When it comes to refrigerator breakdowns, the sad truth is that many of them could be avoided through proper care and maintenance. That’s why the number one piece of advice we can give is to clean your refrigerator coils regularly. But what are these condenser coils, and how are you supposed to clean them?

Why You Should Clean Your Refrigerator Coils

Even with today’s high-tech refrigerators, a clean condenser is necessary for the cooling system to operate at full strength. Over time though, dirt, dust, and other debris build up on the coils making them less efficient.

As the condenser becomes dirtier, your refrigerator’s compressor is forced to work harder to keep the unit cold. It may not happen right away, but eventually, this will lead to a compressor failure and a costly sealed system repair.

Avoid the problem by cleaning your coils regularly. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Appliance Cleaning Brush
• Vacuum
• Painter’s Mask

Step 1 – Access Condenser Coils

The coils on most refrigerators will be accessible only from behind the unit toward the bottom. Unplug the unit and carefully pull it out so you can see the condenser. Some models have a grille that covers the coils which will need to be removed to gain access.

If you have concerns about damaging your kitchen floors while moving the unit, appliance glides are inexpensive and available at your local hardware store.

Step 2 – Protect Yourself

Before you clean your refrigerator coils, you need to make sure to protect your skin and lungs. We suggest you wear a painter’s mask, gloves, and a long-sleeved shirt to avoid the fine dust particles that will be floating around while cleaning.

Step 3 – Clean the Condenser

Now you can take your appliance brush and use it to dislodge any dust, lint, pet hair, or debris you find on the coils. Be sure to get into all of the cracks and crevices for the best results.

As you’re brushing, use your vacuum’s hose tool to suck up the dust so it doesn’t end up on the floor, or worse, floating throughout your house and into your lungs.

Some will inevitably fall to the ground though, so suck up whatever else you find before putting the unit back into place.

Step 4 – Reinstall the Refrigerator

Reattach the condenser grille cover if necessary, slide the fridge back into place, plug it in, and voila! Your refrigeration system should be running like new again.

This simple maintenance procedure is the best way to prevent major repairs. That’s why we recommend that you do it once every six months.

If you’re still having trouble with your refrigerator not cooling, give the repair experts at ABC Appliance a call today!