On the face of it, it makes sense that ice would form in a freezer where it’s freezing, right? But ice in the freezer is unpleasant for most of us. Personally, I really don’t like the situation where I need to cook quickly, open the freezer and find it full of ice. More work. A job I didn’t count on. I’m guessing most of you feel the same way.

Why does ice form in the freezer?

It’s simple. Every time you open the freezer door, warm air and moisture gets in. It cools and then turns into ice. There is a way to avoid this. According to experts, you need to defrost your freezer at least twice a year to prevent ice build-up. However, it sometimes happens that ice forms again shortly after defrosting. Fortunately, there are a few tips to combat ice.

Problems with ice accumulation

Ice in the freezer isn’t just a nuisance. It also brings with it other problems.

  • Reduced energy efficiency.
  • Less space in the freezer.
  • Longer defrost times.
  • Damage to the food inside.
━━ ( Source: Dev Benjamin /  Unsplash+ )

The foil trick

Another option is to use the aluminium foil trick. It’s a quick and effective solution. The method uses the thermal conductive properties of aluminium foil. And how does it work? Cover the frozen parts of the freezer with aluminum foil and put boiling water in a pot that fits in the freezer. Then put the boiling water in the freezer and close the door. After a few minutes, you will find it easier to remove the ice. It must be said that the foil trick doesn’t prevent the icing problem, but at least it will help you solve it quickly.

Baking soda

I use baking soda just about everywhere in my home. I keep it sprinkled in my trash can for odor control. I sprinkle it in the kettle if I want to boil it, I use it to clean the oven, and sometimes I use it when cleaning the bathroom. I haven’t thought to use it in the freezer yet. By all accounts, though, it’s a great idea.

After thawing, you need to thoroughly clean the freezer compartment. Then just put two tablespoons of baking soda on a damp cloth and wipe the inside of the compartment. The baking soda will prevent moisture from accumulating. And that’s not all. Because it can absorb odours, it can also help with unpleasant smells from the freezer. Ideal helper. Just watch out for the rubber seal on the freezer, the abrasive baking soda could damage that.

More tips for you

It’s important to keep your freezer at the right temperature. Set the freezer to -18 degrees Celsius. A lower temperature just wastes energy. Higher temperatures are more prone to frost formation. Check the readings ideally with an external thermometer. Do the temperatures not match the display on the freezer? Then you may need to adjust the thermostat or have the freezer repaired.

Another thing to do is check the seals. This is because a cracked or worn gasket doesn’t do its job well. You may need to replace the gasket. If you want to try this, try the banknote test. Place it near the seal and close the freezer. Then try pulling the note out. Did it slide out? Then the freezer’s not leaking.