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How to clean refrigerator coils

Unplug the refrigerator, find the condenser coils (behind the grille at the bottom front, or on the back of older models), and loosen the dust with a coil brush, then vacuum it up. Once or twice a year is typical; more often with pets. Dusty coils make the compressor run longer to get rid of heat.

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How to clean refrigerator coils

Checklist

  • Unplug the refrigerator (or switch off its breaker)First
  • Remove the bottom front grille, or pull the fridge out to reach the backStep 2
  • Brush the coils with a long coil brushStep 3
  • Vacuum the loosened dust and the floor underneathStep 4
  • Replace the grille, leave a few inches of space behind the fridge, plug it back inStep 5
  • Check the fridge is 35–38°F and the freezer 0°FNext day

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Why it is worth 15 minutes

The coils are how the refrigerator gets rid of heat. Dust acts like a blanket, so the compressor runs longer and harder. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends keeping coils clean, keeping the fridge at 35–38°F, and leaving space behind it for air to move. It is also one of the few things you can do to help a refrigerator last.

Some fridges do not need it

Some newer models have coils sealed inside the cabinet walls or are designed to stay clean. If you cannot find exposed coils at the bottom front or the back, check the manual. Do not take panels off beyond the front grille.

What you'll need

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Questions

How often should you clean refrigerator coils?

Once or twice a year for most homes, and more often if you have pets that shed.

Where are the coils on my refrigerator?

On most modern refrigerators, behind the removable grille at the bottom front. On older models, on the back. Some newer models have coils built into the walls and need no cleaning.

Does cleaning refrigerator coils save energy?

Yes, dust makes the compressor work harder. The savings are modest for a home fridge, but it costs nothing and helps the compressor last.

Sources

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General guidance for typical homes. Follow your equipment manufacturer's instructions and local codes, and hire a pro for anything you're not comfortable doing.