In 2023, a Refrigerator Explosion Shook One Homeowner’s Life…
In 2023, Lenore Satterthwaite from North Carolina experienced a shocking incident: her refrigerator exploded. While in another room, Satterthwaite initially thought her kitchen was hit by an earthquake.
Upon investigation, she found her less-than-a-year-old Frigidaire refrigerator shattered, with debris damaging nearby walls and furniture. Although the Person County Fire Marshal couldn’t determine the exact cause, there are precautions homeowners can take to avoid similar disasters.
What Causes Refrigerator Explosions?
A Faulty Fan
In Satterthwaite’s case, the refrigerator fan wasn’t functioning properly. Before the explosion, she contacted a technician for a warranty repair after noticing loud noises from the appliance. The technician identified the faulty fan, which regulates temperature, as the issue. However, the refrigerator exploded before the replacement part could be installed, according to ABC 11.
Poor Maintenance
Although the precise cause of Satterthwaite’s fridge explosion remains unsolved, poor maintenance is a known risk factor.
Refrigerators work by circulating a gas refrigerant through compressor coils, cooling the gas until it turns into a liquid and absorbs heat from the interior. These coils, located at the bottom of most refrigerators, can accumulate dust, pet hair, and debris. If not cleaned, this buildup can prevent proper cooling, trap gas, and block ventilation’s potentially leading to an explosion.
Flammable Refrigerants
Another possible culprit is the refrigerant itself. Fire investigators noted that the explosion in Satterthwaite’s fridge originated inside the appliance, which used R-600a refrigerant. Common in modern refrigerators, R-600a is an isobutane, a flammable substance also used in cigarette lighters.
Appliance expert Mike Mannino, who has over 45 years of experience, expressed concern about R-600a. While it is energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, it poses risks due to its flammable nature. “I’m not saying these things are going to start exploding all over the country, but the potential is there that something catastrophic could possibly happen”, Mannino told WFTV9.
How Often Should You Clean Your Refrigerator’s Coils?
If your refrigerator’s usual hum has become irregular or choppy, it may be time to clean the compressor coils. Realtor recommends cleaning them every 6 to 12 months or more frequently if you have pets that shed.
How to Clean Refrigerator Coils
1. Locate the coils, usually at the back or bottom of the refrigerator behind removable panels.
2. Use a duster or coil brush to clean between the coils.
3. Vacuum up any debris.
4. Replace the panel when finished.
Regular cleaning helps ensure your fridge operates safely and efficiently.
How Common Are Refrigerator Explosions?
Despite the risks, refrigerator explosions are rare. The American Consumer Product Safety Commission has only received a small number of reports over the years. Additionally, many countries adopted R-600a refrigerant long before the United States, and the EPA deems it safe for properly installed and maintained appliances.
Appliance repair experts also receive specialized training and tools to safely handle modern refrigerators, further reducing risks.
Are Bedroom Mini Fridges Safe?
Mannino voiced specific concerns about mini fridges in bedrooms and dorms, which have gained popularity due to social media trends and the rise of skincare products requiring refrigeration. Although no injuries from fridge explosions have been reported, Mannino worries about the potential consequences if someone is nearby during an incident.
While rare, refrigerator explosions serve as a reminder to properly maintain appliances and remain cautious with newer technologies like R-600a refrigerants.
