To clean refrigerator coils, you need to unplug the fridge, locate the coils, and use a vacuum and a brush to remove the dust and dirt. This simple maintenance task can improve the efficiency and lifespan of your fridge, as well as lower your energy bills. In this article, you will learn why and how to clean refrigerator coils, and what tools and tips you need to do it right.
Refrigerator coils are metal tubes that contain refrigerant, a substance that cools the air inside the fridge. The coils are usually located at the base or the back of the fridge, depending on the model and age of the appliance. Over time, the coils can get covered with dust, dirt, pet hair, and other debris, which can reduce the airflow and heat transfer around them. This means that the fridge has to work harder to keep the food cold, which consumes more electricity and wears out the compressor faster. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, dirty refrigerator coils can increase the energy consumption of the fridge by up to 30%. Cleaning the coils regularly can help you save money on your energy bills and extend the life of your fridge.
How Often You Should Clean Refrigerator Coils
The frequency of cleaning refrigerator coils depends on several factors, such as the location of the coils, the amount of dust in your home, and whether you have pets that shed. Generally, you should clean the coils at least once a year, or twice a year if you have pets. You can also check the coils periodically and clean them whenever they look dirty or dusty. Some signs that indicate that your coils need cleaning are:
Cleaning refrigerator coils is a simple and quick task that you can do yourself in less than 15 minutes. You will need the following tools and materials:
A dust mask
A flashlight
A coil condenser brush
A vacuum cleaner with a narrow hose attachment
A screwdriver (optional)
Follow these steps to clean your refrigerator coils:
Unplug the fridge from the wall or turn off the power switch if it has one. This is a safety precaution to prevent electric shocks or damage to the appliance.
Locate the coils on your fridge. If they are behind a toe-grill at the base of the fridge, snap off the grill or unscrew it with a screwdriver. If they are on the back of the fridge, pull the fridge away from the wall and unscrew the back panel with a screwdriver.
Put on a dust mask to protect yourself from inhaling dust and debris. Use a flashlight to see the coils better if they are under the fridge.
Vacuum the loose dust and dirt from the coils and the surrounding area with a narrow hose attachment. Be careful not to damage the coils or the refrigerant lines with the vacuum.
Brush away the remaining dust and dirt from the coils with a coil condenser brush. This is a long and flexible brush that can reach between the spaces in the coil grid. Gently scrub the coils from different angles to remove as much dust as possible.
Vacuum the coils again to remove any dust that the brush loosened. Repeat the brushing and vacuuming process until the coils are clean and dust-free.
Replace the toe-grill or the back panel and secure it with the screws if needed. Push the fridge back to its original position and plug it back in or turn on the power switch.
Fill up the fridge with food or water bottles to make it run more efficiently. Set the fridge temperature to 35-38 degrees Fahrenheit and the freezer temperature to 0 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here are some additional tips and tricks to make your refrigerator coil cleaning easier and more effective:
Use a crevice tool or an air compressor to blow out the dust from hard-to-reach areas of the coils.
Use a mixture of alcohol and vinegar to spray and wipe off any sticky or greasy spots on the coils. You can also sprinkle baking soda on the spots and scrub them with the brush.
Check the owner’s manual of your fridge for any specific instructions or recommendations on how to clean the coils.
Clean the coils when the fridge is empty or has less food, as this will make the fridge cool down faster after the cleaning.
Clean the coils in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the fridge is not under too much stress.
Conclusion
Cleaning refrigerator coils is an easy and important way to keep your fridge running smoothly and efficiently. By following the steps and tips in this article, you can clean your coils in no time and enjoy the benefits of a lower energy bill and a longer-lasting fridge. Remember to clean your coils at least once a year, or more often if you have pets or a dusty environment. Your fridge will thank you for it!
