Couture outfit from the 2023 SAG Awards.
Sarah reflected on her choice and said to PEOPLE, “I had to make a dress by hand.”
Sarah not only finished the gorgeous dress in three days, but she also crocheted a handbag and floor-length shrug to match. What talent and commitment!
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Sarah’s outfit was inspired by Zendaya’s SAG Awards gown, which had 190 roses on the skirt. Even though Sarah’s version was finished much faster, it is still quite intricate and beautiful.
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With over 26 million views, the TikTok film chronicling Sarah’s creative journey has already captured the attention of millions of people!
In a public restroom, Sarah is seen wearing the outfit in one of her TikTok videos, and a bystander couldn’t help but remark on her artistic work. “I love your dress,” the person was heard saying. Sarah happily replied, “Thank you, I made it.” I needed three days to complete it.
The compliments didn’t end there. Sarah told PEOPLE, “My friends loved the dress and I got tons of compliments.”
For Sarah, crocheting a gown in such a short amount of time was a natural challenge, even though it would appear overwhelming to others. Since she was twelve years old, she has been crocheting, gradually improving her talents.
In addition to making her own prom dress, Sarah accepts custom orders and crafts lovely, one-of-a-kind items for loved ones, acquaintances, and Instagram followers. Her crocheting abilities are unmatched!
And what about the future? Sarah intends to pursue a profession in fashion design. She has talent and imagination, so it’s not hard to envision her rising to prominence in the fashion industry.
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