A good fridge is important for every home. However, many people forget a simple task: cleaning the fridge coils. These coils help to cool the fridge by letting heat out. As time goes on, dirt, dust, and pet hair gather on these coils. This makes the fridge work harder. As a result, you may see higher energy bills, food going bad, or even a fridge that stops working. This guide will show you how to clean refrigerator coils the right way.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cleaning Refrigerator Coils
Cleaning your fridge coils may seem hard, but it’s a task that anyone can handle. You just need a few common tools from home and some time. Soon, your fridge will run better. This guide will walk you through everything. It will cover gathering the tools and the last steps of cleaning.
Whether your fridge coils are at the back or the bottom of your appliance, the steps are pretty similar. We will help you find and access the coils. You will also learn the best ways to clean different types of dirt and debris. Let’s begin!
Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start cleaning, it’s important to gather all the tools and materials you need. Having everything ready will make your job faster and easier. Here’s what you need:
- Vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment: This will help you get rid of dust and dirt from the coils.
- Refrigerator coil brush (optional): This brush can help you clean tough dirt and get into tight spots.
- Soft cloth or microfiber towel: You can use this to wipe the coils after vacuuming and to remove any extra dust.
Also, having a flashlight can be handy. It will help you see the coils while you clean and check them. Lastly, always keep your refrigerator’s user manual close for any specific instructions for your model.
Locating the Refrigerator Coils
The location of your fridge coils depends on the make and model of your fridge. You will usually find them at the back of the appliance or underneath, behind a toe grille. If you have a newer model, like a Sub Zero refrigerator, the coils may be located at the bottom.
If the coils are at the back, carefully pull the fridge away from the wall. Make sure you have enough space to reach the back. If the coils are at the bottom, you need to remove the toe grille. You can do this by gently pulling it out or unscrewing a few clips.
Check your refrigerator’s user manual if you are not sure where the coils are. Once you find them, take some time to look at their condition. A flashlight can help you see better and spot any dust or debris on the coils.
Preparing the Fridge for Cleaning
Before you start cleaning, make sure to unplug your fridge. This is very important and keeps you safe. It helps you avoid electric shock and stops any possible damage to the appliance while you clean.
After unplugging the fridge, you can clean better by using painter’s tape or something similar. This will help protect the areas around your fridge from dirt and mess. Stick the tape along the wall and floor where your fridge usually stands.
Lastly, if your fridge has a drip pan near the coils, take it out to clean it. The drip pan often gathers dust and debris. Cleaning it quickly while you are at it is a good idea.
Using a Brush to Remove Debris
Now that you have found and reached the fridge coils, and made sure you’re safe by unplugging the fridge, you can start cleaning. Use a refrigerator coil brush or a long duster to gently loosen and take off larger bits of dust and debris.
Clean each coil one by one, moving from the top down. Be careful not to press too hard, as this may hurt the delicate fins. If you find tough dirt that the brush can’t get off, try using a soft-bristled toothbrush to help loosen it.
Remember, your aim is to remove as much dirt and debris as you can before you start vacuuming. This will help make the cleaning even better and stop any loose bits from flying around while you vacuum.
Vacuuming the Coils to Remove Dust and Dirt
Once you’ve brushed away most of the dirt and mess, it’s time for the vacuum cleaner. Use the brush attachment on the vacuum so you won’t scratch or hurt the refrigerator coil. Start at the top. Then, gently move the vacuum down the coils, making sure to clean all the small spaces.
If your vacuum has different power settings, choose low or medium. This will help keep the delicate fins on the coils from bending. Take your time and make sure you clean up all the loose dust and dirt.
After you finish vacuuming, look at the coils again. If you still see dust or debris, repeat the brushing and vacuuming until the coils are clean.
Using a Condenser Coil Cleaning Solution
While brushing and vacuuming are often enough to clean refrigerator coils, you may need a special condenser coil cleaning solution for tough grease or grime. You can find these solutions at most appliance stores. They are made to remove grease and grime without hurting the coils.
Before using any cleaner, read the instructions from the manufacturer. Usually, you should spray the solution on the coils and let it sit for a few minutes. This helps loosen the grime. Then, wipe the coils with a damp cloth. Follow this by using a dry cloth to get rid of any extra moisture.
Do not use strong or rough cleaners on the condenser coils. These can damage the small fins and might cause the metal to rust. Always use gentle methods to help your refrigerator last longer.
Reattaching the Grille and Plugging the Fridge Back In
Once you are happy with how clean the coils are, it is time to put your fridge back together. Start by putting the toe grille or any other panels you took off back in place. Make sure they are tight so that there is no noise or shaking when the fridge is working.
After you put everything back, leave the fridge unplugged for a few minutes. This will help any leftover cleaning solution or moisture to dry up. This step is important to stop any electrical problems when you plug the fridge in.
Finally, plug your fridge back into the wall. Give it enough time to cool down properly. Remember, it can take several hours for the fridge to get to the right temperature. So, try not to fill it up right away after you plug it back in.
Conclusion
Regularly cleaning the coils of your fridge is important to keep it working well. With our easy DIY guide on how to clean refrigerator coils, you can help your fridge run smoothly and last longer. Make sure to collect the right tools, find the coils, and clean them properly. Creating a regular cleaning routine will help your fridge perform at its best. If you want to know more about taking care of your appliance, check out our blog on Sub Zero Refrigerator Cleaning Tips for the Holiday Season.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often do refrigerator coils need to be cleaned?
You should clean your fridge coils every three to six months. If you have pets or live in a dusty area, you may need to clean them more often. Check your Sub Zero fridge manual for specific tips for your appliance.
What are the symptoms of dirty fridge coils?
If your fridge is working too hard, it might have dirty fridge coils. Some signs are the fridge running all the time, high energy bills, and not cooling well, even with normal settings. Always check and clean fridge coils if you see these signs.
Are there any safety precautions to keep in mind when cleaning refrigerator coils?
The most important safety tip for cleaning refrigerator coils is to unplug the appliance before you start. This helps to avoid electrical shock. It’s also a good idea to wear gloves and a mask. This will protect you from breathing in dust.