Introduction
The coils under your refrigerator are an essential component of the appliance’s cooling system. Keeping them clean is important for maintaining optimal performance and energy efficiency. In this article, we’ll discuss what the coils do and provide a step-by-step guide for cleaning them.
Definition of Coils under Refrigerator
The coils under your refrigerator are part of the condenser unit. This unit is responsible for dissipating heat from the refrigerator’s interior. The condenser coils are typically located between the back of the refrigerator and the wall or floor. They are usually covered by an access panel.
Overview of Problem
The condenser coils become dirty over time as dust, dirt, and pet hair accumulate on them. This buildup can reduce the efficiency of the refrigerator, leading to higher energy bills and more wear and tear on the appliance. It can also create a fire hazard if the coils become too hot.
Vacuuming the Coils
Vacuuming is the first step in cleaning the coils. It’s important to use the right tools and supplies to ensure that the job is done properly.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a vacuum cleaner with an upholstery attachment, a soft brush, and a damp cloth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. If necessary, remove the access panel to expose the coils.
2. Attach the upholstery attachment to the vacuum cleaner and turn it on. Carefully vacuum the coils to remove any visible dirt and debris.
3. Use the soft brush to dislodge any stubborn dirt particles.
4. Wipe down the coils with the damp cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
5. Replace the access panel and plug the refrigerator back in.
Using a Soft Brush
If vacuuming isn’t enough to remove all the dirt and debris, you may need to use a soft brush.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a soft brush, such as a paintbrush or toothbrush.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. If necessary, remove the access panel to expose the coils.
2. Use the soft brush to gently scrub the coils. Be sure to reach into all the crevices to remove any dirt particles.
3. Wipe down the coils with a damp cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
4. Replace the access panel and plug the refrigerator back in.
Wiping Down with a Damp Cloth
Once you’ve removed all the visible dirt and debris, you can wipe down the coils with a damp cloth.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a damp cloth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. If necessary, remove the access panel to expose the coils.
2. Wipe down the coils with the damp cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
3. Replace the access panel and plug the refrigerator back in.
Using a Coil Cleaning Solution
If the coils are especially dirty, you may want to use a coil cleaning solution. This is available at most hardware stores.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a coil cleaning solution and a damp cloth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. If necessary, remove the access panel to expose the coils.
2. Spray the coils with the coil cleaning solution and let it sit for 15 minutes.
3. After 15 minutes, wipe down the coils with the damp cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
4. Replace the access panel and plug the refrigerator back in.
Applying Compressed Air
If you have access to compressed air, you can use it to blow off any remaining dirt and debris from the coils.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a compressed air canister and a damp cloth.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall. If necessary, remove the access panel to expose the coils.
2. Hold the compressed air canister about 12 inches away from the coils and spray in short bursts. Do not hold the canister too close to the coils, as this could damage them.
3. After spraying the coils, wipe them down with the damp cloth to remove any remaining dust and dirt.
4. Replace the access panel and plug the refrigerator back in.
Replacing the Access Panel
Once you’ve finished cleaning the coils, you’ll need to replace the access panel.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a screwdriver.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Position the access panel in place and secure it with screws.
2. Plug the refrigerator back in.
Checking for Refrigerant Leaks
Before using the refrigerator again, it’s important to check for refrigerant leaks. If you notice any signs of a leak, contact a qualified technician to repair it.
Necessary Tools and Supplies
You’ll need a leak detector.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Unplug the refrigerator and move it away from the wall.
2. Attach the leak detector to the refrigerator and turn it on.
3. Follow the instructions on the leak detector to check for any refrigerant leaks.
4. If you detect a leak, contact a qualified technician to repair it.
5. Once the leak has been repaired, plug the refrigerator back in.
Conclusion
Cleaning the coils under your refrigerator is an important part of regular maintenance. By following the steps outlined above, you can help keep your refrigerator running efficiently and safely. Be sure to check for refrigerant leaks before using the refrigerator again.
Summary of Steps
The steps for cleaning the coils under your refrigerator include vacuuming, brushing, wiping down with a damp cloth, applying a coil cleaning solution, applying compressed air, replacing the access panel, and checking for refrigerant leaks.
Safety Precautions
Be sure to unplug the refrigerator before cleaning the coils, and wear protective gear such as gloves and safety glasses. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using any cleaning solutions, and contact a qualified technician if you detect a refrigerant leak.
