How to Clean Refrigerator Coils: A Step-by-Step Guide to Boost Efficiency
How to Clean Refrigerator Coils: A Step-by-Step Guide to Boost Efficiency
Blog Article
Refrigerators are one of the most essential appliances in any home, working hard 24/7 to keep food fresh and safe. However, many people overlook one simple maintenance task that can dramatically improve the efficiency and lifespan of their fridge: cleaning the refrigerator coils. Dirty coils force your refrigerator repair uae to work harder, leading to higher energy bills and potential breakdowns. Fortunately, cleaning them is straightforward and doesn’t require professional help.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through why coil cleaning matters, how often to do it, and exactly how to get it done right.
Why Clean Refrigerator Coils?
Refrigerator coils—either located at the back or underneath the unit—are responsible for releasing heat from the refrigerator’s coolant system. When these coils are covered in dust, pet hair, and debris, they can’t release heat efficiently. As a result:
The refrigerator has to work harder to keep cool.
Energy consumption goes up.
The compressor wears out faster.
Cooling performance decreases.
Utility bills increase.
Regular cleaning can improve efficiency by up to 30%.
How Often Should You Clean Them?
Experts recommend cleaning your refrigerator coils at least once or twice a year. If you have pets or a dusty environment, quarterly cleaning may be necessary.
What You’ll Need
Before diving in, gather the following supplies:
A vacuum cleaner with a brush or crevice attachment
A coil cleaning brush (available at most hardware stores)
A flashlight (optional but helpful)
A screwdriver (if your fridge has a cover panel)
Gloves and a dust mask (recommended)
Step-by-Step Guide: Cleaning Refrigerator Coils
Step 1: Unplug the Refrigerator
Safety first! Always unplug the fridge before doing any maintenance. This prevents electrical shock and stops the fan or compressor from kicking on during cleaning.
Step 2: Locate the Coils
Depending on your refrigerator model, coils are usually located:
Behind the unit (older models): You may need to pull the fridge away from the wall.
Beneath the unit (newer models): These are accessed by removing a front or rear grille or toe kick panel.
Use your flashlight if visibility is poor.
Step 3: Remove the Access Panel (if applicable)
Some fridges have a panel that protects the coils. Use a screwdriver to remove it and set it aside safely.
Step 4: Vacuum Loose Debris
Use your vacuum with a crevice tool or brush attachment to remove as much surface dust and debris as possible. Be gentle to avoid damaging the coils.
Step 5: Use a Coil Brush
Specially designed coil brushes are flexible and can fit between tight spaces. Push the brush between the coils and sweep out the debris. Work in short, deliberate strokes.
Pro tip: Always brush in the direction of the coil fins to avoid bending them.
Step 6: Vacuum Again
Once the debris is loosened and pulled out, vacuum it up thoroughly. Go over the area a few times to ensure no dust bunnies are left behind.
Step 7: Replace the Panel and Plug the Fridge Back In
Reattach any panels you removed, push the fridge back into place (if needed), and plug it back in. You might hear the compressor kick back on, which is perfectly normal.
Bonus Tips for Coil Maintenance
Mark your calendar to remind yourself of the next cleaning session.
Consider placing the fridge on wheels or a rolling base if it’s in a tight spot.
Keep the area around the refrigerator clean and free from dust.
If the coils are damaged or heavily corroded, consult a professional technician.
The Bottom Line
Cleaning your refrigerator coils is a small task with big rewards. It not only improves efficiency and reduces energy bills but also extends the lifespan of your appliance. With just 30 minutes and a few basic tools, you can ensure your fridge runs like new.
Don’t wait until your food isn’t staying cold or your fridge starts making strange noises—add coil cleaning to your seasonal home maintenance routine. Your fridge (and wallet) will thank you.