PROJECTS 597 



PROJECT XXV. How to Operate a Refrigerator, page 111 



In operating a refrigerator, there are four things to be kept 

 constantly in mind : it should have a steady temperature of 50 F., 

 or less ; it must have a steady circulation of air, as shown in Figure 

 58 of the body "of the book; it must remain dry; it must be kept 

 spotlessly clean. 



Low Temperature. The low temperature of a refrigerator does 

 not necessarily destroy germs; it prevents their multiplying. If 

 food is in good condition when it is put in an efficient refrigerator, 

 it will remain in good condition. Before you buy a refrigerator, be 

 sure that it will maintain a sufficiently low temperature. If the 

 walls are properly insulated in the first place, the joints tight and 

 secure, and the doors tight-fitting and proof against warping, the 

 refrigerator will remain efficient for years. 



To maintain low temperature: (1) Keep t the ice compartment 

 full of ice. Incidentally it is cheaper to do this than to maintain a 

 low supply. (2) Keep drinking water in a covered jar, instead 

 of opening the ice compartment frequently to chip off ice. (3) Do 

 not leave any refrigerator door open a second longer than necessary. 

 If you are removing food that is to be replaced in a few seconds, 

 close the door in the meantime. 



Test the temperature of your refrigerator occasionally with a 

 thermometer. Leave the thermometer on each shelf in succession 

 for several hours. If the temperature is much above 50 F., 

 examine carefully the joints, doors, and locks for faulty insulation. 

 Also see that the drain pipe is clean, and that nothing is interfering 

 with the circulation of the refrigerator. If nothing can be done to 

 keep the temperature low in your refrigerator, the safest and cheap- 

 est plan is to buy a new one. An epidemic of intestinal disease in 

 a well-known New York hospital a few years ago was traced to in- 

 efficient refrigerators. 



Air Circulation. - The air circulation explained and illustrated on 

 page 111 of this book is of vital importance. It keeps the in- 

 terior of the refrigerator at a fairly even temperature and helps 

 to keep it dry. Moreover, the circulating air collects the odors 



