How to Clean Refrigerator Coils for a Smoothly Running Fridge?

Cleaning Refrigerator Coils for Better Efficiency

A refrigerator has two types of coils: condenser and evaporator coils. Condenser coils, typically located on the back or underneath your fridge, are most often affected by dust and grime.

If your fridge struggles to cool properly and your energy bills are rising, dirty condenser coils are likely the culprit. Cleaning them is a simple DIY task that can save you money and keep your food fresher longer.

This guide will show you how to clean the outside of your condenser coils like a pro in just a few easy steps. We'll also briefly touch on evaporator coils and when it's best to call a technician.

But first, let's look at the signs that your condenser coils need cleaning.

Warning Signs Your Condenser Coils Need Cleaning:

Refrigerator running constantly: If your fridge seems to be running non-stop, even when it's not very hot, the condenser coils might be dirty.
Increased energy bills: A sudden spike in your electricity bill could indicate that your refrigerator is working harder than it should.
Warm air from the bottom or back: If you feel warm air coming from the bottom or back of your refrigerator, it may be struggling to dissipate heat due to dirty condenser coils.

What You'll Need (And Some Alternatives):

Before you get started, gather these essential supplies:

Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment: This is your primary tool for removing dust and debris. A crevice tool can also be helpful for tight spaces. Don't have a brush attachment? A soft-bristled brush or even a dry microfiber cloth can work in a pinch.
Coil cleaning brush (optional but recommended): This specialized brush is designed to reach between the coils for more thorough cleaning. You can find these brushes at most appliance parts stores. A soft-bristled toothbrush or a small paintbrush can be used as a substitute.
Screwdriver: You may need this to remove an access panel to reach the coils. Check your refrigerator's manual to determine what type of screwdriver is needed.
Cleaning gloves (optional): To protect your hands from dust and dirt.
Compressed air (optional, for stubborn grime): For coils heavily coated in sticky dust, pet hair, or grease, compressed air can help loosen debris before vacuuming.

Step-by-Step Cleaning Guide (Condenser Coils):

Unplug the Refrigerator: Safety first! Always unplug the refrigerator from the power outlet before cleaning the coils to prevent electric shock.
Locate the Condenser Coils: Refrigerator condenser coils are typically located at the back of the unit, either behind a panel (usually at the bottom) or underneath the refrigerator. Consult your refrigerator's owner's manual for the exact location. If you can't find the manual, search for it online using your refrigerator's model number.
Remove the Access Panel (if necessary): If the condenser coils are behind a panel, use the appropriate screwdriver to carefully remove it. Keep the screws in a safe place so you don't lose them.
Vacuum the Condenser Coils: Using the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner, thoroughly vacuum the condenser coils. Work from top to bottom to avoid dust falling back onto already cleaned areas. Use the crevice tool for hard-to-reach spots.
Tackling Stubborn Grime:
- Pet Hair: For condenser coils covered in pet hair, use short bursts of compressed air to loosen the hair before vacuuming.
- Sticky Dust/Grease: If the condenser coils are coated in sticky dust or grease, try gently wiping them down with a dry microfiber cloth before vacuuming. Do not use water or liquid cleaners.
Use a Coil Cleaning Brush (optional but highly recommended): For a more thorough clean, use a coil cleaning brush to gently loosen any remaining dust, pet hair, or debris between the condenser coils. Then, vacuum again to remove the loosened material.
Clean the Surrounding Area: While you have access to the condenser coils, vacuum any dust or debris from the surrounding area, including the floor and any nearby vents. This is a good time to perform other refrigerator maintenance tasks.
Replace the Access Panel: If you removed a panel, carefully replace it with the screws. Make sure it's securely fastened.
Plug the Refrigerator Back In: Once you've finished cleaning, plug the refrigerator back into the power outlet.

Evaporator Coils (A Brief Overview):

Your refrigerator also has evaporator coils, located inside the freezer compartment. These coils are less frequently the source of problems and are often best left to professionals.

If you notice excessive frost buildup inside the freezer, even after defrosting, it could indicate an issue with the evaporator coils or another part of the cooling system.

Indeed, many people believe all refrigerator cleaning is DIY-friendly, but some tasks require expert help. Check out our post on cleaning myths debunked to avoid common misconceptions.

When to Call a Professional:

Refrigerant Leak: Oily residue, a strange odor, or the refrigerator not cooling even after cleaning the condenser coils could indicate a refrigerant leak, which requires a professional.
Icing Issues: If your freezer ices up frequently, even after cleaning the condenser coils and defrosting, there may be a problem with the defrost system or the evaporator coils, which needs expert attention.
Evaporator Coil Cleaning: Cleaning evaporator coils often involves accessing internal components of the freezer and is best left to a qualified technician.
Unfamiliar Setup: If you're unsure about how to access or clean the condenser coils, especially on a more complex or built-in refrigerator model, it's best to call a technician to avoid damaging the appliance.
Persistent Issues: If you've cleaned the condenser coils and are still experiencing cooling problems or other issues, it's a sign of a more serious problem that requires professional diagnosis and repair.

Final Words

Cleaning your refrigerator condenser coils is a simple yet important maintenance task that can significantly improve your refrigerator's efficiency, lower your energy bills, extend its lifespan, and keep your food fresher for longer.

By following these steps, you can keep your fridge running smoothly and save money on energy costs. It's a small effort that can make a big difference!

Mark your calendar for another cleaning in six months or a year to keep your fridge running efficiently! Keeping your fridge clean improves efficiency, but did you know a clean home can also enhance air quality? Learn more in our guide on improving indoor air quality.