Q&A for How to Clean Refrigerator Coils

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Question

How often should you clean refrigerator coils?

Aaron Beth
Appliance Technician
Aaron Beth is the founder of Aaron’s Refrigeration Company in New York City and a factory certified installer (FCI) for Sub-Zero products. He specializes in the service and maintenance of built-in refrigerators, wine coolers and ice machines. With over 54 years of experience, Aaron is the recipient of numerous Super-Service awards from Angie’s Lists and 2019 Best-of-the City.

Aaron Beth

Appliance Technician

Expert Answer

At least twice a year. However, if you have pets, you'll probably want to clean it them more often, as pet hair can get caught in the condenser.

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Question

Where are the coils?

Emma Hall1

Community Answer

The coils are either behind the fridge or at the bottom of the fridge. To access the bottom coils, remove the bottom kickplate of the fridge.

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Question

I can't get the front grill off to clean the vents. What should I do?

Community Answer

Search "remove front grill on [name of maker] [model number]" Somebody out there had the same problem and wrote down how he solved it!

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Question

How do I access the coils when they are located underneath the unit?

Community Answer

Take the cardboard panel off the lower rear part of the unit and you will see the fan, compressor, and coil if it is under the unit.

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Question

After I remove the base grill, how do I clean the grills that aren't in front of the coils when I still see dust?

Community Answer

Use a condensor brush to gently remove the built-up dust from the coils. A condensor brush is shaped like a very thin Christmas tree. It has a heavy gauge spine to keep it from easily bending when pushed between the coils. The brushes can be found at a hardware or appliance store. Very handy when cleaning time comes.

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Question

How do I find the coils on my refrigerator?

Community Answer

They are located at the back of refrigerator. They are black in color. They are coiled up like a snake.

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Question

The light is on, but it's not freezing, what could be the problem?

Community Answer

Check to see that the compressor is running and that the fan is spinning. Secondly, check the thermostat. Thirdly, check to see if the compressor is running and the fan is spinning. Finally, check the coils and see if they are dusty.

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Question

How much the condenser coil cost?

Community Answer

It depends on the particular refrigerator, and the store that you are looking for coils at. You can ask them for an estimate, or search on their website to price-compare the coils.

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Question

Can I remove the water that collects in a container at the back of my refrigerator without turning the refrigerator off?

Community Answer

As long as you don't have to mess with any wiring, yes. If the water container is outside the fastened-on covers, you're good to go. If in doubt, though, unplug the fridge.

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Question

What would cause my condenser to be very hot?

Community Answer

Often, this is a sign of the fan not working. Check to ensure the fan blades aren't restricted.

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Question

Why is my refrigerator still blowing air after it is unplugged?

Community Answer

This is not possible. Air movement is totally dependent upon electric power. There is no power to the refrigerator when it is unplugged.

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Question

My fridge coil is leaking so I had a new part put in, but that part has begun leaking too. Do I need to clean it or get another fridge?

Community Answer

Based on your post, I would recommend getting a new fridge.

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Question

Can a broom or brush be used instead of the vacuum cleaner?

Emma Hall1

Community Answer

Yes! Simply use the broom to sweep away all the dirt and dust from the coils.

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Question

How do I clean the shoot where the water or ice comes out? It looks disgusting, and I can't clean it.

Community Answer

I would use a a mixture of very hot water and vinegar, with a few drops of dish soap. Put it in a spray bottle with a towel underneath and use a toothbrush to get up under there. Then rinse thoroughly using the same squirt bottle. I swear by this same mixture for most cleaning tasks.

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Question

How do I clean my fridge coils?

Emma Hall1

Community Answer

Unplug the fridge, and then use a soft brush to remove the dirt and dust. Once the coils look clean, vacuum up the mess.

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Question

Could I spray soapy water to help break down the dust I can't reach inside the condenser?

Community Answer

No, that will merely make a mess. You can fashion a very narrow attachment for your vacuum using a drinking straw and packing tape. This will fit in much tighter spots than the conventional attachments.

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