Want a quick, easy way to extend the life of your refrigerator and help make it operate more efficiently? Clean the coils on your fridge. Refrigerator coils are the black coils found on the back or bottom of your fridge and are integral to cooling your fridge. As refrigerant moves through the coils, they pull the heat out so only cool air is pushed into the refrigerator. Because they are not covered, coils can get blanketed with dirt, dust, hair, and other particulates that make it harder for them to pressurize the refrigerant. This means your fridge will have to work harder to maintain cooler temperatures, and with too much build-up, the fridge may stop working. Rather than face a hefty bill for a new fridge, take time once or twice a year to clean the coils following these steps.
Step 1: Unplug the Fridge
The first step in any appliance maintenance or upkeep project is to unplug the appliance. You can also shut power off to the circuit if needed.
Step 2: Locate the Coils
Depending on the age of your fridge, the coils may be located on the bottom or on the back of the fridge. If you have a toe-kick grill on the bottom front of the fridge, that is where your coils are located. Pull the panel off the front to access the coils. If there is no toe-kick grill on the front bottom, your coils are on the back of the fridge. Pull the fridge fully away from the wall so you will have access to clean them.
Step 3: Vacuum the Coils
Before you begin vacuuming, you may want to put on a mask. Though a lot of dust and debris will make it into the vacuum, it’s a good idea to wear a mask to stop from breathing in airborne particulates. Once you are ready to clean, start by vacuuming the coils using the hose of the vacuum. For bottom coils, you will likely need a narrow nozzle to get into the space. For the back, either just the hose or a brush attachment will work.
Step 4: Use a Condenser Brush
Once you get the loose dirt off coils, use a condenser brush to remove stubborn, stuck-on dirt, dust, and debris. Condenser brushes are available at home improvement stores and measure about 27 inches in length with short bristles on the top one-third. The cylindrical design allows it to move through the spaces in between the coil grid. Work it back and forth to initially remove dirt, then gently twist it to get into corners and tight spots. For best results, continue to vacuum as you brush. For front bottom coils, alternate between brushing and vacuuming. For back coils, vacuum while brushing, holding the narrow end of the vacuum hose close to the brush with the hand you are not using to brush the coils. When done brushing, vacuum the area one final time to get any remaining dirt, dust, and debris.
Step 5: Put Fridge Back Together
Once you have finished cleaning, it’s time to get the fridge back up and running. Start by putting the bottom plate back on the front of the fridge or pushing it back into place. Finish by plugging the fridge back in (and/or turning the circuit back on).
Looking for your dream home? Liberty Homes has been building new homes in Utah for nearly 30 years. We take pride in our trade, crafting each home as if it were our own. Our quality, affordable homes are energy smart and thoughtfully personalized for your active Utah lifestyle. We currently have townhomes available in Salt Lake County, single-family homes in Heber City, and 55-plus single-family homes in West Jordan. Contact us today to find your dream home.
Want home decorating and maintenance tips, craft ideas, recipes, and more delivered right to your inbox?
Sign up for our monthly newsletter:
