Cleaning refrigerator coils frequently ensures your appliance operates smoothly. Here's how.
Time 1 hour or less
ComplexityBeginner
Cost$10-$20
Introduction
Don't let dusty coils bog down your fridge. Follow these simple instructions on how to clean refrigerator coils for optimal performance.
Cleaning the coils on your refrigerator is not a glamorous task. But it is an important refrigerator maintenance chore that improves the refrigerator’s efficiency. The coils help the refrigerator release heat so it stays cold enough to keep the food at proper cool temperatures. It’s easy for dust and debris to accumulate under the refrigerator (as you probably already know). The dust can cling to the coils and prevent heat from releasing efficiently. A refrigerator consumes more energy when working harder due to dirty coils.
It took less than an hour to clean the coils. At first, I tried a soft-bristled brush, but I ended up using a Swiffer duster because it was thin enough to get between the coils. I can’t promise I’ll clean the refrigerator coils every month, but now that I know how quick and easy it is, I won’t wait years to do this again.
Tools Required
- Dust mask
- Portable air compressor (optional)
- Screwdriver
- Shop vac
- Swiffer duster or soft-bristled brush
Materials Required
- Paper towels
Watch How To Clean Refrigerator Coils
Project step-by-step (6)
Step 1
Unplug the fridge
Unplug the refrigerator to avoid any electrical hazards. Then, put on a dust mask.
Step 2
Access the fridge coils
Locate the refrigerator coils and open any panels to access the coils. Sometimes, a screwdriver is necessary to remove any panels or guards. Depending on the refrigerator brand, the coils are usually located behind a front kick plate or on the back of the refrigerator.
Step 3
Vacuum refrigerator coils
Use a shop vacuum to remove dust and debris from the coils. If dust is on the coils in hard-to-reach places, use an air compressor fitted with a blower nozzle to blow it away and then vacuum it up.
Step 4
Brush off the coils
Remove any stuck-on dust and dirt with a Swiffer duster or soft-bristled brush. After loosening up more dust and dirt from the coils, run your vacuum over them again.
Step 5
Clean the area and reassemble
Clean the floor around where you have been working with the vacuum. If you had to remove any panels, carefully secure them back into the original position.
Tip: Since I was already working on the refrigerator, I decided to clean out the drip tray that collects water and can harbor grime. I highly recommend taking the few minutes to clean yours out too.
Step 6
FAQs
What happens if refrigerator coils are dusty?
Dust on your refrigerator coils reduces cooling efficiency, increases energy consumption, shortens the life span of your appliance and may cause frosting or icing of the coils or overheating issues.
How do I know if I need to clean the refrigerator coils?
If the refrigerator is not cooling properly or there is visible dust on the coils, it is time to clean them. Sometimes, a compressor can be extremely loud, indicating it’s overworked due to dirty coils.
How often should refrigerator coils be cleaned?
Refrigerator manufacturers recommend cleaning coils twice a year.
