Your refrigerator is one of the hardest-working appliances in your home, running 24/7 to keep your food fresh. But did you know that neglecting one simple maintenance task—cleaning the coils—can reduce its efficiency, shorten its lifespan, and increase your energy bills? Dust and dirt buildup on your refrigerator’s coils may seem insignificant, but it can have a big impact on your fridge’s performance and your wallet.
Why Fridge Coils Get Dirty
The coils, usually located at the back or bottom of your fridge, are essential for releasing heat as refrigerant flows through them. Over time, dust, pet hair, and other debris accumulate on these coils, insulating them and reducing their ability to dissipate heat efficiently. The result? Your fridge has to work harder to maintain a cool temperature.
Benefits of Cleaning Your Fridge Coils
- Improved Energy Efficiency
Dirty coils make your fridge work overtime to keep the interior cool, consuming more electricity in the process.
Cleaning the coils can reduce energy consumption by up to 15%, which translates to noticeable savings on your energy bills. - Extended Appliance Lifespan
Overworking the compressor due to dirty coils can lead to premature wear and tear.
Regular cleaning reduces strain on your fridge’s components, helping it last longer and saving you from costly repairs or replacements. - Consistent Cooling
A fridge with clean coils maintains a more stable interior temperature, keeping your food fresher for longer.
Proper cooling also reduces the risk of food spoilage, which can lead to waste and extra grocery expenses. - Preventing Costly Breakdowns
Dirt and dust can cause the compressor to overheat, leading to potential breakdowns that require expensive repairs.
Cleaning the coils is a proactive step to avoid these issues and ensure reliable operation.
How to Clean Your Fridge Coils
Step 1: Gather Supplies
Vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment
Coil brush (available at most hardware stores)
Damp cloth
Step 2: Locate the Coils
Check your fridge manual to determine if the coils are at the back or beneath the appliance.
For bottom coils, remove the kick plate or grille at the base of the fridge.
Step 3: Turn Off the Power
Unplug the fridge or turn off its circuit breaker to ensure safety while cleaning.
Step 4: Remove the Dust
Use the vacuum’s hose attachment to remove loose debris from the coils.
For stubborn dust, gently scrub with the coil brush to dislodge buildup.
Wipe down surrounding areas with a damp cloth to clean up any remaining dirt.
Step 5: Restore and Test
Replace the kick plate or move the fridge back into position.
Plug the fridge back in and ensure it’s running properly.
How Often Should You Clean Your Coils?
For most households, cleaning the fridge coils every 6 months is sufficient. If you have pets or live in a particularly dusty environment, consider cleaning them every 3 months to prevent excessive buildup.
The Long-Term Savings
Investing just 15–20 minutes every few months to clean your fridge coils can lead to:
Lower energy bills by reducing power consumption.
Fewer repairs and a longer-lasting appliance.
Reduced environmental impact from using less energy.
Final Thoughts
Cleaning your refrigerator coils is a small but impactful maintenance task that pays off in improved performance, energy savings, and a longer appliance life. By keeping these coils dust-free, you’re not just helping your fridge run better—you’re also helping yourself save money and enjoy peace of mind. So, grab your vacuum and coil brush, and give your fridge the care it deserves!
