How Do I Clean and Maintain My Refrigerator Coils? A Guide from Comfort Appliance Service and Installation
Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home. It runs 24/7, keeping your food fresh and cold. But just like any appliance, it needs a little TLC from time to time to keep it functioning efficiently. One key area that often gets overlooked is the refrigerator coils.
Refrigerator coils—located either on the back or underneath the appliance—play a critical role in the cooling process. When these coils get dirty or clogged with dust and debris, your refrigerator has to work harder to maintain the correct temperature, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through how to clean and maintain your refrigerator coils, and why it’s so important for the health of your appliance.
Why Are Refrigerator Coils Important?
Before we dive into the cleaning process, let’s briefly explain why coils are so crucial.
- Condenser Coils: These coils are responsible for releasing heat that is absorbed from inside the fridge. They expel this heat into the surrounding air, allowing the refrigerant to cycle back to its cooling state and continue the process of chilling your fridge.
- Efficient Cooling: If the coils are dirty, they can’t release heat properly. This forces your refrigerator’s compressor and other internal components to work harder, which not only uses more electricity but can also shorten the lifespan of your appliance.
How Often Should I Clean My Refrigerator Coils?
You should clean your refrigerator coils at least once every six months. However, if you have pets or live in a dusty environment, you may need to clean them more frequently—every 3 to 4 months is ideal in these cases.
Steps for Cleaning Your Refrigerator Coils
Now that you know why cleaning coils is important, here’s how to do it properly.
1. Unplug Your Refrigerator
Before you start, always unplug the refrigerator for safety reasons. If your refrigerator is hardwired or difficult to move, just be sure to turn off the power before you begin cleaning.
2. Locate the Coils
There are two places where refrigerator coils might be located:
- Behind the Refrigerator: Older models typically have the coils on the back. You’ll need to move the refrigerator away from the wall to access them.
- Beneath the Refrigerator: Newer models usually have the coils underneath, covered by a protective grill. If your fridge is like this, you won’t need to move it, but you may need to remove the grill to access the coils.
3. Vacuum the Coils
Using a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment, carefully vacuum the coils to remove dust and debris. Be sure to gently vacuum the coils, avoiding applying too much pressure as this could damage the delicate fins.
- For coils underneath: If your refrigerator has coils under the appliance, use a vacuum hose with a crevice tool to reach the coils. Pull out any dirt or dust that may have collected.
4. Use a Coil Cleaning Brush
If the coils are particularly dirty or if the vacuum can’t reach all the crevices, use a coil cleaning brush. These brushes are designed to fit into the tight spaces between the coils, making it easier to dislodge dust and dirt that may be stuck.
You can find coil cleaning brushes at most home improvement stores or online. Simply run the brush along the coils, being careful not to bend or damage the coils.
5. Wipe Down the Coils (Optional)
If you notice grime or sticky residue on the coils, you can wipe them down with a damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals, as these can damage the coils. A mild soap and water solution will do the trick. Be sure to dry the coils thoroughly after cleaning.
6. Replace the Grill
If you had to remove a grill to access the coils, make sure to snap it back into place securely. Also, check that the refrigerator is sitting level to avoid any future issues with cooling efficiency.
7. Plug the Refrigerator Back In
Once you’re done, plug the refrigerator back in and let it run for a while. Make sure it’s cooling properly and that the temperature settings are accurate.
Additional Maintenance Tips for Your Refrigerator
While you’re in “maintenance mode,” here are a few extra tasks that can help prolong the life of your refrigerator and keep it running efficiently:
- Check Door Seals: Ensure that the refrigerator door seals are intact. Worn or broken seals can allow cold air to escape, causing the fridge to work harder to maintain temperature. You can clean the seals with warm, soapy water or check them by closing the door on a piece of paper. If it slides out easily, the seal needs to be replaced.
- Level the Refrigerator: A refrigerator that’s not level may not cool properly. Use a level tool to check the appliance and adjust the feet if necessary.
- Defrost Regularly: If you have a manual defrost fridge, be sure to defrost it regularly to prevent ice buildup. Excess ice can cause the refrigerator to lose efficiency.
- Keep the Fridge Organized: Avoid overpacking your refrigerator, as this can impede airflow. Ensure there’s enough space around food items for proper air circulation.
Why Hire a Professional?
If you’ve cleaned your coils and noticed that your refrigerator still isn’t running efficiently, it may be time to call in the pros. At Comfort Appliance Service and Installation, we can help diagnose more serious issues with your refrigerator’s cooling system, such as compressor failure, refrigerant leaks, or malfunctioning thermostats. Our trained technicians can perform routine maintenance and repairs to ensure your appliance runs smoothly for years to come.
Conclusion
Maintaining your refrigerator is essential to its longevity and energy efficiency. By cleaning the coils regularly and following a few simple maintenance steps, you can keep your fridge running smoothly and save on energy costs. If you need help with any refrigerator repairs or servicing, don’t hesitate to contact Comfort Appliance Service and Installation. Our experienced team is here to help with all your appliance needs.
We hope this guide helps you take better care of your refrigerator. Feel free to reach out to us with any questions or to schedule a professional service appointment. Happy cleaning!