Külmiku

Külmiku is the Estonian term for a refrigerator, a household appliance designed to keep food and beverages cold to slow spoilage. In everyday use, the word can refer to a standalone refrigerator or to a combined fridge-freezer unit that provides a refrigeration compartment and a separate freezing section.

Most modern külmiku units operate on a vapor-compression refrigeration cycle. A compressor circulates a refrigerant through a condenser, an expansion device, and an evaporator to remove heat from the interior. Temperature is controlled by a thermostat or electronic sensor, with typical settings for the refrigerator compartment around 2 to 8 degrees Celsius and the freezer below freezing.

Design and variants include upright models with one or more doors, built-in or freestanding units, and configurations such as top-freezer, bottom-freezer, or side-by-side. Sizes are described by capacity in litres or cubic feet, and some models feature separate sections for fresh and frozen foods, crisper drawers, and adjustable shelves.

Common features include adjustable shelves, humidity-controlled crisper bays, door-in-door or door bins, interior lighting, and energy-efficient operation. Some külmiku models offer ice makers, water dispensers, or smart controls. Energy efficiency is a key consideration in selection, with ratings and consumption figures provided by local standards and labels.

Maintenance involves regular cleaning, checking door seals for leaks, defrosting as required, and keeping coils and vents unobstructed. Environmentally, refrigerators use various refrigerants that have evolved to minimize ozone depletion and global warming potential. Proper handling and disposal of old units help reduce environmental impact.