- Keeping the refrigerator near hot appliances:
Refrigerators can explode if placed too close to heat-producing appliances like stoves, microwaves, or ovens. Too much heat or a short circuit in these devices can cause the fridge to explode.
Also, if the electrical wires for the refrigerator are too close to flammable items like curtains, blankets, or mattresses, the risk increases. A short circuit in the wires can cause these materials to catch fire, which can spread to the refrigerator.
- Using an old refrigerator that isn’t maintained or repaired regularly:
An old refrigerator that isn’t checked or fixed can become dangerous and may lead to accidents.
Old refrigerators that have been repaired multiple times, had their gas replaced often, or have dirt clogging the capillary tube between the condenser and evaporator can become dangerous. These issues can cause high pressure, reduce cooling efficiency, and increase the risk of problems.
Signs that your refrigerator is old and might explode include:
- The compressor runs nonstop.
- Loud noises coming from the fridge.
- Excessive ice or frost in the compartments.
- Poor cooling performance.
To stay safe, regularly have a technician inspect and repair your refrigerator or replace it when needed.
- Storing carbonated drinks or alcohol in the freezer:
Placing carbonated drinks in the freezer is a common mistake that can cause the refrigerator to explode. The cans are sensitive to extreme temperatures, and freezing can make them explode like “bombs.”
Similarly, storing beer or alcohol in the freezer can change the pressure inside, leading to explosions. Avoid putting glass bottles of water in the freezer as well, because the water expands when it freezes, while the glass contracts, which can cause the bottle to break or explode.
- Gas leaks and electrical issues:
The refrigerator’s gas tank is made of strong steel, so it rarely explodes on its own. However, a gas leak (from a broken weld or pipe) combined with an electrical spark from a short circuit can cause an explosion.
Modern households use many high-power devices like washing machines, microwaves, and air conditioners. If the electrical system isn’t designed to handle the load, it can lead to short circuits at any time.
If a gas explosion happens when people are home, it can cause fire, smoke, and harmful gas fumes, making escape difficult and increasing the danger.
- Overloading the outlet with multiple devices:
Refrigerators use a lot of electricity, so plugging other devices into the same outlet can easily cause an electrical short circuit, which may lead to a fire in the refrigerator.
- Using insect repellent near the refrigerator:
Avoid using insect sprays or products like hairspray near the refrigerator. Sparks from the refrigerator can react with these chemicals and cause an explosion.