Dent removal isn’t a tough task. Attempt doing it on your own before shelling out cash to an expert to fix the problem. Learn to mitigate the damage by trying out some DIY methods to fix that dent in your stainless steel refrigerator.
Try Using a Plunger! Nicks and dents in stainless steel appliances can be resolved by using a plunger. Yes, it’s the same plunger that you use in bathrooms and drains. Apply this hand tool to the affected area and try to suck the dent out. The dent should “pop” out! |
Stainless steel appliances always add to the look and feel of your home kitchen. However, try as you might, sometimes damages are destined, especially in case of appliances in busy homes. Stainless steel refrigerators are prone to dents. Although a dent may not affect the refrigerator operation, it may cause it to look unsightly. Dents on steel appliances are easily detectable due to the reflective properties of the metal.
The easiest way out would be to push the dent from the opposite end so that it pops out. However, this does not work out with all metals. Hence, we need to resort to alternate ways of repair. Fixing a dent in a stainless steel refrigerator is simple and doesn’t pinch your pocket. This HomeQuicks article covers some trustworthy dent removal methods that you can follow and take care of the problem all by yourself.
› Take a clean, damp cloth and wipe the damaged area so that the dent is clearly visible. By doing so, you will also be ensuring that no sticky substance, food, or dust particles remain behind. › What you need now is dry ice. You can get it from a nearby hardware store or grocery shop. Once you buy dry ice, remember to keep it in a foam cooler because it tends to evaporate quickly. › Before applying dry ice, you need to heat the dented area, for which you can make use of a hair dryer. Alternately, you can make use of a heat gun. Apply heat to the area for 30 seconds to a minute so that the metal expands. › Wear your gloves (preferably thick), and place a portion of dry ice in a soft cloth. This is so that you avoid the occurrence of scratches on the already affected area. › Apply pressure using the dry ice pack to the center of the dent, and rub over the area in a circular motion. Do this for a minute. › You should hear a “pop” sound after the dry ice application. The heat and cold variation applied to the dented area should serve the purpose. Pointers
» Remember to adjust the hair dryer to warm or medium-heat setting in order to avoid overheating. » Never touch dry ice with bare hands. Always wear a pair of gloves while handling it. |
› Take a clean, moist cloth and wipe the dented area. › Similar to the dry ice procedure, this time too, apply heat to the affected area using a hair dryer. Apply heat for a good 30 seconds directly on the dent, so that the metal is allowed to expand. › Now, take a can of compressed air (or air duster) – this is the same spray that you use for computer keyboards to clear out the dust. Invert the can and spray the contents onto the damaged area. This should freeze the dent. › You can repeat step (ii) and (iii), if the “pop” sound is not heard. If the procedure fails to give you the desired result even after a second time, then seek professional help. Pointers
» See that the propellants from the can are not sprayed accidentally onto your bare hands. » Do not touch the frozen area (after applying compressed air) with bare hands. |
› First of all, clean the area with a moist cloth. The dampness itself will provide for a positive seal. › Now, what you need is a suction-cup dent puller which will be available in hardware stores or automotive part stores. Place the suction cup over the dent and press it in and out to ensure that you get a tight grip. › Once you achieve a tight seal on the dent, pull it straight out. Doing this (by applying suction) should pull the dent out, getting it back to its original shape. Even if not repaired entirely, the area will at least look better than it previously did. |
If the above-mentioned dent repair methods don’t work, call for professional help. Hiring someone to fix it might not be cheap, but it’s better than replacing the appliance entirely. Check if your appliance is within the warranty period to save on your expenses.